Scuba Wetsuits: it can make all the difference

You must be thinking “fancy colorful wetsuits!” well, you should be…After all, you would

want to make every moment of your diving experience special. But what scuba wetsuit

should you actually buy? The fancy ones or the ones which will help you survive in the

water for long! If you agreed to the second statement; then read on!

Wetsuits provide insulation as well as protection, and can keep you comfortable in water as cool as

10ºC/50ºF to as warm as 32ºC/90ºF . Wetsuits get their name because even though they keep you

warm, you get wet – they trap a small amount of water between the suit and your skin that your body

quickly heats.

Ref: http://www.padi.com/scuba/scuba-gear/scuba-gear-descriptions-tips/scuba-diver-wet-

suits/wetsuit/default.aspx

Required features

Proper fit : Wetsuits must be snug but fit comfortably. Loose areas that allow water to flow in and out

negate the insulation.

Proper thickness and style : This is a matter of appropriate choices. For warm water, a thinner wetsuit

with short sleeves and legs may be adequate, but would be inadequate for temperate water. Your PADI

Dive Shop or Resort can help you choose a wetsuit based upon where you plan to use it.

Desirable features

Lining – Virtually all wet suits have material lining the neoprene on one or both sides. This makes the

suit stronger, easier to get into, and makes it more attractive. Some divers find suits lined on the

exterior only are warmer, though more difficult to put on.

Versatility – Some suit styles are more versatile than others. The farmer-john style is popular because

you have double trunk insulation (two layers) in cooler water, or can wear only the jacket or pants in

warmer water. Another option is a full body jumpsuit with a hooded neoprene vest for cooler water.

Optional features

Wetsuit boots – Also called “booties,” wetsuit boots provide foot protection as well as warmth

Accessories – In cooler water, you may want a hood, hooded vest or gloves for added thermal

protection.

Pockets and pads – A thigh pocket comes in handy for carrying things. A spine pad reduces water flow

down your back and cushions your scuba cylinder. Knee pads reduce suit wear. These may be standard

features or add-ons, depending upon the suit you choose.

Ref: http://www.padi.com/scuba/scuba-gear/scuba-gear-descriptions-tips/scuba-diver-wet-

suits/wetsuit/default.aspx

So, keeping all this in mind the following few tips will keep you warm and toasty during

your dives:

1. All suit manufacturers vary. Start by using the appropriate manufacturer-sizing chart to

help locate your suit size. Remember that in order for the suit to work properly it needs to

fit snug. All suits are sized proportionally to height and weight, respectfully.

2. If you purchased a 2 piece suit, start by pulling the pants all the way up and secure the

velcro strap on your shoulder. Now start the zipper on the jacket, step through and pull the

jacket on. Reach back and put your arms through the suit and pull it up. Finish by zipping

the suit up.

3. For 1 piece suits, pull the suit all the way up to your waist. Reach down and work the

arms up one at a time. If it is a back zip suit have your buddy help zip the suit up. This will

help reduce the risk of damage to the zipper. Zippers tend to snag neoprene or get tangled

in hair.

4. Once you have the suit on, inspect the suit for fit. The suit should conform to your body

shape. If this is your first time in a wetsuit, remember it will fit snug and you will feel a

reduced range of motion. Remember--this is normal. Walk around in the suit for a few

minutes. You shouldn´t have any loss of circulation in your hands or feet. You should be

able to take a full breath of air without too much discomfort. There may be a small crease

in the back of the elbows or knees.

5. If you do not have a perfect, off the rack, fit do not feel alone. Many people need to

have minor alterations done to their wetsuit to achieve that "custom" fit feel. You can get a

custom fit for a little more than the cost of an off the rack wetsuit.

6. The colder the water, the more important the fit. Remember hood, boots, and gloves

need to fit properly

Ref: http://www.skin-diver.com/scuba-news/369/Wetsuit-fitting-tips

Be sure to purchase the right scuba wetsuit. It is the key to the experience of a lifetime.