Simple Guide to Choosing the Right Wetsuit
When choosing the right wetsuit, it comes down to three factors — comfort, fit, and water temperature.
If your wetsuit does not fit properly, it will not do its job to keep you warm and you will feel the discomfort in such ill-fitting wetsuit minutes after you take the plunge.
Here are the considerations to getting the right suit.
- Sensitivity to Cold Temperatures
If your threshold to withstand cold is weak but you prefer to have more mobility, consider getting a thicker neoprene around the core/torso area (e.g. 5mm) and slightly thinner (3mm) around the extremities. - Activity
Some water sports activity or dive sites will require more movements and flexibility. So choosing a stretchy wetsuit could be a better option and it’s easier to put on. - Gender
Wetsuits are designed differently to suit the body for enhanced comfort and fit. Always try on different styles to compare. Wetsuits are difficult to get in when it is dry.Try wearing thin socks during the fitting to slip in your foot easily. - Price Range
The average price range is $150 – $180. The price range of suits of higher quality that are designed to enhance comfort and performance can range from $250 to $450+.
Not all neoprene is made the same. A cheaper wetsuit is manufactured with cheaper neoprene and the lifespan of these neoprene is shorter than those of high quality. Since each style, design, and quality of material vary amongst manufacturers, we recommend that you read the product specifications and chat with the sales person before purchasing.
With so many types of suits out there in the market, it is easy to get overwhelmed and confused.
So, we prepared a quick guide to introduce the different types of wetsuits to make your wetsuit shopping a fun experience.
| Types of Expose Suit | How It Works |
| Shorty/Spring Suits | These suits end just above the elbows and knees, allowing for more movements. They are usually made of thinner neoprene and are suitable for warmer dives |
| John/Jane | A two-piece suit made with a sleeveless top connected to a full-length bottom, and a jacket as the second top piece. This style of suit gives you more mobility around the shoulders and is suitable for cold water dives as the jacket provides double insulation. |
| Full Body | A common choice of wetsuit for divers. It covers from the neck down to the wrists and ankles, giving the diver full protection from accidental bumps into the corals or other marine life. There are also a variety of thicknesses to choose from. |
| Semi Drysuit | While wetsuits have water circulating inside, drysuits don’t. It is sealed at the neck, wrists, and ankles. The watertight back closure prevents as little water as possible from seeping in and also helps in retaining heat. Getting into your semi drysuit may require some help. |
| Drysuit |
Great for extremely cold temperatures or rebreather dives. It is designed to prevent any water from entering the suit, allowing the diver to stay dry. It usually comes in two common designs, membrane and neoprene. Membrane Drysuit Neoprene Drysuit Note that drysuits are usually priced on the higher side and do not last long if maintenance isn’t done well. |
