Five Tips for Choosing a Wonderful Wetsuit
They say there are two types of divers in the world; the ones who pee in their wetsuits and those who lie about it. Hygiene and fit are the main reasons why divers prefer to own a wetsuit rather than renting. Having your own suit that fits perfectly and suits the style of diving and water activities that you will be engaging in will not only be more comfortable, but will also provide long term savings by avoiding rental fees.
Why Wetsuits?
Wetsuits are an equipment essential for divers, but aren’t just used in diving! Most water sports require some type of wetsuit or thermal protection regardless of the temperature of the water. Here are some of the most popular water sports and why they use wetsuits:
Scuba diving & snorkeling: Wetsuits provide thermal insulation, and protection from sun and sea life.
Freediving & spearfishing: These sports require streamlined suits that are tight fitting and aerodynamic. They are designed for stealth and efficiency.
Surfing & bodyboarding: Board sports use wetsuits not just for warmth in the water but to protect against rub burns from the board and interactions with marine life.
Open water swimming & triathlons: Requires a different type of wetsuit with more flexibility. Swimmers and triathletes use wetsuits to provide extra buoyancy and muscle support.
Kayaking & paddle boarding: Although these sports do not involve full immersion in water, wetsuits serve to provide protection from wind, cold splashes and unexpected dips in the water.
Wetsuits are designed to keep divers and other water sports enthusiasts warm and protected in the water, so they can stay longer and have a more enjoyable experience. Wetsuits work by trapping a thin layer of water between the suit and the skin. This water is then warmed by body heat, creating an insulating barrier against cold water. The key to this process is neoprene, a synthetic rubber that contains tiny gas bubbles, which reduce heat loss by limiting the amount of heat-conducting water that can circulate.
Selecting the right wetsuit is crucial for comfort, warmth, and performance in the water. Whether you're scuba diving, snorkeling, or freediving, here are five essential tips to help you find the perfect wetsuit for your needs.
1. Choose the right thickness for the water temperature
Wetsuits come in a variety of thicknesses, typically ranging from 1mm to 7mm. The thickness you will choose depends on the water temperature. Let's explore the options available and when they are best suited.
Shorty: A shorty wetsuit is used when you need less coverage and prioritize flexibility and ease of movement. Typically worn in warmer water conditions where full body insulation isn't necessary. Shortys are ideal for activities like surfing, swimming, or snorkeling in mild temperatures where you require a larger range of motion compared to a full wetsuit; they are easier to put on and take off due to their shorter design, and allow free mobility of arms and legs. Our pick:
AQUALUNG WOMENS MAHE 3MM SHORTY AQUATIC ACTIVITIES, $1,900 MXN
1 mm Wetsuits: A 1mm wetsuit is primarily used for swimming or water sports in very warm water conditions, like tropical oceans. 1mm suits provide minimal insulation and are best suited for temperatures above 25°C, where you might only need a small layer of protection against the sun and minor temperature fluctuations; essentially, it's more like a lightweight rash guard.
AQUALUNG HYDROFLEX WOMEN 1MM WETSUIT; $2,200 MXN
3 mm Wetsuit: A 3mm wetsuit is the most common choice among divers here in the Caribbean. It is intended for water temperatures ranging between 22°C-24°C, making it ideal for warmer climates, summer months, or when you want moderate insulation for diving, swimming, surfing, or snorkeling in milder conditions.
MENS SCUBASUPREME WETSUIT 3MM, $3,500 MXN
5 mm Wetsuit: A 5mm wetsuit is typically used for water temperatures between 17°C-21°C. Even in tropical waters, the temperature can drop significantly with depth, so a 5mm suit can be beneficial for deeper dives. 5mm are also preferred by divers who do a lot of cenotes, caverns and caves as the fresh water is significantly cooler than the sea.
BONASSI VESPUTCCI 5MM WOMENS (PURPLE); $6,600 MXN
7 mm Wetsuit: A 7mm wetsuit is essential for safety when diving in cold waters. They are designed for use in water temperatures between 10°C-16°C. Diving in these temperatures without a proper wetsuit puts you at risk of hypothermia, so proper protection is critical.
AQUALUNG MENS DIVE WETSUIT 7.0MM; $5,400 MXN
When shopping for your next wetsuit, it is important to know where you will be diving and the temperature of the water. Choosing the right thickness ensures you stay warm without overheating or feeling restricted.
2. Find the Perfect Fit
The only thing worse than putting on a wetsuit before a dive, is trying on a wetsuit and not going diving! Putting on a wetsuit is never fun, but it is important to try on wetsuits before investing in a suit. Before making a purchase try different brands and styles when you are renting. Take note of the size, style and thickness so you can look for similar styles when making a purchase.
Whenever possible visit your local dive shop and try on different suits to see which is most comfortable. Your wetsuit should fit snugly but not so tight that it restricts movement or breathing.
Key fit considerations include:
- No large gaps at the lower back, armpits, or behind the knees
- A snug collar to prevent water flushing
- Flexibility around the shoulders for easy movement
Trying on different brands and styles can help you find a suit that contours well to your body shape. Remember many wetsuit brands run small so do not feel slighted if you have to get a bigger size that you typically wear in clothing. In fact, do not get too hung up with the size letter or number on the tag.
3. Consider the Style:
Wetsuits come in different styles and designs for different sports. While some suits can be used for multiple sports, it is important to understand where you will be using your wetsuit and for which activities.
Shorty Wetsuits: Best for warm water diving and snorkeling, offering flexibility and ease of movement.
AQUALUNG MENS MAHE 3MM BLUE SHORTY; $ 2,200 MXN
Full Wetsuits: Provide full-body coverage, ideal for cooler water temperatures and better thermal protection.
BONASSI MORGAN 3MM WOMENS (BLUE); $4,200 MXN
Two-Piece Wetsuits: Spearfishing and freediving suits are designed to have separate pants and jacket. This creates a tighter, more aerodynamic fit. These suits can also be used for scuba and allow you to pair the pants or jacket together, separately or with other pieces.
BONASSI 2MM ARIES SPEARFISHING WETSUIT; $ 6,000.00 MXN
Separates: Neoprene pants, jackets or lycra separates are also popular for warm water diving. By choosing separates divers can get a better fit especially for athletes who may be taller, shorter, larger on top or on bottom.
BONASSI DRACO 1MM SPEARFISHING PANTS; $1,500 MXN
The choice in wetsuit style will be influenced by the water sport, the temperature of the water and your body type.
4. Closures, Zipps, Magnets and Velcro
Getting in and out of a wetsuit is never fun, and some styles are more difficult than others. When you are exploring wetsuit options you will want to look at the closures. Most full wetsuits have a zipper as well as either Velcro or magnetic closures on the neck.
A back zipper is typically easier to get in and out of and will typically have a higher neck with more protection.
BONASSI COLOMBO WOMENS SHORTY (PINK); $2,800.00 MXN
Chest zips are more common in shorty styles. Many women also comment that front zips are easier to get on to accommodate their bust. Chest zips might be a little more difficult to get into, but can be more comfortable for some people.
AQUALUNG 3MM ORANGE WOMENS SHORTY; $1,900 MXN
Streamline suits used for spearfishing and freediving typically do not have any zippers and use either snaps, Velcro or magnetic closure. Magnetic closures are more durable than Velcro or snaps, but Velcro can easily be replaced.
BONASSI VIRGO 3MM WOMENS SPEARFISHING WETSUIT; $5,000 MXN
Trying on different suits will give you an idea of which type is the best for your body and diving style.
5. Choose the Right Suit for Your Activity
As we discussed earlier, different water sports require wetsuits for different purposes. Knowing what you will be using your wetsuit specifically for will help you invest in the right suit to provide optimal comfort and performance:
Scuba Diving & Snorkeling: Shorty's and full wetsuits depending on temperature.
BONASSI ULISSE UNISEX FRONT ZIPPER SHORTY; $2,400 MXN
Spearfishing: Camouflage suits designed for stealth and flexibility.
C4 EXTREME CAM 3MM SPEARFISHING JACKET; $3,100 MXN
Freediving & Apnea: Specialized apnea suits for maximum streamlining and warmth.
C4 NEOPRENE JACKET C4 SIDERAL MEN 3MM; $3,800 MXN
Surfing & Water Sports: Rash guards and Lycra pants for sun protection and mobility.
XICO DIVE CENTER RASH GUARD: $1,000 MXN
Choosing the correct suit for your activity will enhance your experience and provide the necessary protection for your underwater adventures. Being comfortable and protected underwater ensures you have a safe and memorable experience. Take your time in making your decision. Try on different suits when renting, ask for recommendations from other divers, read reviews online and seek advice from a dive equipment specialist.
The team at Xico Dive Shop is always here to help you stop by our store daily from 9am-8pm and get fitted for your next wetsuit!