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The origin of the wetsuit neoprenebegins with the discovery of neoprene itself in the 1930s by DuPont. The first functional wetsuit was developed by physicist Hugh Bradner in the early 1950s to provide thermal protection for divers, although he did not receive a patent for it. Later, companies like O'Neill and Body Glove made the wetsuit popular for surfing by improving its durability and fit, primarily by adding a nylon lining.
DuPont: In 1930, the chemical company DuPont introduced neoprene, a synthetic rubber with remarkable insulating properties.
Early use: The material was initially developed for use by the military, with the first diving suits made of rubber dating back to World War II.
The first wetsuit
Hugh Bradner: After observing the discomfort of cold water on divers, physicist Hugh Bradner created the first wetsuit in the early 1950s.
Thermal insulation: His design was based on the idea of trapping a thin layer of water between the body and the suit, which the body would then warm.
Patent and adoption: Bradner was denied a patent due to its similarity to a flight suit, and the U.S. Navy did not adopt it at the time.
Entrepreneurial efforts: Following the invention of the first wetsuit, companies like O'Neill and Body Glove began to popularize it for recreational use, particularly for surfers.
Durability and fit: These companies improved the early, fragile foam-rubber suits by adding a nylon lining to make them stronger and easier to put on.
Continued evolution: Over time, neoprene technology continued to advance, with developments like double-lined neoprene and the addition of flexible materials like spandex and Lycra to create the lighter, more stretchy wetsuits used today.