A wetsuit is a specialized garment designed to keep divers warm and protected in water. It is typically made of neoprene, a synthetic rubber material known for its excellent insulating properties. The unique construction of a wetsuit allows it to trap a thin layer of water between the diver's body and the suit, which is then warmed by body heat, providing insulation against the cold.
Wetsuits work on the principle of trapping and retaining body heat. The neoprene material used in wetsuits has small air pockets that reduce heat transfer, effectively insulating the diver's body. As water seeps into the suit, it forms a thin layer that gets warmed by the body, creating a thermal barrier. This trapped water, combined with the insulating properties of the neoprene, helps to regulate the diver's body temperature in cold water environments.
Flexibility: Wetsuits are known for their flexibility, allowing divers to move comfortably underwater. The neoprene material is stretchy and molds to the body, providing a snug fit.
Buoyancy: Wetsuits offer inherent buoyancy, which can be advantageous for divers who require additional flotation during their dives.
Protection: Wetsuits provide a layer of protection against abrasions, stings, and minor cuts, safeguarding divers from potential hazards in the water.
Thermal Protection: While wetsuits offer insulation, they are better suited for temperate and warm water conditions. In extremely cold waters, the insulating properties may not be sufficient.
Wetsuits are typically used to prevent you from getting too cold when diving in waters that are 50-89 degrees Fahrenheit. Wetsuits come in a variety of thicknesses and with different levels of coverage. For warmer waters you may choose to wear just a short wetsuit that covers the core but leaves the legs and arms intact, and for colder waters you may need a full-length wetsuit that is 7 millimeters thick. Everyone feels the cold differently and has personal preferences for style and thickness, but here's a rough guide to which wetsuit is right for which water temperature:
82-89°F (28-32°C): wetsuit or 1mm short wetsuit
75-84°F (24-29°C): 3mm full-length wetsuit
65-75°F (18-24°C): 5 mm full-length wetsuit
50-65°F (10-18°C): 7 mm full-length wetsuit
When choosing a wetsuit, you may also need to consider sun exposure and hazards in the water. Covering your arms and legs may not be necessary for warmth, but if the dive site is prone to jellyfish, a wetsuit can help protect you. They also provide sun protection.