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The Ultimate Drysuit Guide

Diving into cold water requires not just skill and courage but also the right gear. A drysuit is essential for keeping warm and comfortable underwater. For more tips on how to enjoy cold water diving, check out our Top Tips for Scuba Diving in Cold Waters. This guide unpacks the key considerations for selecting a drysuit, offering detailed insights into materials, seals, zippers, and more.

1. Material Options

Choosing the right material for your drysuit is more than just a matter of comfort; it’s about optimising performance, comfort and enhancing your overall diving experience. The material of your drysuit affects everything from thermal protection to buoyancy control, and even how you move underwater. With the right knowledge, you can make an informed decision that matches your diving style, conditions, and preferences. Below, we explore the key options available, highlighting the benefits and considerations of each.

Neoprene: Think of neoprene as your go-to for staying warm. It’s great at insulating, which keeps you comfortable in cooler waters. Keep in mind though, that neoprene is slightly buoyant and compresses at depth, affecting your buoyancy as you dive deeper.

Crushed Neoprene: This version of neoprene has been compressed, so it offers the warmth you love with more consistent buoyancy under pressure. It’s a solid choice for divers looking for warmth without as much buoyancy fluctuation.

Trilaminate: If you’re all about flexibility and ease of movement, trilaminate has you covered. This material doesn’t insulate on its own, so you’ll need thermal layers underneath. Made from three layers of material, trilaminate suits are durable, lightweight and a bonus quick drying, making them a favourite for many divers. Moreover, many trilaminate suits feature a telescopic torso design, which significantly enhances the fit and comfort of the suit. This adjustable torso allows for a greater range of movement and can accommodate divers of different heights, ensuring a snug fit that enhances mobility and prevents water entry.

For a more in-depth comparison between Trilaminate and Neoprene drysuits, check out our guide Trilaminate vs Neoprene Drysuits.

2. Neck and Wrist Seals

Keeping water out and staying dry is crucial and it can come down to having the right seals for you, which come in neoprene, latex or silicone, each material has its perks and quirks. If you’re interested in learning more, take a look at our breakdown of Neoprene Vs Silicone Neck Seals for Drysuits: Which is Best? for an in-depth comparison.

Neoprene Seals: Known for their warmth and durability, making them an excellent choice for divers venturing into colder waters. While they might not offer the tightest seal compared to latex, their insulating properties are unmatched. 

Latex Seals: The go-to for an unbeatable watertight seal, offering superior waterproofing. However, they tend to wear out quickly and might not suit everyone due to potential allergies. Ideal for divers who don’t mind a bit of maintenance for that perfect seal. 

Silicone Seals: Offering the best of both worlds, matching neoprene’s durability with latex’s comfort and hypoallergenic properties. Their ease of replacement, thanks to modular designs on some suits, makes them a versatile and convenient option for many divers. 

Proper seal selection impacts both the comfort and the dryness of your dive. Just as important as selecting the right seal for your drysuit is choosing the right type of gloves to match. Whether you opt for dry gloves or wet gloves can greatly affect your diving experience, especially in colder waters. To learn more about making the best choice for your dives, check out our detailed guide on Dry Gloves vs Wet Gloves. Additionally, explore our breakdown of the Pros and Cons of the SI-TECH Quick Change System to further enhance your drysuit setup.

3. Zipper Type

Avatar drysuit YKK zipper half open

Zippers are a critical component of your drysuit, ensuring easy entry and exit while maintaining dryness. The choice between metal and plastic zippers impacts both usability and maintenance:

Metal Zippers (e.g. Brass/Bronze): Known for their durability and exceptional resistance to corrosion. While they offer robust protection against the elements, they can be somewhat stiff and require regular maintenance to keep them moving smoothly.

Plastic Zippers (e.g., YKK): Provide an excellent alternative with their corrosion-resistant qualities, lightness, and flexibility. These zippers make suiting up and removal easier and are less prone to issues related to corrosion. However, they might not match the brass or bronze zippers in terms of overall durability. 

Front vs. back entry: Another key consideration is the placement of the zipper—front vs. back entry. This choice significantly affects the ease of getting kitted up and personal comfort. Front-entry zippers allow for easier self-donning, while back-entry zippers may require assistance but often offer a smoother profile, which can be preferable for some divers.

4. Boots or Socks 

Man wearing a Bear Drysuit and sunglasses putting on Bear drysuit rock boots

Deciding on the right footwear for your drysuit isn’t just about keeping your feet warm; it’s about striking the perfect balance between comfort, protection, and flexibility. Whether you opt for attached boots or neoprene socks, your choice plays a vital role in your overall diving experience. Here’s a look at the options and how they can influence your dive:

Attached Boots: Offer the convenience of an all-in-one solution, providing solid protection and eliminating the need for separate dive boots. While they simplify gear, getting the perfect fit can be a bit tricky, especially if you’re not going custom. It’s also worth considering that if the boots wear out or get damaged, you might be facing a significant repair or even the need for a new drysuit, as not all suits allow for easy boot replacement.

Neoprene Socks: Give you the freedom to choose your own dive boots, providing a tailored fit and the flexibility to upgrade or replace boots without affecting your suit. This option might not deliver the same level of warmth or convenience as attached boots, but it offers the significant advantage of being able to replace just the boots if they wear out or no longer meet your needs, without the need to invest in a whole new suit.

Each option has its benefits, and the best choice depends on your specific diving habits, preferences, and the conditions you expect to face. For a more in-depth look at the differences take a look at our article on Integrated Boots vs. Neoprene Socks with Rock Boots

5. Pocket Options

Pockets on your drysuit are indispensable for a hassle-free dive, providing easy access to essential items like dive lights or an SMB, helping you stay organised and streamlined by keeping your gear stored safely. Their convenience means you can focus more on the adventure at hand and less on worrying about where your spare mask or other necessary items are, making them a critical feature for any diver prioritising functionality and convenience. Drysuit pockets come in various designs and configurations, each with its own set of advantages:

Bellows Pockets: Great for carrying bigger items, these pockets can expand and have a flap or zipper to keep your things secure.

Slim Pockets: Perfect for smaller items, these pockets help you keep a low profile in the water and avoid getting caught on things.

Zippered Pockets: These pockets are secure with a zipper, ideal for keeping valuable items safe. For neoprene drysuits, they’re often made of neoprene to match the suit.

The placement of pockets on a drysuit is as important as the type of pocket. Ideal placement allows for easy access, without impeding movement or equipment use. Common placements include the thighs, which are easily reachable, and the lower leg or arm for items that are not frequently needed.

6. Valve Options

Fourth Element Argonaut 3.0 blue view of inflate and exhaust valve

Valves play a critical role in ensuring your drysuit functions optimally, offering control over buoyancy, and even personal comfort. Here’s a breakdown of the valve types you’ll encounter and why they matter. 

Inflation Valves: These are your go-to for adjusting comfort and buoyancy. Located on the chest, inflation valves allow you to inject air into your suit, keeping you comfortable and aiding in maintaining neutral buoyancy.

Exhaust Valves: Positioned on the arm or shoulder, exhaust valves are crucial for venting out excess air to prevent the suit from feeling like a balloon. They enable you to fine-tune your buoyancy and avoid uncontrolled ascents.

P-Valves: For the divers planning extended time under the waves, P-Valves are a game-changer. They add a level of comfort and convenience that can’t be understated, allowing for a more pleasant and focused diving experience. Want to know if a P-Valve is right for you? Check out our guide on the Pros and Cons of P-Valves.

When it comes to brands, there’s a variety to choose from, each with its own reputation for reliability, ease of use, and integration with drysuits. Si-Tech, Apeks, and Halcyon are among the top names, known for their durable and diver-friendly valve systems. Each brand offers unique features aimed at improving your dive, from smooth operation to efficient air management. Choosing the right valves involves considering your diving style, suit compatibility, and personal preferences, ensuring your dives are as comfortable and controlled as possible.

Understanding the different types of valves and their maintenance is not just about keeping your suit in top shape; it’s about ensuring every adventure is as enjoyable and safe as possible.

7. Size and Fit

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When it comes to selecting a drysuit, getting the fit right is arguably the most critical step. It’s not just about ensuring a comfortable fit; it’s about maximising your performance and safety underwater. A well-fitted drysuit can make the difference between a great diving experience and a terrible one. If you’re not sure where to start with finding the perfect fit, take a look at our guide on Finding Your Perfect Drysuit Fit

Off-the-rack: Ideal for divers who need a suit quickly or are working within a budget, these suits offer a range of standard sizes. While they may not provide a glove-like fit for everyone, they are a convenient and accessible option for many divers. 

Custom suits:  For those seeking the ultimate in comfort and mobility, going custom is the way to go. Custom suits are crafted to your exact measurements, ensuring a fit that moves with you and enhances your diving experience. Yes, they come with a higher price tag and require some patience due to longer production times, but the investment means getting a suit that feels like a second skin.

Diving into the details of finding your perfect fit, whether off-the-rack or custom, means considering not just your body’s measurements but also your diving style and the environments you’ll explore. Take a look at our blog Custom vs Off-The-Rack Drysuits to help you make your choice. 

8. Undergarments 

Just as crucial as the drysuit itself, the undergarments you choose play a vital role in your overall diving comfort and warmth. Choosing the right undergarments involved considering two main factors. 

Adapting to Conditions: The right thermal protection hinges on the water’s temperature and how easily you feel cold. What works for a dive in tropical waters won’t suffice for exploring cold or icy waters.

Material Matters: Fleece offers unmatched warmth perfect for the cold depths, merino wool combats odours naturally on long dives, and technical fibres designed to wick away moisture, keeping you dry and comfortable throughout your dive. For divers seeking the ultimate thermal protection, heated undersuits provide a game-changing option, powered by battery packs, these undersuits allow for precise temperature control. 

Don’t let the cold hold you back. If you want to learn how to layer your undergarments effectively check out our essential guide on Layering Under Your Drysuit.   

9. Maintenance and Care

Taking good care of your drysuit is the secret to its longevity and reliability. Here’s how you can ensure it stays in prime condition for years to come. 

The Basics of Care: Your drysuit’s best friends are regular cleaning, proper storage away from harsh sunlight, and ensuring it’s thoroughly dried before storing. These simple steps can significantly extend its life and performance.

Focus on Seals and Zippers: They might seem like small details, but seals and zippers are the gatekeepers of your drysuit’s dryness. Keeping zippers lubricated and regularly checking seals for any signs of wear or tear can prevent water ingress and maintain the suit’s integrity.

Routine Checks: Beyond cleaning and drying, give your suit a once-over looking for any potential issues like small tears or seam problems. Early detection means easier fixes and less time out of the water.

Looking after your drysuit doesn’t have to be a chore. With the right care, you can ensure it continues to serve you on many dives to come. Take a look at our comprehensive guide on Drysuit Maintenance, Care and Storage.

10. Wrapping It Up: Your Dive, Your Drysuit

Choosing the right drysuit involves considering various factors, from material to fit, all of which affect your diving experience. We’ve covered the essentials here, but don’t hesitate to explore the linked articles for more in-depth information on each topic to help you make an informed decision.

But, before you zip up and jump in, there’s one more crucial step: proper training. Using a drysuit is uniquely different from diving in a wetsuit, and having the right training ensures you can manage buoyancy, understand the suit’s features, and handle any situation that comes your way.

With your drysuit selection all set, it’s time to plan some dives. Check out our Top Cold Water Diving Destinations Guide to discover the perfect spots for your next underwater adventure with your new gear!

1 thought on “The Ultimate Drysuit Guide”

  1. Like the site, great information available. Just wanted to feedback on dry suit pockets, having used both zipped and Velcro type pockets. All I can recommend is Velcro, as underwater, its a much simpler operation, found zips task loaded or required a two handed approach to work effectively. Whereas Velcro, was single handed operation and could be completed with muscle memory.

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