Wet Suits

Wet suits are one of the most important pieces of equipment and protection when diving. The basic of a wet suit is that they are made from a material called neoprene, a synthetic rubber filled with tiny gas bubbles. Available in many thicknesses, with the thicker neoprene the warmer the wet suit, though with the greater thickness it can be uncomfortable when diving.

Wet suits should fit snugly for the best protection, allowing a small amount of water to come between the body and the suit. This water is warmed and allows the body to stay warm throughout a dive. For some, maybe more serious divers, a custom made wet suit can be made exactly the way you prefer, including the shape, color and extra details that are desired.

Two piece wet suits, also called the farmer john wet suit comes with bib-style overalls and a jacket with attached hood, this type of suit is preferred for cold water due to the added protection from the different layers, while allowing for use in warmer water when the additional pieces are not always needed. In a sense it can be a multi-use suit and a good investment for those who dive in different places often.

Probably the most common of the wet suits is the full-body wet suit; the suit will cover the entire body and are used in all types of dive and temperatures. Preferred scuba wet suits are often a one piece suit with short sleeves and legs, offering freer movement in the water, these wet suits are also commonly used for triathlons when movement is important throughout the competition.

Wet suit tops can consist of vests or jackets and are most commonly used to add warmth and/or protection to the basic type of wet suits and can offer just the right amount of warmth and protection needed for individual dives.

It is important to check with local dive shops as to what accessories are available and allowed when diving in that area. Some areas will not allow gloves as to alleviate the temptation to touch the underwater life, they can also answer questions as to what pieces are essential and needed in general.

As more and more people become interested in triathlons and other sporting events the manufacturers of wet suits have stepped up and put together suits named for their use, triathlon wet suits. These suits allow the athlete to go from water, to bike, to a run with minimal discomfort.