One of the most important pieces of scuba diving gear that you need to invest in is a diving suit. They can also, sometimes, be rather expensive, and if you have only been on a few dives so far, you might want to stick to those rental dive suits for now.
In the long run, it is best to invest in your own wet suit. Rather than just buying your own diving suit, you are investing in one that will last you for numerous dives, saving you all that money on those rental premiums. Take a look at how a wetsuit works to really understand the importance of using a wetsuit for diving in the first place.
Another major reason why you should consider investing in your own scuba suit is that you will be able to buy one that meets your own specific needs and fits your body shape. Especially if you are a woman looking for the best wetsuits for women.
As you may or may not know, how you should fit a wetsuit is extremely important. So, there should be adequate seals around any of the points where water could escape or enter such as the ankles, wrists, and neck.
That’s why it’s important to rule out what type of diving you want to be doing, and maybe check out the differences between a Wetsuit and a Drysuit before making your purchase.
10 Best Scuba Wetsuits for Diving
We know that the market is full of an extremely large selection of different scuba suits to choose from and if it wasn’t overwhelming trying to buy all that new equipment for your new passion, like Scuba masks, the best dive computers and now having to choose the best dive suits out of 100s of different products can be a nightmare.
That’s where we come in, we’ve taken all of the hard work out of the scuba diving suit buying process for you and have highlighted what we feel are the top 10 best wet suits for diving. Once you’ve found the right one, make sure you check out our complete guide to wetsuit care and cleaning to make sure that your wetsuit lasts for as long as possible!
1. Hollis Men’s Neotek Semi-DrySuit
Our Review Score
We thought we’d start our list off with this truly awesome dive suit from Hollis Gears. The NeoTek Semi-DrySuit is 8/7/6mm and is the wetsuit that you need if you find yourself diving in particularly frigid and chilly waters. This scuba diving suit features a unique construction that comprises super-stretchy compression neoprene and the exclusive Hollis inner lining known as ThermaSkin.
As no-one really enjoys struggling to get their scuba suit on and off, the fact that this bad boy includes a horizontal front zipper (the cutting-edge G-Lock) and frontal neck bib, that is not a problem.
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Mirroring the frontal neck bib are internal dams on the legs and arms and it benefits from all seams being butt-joined with some blind stitching and quadruple layers of glue to reinforce it all It has been finished with the distinctive liquid seam that Hollis Gears uses in many of their garments and both the thighs on this wet suit feature generous pockets that are gusseted and can hold any accessories you need to store on your person while diving.
This has been designed especially for cold water and is very quick drying. It comes in a variety of different sizes, so there should be no trouble finding one that will be right for you.
2. Bare 3mm Reactive Wet Suit
Our Review Score
Over the years they’ve been in business, Bare has made a real name for themselves designing and producing high-quality wet suits and therefore it would not make sense to neglect to mention them in our list of the best scuba wetsuits and their awesome 3mm Reactive full suit.
As it features the Elastek FullStretch nylon 2 neoprene, it is without a doubt the most comfortable, stretches and warmest Bare scuba diving suit released by the company to date. Bare ingeniously coupled that fabric with the infrared technology fabric known as Calliant.
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The Celliant tech in this dive suit is actually where they get the name Reactive from as it converts any body heat that is wasted into infrared energy to offer enhanced insulation. To get this just right, Bare made sure that there were as many as 13 thermo-reactive layers used in the lining of this wet suit. With these minerals woven into the fabric of the scuba suit, Bare has essentially produced a suit that reflects the wearer’s body heat back onto them in an intriguing way – which then stimulates better blood circulation and increases your warmth even more.
As this wet suit also has seam-free underarms, the comfort you can experience wearing the Reactive is enhanced further and there is no need to worry about pilling or snags any more thanks to the GlideSkin collar system that uses a 36- hook and loop adjustment and booklet-like cover. The S-Lock2 back zipper that measures 21-inches long makes it easy to don and off the suit.
11-inch heavy-duty zippers have also been added to the ankles with support from skin-in cut seals, the same tech used in the suit’s wrists. There’s also protection over the knees that are prone to high levels of wear, with 3D ArmorFlex 2.0 pads that are resistant to abrasion, durable and highly flexible which is an ideal wetsuit feature for any diver. A great all-around diving suit from Bare!
3. SEAC Komodo Yamamoto Wetsuit
Our Review Score
SEAC are another highly regarded manufacturer of diver suit and wetsuits and this B-rated scuba suit is a lot warmer than other 5mm suits. It’s made using Yamamoto Neoprene, which is developed from natural limestone and incorporates an effective honeycomb design.
As a result, this wet suit is much firmer than alternatives without losing mobility or flexibility. Thanks to the unique process they use to make the diving suits, these are much better in terms of thermal capabilities but are still relatively lightweight. The warm inner lining of this wetsuit consists of a dry fiber with the outer lining being made from 38 rubber layers to create a super-elastic known as ExtraFlex.
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The ankles and wrists of the Komodo dive suit have YKK zippers and smooth skin seals for getting it on and off quickly and easily. While another YKK zipper provides access from the rear and features a pull-tab leash for convenience and an extra system that forms a barrier against the water to keep heat in and water out.
All the seals on this scuba diving suit are both sewn and blued to ensure they are durable and strong and the elbows and knees have been reinforced using abrasion-resistant PU.
4. ScubaPro EverFlex Steamer 3/2mm Wetsuit
Our Review Score
ScubaPro by name, scuba pro by nature. This is one brand that produces high-quality diving gear and you can be sure to find a favorable review regardless of which ScubaPro product you look at, especially when it comes to wetsuits. This particular range, the EverFlex is a favorite wet suit among divers and has a new and improved design of scuba suit.
This diver suit fits better and offers greater freedom of mobility. The Steamer features an improved pre-formed anatomical fit and really does feel like a 2nd skin when it is on properly. The company only use the most efficient and effective materials, including the X-Foam nylon2 neoprene which was made specially by ScubaPro. To date, it is the only formula for this fabric that fully complies to the PAH testing criteria and offers exceptional protection for divers wearing this dive suit.
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To provide even more protection, the Steamer wet suit utilizes a heliosphere lining in the torso and Power Tek anti-abrasion shoulders and seat help too. While the TATEX TPR knee pads protect the high-wear area of your legs.
While the outer seams have been double-blind stitched and glued, the inner seams of this wet suit have single-blind stitching. This makes the whole thing almost completely watertight. For putting it on and taking it off easily, the back zipper comes complete with a robust metal slider and the pull-tab leash and nylon-webbed thumb loop give additional convenience.
ScubaPro have even taken into consideration the use of wrist instruments when diving including dive computers, compasses, and depth gauges and included straps on both arms that can be used with those devices.
5. Fourth Element Proteus 3mm Wetsuit
Our Review Score
Fourth Element are particular favorites of surfers, but with the Porteus range of diving suits, the company has made something ideal for both surfers and divers, the Fourth Element Proteus wet suit.
This is a new and improved dive suit and take on the original Porteus and has a better range of seals and lining for improved insulation.
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This wetsuit also features the Hexacore lining the provides superior insulation around your core and traps water, to stop there being an exchange. As it makes use of a honeycomb pattern in the construction of the wet suit, the Proteus is easy to take off and put on.
6. Waterproof W3 3mm Tropic Wet Suit
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As WaterProof were celebrating their 25th anniversary, they wanted to give customers something special and the W3 scuba suit is it.
This wet suit features the sharp Scandinavian styling and gender-specific fit they are known for and also features 3D anatomical construction that better matches human movement.
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Along with this, this wetsuit also has relief zippers on the neck and rash guards on the ankles and wrists which are awesome features for any dive suit. Using microcell CR Nylon2 neoprene it offers superior insulation and comfort suitable for both hot and cold temperatures.
7. O’Neill Men’s Epic 4/3mm Back Zip Full Wetsuit
Our Review Score
O’Neill wet suits may be a fave of surfers, but it doesn’t mean they can’t be used for scuba diving and the new Epic 4/3mm Back Zip Full wetsuit has one of the brand’s high-end suits features. 100% Ultraflex neoprene, re-engineered blackout covert zippers, double-seal neck enclosure, and LSD – Lumbar seamless design, a perfect choice of wet suit for diving.
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The super stretch Ultraflex DS neoprene scuba suit is 150% stretchier and allows you total freedom when you’re diving. It also benefits from a lightweight wetsuit design and comfortable fit.
8. Mares Mens REEF USA 2.5mm Full Wetsuit
Our Review Score
Mares is another top scuba brand and doesn’t lack in providing us divers with great gear. The Mares Reef 3mm Men’s Wetsuit is no exception. This scuba wetsuit is the ideal 3mm suit for warm water dives.
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The wrist, ankle and neck seals are all enriched with the aquastops finish, which reduce the contious water flow, allowing for a comfortable dive. It’s an all-around favorite wetsuit for divers.
9. Cressi Playa 2.5mm Shorty Wetsuit
Our Review Score
Cressi are best-known in the diving community for their high-quality gear and equipment, but they also do a sterling job when it comes to producing effective and comfortable diving suits.
The Shorty wet suit will be your best friend if even though you are diving in warmer waters but still want additional warmth. It has an anatomical fit that makes it easier to swim while wearing it and retains a superior amount of warmth at the core.
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This wetsuit is made using the nylon 2 neoprene material and has ultra-stretchy ultra-span legs and arms seals, meaning there is little to no water exchange within this dive suit. Getting in and out of the scuba suit is incredibly easy thanks to the robust YKK frontal zipper.
10. NeoSport Premium Neoprene 5mm Wetsuit
Our Review Score
NeoSport Premium wetsuit is a great dive suit that is durable, comfortable and warm. It provides a nice balance between mobility and warmth and can be used in both colder and warmer waters.
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There are flexible knee pads and an adjustable collar that helps you get the fit just right. If you are looking for an easy, no-fuss, scuba suit to wear and to get in and out of easily, then this might be the right diving suit for you.
Here’s a recap for our top Diving Suits:
- Superior Comfort
- Elastek Nylon 2 Neoprene
- Made w Celliant Infrared
- Velcro Adjustment Collar
- ThermaSkin Inner Liner
- Superstretch Neoprene
- Hooded Semidry Suit
- G-lock Front Zipper
- Great Value
- Mesh Skin Chest Plate
- Aquastops Finish
- Ideal for Warm Water
Scuba Diving Wetsuit Buying Guide
Hopefully, you have found a wetsuit above that will be ideal for your needs and body shape. To give you some further pointers we have put together a handy buying guide for choosing the best scuba suit for diving below. We will look at some of the key aspects of diving suits that you need to consider when investing your money.
The Thickness of your Diving Suit
Wetsuits come in a variety of thicknesses. Most will either be 7mm, 5mm or 3mm, but there are some out there that have been designed specifically with warmer water diving in mind that are only 1mm or 2mm.
Whenever you see a dive suit with two numbers for the thickness, 3/2mm for instance, the first refers to the torso thickness, while the second refers to the legs and arms.
Although we all have different tolerances of the cold, there is a general rule of thumb, as noted below
- 2mm – Over 65-degrees F
- 3mm – Between 70 and 85-degrees F
- 5mm – Between 60 and 70-degrees F
- 7mm – Between 50 and 70-degrees F
The Style of your Diving Suit
You will find that there are different styles or dive suits. Generally, there are three main styles of wetsuits, farmer john, full and shorty.
Farmer John Wetsuit
This is a two-piece scuba suit. One part is the overall, sleeveless top and long legs, while the other part is a jacket. These are perfect for extremely cold water because they offer double levels of insulation around your core. Free divers also appreciate this style because of the greater mobility they offer in the shoulders.
Full Wetsuit
A full adds greater protection for your legs and arms and warmth.
Shorty Wetsuit
Shorty wetsuits usually comprise of shorter sleeves and the legs are cut above the knee line. They are comfortable and easier to put on.
The Material of your Diving Suit
There are also three different kinds of materials that scuba suits are made from, lycra, closed-cell neoprene, and open-cell neoprene.
Lyrca
Lycra suits or skins provide a thinner layer of protection and are perfect for diving in comfortably warm water where a wetsuit is not required. Although they do not have thermal insulation, they protect against sharp rocks, corals and jellyfish.
Open-Cell Neoprene
Open-cell suits are probably the highest quality of wetsuits out of the three. They have greater flexibility and are much softer than closed-cell types. Which helps them to hold their form against your body, providing more effective insulation with a full range of motions and a nice feel against your skin.
Closed-Cell Neoprene
Closed-cell is the most common form of a wetsuit. They have a very rubbery and rigid feel. Although they are more durable and cheaper, they are more difficult to slip on and off and aren’t as good at insulating the body as open-cell suits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Although we have tried to cover all you need to know in the article above and answer any question that you may have been asking yourself, here we have put together the answers to questions that we are asked the most.
What is the best wetsuit for scuba diving?
The best wetsuit for scuba diving really depends on what waters you will be diving in and personal preference. The best scuba diving wetsuit is very much dependent on the water temperature and style that you are looking for.
You will need to decide on the thickness that suits the temperature and also the design, as there are various styles to choose from and each has its own features.
How Do I Choose a Wetsuit for Diving?
Firstly when considering how to choose a wetsuit for diving you must consider the water temperature so the thickness is of the utmost importance. But also to be taken into consideration is the Fit, type of neoprene, style, gender, quality, and durability. (always buy the best your budget can stretch to.
What are The Best Wetsuits?
The best wetsuits for diving tend to be the open-cell neoprene designs. As they are flexible and can be put on and taken off quite easily. Farmer John, Full and Shorty are the three different styles available and have to be chosen with consideration of the waters you are diving in mind.
Can You Use Surfing Wetsuits For Diving?
Can you use surfing wetsuits for diving? You can but it is not normally recommended as they tend to be thinner to allow more movement and flexibility and his means that they are not good for retaining heat. If you are diving in cool/cold water then the answer is no.
We hope this article has helped you in your decision of purchasing your own wetsuit. If you liked it why not go check out our other pages covering other equipment such as the aqua lung, neoprene boots, BCDS, and weight belts and how to use them at https://oceanscubadive.com/. Happy Diving.
