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Finding the perfect scuba diving equipment is like finding an outfit for a fancy event. It’s not just about the style; you need something that fits perfectly, feels comfortable, and performs its function with finesse. Among these scuba diving equipment, the wetsuit is the little black dress of the underwater world. A well-chosen wetsuit, specific to your needs, will keep you snug, protecting you from chills, nicks, and stings while allowing you to glide through the waters like a seal with grace.
Now, the detail to remember here is that the thicker the suit, the more body warmth it preserves, which is a good thing if you’re venturing into less-than-tropical waters. However, if you’re more of a “warm waters only” diver, a suit made from a flexible material with lesser thickness will suffice. This review aims to help you navigate and evaluate the vast expanse of top-notch scuba diving wetsuits on the market, ensuring you choose one that enhances your comfort, safety, and performance. Diving suits have never looked this good!
In-Depth Reviews of the Best Scuba Diving Wetsuits for 2023
1. Scubapro Everflex Steamer
If wetsuits were clothes, the Scubapro Everflex Steamer would be like that versatile pair of jeans loved by both men and women, striking the right balance between comfort and durability. With a comfortable fit that makes it seem like a second skin, the spectrum of sizes available ensures it’s a perfect fit for every diving enthusiast out there.
One of the primary things that give the Scubapro Everflex Steamer an edge over the competition is its X-Foam nylon 2 neoprene material. For those who didn’t major in materials engineering, it basically makes you feel like you’re wrapped in a warm, flexible hug when underwater. Known for its insulation and protection, the suit is tough as a bouncer and as gentle as a kitten. The additional heliospan lining on the torso area provides extra insulation, which makes diving in colder water a more enjoyable experience. Take a plunge with the Scubapro Everflex Steamer and watch your underwater world come alive!
Highlights
- Full wetsuit for men & women
- Thickness of 3/2mm
- Material made of X-Foam nylon 2 neoprene
- Glued, single-blind (inner) & double-blind (outer) stitched
- Self donning & doffing back zipper
- Pull tab leash
- Nylon webbing thumb loop at base of zipper
Pros
- Ergonomic design for a comfortable fit
- Highly breathable X-Foam nylon 2 neoprene material ensures optimum body warmth
- Unisex design caters to both males and females
- Additional heliospan lining provides extra insulation and protection
- Durable construction guarantees a long lifespan
Cons
- Can be a tad expensive for beginners
- Being a full suit, it can be a bit bulky for warm water diving
2. Henderson Thermoprene
Now, if you’re someone who dips their toes more into colder waters while scuba diving, friend, you might fancy the Henderson Thermoprene. This snug-fit wetsuit has been making waves amongst diving enthusiasts thanks to its comfortable fit and brilliant performance under the sea (or lake, or wherever it is you’re diving).
And boy, oh boy, it delivers the cuddly warmth much needed to keep your body temperature steady and prevent those teeth-chattering shivers down underwater.
Boasting a thickness of 7mm, this wetsuit offers that additional layer of insulation that works a charm on cold water dives. Now I ain’t implying you could stroke a penguin while wearing it, but it gets pretty darn close. No more turning blue on your underwater adventures! What sets it apart from other standard neoprene wetsuits is the use of nylon 2 neoprene material that stretches up to 75% more. So, you see, we’re talking about a flexible, warm wetsuit here. It’s the comfort and warmth of a thick quilt married with the flexibility of a gymnast. When it comes to its construction, the Henderson Thermoprene proudly sports glued and blind-stitched seams, providing more strength and restriction of water flow, maintaining a dry, warm diving suit even in colder waters.
Highlights
- Unisex design suitable for both males and females
- 7mm thick for greater insulation
- Fabricated with nylon 2 neoprene for extra stretch
- Glued and blind-stitched seams for superior warmth
- Features contoured fit for extra comfort
- Offers back zipper for easy donning and doffing
- Incorporates nylon webbing thumb loop at base of zipper
Pros
- Very comfortable adaptive fit
- Highly flexible and stretchy fabric
- Excellent for cold water dives
- Strong, durable construction
- Convenient back zipper design
Cons
- May be too hot for diving in tropical waters
- A tad bulky
3. Cressi Castoro Wetsuit
Moving on to the Cressi Castoro, a wetsuit sure to give the divers a solid run for their underwater pleasure dives. Morphing into a seal couldn’t have been this easy and fun! With its soothing black and yellow shades, you might mistake a passing diver for an exotic fish.
Nonetheless, the Castoro isn’t just about the looks but brings style and substance to this game of aquatic exploration.
We’re chatting a thickness of 5mm, folks, well-equipped to tackle cold waters and give you the warmth you so covet underwater. Its wrists and ankles pack some serious punch with its Aquastop system designed to keep out cold waters from seeping in. Not just that, the package comes with an incorporated hood that rocks a smooth neoprene seal around the face. No rush of icy waters sending a brain freeze here! What’s truly impressive about this Cressi Castoro wetsuit is its use of ultra-span neoprene, transferring maximum flexibility to your fin kicks without feeling restrained or tight.
Highlights
- Black and yellow design with unisex construction
- 5mm thick insulation suitable for cold water dives
- Wrist and ankle fittings with Aquastop system
- Comes with an incorporated hood
- Composed of ultraspan neoprene for superior elasticity
- YKK back zip to minimize water infiltrations
- Anti-wear inserts on the shin and knee area
Pros
- Enhanced protection against cold water
- High elasticity for free movement
- Integrated hood providing additional head and neck warmth
- Robust construction without compromised flexibility
- Dual-tone design for style and visibility
Cons
- Potential stiffness in the back zipper
- Bulkiness of the incorporated hood
4. Bare Velocity Full Wetsuit
Cherry-picking a diving suit might feel like finding a needle in a haystack. However, if you want a combo of style, comfort, and durability, allow your eyes to feast on the Bare Velocity Full Wetsuit. This workhorse isn’t your regular Joe – it’s versatile and designed for both men and women.
Imagine slipping into a glove that fits just right. That’s what this wetsuit feels like. It flatters the form like a finely tailored suit and doesn’t give you the look of a walrus.
Scooping up a Bare Velocity is like buying a ticket to your personal snuggle party. And your skin? It’s going to throw a gratitude parade. The 5mm thickness material offers a wrapping warmth to deftly battle the chills, making it as suitable for cold diving conditions as a log fire is for a winter night. With a progressive full-stretch technology woven right in like a secret ingredient, you’ve got the durability of a rhino and the flexibility of a ballet dancer.
Highlights
- Designed for men and women
- Long-sleeved full wetsuit
- 5mm thickness material
- Progressive full-stretch technology incorporated
- Material comprises full-stretch nylon
- Double-glued, securely locked seams
- Heavy-duty back zipper-type closure
Pros
- Excellent quality and stitching
- Suitable for cold diving conditions
- Highly flexible, thanks to progressive full-stretch tech
- Comes in multiple sizes
- Packed with Protekt knee guards for enhanced abrasion protection
Cons
- Too stretchy for some – it could make you feel like Stretch Armstrong
- The price might be enough to make a hard-working fella blink twice
5. Mares Flexa Full Wetsuit
Listen, if there’s anything this city slicker knows about, it’s stuff that’ll keep you warm, and let me tell you, the Mares Flexa Full Wetsuit is definitely a top contender. It’s like wearing New York’s finest triple-layered goose-down jacket year-round, only underwater. Ideal for those colder water plunges, this wetsuit’s innovative design is just blinding in its brilliance.
High-quality and bristling with tiny but crucial details, like pockets that are sneaky smart and tricky to spot.
Roaring with a thick layer of neoprene at 7mm, it’s like snuggling up to a polar bear. Doesn’t sound appealing? Trust me, it will when you’re fifty feet under, surrounded by nothing but cold, stingy water. Infused graphene fibers give it a shiny science edge. They’re all over the inner layers, trapping and bouncing back warmth like huddled city dwellers around an old dumpster fire – you’ll be toasty down to the abyss. And the game-changer of it all? A back-zipper entry. It makes climbing in and out of this suit as easy as slipping out of a parking ticket.
Highlights
- Full wetsuit designed for men
- 7mm neoprene thickness
- Nylon-2 neoprene rubber material, infused with graphene fibre
- Seams that are sewn and sealed tight
- Back-zipper entry featuring a handy pull-tab leash
- Internal thermo plush lining
- Includes a smart pocket for stowing away tiny items
Pros
- Easy to scramble into, thanks to the back-zipper design
- Retains heat excellently due to graphene infusion
- Crafted with various neoprene thicknesses for comfort and warmth
- Seams that are made to last, eliminating worries of leaks
- Comes equipped with a smart pocket for valuables
Cons
- Slightly more pricey than other wetsuits on the market
- May feel restrictive to some divers
6. NeoSport Premium Wetsuit
You’ve made it this far, so now it’s time for me to tell you about another badass babe of the deep, the NeoSport Premium Wetsuit. This tough moxie doe ain’t just got looks to kill; it’s also a hot ticket for diving. It’s versatile, so whether you’re flippin’ yourself in for a quick dive, training for a triathlon, or just enjoying a cool, early morning dip, this wetsuit has you covered.
Now, don’t let the price tag dissuade you – luxury ain’t always about tax brackets. With a snuggly, warm standard neoprene thickness of 5/7mm, this suit will hug your skin like a homemade wool sweater from grandma. Got knobbly knees? Don’t worry; this wetsuit has thought of everything, including cushiony knee pads for when things get a bit… rocky. Hand for attention to detail, the adjustable collar makes it feel tailor-made. Plus, want to keep your keys close while diving? They’ve included an internal key pocket that’s just the ticket. Round it off with a hardy flatlock stitching; you’ve got yourself a wetsuit that’ll meet all your cold waters adventures like a trusty pit bull. Eager, durable, and always for a run, no matter the weather!
Highlights
- Full wetsuit for both adult men and women
- 5/7mm standard neoprene thickness
- Made of elastic nylon and neoprene material
- Features an adjustable collar for snug fit
- Incorporates flatlock stitching for durability
- Includes an internal key pocket for safe-keeping
- Lycra trimmed openings for increased comfort
Pros
- Affordable and available in a wide variety of sizes
- Resistant to abrasions thanks to protective knee pads
- Internal key pocket for safekeeping of valuables
- Durable construction with flatlock stitching
- Adjustable collar for a perfect and comfortable fit
Cons
- Can be a Little tight around the neck
- Suit may gap in some areas, such as underarm and lower back
7. Seavenger Alpha Neoprene Fullsuit Wetsuit
Now, this Seavenger Alpha isn’t your everyday Joe suit. It’s got all the right punches considering its price. Now listen here; this suit is made out of 3mm premium quality neoprene. Sounds fancy, right? That’s because it is. It comes with glued and blind-stitched seams, keeping you nice and toasty under that sea.
And as they say, the stitching makes the suit – boy, they weren’t joking about that one. This suit is durable and reliable, exactly what it advertises.
Alright, moving on. This one’s a full wetsuit, and it doesn’t care if you’re a guy or a gal – it fits just right. Its thickness? Hovers right around 3mm. Fits like a glove, comfortable yet snug. Aye, it may look plain Jane, but let me tell you, it’s top-notch quality. It’s got an easy-peasy back zip closure, and it’s highly packable. No need for fancy boxes or bags here. It gives you all the warmth you need, right around 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Now that’s a kindly offer if you ask me.
Highlights
- Unisex full wetsuit
- Thickness of 3mm
- Premium-quality neoprene material
- Glued and blind-stitched seams for coziness
- Durable shoulder, armpit, and knee paneling
- Back zipper closure for easy donning and doffing
- Even in plus sizes, fit snug and comfortable
Pros
- Flexible, super stretch panel in the armpit area
- Good quality, reliable, and abrasion-resistant
- Lightweight and form-fitting
- Smooth seams for a comfortable fit
- Business and quality in the front, party in the budget
Cons
- Maybe a bit too plain for those with a flair for design
- May not maintain warmth in water below 65 degrees Fahrenheit
8. Hevto Guardian II Neoprene Full Wetsuit
So, you’re planning to make a splash soon, right? Well, the Hevto Guardian II Neoprene Full Wetsuit has got you covered, and I’m not just messing around. This bad boy is designed from the ground up with quality and functionality at its core: ideal for both beginners and seasoned divers. Feel the ocean’s chill?
Well, this wetsuit is as warm as grandma’s apple pie with its cozy 3mm neoprene material. The tailoring is as nifty as the neighborhood tailor, thanks to the professional flatlock stitching keeping things clean and neat and trust me, it’s as comfortable to wear as your favorite pair of jeans.
Now, before you go thinking it’s just another wetsuit, check this out: its insulating properties make it perfect for temperate waters, anywhere from 50 – 67 degrees Fahrenheit. Add in its environment-friendly credential, and you’re diving with a clean conscience, my friend. But get this, it’s not just a do-gooder wetsuit; it’s made of premium neoprene and elastic nylon fabric that feels as good on your skin as soft jersey sheets on a Sunday morning.
Highlights
- Designed for both men and women
- 3mm Neoprene thickness
- Long-sleeved full wetsuit
- 1-year warranty against manufacturing defects
- High-quality Neoprene material used
- Back zip closure type
- Ideal for waters 50 – 67 degrees Fahrenheit
Pros
- Doesn’t break your piggy bank
- Plenty of sizes for all shapes and sizes
- Sturdy stitching like a good carpenter’s work
- Lightweight like a feather without compromising thickness
- Vertical zip allows for easy dressing
Cons
- Some popular sizes as rare as hen’s teeth
- Back zip could be a little struggle for some
9. O’Neill Men’s Dive Sector Full Wetsuit
Now we move on to a wetsuit that’s as snug as a bug in a rug. The O’Neill Men’s Dive Sector Full Wetsuit ain’t your average frolicking-in-the-waves apparel, oh no! With super-stretch neoprene that molds to your body like your footprint in wet sand, it takes comfort and flexibility to a whole new level.
And get this; it boasts blind-stitched seams so well done, it’s like the seamstress at a high-fashion runway slaved away at it. Say goodbye to teeth-chattering cold. This suit here, it’s suitable for cold diving conditions, much like a thick woolly sweater on a chilly winter evening. Now, we must talk about pockets. This bad boy got a key pocket as convenient as having a phone booth in the middle of nowhere. Plus, it’s got kneepads as reliable as the old workhorse. Talking of durability, chaps, O’Neill’s innovative use of Nylon-2 Neoprene rubber is just the icing on the cake. Yours truly, it’s the wetsuit version of a Swiss Army knife, armed for every diving scenario!
Highlights
- Specifically designed for men
- Generous 7mm thickness
- Nylon-2 Neoprene Rubber built
- Suitable for 45- 60 degrees Fahrenheit water
- Glued and blind-stitched seams
- Has an external fluid seam weld
- Available in S-2XL sizes
Pros
- Slides on like butter on warm bread
- External welding gives it hulk-style strength
- Moisture-absorbing back layer panel
- Key pocket for your loose trinkets
- Non-abrasive, reliable kneepad
Cons
- Velcro at the back can cause minor abrasion
- Steep price tag feels like a punch in the gut
10. Aqua Lung Men’s HydroFlex 3mm Jumpsuit
Do you remember how your old man said to wear a jumper when it’s sixty out? We’re giving you the underwater equivalent here. The Aqua Lung Men’s HydroFlex 3mm Jumpsuit is like knitting yourself into a wool sweater but for scuba diving. Its creature comfort kicks in, especially when you swim around chillier parts of the ocean deep down.
The folks behind it surely must have been thinking right about chilly dives when they built this.
Nobody wants that clingy feeling, much less underwater. So, they’ve done this super stretchy number that gives you the mobility you’d want from your second skin. The snug fit is just snug, not one-sided love snug, but comfy like a bear-hug snug. Getting into it is no Chinese puzzle either; the back zipper moves smoother than a hot knife through butter. Extra points for the pull tab leash makes the zip-up as accident-proof as zipping can get. Can’t have you accidentally unzipping underwater now, can we?
Highlights
- Full Jumpsuit, men’s model
- Thickness of 3mm
- HydroFlex (Non-Petroleum Neoprene)
- Double glued, flat-locked seams
- Comfortable V-shaped collar
- Quantum stretch
- Vertical back zipper with pull tab leash
Pros
- Designed for easy movement, the quantum stretch refuses to hold you back
- Snug fit just right, not clinging like chewing gum to a boot sole
- V-shaped collar snug and cozy like hot cocoa on a snowy day
- Getting in and out is a breeze, thanks to the vertical back zipper
- Environmentally friendly, made from non-petroleum HydroFlex neoprene
Cons
- Collar tends to be not your enemy but just cranky
- Sizing could leave you a bit stumped, so keep that measuring tape handy
How to Choose the Best Wetsuit for Scuba Diving
Look, I ain’t gonna sugarcoat it. Choosing the right scuba wetsuit for your dive can be like finding a needle in a haystack. So, to find the right armor, you need to think about the fit, thickness, zipper position, material, and some other factors we’ll explore.
Determining the Right Fit
See, a wetsuit should fit like it was made for you- snug and comfy without restricting your dance moves under water. Making sure the wrists and ankles are spot on is key for keeping that valuable body heat in. You don’t want the feel of a half-filled water balloon sloshing around you when plunging into the deep. Choose a high-quality wetsuit that can take a decent beating while staying true to providing that warmth and comfort. Try out as many wetsuits as you need and find that Cinderella’s shoe fit.
Selecting the Appropriate Thickness
Think about the thickness of a wetsuit, like the blanket you curl up under on a frosty winter night. The colder it gets, the thicker you want your blanket to be. The same rule applies to wetsuits. We’re talking about layers of neoprene filled with pesky little air bubbles working together to keep you cozy underwater. If you plan to shake fins with Nemo in tropical waters, a slim 1.5 – 4mm wetsuit can do the trick. 4mm – 6mm is the sweet spot for temperate. And if your scuba adventure is set in chilly waters, wear a 7mm suit. Remember, choose the appropriate thickness for the waters you’re diving in to be light and warm, not a shivering mess.
Choosing Between a Front vs Back Zipper
Choosing between a front and back zipper is like choosing between apple pie and chocolate cake – personal preference. With front zippers, you can slip in easily, but getting out can be a two-person job. On the flip side, back zippers can have you doing the chicken dance getting in, but they’re a breeze to get out of. They’re a bit easier on the eyes too, what with the zipper hidden out back.
Importance of Material
Most wetsuits are made of this spongy substance called neoprene. It’s all about the feel, bud. Closed-cell neoprene suits are the popular kids in the class – affordable, tough, but not the best at providing thermal insulation. Open cell neoprene, on the other hand, molds better to the diver’s body and bangs up the insulation game, but they’re a bit on the delicate side and pricier too. And then there are the lycra/skin suits, stretching like your yoga instructor, perfect for warm water diving. They might not keep you warm, but they sure keep you covered from other underwater nasties. So weigh these options and choose what feels right.
Considering Design & Style
The design and style of your future wetsuit should definitely not be overlooked. You see, they don’t just make you look good underwater, but they also provide different levels of protection and comfort. Traditional full wetsuits, for example, offer complete body coverage, making them perfect for divers who love to explore rocky terrains or areas with jellyfish. But if you’re more into the tropics, you’d want to consider shorty wetsuits. These are lightweight, easy to get in and out of and still provide a reasonable amount of protection where it counts. Of course, if you’re a seasoned diver looking for maximum mobility and insulation, you could go with a two-piece farmer John/Jane combo.
Evaluating Seams & Stitching
Nothing is more frustrating than a wetsuit that starts leaking in the middle of a dive. Hence, how a wetsuit is sealed and stitched becomes crucial in maintaining its water resistance. Overlock stitching, for instance, is more suited to dives in warmer waters as it allows a bit of water in for insulation. It’s like having a thin, second skin that adapts to your body temperature.
Flat stitches, on the other hand, offer more comfort against your skin but still allow a smidge of water in. Therefore, they’re a common choice for dives in warmer waters as well. So, when you’re hunting for your next wetsuit, make sure you examine those seams and stitches. They should be well-constructed, secure, and suitable for the type of dives you’ll be doing.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What kind of wetsuit do I need for scuba diving?
When it comes to choosing the right wetsuit for scuba diving, it all boils down to what you need for your dives. If you plan on diving in colder waters, less than 24°C or 75°F, a more insulated wetsuit would be ideal. The thing is, colder waters can feel chilly pretty quick, and a thicker suit helps keep them chills at bay. Now, if you’re looking at warmer waters, a 2-3mm wetsuit or a shorty should do just fine.
2. How do I choose between a drysuit and a wetsuit?
If you love escaping the heat with a bit of warm water diving, then a wetsuit would be more up your alley. Wetsuits retain a thin layer of water between your skin and the suit, which makes your body heats up. This gives you that added warmth as you explore the underwater world. But, let’s say you’ve got a penchant for colder expeditions, or you dive in colder seasons, then you might want to consider investing in a drysuit. It’s designed to keep you dry and works by insulating your body from the cold, much like a winter jacket but for the underwater environment. So, in a nutshell, your diving conditions will determine whether you walk out of the store with a new wetsuit or drysuit.
3. Can I wear my surfing wetsuit for scuba diving?
While technically, you can wear anything underwater, it isn’t ideal to wear just any kind of wetsuit, especially for scuba diving. You see, the wetsuits you wear for surfing are skinnier than a sea cucumber. They’re meant for splashing around the surface. On the other hand, scuba is an all-deep, deep-sea business. You need something warmer and thicker, like a bear wearing a sweater. And trust me, a thick wetsuit is exactly what you’d want when you’re hovering around under the water, exploring the seabed, and giving sea turtles high-fives. So, no, your old surfing gear just won’t cut it.
4. How many dives does a wetsuit last?
Just like you can’t expect a pair of sneakers to do the job of your grandpa’s trusty work boots, not all wetsuits are designed the same. A wetsuit crafted from super-stretch neoprene, like the armor of a deep-sea warrior, is the weapon to choose. Wetsuits such as this are made to last – I’d say around hundreds of dives, but who’s counting? But remember, after every dive, treat it with care – rinse it well and let it dry before storing it like it’s your special Sunday shirt. This helps to extend its lifespan even more.
Final Thoughts
Finding the perfect wetsuit is about as easy as finding a seahorse in a coral reef. Not impossible, but it takes a bit of careful searching. Now, if you’re scouring the corners of the internet for the best wetsuits for diving, you’re like a starfish in a tidepool – right place, right time. As you search among our selection, always remember: a well-fitted wetsuit, like a good friend, will stick by your side (or on your skin) no matter how deep you dive.
I’m Jason, a 35-year-old marine enthusiast and blogger based in Miami. My heart belongs to the ocean’s depths, where I uncover the beauty of scuba diving, snorkeling, freediving, and encounters with incredible sea creatures. Here, I share my deep-seated love for the aquatic world, along with valuable insights.
