Wet Suits

A scuba wetsuit traps a thin layer of water between your skin and the neoprene. Your body warms that layer, and—because neoprene is a poor heat conductor—the warmth stays put, creating an insulating barrier against colder outside water.

 A tight seal stops cold water from flushing through the suit and washing away the warmed layer. Baggy knees, loose armpits, or “hot‑dog” zipper rolls mean the suit is too big and won’t insulate properly. 

• Maximum warmth and less drag in the water 

• Slight boost in buoyancy from evenly compressed neoprene 

• Better freedom of movement for kicks and paddle strokes 

• Extra protection from scrapes, stings, and sun exposure 

It should hug like a second skin without restricting breathing. Small neck or arm creases flatten once you’re in the water; if you can grab fistfuls of neoprene, size down.

“3 mm” refers to thickness; “shorty” means short sleeves/legs. You can have a 3 mm full‑suit or a 3 mm shorty—pick the style and coverage that matches water temp and sun exposure.

A semi‑dry suit uses dry‑suit‑style seals and a back or front dry‑zip to dramatically cut flushing. It’s perfect for 50–60 °F water when you’re not ready to jump to a full dry‑suit. 

Yes. Add a hooded vest or 2 mm shorty over your full suit to bump warmth one “thickness step” without buying a new suit. 

Rinse in freshwater, hang on a wide wetsuit hanger out of sun, and wash with neoprene shampoo every few dives. Store flat or folded at the waist—never on thin shoulders that crease the rubber.