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Wetsuits are essential equipment for those who practice scuba diving, snorkeling, or spearfishing, as they offer protection from the cold and skin irritation caused by prolonged contact with salt water. Wetsuits are made of specific materials such as neoprene , which is a stretchy and water-resistant material that keeps the body warm even in cold water.

Types of Wetsuits

1. Wet Suit

   • Features: The wetsuit is the most common. It is made of neoprene and is designed to absorb a small amount of water which, once trapped, warms up thanks to body temperature.
   • Advantages: Good for activities such as snorkeling , surfing , and diving in temperate waters. Can be used in waters between 10°C and 25°C .
   • Thickness: Varies from 3 mm to 7 mm, depending on the temperature of the water you intend to dive in.

2. Dry Suit

   • Features: Unlike a wetsuit, a drysuit prevents water from entering and keeps the wearer completely dry. It is typically used for cold-water diving.
   • Advantages: Allows you to add thermal underwear, offering optimal protection against the cold. It is ideal for diving in very cold water (below 10°C ).
   • Thickness: Generally thicker than a wetsuit, thanks to the double thermal protection.

3. Semi-Dry Wetsuit

   • Features: A cross between a wetsuit and a drysuit, the semi-drysuit has sealed seams and a zipper that reduces water entry.
   • Advantages: Excellent for activities like snorkeling and diving in temperate or cool waters. It provides good protection against cold water while allowing greater freedom of movement than a dry suit.
   • Thickness: Usually varies between 5 mm and 7 mm .

4. Snorkeling wetsuit

   • Features: Lightweight, thin wetsuit, typically made of 3mm neoprene , designed to provide warmth while snorkeling. It protects the body from cuts, abrasions, and contact with marine life.
   • Advantages: Ideal for snorkelers and those new to diving in warm or temperate waters.

5. Wetsuit for Freediving and Spearfishing

   • Features: These wetsuits are generally made of stretch neoprene (Spandex or Nylon on the outside), which allows for greater freedom of movement. They are thinner than traditional diving wetsuits, with thicknesses ranging from 1.5 mm to 5 mm .
   • Advantages: They offer good thermal protection , but also flexibility and comfort during freediving and fishing activities.

6. Surfing wetsuit

   • Features: Wetsuits are designed to protect you from cold ocean winds and maintain a stable body temperature during hours of cold exposure.
   • Advantages: Often made of stretch neoprene to ensure freedom of movement while surfing. They are often lighter than wetsuits.

Materials Used

• Neoprene: The primary material used in wetsuits, known for its thermal properties and ability to insulate the body from cold water.
• Gore-Tex: Some dry suits use advanced materials like Gore-Tex, which is waterproof and breathable .
• Spandex or Lycra: Elastic material that allows freedom of movement in wetsuits for freediving or surfing.
• Nylon: Sometimes used to line the outside of wetsuits, particularly in areas exposed to abrasion.

Important Features to Consider

1. Neoprene Thickness: The thicker the neoprene, the greater the thermal protection. Choose a thickness based on the water temperature.
2. Seam Type: Sealed seams are more waterproof than traditional seams, helping keep water out.
3. Fit: The wetsuit must fit snugly to the body, without being too tight (to prevent water from circulating) or too loose (to prevent water from entering).
4. Zippers and Closures: Wetsuits with dry zippers and Velcro or teardrop closures are designed to reduce water entry.
5. Neck and Wrists: The closure system at the neck and wrists is essential to avoid water leaks, especially in dry and semi-dry wetsuits.