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Going scuba diving fills most of us with a sense of excitement and wonder, and the last thing you want to do is shiver throughout the entire dive.
That’s why you need a wetsuit. Unless you’ve diving in extremely tropical waters where a rashguard and board shorts might suffice, a high-quality suit will keep you comfortable and insulated while you explore the underwater world.
In this guide, we’ll look at the best diving suits, how to pick one, and the different types of suits in the market.
1. 🌊 Best Diving Suits for Scuba Diving
- Best Overall – 5MM Elate Full
- Best Top Tier Suit – Hollis NeoTek V2
- Best Women’s Suit – ScubaPro Women’s Everflex
- Our Pick – BARE 7 MM Reactive Full
2. ⭐ Reviews – Best 10 Scuba Diving Suits 2025
5MM Elate Full
Product Specifications
| Brand | Bare |
| Thickness | 5 mm |
| Suitable for | Cool to cold water |
| Zip | Back Zipper |
| Seams | Sealed |
| Materials | Neoprene |
| Designed for | Women |
| Price | $$$ |
This 5 mm wetsuit is made from a high-stretch neoprene blend and laminate layers that are flexible and lightweight. Some of its features are sealed seams, a full back zipper, Armor-flex knee pads, and a comfortable low-profile collar. The 3D anatomically correct pattern makes this suit perfectly fitted and the cuffs are snug against the skin, keeping the water out.
Cressi Shorty Tortuga Wetsuit 2.5 MM
Product Specifications
| Brand | Cressi |
| Thickness | 2.5 mm |
| Suitable for | Warm water |
| Zip | Back Zipper |
| Seams | Sewn |
| Materials | Neoprene |
| Designed for | Men |
| Price | $$$ |
If you’re looking for a thinner wetsuit, this one-piece shorty is perfect for warmer tropical waters. The suit provides abrasion, exposure, UV protection, and fit snuggly to keep you warm. It also has a hook-and-loop fastening high collar that adds comfort and protection.
BARE 7 MM Reactive Full
Product Specifications
| Brand | Bare |
| Thickness | 7 mm |
| Suitable for | Deep dive cold water |
| Zip | Back Zipper |
| Seams | Glued and taped |
| Materials | Nylon, Neoprene |
| Designed for | Men |
| Price | $$$ |
The Bare 7 mm Reactive suit is a blend of nylon and neoprene designed for cold water diving. One of its best features is the Graphene Omnired infrared technology fabric that adds warmth. Another great feature is how fitted it is thanks to the amount of zippers, it has 1 on each ankle, each wrist, on the front, and on the back collar. It’s a well-made suit that’s worth the price!
Hollis NeoTek V2 Unisex Hooded Semi-Dry Suit
Product Specifications
| Brand | Hollis |
| Thickness | 8/7/6 mm |
| Suitable for | Cool to cold water |
| Zip | G-lock Horizontal Frontal Zipper |
| Seams | Sealed |
| Materials | Neoprene |
| Designed for | Unisex |
| Price | $$$ |
Experience the comfort and cutting-edge technology of the Hollis elite immersion with the rugged and dependable NeoTek 8/7/6mm V2 hooded semi-dry suit. Crafted from compression-resistant 8/7/6mm neoprene and featuring Hollis’ exclusive ThermaSkin inner liner, this V2 suit boasts a front neck dam with a revolutionary G-lock horizontal front zipper, facilitating easy on/off and providing a secure barrier against water intrusion. Additionally, the arms and legs are safeguarded against leaks with an internal dam.
Enhancing its functionality, the suit includes tech-friendly pockets on both thighs, allowing divers to conveniently store essential accessories. These pockets feature drainage grommets and secure hook and loop fastener closures for added convenience and protection. Dive confidently with the NeoTek 8/7/6mm V2, combining advanced design and robust construction for an unparalleled underwater experience.
SEAC Men’s Sense Neoprene Wetsuit
Product Specifications
| Brand | SEAC |
| Thickness | 3 mm |
| Suitable for | Warm water |
| Zip | Back Zipper |
| Seams | Sealed |
| Materials | Neoprene |
| Designed for | Men |
| Price | $$$ |
Indulge in superior comfort with the SEAC Sense 3mm one-piece wetsuit for men, featuring an enhanced anatomic fit and softer neoprene materials. Perfect for warm water activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming, and surface water sports like waterskiing, this wetsuit offers a super stretchy shell. Constructed from new-generation 3mm extra flex neoprene, the Sense suit provides a pre-formed anatomical cut that closely conforms to your body, offering both mobility and freedom.
Putting on and removing the wetsuit is a breeze, thanks to the YKK zippers on the back. Ideal for water temperatures ranging from 70 to 85 degrees F, this warm water wetsuit does not include a hood. SEAC, founded in Italy in 1971, takes pride in leading the industry in producing high-quality diving gear. Every product undergoes individual verification and testing, ensuring reliability and performance for your aquatic adventures.
Scubapro Women’s Everflex Steamer 7/5 MM Wetsuit
Product Specifications
| Brand | Bare |
| Thickness | 5 mm |
| Suitable for | Cool to cold water |
| Zip | Back Zipper |
| Seams | Sealed |
| Materials | Neoprene |
| Designed for | Women |
| Price | $$$ |
The wetsuit is made from X-Foam neoprene and double-layered for improved stretch and warmth when you’re diving in cooler waters. It has a water-draining material in the inner lining and double blind-stitched, which will protect you from the cold. One innovative addition to this suit is an extra neck zipper that allows you to adjust how tight the suit fits. A downside to this suit is the lack of a hood. So if you want to keep your head warm, that’s an additional purchase.
Cressi Women’s Lido Short Lady
Product Specifications
| Brand | Cressi |
| Thickness | 2 mm |
| Suitable for | Warm water |
| Zip | Front Zipper |
| Seams | Glued and sewn |
| Materials | Neoprene |
| Designed for | Women |
| Price | $$$ |
Although it’s not the standard, there’s no denying that suits with front zippers are easier to get into. Intended for warmer water, it’s also a great additional suit that you can wear underneath a thicker full suit in colder climates.
Not only is the suit stylish, but it will also fit you perfectly thanks to its anatomical cut that’s specifically designed for women. One downside to the suit is the hard seams that can be a bit scratchy on your skin.
O’Neill Youth Reactor 2 3/2 MM
Product Specifications
| Brand | O’Neill’s Wetsuits |
| Thickness | 3/2 mm |
| Suitable for | Warm water |
| Zip | Back Zipper |
| Seams | Sealed |
| Materials | Neoprene |
| Designed for | Kids |
| Price | $$$ |
If you’re looking for an entry-level suit for your kids, this is the perfect one for your family. It has a hidden key pocket, fully adjustable super seal collar, seamless paddle zones, and Krypto Knee Pads that are abrasion resistant.
It comes with different designs and colors that can satisfy even the pickiest children. An important part that’s missing from this suit is the hood. Kids are more susceptible to ear infections, so hood might be a compulsory additional purchase.
Scubapro Sport Steamer 5 MM Women’s Wetsuit
Product Specifications
| Brand | Scubapro |
| Thickness | 5 mm |
| Suitable for | Warm water |
| Zip | Back Zipper |
| Seams | Glued and blind-stitched |
| Materials | Neoprene |
| Designed for | Women |
| Price | $$$ |
This suit is designed for casual divers in shallow depths. It’s a popular triathlon cut that allows a lot of range of motion in shoulders and arms.
Other features in this suit are abrasion-resistant fabrics on shoulders, seat, and knees, zippered cuffs on ankles and wrists for tighter fits, and a soft inner layer. It’s a great product that’s perfect as a first-time purchase for beginners.
Henderson 7mm Greenprene Men’s Full Wetsuit
Product Specifications
| Brand | Henderson |
| Thickness | 7 mm |
| Suitable for | Cool to cold water |
| Zip | Back Zipper |
| Seams | Sealed |
| Materials | Greenprene |
| Designed for | Men |
| Price | $$$ |
If you’re interested in a thicker wetsuit that’s also environmentally friendly, Henderson Greenprene 7 mm is a good option. The greenprene is made out of deproteinized insulating foam and natural additives such as sugar cane, plant oils, and oyster shells. Some downsides to this suit are the visible seams and how bulky it can be outside of water.
3. 🤔 How To Pick A Wetsuit
None of these wetsuits float your boat? Fret not. A wetsuit isn’t a one-size-fits all solution. Different diving conditions and water temperatures call for various types of wetsuits, and finding the right one can greatly enhance your diving experience.
Choosing a wetsuit that offers optimal body warmth and protection involves considering factors such as fit, comfort, and thickness.
This part covers the best scuba wetsuits for cold, warm, and tropical waters. The key features and performance aspects of each type of wetsuit will be covered, providing you with the necessary information for your underwater adventures.
Cold Water Wetsuits
Diving in colder waters demands a wetsuit that provides ample insulation and protection. Cold water wetsuits are specifically designed to keep you warm in low temperatures, with thicknesses usually around 5 to 7 mm. These suits are often sealed with a special adhesive tape to prevent water from penetrating through the seams, ensuring you stay warm and dry during your dive.
When selecting a cold water wetsuit, look for blind stitched seams and ankle seals with double layers at the ankles and wrists to minimize water entry. This feature helps retain body heat and makes a significant difference in your overall comfort during a cold water dive.
Warm Water Wetsuits
A wetsuit that offers comfort and flexibility is ideal for those who prefer diving in warmer water temperatures. Warm water wetsuits typically have thicknesses ranging from 1 to 3 mm, providing ample insulation without overheating the wearer. These suits are ideal for maintaining a comfortable body warm temperature while exploring the underwater world in water temperature that is warmer.
Tropical Wetsuits
A lightweight wetsuit designed for breathability and ease of movement is necessary for those venturing into the crystal-clear waters of tropical destinations. Tropical wetsuits are generally 1 to 3 mm in thickness, offering adequate protection while maintaining a comfortable body temperature.
They also don’t need to be full length wetsuits. A short wetsuit, or “shortie”, can be enough in waters above 25 degrees Celsius.
With the right tropical wetsuit, you’ll be well-prepared for your next underwater adventure in paradise.
4. 🚀 High-Performance Wetsuits for Advanced Divers
Wetsuits that cater to the specific needs and environments of advanced divers are often required. This part covers high-performance wetsuits designed for technical diving, semi-dry, and drysuit options. These specialized suits offer enhanced durability and performance features that cater to the unique requirements of experienced divers.
Technical Diving Wetsuits
Technical diving is a more advanced and demanding form of scuba diving, involving deeper dives, wreck or cave penetration, and the use of mixed gas blends. Technical diving wetsuits are designed to meet the rigors of these challenging underwater environments, offering enhanced durability, flexibility, and insulation.
These suits come equipped with reinforced shoulders, wrist detailing, and other features specifically designed for diving. When choosing a technical diving wetsuit, prioritize quality craftsmanship, proper fit, and effective insulation to ensure a successful dive.
Semi-Dry Wetsuits
Semi-dry wetsuits offer a compromise between traditional wetsuits and drysuits, providing slower heat loss, reduced water exchange, and improved comfort for colder water divers. These suits are designed to keep the wearer warm and dry without sacrificing flexibility and ease of movement.
Semi-dry wetsuits combine the benefits of traditional wetsuits and drysuits, making them an excellent choice for experienced divers in search of a versatile and comfortable diving suit.
Drysuits
For those who brave the coldest depths, drysuits provide complete insulation and protection from the elements. These suits are designed to keep the wearer completely dry and warm in cold water environments, making them the go-to option for divers exploring frigid waters.
These drysuits offer exceptional insulation, protection, and performance, ensuring a safe and enjoyable diving experience in even the harshest conditions. Note that you’ll need special training to dive in a drysuit, as they will significantly increase your buoyancy and you’ll need to control it separately.
5. 🌱 Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Scuba Diving Suits
Sustainability and eco-friendliness are more important than ever in the current world. Fortunately, the scuba diving industry is no exception. This part covers a selection of wetsuits made from eco-friendly materials and sustainable production methods, allowing you to dive with a clear conscience.
Neoprene Alternatives
Traditional neoprene wetsuits aren’t the only option when it comes to choosing a suit for your diving adventures. Many companies now offer wetsuits made from alternative materials, such as liquid rubber, that provide similar performance and comfort.
Alternative materials such as Thermocline, Greenprene, Frogskin, Lavacore, and Sharkskin are being used to craft neoprene-free wetsuits. These materials offer divers eco-friendly alternatives that still provide the insulation and protection needed for successful dives.
Recycled Materials
Another way to make your diving experience more eco-friendly is by choosing a wetsuit made from recycled materials. These wetsuits are crafted with sustainability in mind, reducing the environmental impact of their production.
By choosing a wetsuit made from recycled materials, you’re not only diving in style, but also contributing to a cleaner and healthier planet.
6. 🧼 Caring for Your Scuba Diving Suit
There’s nothing more annoying than arriving at your dive destination only to find that your wetsuit is damaged and falling apart at the seams. To ensure the longevity and performance of your scuba diving suit, proper care and maintenance are necessary. By following a few simple steps, you can keep your wetsuit in prime condition for many underwater adventures to come.
After each dive, soak your wetsuit in fresh water to remove salt, sand, and debris. For a more thorough cleaning, soak the suit in warm water with a mild detergent or shampoo before rinsing.
When storing your wetsuit, make sure it is completely dry and stored in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. By taking the time to properly care for your scuba diving suit, you’ll ensure it remains a reliable companion on your underwater journeys.
7. ❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What materials are typically used in the construction of scuba diving wetsuits?
Neoprene, a synthetic rubber material, is commonly used in the fabrication of scuba diving wetsuits. Additionally, nylon and spandex may be incorporated to enhance the wetsuit’s performance.
How should a wetsuit fit?
A wetsuit should fit snugly on the body, neither too loose nor too tight. It should not hinder blood circulation or increase blood pressure.
What are the recommended methods for cleaning a scuba diving wetsuit?
Rinse the wetsuit with fresh water after each dive, and use a mild detergent or wetsuit shampoo for a thorough cleaning.
How can I ensure the correct fit of a wetsuit?
When selecting a wetsuit, it is essential to guarantee a correct fit. The wetsuit should be snug yet not overly tight. It should not hinder blood circulation or increase blood pressure.
What are the environmental advantages of utilizing neoprene alternatives in scuba diving suits?
Utilizing neoprene alternatives in scuba diving suits can decrease pollution and waste related to the production and disposal of neoprene. Some alternatives, such as natural rubber, are also more economical and have a lower environmental impact.
Is a wetsuit or drysuit better for scuba diving?
For scuba diving, a drysuit is recommended if temperatures are below 16 degrees Celsius (60°F), while a wetsuit would be better for higher temperatures. However, the best option depends on each person’s tolerance to cold.
What materials are typically used in the construction of scuba diving wetsuits?
Scuba diving wetsuits are typically constructed using neoprene, a synthetic rubber, as well as nylon and spandex for added performance.
8. 📝 Summary
Choosing the right scuba diving suit is crucial for enjoying your diving adventures. With a vast range of options available, be sure to do some research and get one based on the environment you are most likely to dive in.
There’s nothing more unpleasant than being cold the whole dive and shivering. With a wide range of options available for different water conditions, skill levels, budgets, and eco-friendliness, there’s a perfect wetsuit for every diver.
By understanding the various types of wetsuits and how to properly care for them, you’re well-equipped to make the most of your underwater adventures while protecting our oceans for future generations to enjoy.
