Wetsuits: Choosing the Right Fit for You

Scuba diving is a sport that is enjoyed by people thecharacteristics.
world round. Scuba diving trips take placeThe type of neoprene that the wetsuit is made of is
everywhere from the Bahamas to the shores ofas important as the thickness of it. The neoprene
Alaska to Australia, the gear that divers need is asthat a suit is made from will have an affect on
unique as the sport as well as the people who enjoyseveral aspects of the suit, including the durability,
it.overall look as well as cost of the wetsuit.
The use of a wetsuit is as important in scuba divingThere are three types of neoprene used for
as an air tank. It is an essential piece of scuba gear.wetsuits that are worth mentioning here. They are
Choosing the appropriate wetsuit, however, dependsGas (chemical) blown, skin and titanium. The purchase
upon many factors and preferences. For example,of a gas blown suit will result in a more expensive,
where will the dive be taking place? What will thestronger wetsuit. A chemical blown suit will have a
water temperature be? What type of neckline orsofter feel but will tend to wear quicker as a result,
stitching do you prefer a wetsuit to have?this is less expensive.
When buying a wetsuit, the thickness of the materialThe most expensive option is to get a suit that is
that is needed is the most crucial decision to bemade with Titanium. These wetsuits have the
made. The thickness of the wetsuit will be theTitanium either as a coating for the inside or as
determining factor to your warmth and comfortthreads that are woven through the suit. The
underwater. Most suits are sold with thicknesses ofthought behind adding the Titanium to the wetsuit is
3mm or 6mm, these two choices will be sufficient inthat it is supposed to keep you warmer by
most temperatures of water where the averagepreventing heat from leaving the body while under
dive will take place.water, however, some divers are still skeptical about
Another choice that needs to be made is the typethe validity of this claim.
of wetsuit that you will need. Wetsuits mostWhen trying on a wetsuit for size be sure to check
commonly are found with short legs and sleeves andthat there are not big gaps in the armpits, that the
long legs and sleeves. The choice of which is right forcrotch of the suit is snug, the ankles and wrists of
you depends upon where you are diving, thethe suit need to be snug, not loose or water will get
temperature of the water and your personalin. Finally, if in order to close the suit, the zipper
tolerance level for temperature changes.needs to be held, it is probably too small and needs
The water temperature will help you when makingto be at least one size larger. On the other hand, if it
the decision regarding thickness and length of thezips easily and isn't snug, try a smaller size. If you
wetsuit needed. If you are diving in water that iscan't find a wetsuit that fits exactly right, it can and
above 85 degrees, a 2 mm short suit is what youshould be altered.
would need. However, if the dive is in water that isUse these tips along with recommendations from
60 to 70 degrees, look for a 6-7 mm long suit. Theseasoned divers to ensure the right wetsuit for your
final decision regarding the thickness and type of suitneeds. Enjoy!
that is best for you rests upon your own body