Scuba diving in cold water is a challenging activity, and the right equipment is essential. Cold water scuba diving requires special clothing and equipment to remain safe and comfortable. The right suit can make a big difference, whether it’s keeping you warm or protecting you from the chill. If you’re planning on diving in cold water, we recommend that you get yourself a dry suit – also known as a hot-water suit or thermal suit. A dry suit is a waterproof garment worn as an outer layer instead of traditional wet-and-dry dive suits used by most recreational divers. This article covers everything you need to know about cold water scuba gear featuring dry suits for men and women.
What to look for in a Cold Water Scuba Suit
When selecting a cold water scuba suit, there are a few things you want to keep in mind. Cold water scuba suits are designed to protect you from the cold, keep you warm, and provide extra protection against cuts and scrapes. When selecting a cold water scuba suit, the following criteria are important: Fabric – The fabric of your cold water scuba suit will determine how warm it keeps you and how much it resists water. There are two basic types of fabric that scuba suits are made from: Neoprene – Neoprene is a synthetic rubber that is naturally very good at retaining heat. It is the perfect choice for cold water scuba diving as it keeps you warm, but it does not dry quickly. You’ll need to hang your suit out to dry after every dive. Polyester – A polyester or synthetic fabric suit is generally easier to dry than neoprene, but it will not keep you as warm. Rubber thickness – The thickness of the rubber in a scuba suit is an important consideration. A thicker rubber will be more resistant to cuts and abrasions when you are exploring the sea floor. However, thicker rubber also holds more heat in, so it can make it harder to stay warm. A thinner rubber thickness is easier to swim in, but it will allow more cold water to get in, making it harder to stay warm.
Men’s dry suits
If you dive in cold water conditions, a dry suit is the best scuba gear for you. Dry suits keep you warm and dry, which makes them especially popular among fishermen and divers who need to work in a wet environment. When selecting a dry suit, you have two options: Neoprene – Neoprene is a synthetic rubber that is naturally very good at retaining heat. It is the perfect choice for cold water scuba diving as it keeps you warm, but it does not dry quickly. Neoprene dry suits are available in two styles: Full-body – A full-body scuba dry suit covers your legs and your arms. Full-body scuba dry suits are great for cold water diving because they keep all of your body warm. However, they are also more expensive than standard full-body scuba suits. Standard – A standard scuba dry suit covers your torso, but not your legs and arms. Standard scuba dry suits are cheaper than full-body scuba suits and are often the best choice for scuba divers who want to keep their hands free.
Women’s dry suits
Dry suits are a great choice for women who dive in cold water. Neoprene is the most common fabric used in dry suits and it is naturally good at retaining heat. A good dry suit will keep you warm, dry, and free from cuts and scrapes. Full-body dry suits are the best choice for colder water temperatures but standard dry suits may be enough for milder conditions. Neoprene dry suits are available in two styles: Full-body – A full-body scuba dry suit covers your legs and your arms. Full-body scuba dry suits are great for cold water diving because they keep all of your body warm. However, they are also more expensive than standard full-body scuba suits. Standard – A standard scuba dry suit covers your torso, but not your legs and arms. Standard scuba dry suits are cheaper than full-body scuba suits and are often the best choice for scuba divers who want to keep their hands free.
How to find the right size
When you are purchasing a cold water scuba suit, it’s important to find a suit that fits you well. A too-large suit will not provide the warmth or protection that you need, and a too-small suit will be uncomfortable and difficult to move in. When purchasing a cold water scuba suit, it’s best to try on a few different sizes to find one that fits you well. Women and men’s suits tend to be different sizes, so it’s important to try on a suit of each type to make sure you get the right size.
Types of material used in dry suits
Neoprene is the most common fabric used in dry suits and it is naturally good at retaining heat. Dry suits can also be made from other fabrics such as synthetic rubber or polyester. A good dry suit will keep you warm, dry, and free from cuts and scrapes. Neoprene – Neoprene is a synthetic rubber that is naturally very good at retaining heat. It is the perfect choice for cold water scuba diving as it keeps you warm, but it does not dry quickly. Neoprene dry suits are available in two styles: Full-body – A full-body scuba dry suit covers your legs and your arms. Full-body scuba dry suits are great for cold water diving because they keep all of your body warm. However, they are also more expensive than standard full-body scuba suits. Standard – A standard scuba dry suit covers your torso, but not your legs and arms. Standard scuba dry suits are cheaper than full-body scuba suits and are often the best choice for scuba divers who want to keep their hands free.
Bestseller No. 1
Gill Dry suit - Fully Taped & Waterproof Ideal for Watersports such as Dinghy, Sailing, Kayaking & Paddleboard (Black, L)
- A perfect choice for a range of water activities the Drysuit features XPLORE+ 3 layer fabric technology for a highly durable breathable and waterproof finish.
- With in-built adjustable braces a flexible YKK Aquaseal waterproof zipper and pre marked glideskin collar and cuffs the suit will adjust to fit your body. Benefiting from fabric socks to increase suit...
- Wear over your usual layers this - drysuit is ideal for sailing dinghy sailing paddle sports and board sports such as stand up paddle boarding and kayaking.
- Main Fabric: 100% Nylon PU coated. Reinforcement: 100% Polyester PU coated. Hand Wash. Do Not Bleach. Do Not Tumble Dry. No Iron. Do Not Dry Clean. Do not store wet. After use rinse in fresh water.
Bestseller No. 2
SEAC Unifleece, Insulating Undergarment Dry Suit
- Lightweight, breathable, 2-layer undergarment keeps you warm while diving in cold environments
- Outer layer repels water to help keep you dry
- Double-Ended front zipper gets you in and out quickly
- Ankle stirrups prevent bunching when putting on your drysuit
- Easy-access zippered pockets for carrying extra gear
Bestseller No. 3
Mens Semi-Dry Suits with Neoprene Gaskets for Fishing Sailing Paddling,Boating,Crafting or ATV Sport in Cold Water (Neoprene Gaskets, XX-Large)
- Drryfsh dry suits made of durable 3-layer fabric with membrane, which provides water, wind and damage protection.. High water resistance 20 000 mm. Breathability 7000g/m2/24h.
- Waterproof front entry zipper much easier to put on and take off than traditional dry suits,and the men's relief zipper lets you answer nature's call without having to take the whole drysuit off.The...
- Semi dry suits comes with:neoprene wrist,neck gaskets and black fabric socks,neoprene gaskets more comfortable than latex seal,prevent abrasions of the skin,the suit is equipped with two splash-proof...
- There maybe have a little bit of water leakage at the wrists and neck when swimming or upside down from gaskets, but none when sitting on the boat and getting smashed by big waves.The best choice for...
- Quality control is a fundamental part of our manufacturing process.If you are not 100% satisfied with what you have purchased from Drryfsh, return it within 30 days of purchase and take advantage of...
Bestseller No. 4
O'Neill Men's Boost 300g Drysuit, Black, Medium
- 3 Layer Breathable Nylon Shell
- Loose Fit Drysuit
- Neoprene Neck Seal
- Laytex Wrist and Ankle Seals
- Waterproof Horizontal Back Zip
Bestseller No. 5
Waterproof Kayak Drysuit with Stowable Hood Breathable Dry Suit for Men in Cold Water (Medium)
- Constructed with 3-Layer 100% Nylon with DWR finish for best-in-class durable, waterproof-windproof-breathable performance.
- Features stowable and removable hood,Waterproof front entry and relief zipper,tough latex neck and wrist gaskets,two splashproof zippered chest pocket,self-drain water hole,reflective patches increase...
- Neoprene waist overskirt with double-pull hook-and-loop closure fits over your sprayskirt tunnel for a watertight seal.Drryfsh drysuit perfect for...
- Drryfsh factory's dry suit has a very thoughtful design, which is much more comfortable than other competitors' drysuits,The knee and dropseat of the suit with removable neoprene patches increasing...
- Every suit 100% fill tested for maximum performance,guaranteed to be dry.Please contact us if you have problems, We will offer you a satisfactory solution and the best service within 24 hours.
Bestseller No. 6
Dry Suits for Men in Cold Water Water Rescue Suit with Detachable Hood for Whitewater Canyoneering Kayaking SUP Paddling Exploring (Khaki, Medium)
- 【MATERIAL】3-Layer nylon fabric offers waterproof/breathable protection,fabric is made of 100% recycled materials.
- 【TOUGH GASKETS】British latex neck and wrist gaskets are protected with fabric overcuffs.Reflective patches and stripe increase visibility in low-light。
- 【DETACHABLE HOOD】The packable and removable hood create a customized fit,in warmer conditions or in between sessions you can quickly change dry suit into the “standby mode” by simply opening...
- 【DOUBLE TUNNEL】Neoprene waist overskirt with double-pull hook-and-loop closure fits over your sprayskirt tunnel for a watertight seal
- 【WATERPROOF ZIPPER】Front-entry wateproof zipper with protective flap;splashproof zippered thigh pockets; punture through hole;relief zipper; 3-layer waterproof fabric socks.Whistle and repair kit...
Bestseller No. 7
Hollis NEOTEK SEMI-DRYSUIT, V2, Unisex, XXL
- Features: 8/7/6 mm mix of compression resistant and super-stretch neoprene
- Eco-friendly: neoprene production waste is recycled and reused—minimizing landfill waste
- Exclusive “ThermaSkin” inner liner
- G-lock horizontal front zipper with internal bib
- Neck, Wrist and Ankle internal dams
Bestseller No. 8
Kokatat Men's Hydrus 3.0 Swift Entry Dry Suit w/Relief Zipper & Socks-Tangerine-XL
- Proprietary Hydrus 3.0 three-layer waterproof & breathable fabric
- Self-draining reinforced seat & knee patches
- Waterproof nylon front-entry zipper for easy on & off
- Latex neck & wrist gaskets w/ adjustable hook & loop cuffs
- Integrated Hydrus 3.0 fabric socks keep you dry & cozy all day long
Bestseller No. 9
Hevto Wetsuits Men 3/2mm Neoprene Scuba Diving Surfing Wet Suit Keep Warm Back Zip in Cold Water Swimming Kayaking Jet Ski SUP (Men1-Blue, L)
- Why - Wetsuits can give you extra warmth in cold water. The working principle of wetsuits is that a thin layer of water will be left on the body when water enters the clothes, then this layer of water...
- What - Hevto training wetsuits are designed for adult men surfing/diving beginners and amateurs. The royal blue sleeves and side seams create a striking color clash with the black. You may feel...
- Where - Hevto wetsuits are made of 3/2mm neoprene and nylon stretch fabric for softness and comfort. Stretchy fabrics give the wetsuit flexibility and fit body shape perfectly, which helps reduce the...
- How - No need to worry about the back zipper will bring trouble, we not only have a sturdy zipper track but also set a lengthened nylon belt. Zip it up quickly requires only two steps - grab the...
- Who - The Hevto wetsuit is not just a piece of gear but a companion that embodies resilience, determination, and passion to explore the unknown waters. Wearing a Hevto wetsuit connects you to a...
Bestseller No. 10
SCUBAPRO Exodry 4 mm Men’s Diving Drysuit (Extra Large)
- SCUBAPRO's hybrid design fuses 4 mm high-density neoprene with latex wrist and neck seals, minimizing inherent buoyancy variations at depth and keeping you comfortable and dry throughout.
- Stay warm in cooler waters with features like an orange plush interior lining and a neoprene warm collar that covers the latex neck seal.
- The suit's attached semi-rigid dive boots feature soft yet protective soles that prevent slipping while allowing you to walk comfortably on objects like rocks or shells.
- Si-Tech balanced side-activated inlet and adjustable outlet valves allow for pinpoint buoyancy control, increasing stability and control at depth.
- Driven to constantly innovate and improve the diving experience, SCUBAPRO builds high-quality equipment for the work, sport, and lifestyle of people whose passion is found below the surface.
Bestseller No. 11
O'Neill Men's Fluid 3mm Neoprene Drysuit, Black/Graphite, X-Large
- Loose upper fit and performance lower fit
- Smooth skin Dry seals
- 100% waterproof
- Fluid seam Weld
- Body: 3mm Fluid Flex foam Neoprene
Bestseller No. 12
Wetsuits Men's Ultra Stretch 7Mm Neoprene Full Suits Long Sleeve, Winter Warm Front Zip Full Body Diving Suit for Snorkeling Scuba Diving Swimming,3XL
- Note: The size of the diving suit is smaller than your size. Please refer to the size label. The weight has a great impact on the size of your choice of diving clothes. First of all, refer to the...
- Comfortable Wetsuit --- Made with premium stretchy neoprene and super elastic nylon fabric, flexible for doing water sports; The 7mm neoprene wetsuits are worn suitable ideal for below 53.6℉ , it...
- Full Body Coverage Design --- Full body cover diving skin provides the best protection. Full-body & long-sleeve design with special UV protection coating layer helps to reduce harms from sunlight....
- Durable ＆Easy to Put on --- Seamed with stretchable and durable 4 - thread flack lock stitch, keeps the flexibility of the neoprene and nylon fabric, and durable enough for any water sports, no need...
- Tips --- ① You may feel tight when you wear on the wetsuit at first time, but this can provide good buoyancy and warmth for you. Just get used to it slowly. ② You may smell an odor when you...
Bestseller No. 14
Seaskin Wetsuits for Men Women 3mm Front Zip Full Wetsuit
- This full wetsuit is specially designed for water sports and water aerobics; wetsuit front zip provides UV protection and defense against sea lice, jellies and other biological irritants
- The wetsuits should fit snugly and tight to the body, thus to keep the body heat when in the water, you should get a ideal fit after several times uses; It’s made of high quality neoprene,...
- Front zipper long sleeve wetsuit is easy for exit and entry; Flat-Lock Stitched Seams is excellent durability and fantastic comfort to keep your body warm in the coldest conditions for canoeing, sea...
- Three layers of diving fabrics front zip wetsuit, the outer is imported nylon fabric, it is high elastic; the middle insulation is neoprene, it is high scalability, waterproof and heat insulation;...
- Handwash in cold water for this wetsuit with mild detergent and flat to dry, no iron, no bleach. When you receive a new wetsuit, sometimes you will smell the pungent smell. Please don't worry, this...
Bestseller No. 16
Helly-Hansen Men's Aegir Ocean Dry Suit 2.0, 222 Alert Red, Large
- Designed and developed for professional ocean racers, this one-piece dry suit offers unparalleled protection and performance.
- HELLY TECH PROFESSIONAL: Extremely waterproof and breathable designs and constructions. For highly aerobic, extremely wet or unusually long-lasting activities in extremely harsh conditions. Fully seam...
- FEATURES: SOLAS-approved reflectives, YKK ZIPPER, Polartec, RECCO, Adjustable cuffs and bottom hem, Adjustable elastic suspenders, Gusset in crotch for freedom of movement, HH printed logo, & High...
- GOOD FOR: Ocean & Offshore Sailing, Coastal Sailing, Inshore Sailing,
- FIT: Regular - Neither slim nor oversized. Regular-fitting garments may be worn over thicker midlayers. Pants will have a standard inseam with a cut that's straight through the leg.
Bestseller No. 17
OMGear Dive Skin for Women Men Snorkel Suit Full Body Swimsuit Breathable Quick Dry Diving Wetsuit UV Protection Rash Guard Long Sleeve Swimwear Swimming Kayaking Snorkeling Gear(Aqua＆Navy Blue,3XL)
- 【Super Stretchy Spandex Fabrics】:OMGear full coverage swimsuit are made by 80% nylon and 20% spandex,which is super stretchy and breathable.Unlike wetsuit made by neoprene,material of this diving...
- 【Full Body UV Protection】:OMGear full piece rash guard is made by fabrics with UPF 50+ coating ,so it is UV protection,can protect your skin from sun burning.In addition,OMGear full body...
- 【Slim Fit and Front Zipper Dive Skins】:Slim fit swimwear is close to your skin,feel like a second skin, naturally form fitting to reduce drag in the water, offers no restrict movement ensures you...
- 【Must Haves for Watersports】:A sun-resistant stretchy full body dive skin is perfect for swimming ,kayaking ,surfing ,snorkeling, scuba diving, freediving, boating ,spearfishing, sailing,...
- 【Satisfaction Policy】:Every OMGear full body long sleeve surfing rash guard are under strict QC standard before shipment. Please contact OMGear after-sales service team if you have any issues with...
Bestseller No. 18
TIDEWE Rain Suit, Waterproof Breathable Lightweight Rainwear (Black Size M)
- 100% Waterproof:Keeps you dry despite light or heavy rains. The rain suit is guaranteed waterproof due to high density polyester, non-woven fabric and sealed seams. The TideWe rain suit provides...
- Breathable and Comfortable:Sweat can upset your comfort and affect your performance in the outdoors. Our rain suit allows water molecules to escape from you so you will stay comfortable and dry.
- User-Friendly:TideWe rain suits are designed with plenty of adjustable components to keep the rain out (cuffs, waist, hood) and customize your fit easily. Our rainwear offers 2 large side pockets to...
- Made for the Outdoors:The versatile TideWe rain suit is an ideal choice for any outdoor activity you like. Fishing, camping, hiking, off roading and others alike. The TideWe rain suit is always there...
- Attention:Please mind the size information and choose the right size before buying!
Bestseller No. 19
BYKR Waterproof Outdoors Motorcycle Rain Suits for Men & Women Cycling 2-Piece Breathable & Windproof Wet Weather Protection Motocross Rain Gear Reflective Rainwear All Sports Riding Rainsuit Black XL
- WATERPROOF & BREATHABLE WITH HI-VISIBILITY: Our anti-slip rain pants and rain jacket is crafted to prioritize your well-being through breathable materials. Say goodbye to discomfort, thanks to...
- LIGHTWEIGHT & OPTIMAL FITTING: With BYKR Motorcycle Rain Suit experience versatility and functionality at its finest with our latest features: tailored with adjustable cuffs, guaranteeing a...
- SUITABLE FOR EXTREME WEATHER CONDITIONS: Designed to seamlessly integrate into your active lifestyle, BYKR rain coat & rain pants are hand washable, offering convenience and durability for a myriad of...
- 2-PIECE WITH JACKETS AND PANTS READY TO GO: Tailored for the on-the-move lifestyle, BYKR rain gear boasts compact and portable features. It’s lightweight separate pants and jacket build ensures...
- LIFETIME CUSTOMER SUPPORT: BYKR in-house based customer service is available 24/7 to assist you in all matters with a 1 YEAR FREE REPLACEMENT WARRANTY!!! In case of any query related to BYKR...
Bestseller No. 20
COOFANDY Mens Swimming Trunks with Compression Liner Swim Shorts Quick Dry Bathing Suit Boardshorts
- Quick Dry Fabric --- The men's swim trunks made of 90% Nylon, 10% Spandex. Lightweight and quick dry fabric can keep body relax and cooling feel. Men's swim board shorts has soft triangle mesh brief...
- Comfortable Design --- The mens beach shorts featured elastic can perfect suit your waist keeps shorts from sliding down which makes you can do any swim sports. Side incision of the leg vents to...
- Convenience Pockets --- Men’s swim bathing shorts with safe and useful 2 deep pockets on the sides to carry keys, money, your phone, MP3 player or other small things from falling out when you do...
- Suitable Occasions --- The quick dry beach shorts allow for a larger range of motion than board shorts, which makes them ideal for beach activities and sports, like swimming,volleyball, diving,...
- Warm Tips --- The boxer brief swimwear is easy to clean, machine washable and hand washing are both available. Please check your size with our SIZE CHART carefully before you buy it.
Tips for staying warm while scuba diving
– Stay dry: Getting wet is the number one way to get cold underwater. Make sure that you stay as dry as possible by donning your suit and mask strap covers before entering the water. – Stay warm before you enter the water: Before you put your dry suit on, dress in warm layers. This will help you stay warm before you get wet and enter the water. Having extra layers to remove when you get too warm is a good idea. – Stay out of the current: Keep an eye out for where the current is coming from and try to avoid it. Currents are often warmer than the surrounding water, so they are a great way to warm up, but they can also make it difficult to stay warm. – Stay fit: Being physically fit has many benefits, including helping you stay warm underwater. If you are in good shape, your body will produce more heat, helping you stay warm while you are underwater. – Protect your extremities: Your hands, feet, and head are less able to protect themselves from the cold. Make sure to keep them warm with gloves, booties, and a warm scuba hood. – Stay dry: Getting wet is the number one way to get cold underwater. Make sure that you stay as dry as possible by donning your suit and mask strap covers before entering the water. – Stay warm before you enter the water: Before you put your dry suit on, dress in warm layers. This will help you stay warm before you get wet and enter the water. Having extra layers to remove when you get too warm is a good idea. – Stay out of the current: Keep an eye out for where the current is coming from and try to avoid it. Currents are often warmer than the surrounding water, so they are a great way to warm up, but they can also make it difficult to stay warm. – Stay fit: Being physically fit has many benefits, including helping you stay warm underwater. If you are in good shape, your body will produce more heat, helping you stay warm while you are underwater. – Protect your extremities: Your hands, feet, and head are less able to protect themselves from the cold. Make sure to keep them warm with gloves, booties, and a warm scuba hood. – Stay dry: Getting wet is the number one way to get cold underwater. Make sure that you stay as dry as possible by donning your suit and mask strap covers before entering the water. – Stay warm before you enter the water: Before you put your dry suit on, dress