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
Waterproof Kayak Drysuit with Stowable Hood Breathable Dry Suit for Men in Cold Water (Large)
- 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. 3
Kokatat Men's Hydrus 3.0 Swift Entry Dry Suit w/Relief Zipper & Socks-Tangerine-XXL
- 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. 4
Crewsaver Atacama Sport Sailing Yachting and Dinghy Drysuit With Front Zip & Undersuit - 3 Layer Breathable Fabric All Over - Size - XL
- 3 layer breathable fabric all over
- Articulated arms and legs for increased freedom of movement. Includes free thermal Stratum fleece for extra warmth
- The Aquaseal flexible zip located at the front of the drysuit is positioned for maximum comfort, uninhibited movement, and allows the wearer to don the drysuit without assistance.
- The popular Atacama Sport is based on the template of the best-selling Cirrus drysuit and has been updated for the new season, taking features and design inspiration from the high-end Crewsaver...
- YKK Aquaseal flexible zip construction. Reinforced seat and knees. Leg pocket with D-ring attachment. Glideskin neoprene wrist and neck seals. Elasticated waist. Removable braces. Not for use in...
Bestseller No. 5
FWG Men's Pro Dry Suit – Waterproof, Breathable, Durable – Ideal for Extreme Conditions(Grey,X-Large)
- 100% Waterproof Guarantee: Our dry suit is fill tested and guaranteed to be completely waterproof, providing peace of mind in the harshest conditions.
- GORE-TEX Pro Fabric: This advanced fabric has been developed over years of paddling and testing across the globe, ensuring maximum performance and reliability.
- Durable Construction: Reinforced seat and knee patches ensure long-lasting durability, making this dry suit ideal for high-stress activities and environments.
- Integrated Socks: The Hydrus 3.5 fabric socks keep your feet dry and warm, enhancing overall comfort during extended wear.
- Environmentally Conscious: Manufactured from 105% recycled GORE-TEX fabric, our dry suit not only delivers exceptional performance but also supports sustainable practices.
Bestseller No. 6
O'Neill Men's Boost 300g Drysuit, Black, Large
- 3 layer breathable nylon shell
- Loose fit drysuit
- Neoprene neck seal
- Laytex wrist and ankle seals
- Waterproof horizontal back zip
Bestseller No. 7
O'Neill Men's Fluid 3mm Neoprene Drysuit, Black/Graphite, 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. 8
Dry Suits for Men in Cold Water Water Rescue Suit with Detachable Hood for Whitewater Canyoneering Kayaking Exploring (Brown, XX-Large)
- 【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. 9
Kokatat Men's Hydrus 3.0 Swift Entry Dry Suit-Tangerine-L
- Proprietary Hydrus 3.0 three-layer waterproof & breathable fabric
- Tough reinforced seat & knee patches
- Waterproof nylon front-entry zipper for easy on & off
- Latex neck gasket w/ neo punch-through over cuff
- Latex wrist & ankle gaskets with over cuffs, adjustable bungee drawcord at waist
Bestseller No. 10
Mens Dry Suit Lightweight Drysuits for Paddling Fishing Boating Canoeing Rafting Touring Sailing (Green, L)
- [Proprietary Laminate Materials]:3-layer waterproof breathable nylon shell with Menbrance finish for maximum durability and abrasion resistance,It is built tough with a well thought design, and yet...
- [Comfortable Detail]:Trimmable latex wrist and neck seals,as it’s very efficient at keeping the water out of the drysuit,adjust waist webbing buckle creat a customized fit ,The “hook and loop”...
- [Waterproof Zipper]:The front-enter waterproof zipper makes the drysuits much easier to get on and off and mote comfortable while maintaining waterproof seal. and offers convenient access for...
- [Multiple Pockets]:Velcro pockets with Drryfsh pattern at the sleeves keep essentials accessible,simultaneously enhancing the aesthetics of drysuit.An inner pocket at the chest store your phone avoid...
- [Drryfsh Guarantee]:Every suit 100% fill tested;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. 11
Drryfsh Mens Semi-Dry Suits with Neoprene Gaskets for Fishing Sailing Paddling,Boating,Crafting or ATV Sport(Neoprene Gaskets, Medium)
- 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. 12
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. 13
Yak Kayak & Kayaking - Santiam Kayak Drysuit Dry Suit - Blue Black - Thermal Warm Heat Layer Layers Breathable 3 - Drysuit Size - L
- 3-layer breathable 20k waterproof material that keeps you dry and stops you overheating
- If you want to carry on kayaking and stand up paddleboarding in the colder months, then our Santiam drysuit is the protection you’ll need.
- Includes thermal Stratum fleece for extra warmth. Cordura reinforced seat and knees to provide extra protection. YKK AQUASEAL flexible front zip construction for smooth and easy operation . Fabric...
- Leg pocket with D-ring attachment to store and attach the essentials. Glideskin neoprene neck and wrist seals for a comfortable fit and to keep the water on the outside. Articulated arms and legs...
- Maximum warmth while on the water.
Bestseller No. 14
Hollis NEOTEK SEMI-DRYSUIT, V2, Unisex, ML
- 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. 15
Drysuit Men's Front Zipper Sailing Standard Nylon Paddling,Kayaking Equipment Zipper,Waterproof Suit (BLACK, XL)
- 👍【NEW TECHNOLOGY】 OEKO-TEX,160D P/Taslon Plain FD fabric.3 layers of advanced waterproof materials and special coatings provide rugged waterproofing and comfy breathability. Makes a lighter,...
- 👍【COMFORTABLE AND WATERPROOF】: The neck and sleeves are waterproof seals made of latex, which are comfortable and waterproof. Self-draining neoprene neck and wrist over-cuffs keep water out.
- 👍【EXTRA PROTECTIVE LAYER】: There is an extra protective layer made of neoprene on the neck, cuffs, and ankles to make it strong and durable. Dual-adjustable overskirt, hook-and-loop neoprene...
- 👍【GOOD DESIGN】: Ergonomic avant-garde design, Easy to put on and take off by yourself without the help of others. They have better freedom of movement experience. With adjustable design, fully...
- 👍【ORIGINAL &SUPERIOR QUALITY】: Each drysuit is 100% individually tested and guaranteed to be dry out of the box and for the reasonable life of the garment.Comparable quality to name brand for a...
Bestseller No. 16
GUL Mens Dartmouth Eclip Zip Drysuit Dry Suit & Underfleece - Black - 3 Layer Dry Suit Waterproof Sprayproof
- 100% Waterproof heat taped seams. ECLIP ZIP: YKK Aquaseal Zip
- Contoured body panels reduce snagging, bulk and reduce windage
- ECLIP ZIP: YKK Aquaseal Zip Features. Articulated arms and knees. GLIDE SKIN: neck and wrist seals. VELCRO® Brand touch fastener zip guard. Latex socks. Zipped arm pocket with drainer. Internal...
- GCX3 Breathable, waterproof, hard wearing 3 layer fabric
- Hard wearing seat and knee panels
Bestseller No. 18
Kokatat Men's Hydrus 3.0 SuperNova Semi Dry Suit-Tangerine-XL
- Proprietary Hydrus 3.0 waterproof & breathable fabric
- Hydrus Tough reinforced self-draining seat & knee patches
- Integrated Hydrus 3L socks keep feet cozy all day long
- Adjustable neoprene neck collar comfortably seals out water
- Latex wrist gaskets w/ protective overcuffs
Bestseller No. 19
Mens Drysuits for Kayaking & Cold Water Sports (Large)
- 【Material】-Drryfsh drysuits constructed with 3-Layer Nylon with tricot finish backed by fully taped seams to prevent leakage.Waterproof Breathable and more durable than its counterparts.
- 【FEATURES】-Kayak dry suits comes with tough latex neck and wrist gaskets.,removable and stowable hood,rear-entry and relief zipper,double waist overskirt,two splashproof zippered thigh...
- 【UNIQUE DESIGN】-Drryfsh dry suit is a relaible and comfortable drysuit, it with removable knee and drop seat pads to prevent abrasion and protective injure from accidents.while a slightly more...
- 【OCCASION】-Kayak drysuits perfect for kayaking,rafting,touring,swimming,paddling,boating,sailing,canoeing in cold water.
- 【Drryfsh Guarantee】-Every suit 100% fill tested;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. 20
Gill Verso Drysuit - Fully Taped & Waterproof for All Watersports Dinghy, Sailing, Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Paddleboard
- Size M - Average Height 5'7"-5'10" (170-178cm) - Chest 38"-40" (97-102cm) - Waist 31"-33" (79-84cm)
- The ultimate protection in our Verso Drysuit featuring XPLORE 3 layer fabric and XPEL plant-based treatment for exceptional waterproofness and breathability. Its rear-entry design is secured with a...
- Feel comfortable and protected all day with the laser-cut face ventilation inner neoprene Dryseal gaskets at the neck and cuffs and adjustable overskirt to help refine the fit. A key feature of this...
- Secure your key accessories in the PFD friendly zip sleeve pocket . Suitable for any activity on or in the water dinghy sailing paddle sports board sports SUP kayaking canoeing.
- Main: 100% Nylon. Reinforcement: 100% Polyester. Machine Wash (30°C). Do Not Bleach. Tumble Dry Low . No Iron. Do Not Dry Clean. Do not store wet. After use rinse in fresh water.
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