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.
- Size XL - Average Height (cm) 6'1"-6'2" (186-188) Chest (cm) 44"-46" (112-119) Waist (cm) 38"-40" (97-102)
- 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.
- 3 layer fully breathable fabric all over and Glideskin neoprene wrist and neck seals.
- Crewsaver is recognised as a world leading designer and manufacturer of lifejackets and sailing equipment. As a respected authority on personal marine safety and with a history dating back more than...
- Includes an elasticated waist, adjustable internal braces and articulated arms and legs to create a custom-fit providing the ultimate in freedom of movement and lightweight breathability.
- Leg pocket with D-ring attachment. Elasticated waist. YKK Aquaseal flexible zip construction.
- Removable braces with Reinforced seat and knees. Articulated arms and legs for increased freedom of movement.
- 3 Layer Breathable Nylon Shell
- Loose Fit Drysuit
- Neoprene Neck Seal
- Laytex Wrist and Ankle Seals
- Waterproof Horizontal Back Zip
- High-density 4mm neoprene drysuit designed for demanding recreational divers
- Semi-rigid boots turn inside-out for fast drying
- Bellowed 1000-denier Cordura pockets hold necessary gear
- Glide Skin taped collar and smooth Aquastop wrist closures keep water out
- Fabric storage bag, hood, hose and straps included
- Loose upper fit and performance lower fit
- Smooth skin Dry seals
- 100% waterproof
- Fluid seam Weld
- Body: 3mm Fluid Flex foam Neoprene
- Helly Tech Professional, Ultra Waterproof Helly Tech ocean trippel composite membrane, 5 ply fabric construction, Fully seam sealed
- Durable Water Repellency treatment (DWR), Full suit, High collar , Polartec fleece collar
- Adjustable hood, EN 471 Hi vishood fabric, Double storm flap
- YKK zippers, Rubber seal cuffs and neck, Adjustable waist , Solas reflective
- Polartec hand warmer pockets, Large cargo pockets, Articulated sleeves, Seat and knee reinforcements
- Three layers of advanced waterproof materials and special coatings provide rugged waterproofing and comfy breathability.Makes a lighter,more rugged,and durable.
- The neck and sleeves are waterproof seals made of latex, which are comfortable and waterproof. Self-draining neoprene neck and wrist over-cuffs prevent water from entering the dry suits. Large dry...
- 100% fill tested & guaranteed to be dry.Lightweight fabric makes it easy to cast & paddle in comfort.Comparable quality to name brand for a significantly cheaper price.
- The flexible front zip is positioned to allow optimal comfort, unrestricted movement and entry without assistance.Dual-adjustable overskirt with hook & loop-compatible neoprene Adjustable bungee...
- Main Fabric:OEKO-TEX,160D P/Taslon Plain FD fabric,Waterproof latex socks.
- 100% Waterproof heat taped seams
- 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
- The use of new technology with 3 layers of waterproof materials and special coatings makes it waterproof,breathable,comfortable and has excellent performance
- The neck and sleeves are waterproof seals made of latex,which are comfortable and waterproof
- There is an extra protective layer made of neoprene on the neck,cuffs and ankles to make it strong and durable
- Ergonomic avant-garde design,easy to put on and take off and have a better freedom of movement experience
- With adjustable design,self-draining design,fully waterproof zipper,the pursuit of excellence in details
- Made of a breathable nylon, polyurethane, and nylon trilaminate blend, the Evertech Dry lets you evacuate body perspiration while keeping water out and your body dry.
- The top-quality stitched and waterproof seams are taped twice for maximum reliability, while the front diagonal BDM metal dry zipper is watertight and makes self-donning easy.
- A neoprene neck collar keeps the hood securely in place, making it easier to position when wearing gloves.
- With soft yet protective soles, the attached semi-rigid boots feature superior anti-slip capabilities while also letting you walk comfortably on objects like shells.
- 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.
- 3-Layer GORE-TEX PRO construction offers enhanced waterproofing
- Latex neck and wrist gaskets with volcano-style for protection and comfort
- YKK Aquaseal front entry zipper with a protective flap offers ease in wearing the suit
- Features a gathered ankle design with an elastic band
- Silicone dots hold the ankles in place
- 3-Layer GORE-TEX PRO construction offers enhanced waterproofing and breathability
- Volcano-style neoprene neck gasket offers comfort and prevents water from entering
- Latex wrist gaskets with volcano-style neoprene over cuff offer added protection
- YKK Aquaseal front entry zipper offers ease in wearing the suit and protection from water
- Features a gathered ankle design with elastic band and Silicone dots holding the ankles in place
- 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...
- Size S - Average Height (cm) 5'4"-5'7" (163-170) Chest (cm) 36"-38" (92-97) Waist (cm) 29"-30" (74-76)
- 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.
- Hydrus 3.0 (3-layer) fabric
- Nylon waterproof front entry zipper
- Nylon waterproof rear dropseat
- Reinforcement seat and knee patches; self draining
- Hydrus 3.0 (3-layer) socks
- Size M - Average Height (cm) 5'7"-5'10" (170-178) Chest (cm) 38"-40" (97-102) Waist (cm) 31"-33" (79-84)
- 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.
- Latex gaskets at the neck and wrists
- Neoprene outer cuffs with adjustable hook-and-loop closures on the neck, wrist and ankles
- Attached latex socks provide an extremely dry suit, YKK relief zipper
- Super tough Cordura exterior material reinforces the seat, elbows and knees
- Breathable, waterproof, TriTon fabric, designed for hardworking rescue professionall
- 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.
- MarineSpec BP fabric for bomber protection
- Adjustable CCS Exoskin neck seal, for quick one-handed watertight closure
- Waterproof YKK AQUASEAL zipper doubles as entry and relief zipper
- Easy wear internal suspenders balance suit weight for maximum fit and comfort (Replacement suspenders available - model #MA0200)
- Reinforced sock soles can handle extra abuse (made with our bladder material)
- Shell Material: [membrane/laminate] Hydrus (3-layer), [face fabric] nylon, [lining] polyester
- Splash Collar: neoprene
- Cuff Gasket: latex
- Cuff Closure: hook-and-loop
- Socks: Hydrus
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
