A dive suit can be described as a piece or clothing that is designed to protect the diver from the harsh underwater environment. A diving suit may also include a breathing system. However, this is often referred to separately. Diver suits come in many styles. These are the most important things to remember when selecting a dive suit. Consider the length.
Disadvantages of a wet suit
Wearing a wetsuit when diving is one of the greatest benefits. However, there are a few drawbacks to using a wetsuit, and these include the price. While wetsuits can be costly, you will want one that is compatible with all water activities.
Zippers are a key feature of wetsuits. They are more common in the back than they are in the front. The wearer also has more freedom with back zips. This allows for more freedom while diving. However, back zippers can become loose and flush easily while diving.
Types of wetsuits
Divers have different protection needs. Two-piece suits are the most popular. These suits are made from neoprene, which is versatile and can withstand a wide range of temperatures. One type of neoprene is gas-blown, which is extremely flexible and contains thousands of nitrogen bubbles. Despite its durability, neoprene is not indestructible.
Another type is the semi-dry, which is thickest type. These suits are generally suitable for most diving types and usually come with a hood and seals. They are very thick and water cannot penetrate.
Material used for wetsuits
There are many types and styles of dive suits. But neoprene remains the most popular. This type of material is known both for its water-repelling qualities and its insulation properties. Divers had to depend on complex contraptions to stay warm under water before Neoprene was invented. It was initially used for scuba gear. However, the material was later used in wet suits that were made for surfers who live in colder climates. Today, almost all wet suits are made from this material.
Neoprene is a thin rubbery material that makes a wetsuit. It is used to protect the skin from freezing temperatures and provides warmth. It can have a thickness of 0.5mm to 7mm.
Length of a wetsuit
There are many lengths and thicknesses of wetsuits. Thicker suits tend to be more flexible and lighter. Thicker suits can be warmer and bulkier. The purpose of your wetsuit determines its thickness. Thicker wetsuits work well in cold water. However, they can make you feel warmer and more restricted.
Look for a wetsuit that is snug at the wrists. This is important as they are the areas where water can seep in. A wetsuit should not have any gaps around the neck. Comfortable wetsuits should allow you to move comfortably with your arms and legs.
Design of a wetsuit
Designing a diving suit can make all of the difference when you're in water. Protecting the wearer from freezing water is the main purpose of a dive suit. Since decades, the material that makes them is still in use. In the 1930s DuPont created neoprene. Since then, wetsuit design has changed and improved. The modern wetsuit has to have some features like a good panel layout, a large panel size, and a comfortable style. Wetsuits also have to have the right neoprene thickness, softness, and seam construction. The zip construction also influences the final cost.
Divers can choose from nylon, polyester or neoprene to make their suit. The first wetsuits were constructed from thin layers of spandex or nylon sandwiched between layers. These suits were hard to wear and prone to tearing. Later on, we used polyester and other materials to make the suits waterproof.