Because a woman typically has a larger body surface area for a given weight than a man, women tend to get colder while diving than men do. Therefore, women should consider wearing greater thermal protection than men in the same diving environment in order to be comfortable. Similarly, children and teens should also consider wearing greater thermal protection, as they tend to have less body fat to provide natural insulation.
Shortys and Dive Skins
Shorty wetsuits and dive skins are generally used in warm tropical waters with temperatures of 75°F- 85°F (24°C- 30°C) and above, depending on personal preference. Dive skins do not provide thermal protection, but do provide protection from accidental stinging by sea lice, fire coral and other small marine hazards. Shorty wetsuits provide a modest amount of thermal protection for core body areas.
2mm - 3mm Wetsuits
2mm - 3mm (1/8 in.) wetsuits are generally used in warmer waters with temperatures of 70°F- 80°F (21°C- 27°C) and above, depending on personal preference. During cooler weather, additional warmth can be achieved through the use of a 1mm-3mm beanie or hood, addition of a 3mm hooded vest under the wetsuit and/or use of a 2-piece 3mm wetsuit.
4mm - 5mm Wetsuits
4mm - 5mm (3/16 in.) wetsuits are generally used in cool waters with temperatures of 60°F- 70°F (16°C- 21°C) and above, depending on personal preference. During cooler weather, additional warmth can be achieved through the use of a 3mm-5mm hood and gloves, addition of a 3mm-5mm hooded vest under the wetsuit and/or use of a 2-piece 5mm wetsuit.
6mm - 7mm Wetsuits
6mm - 7mm (1/4 in.) wetsuits are generally used in cooler waters with temperatures of 50°F- 60°F (10°C- 16°C) and above, depending on personal preference. During cooler weather, additional warmth can be achieved through the use of a 5mm-7mm hood and gloves, addition of a 5mm-7mm hooded vest under the wetsuit and/or use of a 2-piece 7mm wetsuit or semi-dry 7mm wetsuit. Semi-dry wetsuits have Neck seals, wrist seals and ankle seals that adhere to your skin to minimize water entry.
NOTE: In cold water with temperatures below 50°F/10°C, drysuits are recommended.
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Type: Dive Skins Shortys 2mm-3mm Wetsuits 4mm-5mm Wetsuits 6mm-7mm Wetsuits
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Manufacturer: NeoSport Henderson XS Scuba Deep See ScubaMax
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