Wetsuit vs Drysuit
As a diver you are confronted with lots of choices. Feeling comfortable in your gear can take a long time and it is often hard to know what to buy and what you need. One of the basic questions is “Should I buy a wetsuit or drysuit?”.
According to Leisurepro.com, the basic difference between the two is actually simple: The drysuit will keep your body dry, and the wetsuit won’t. Generally in cold water you need a drysuit, while in more temperate water you will need a wetsuit. Now, here are some of the differences that might help you!
1. Materials
Wetsuits the world over are made from neoprene, a material with great flexibility which comes in a variety of thicknesses. Specifically, wetsuits are made from closed-cell foam neoprene. On the other hand, drysuits are made from several kinds of materials, including: neoprene, rubber or even nylon.
2. Fit
When you buy a wetsuit, you want the wetsuit to fit you tightly. This will keep you warm underwater. But drysuits don’t work the same. They don’t really require a tight fit. In fact, you can wear clothes underneath them.
3. Temperature
The different thicknesses of a wetsuit make them suitable for many climates, as you can choose from 2.1, 3, 5, and 6.5 mm suits. Westuits help keep you warm underwater and allow you to stay in the water comfortably for long periods. But when you are diving in very cold water (note that this can be quite subjective based on your own internal thermostat), you will want to stay cozy, warm and dry with a drysuit.
4. Insulation
Wetsuits use neoprene to insulate your body, by trapping a thin layer of water between your skin and the wetsuit which is then warmed by your body. Drysuits use air to insulate you.
5. Mobility
Many divers find it easier to move in a wetsuit as it fits the body snugly. You can feel a bit bulky when wearing a drysuit, another reason to make sure that you take a drysuit course or give yourself time to become familiar with the feeling of the suit when using one for the first time.
As with most things, practice makes perfect. As you become more familiar with your gear, you will feel more comfortable in the water, no matter the suit you are wearing.
