Thermal protection for
scuba diving - top quality models available at SportanoThe thermal protection is an essential piece of equipment for every diver, ensuring comfort and safety when diving in various water conditions. Water has a high capacity to conduct heat, which means that without proper protection, the diver's body would quickly lose heat, even in relatively warm waters. A properly fitting diving suit is key to maintaining body heat, which not only enhances the enjoyment of diving, but can also be critical to the diver's safety.Diving suits: types and usesDiving suits are an essential piece of equipment for the diver, designed to protect the body from low water temperatures and potential environmental hazards such as harsh marine flora and fauna. Wetsuits are most commonly used by recreational divers and are designed to allow water to enter and form an insulating layer between the skin and the suit material. They are ideal for diving in moderately warm waters and are available in a variety of neoprene thicknesses, typically from 2 to 7mm, to accommodate different temperatures.
Semi-dry suits are a hybrid between wetsuits and drysuits, they have seals at the wrists, ankles and neck, which limits the amount of water entering and allows the body heat to be maintained for longer. They are the preferred choice in colder waters where the water temperature drops below 18 degrees Celsius.
Dry suits provide complete insulation from cold water and are essential in extremely cold temperatures or for prolonged immersions. They are equipped with a system of seals and locks that prevent water from entering the suit. Dry suits require additional training from the wearer as their handling is more complicated and the way buoyancy is controlled is different from wet and semi-dry suits.Choosing a wetsuit: wet, dry or semi-dry? Diving suits are an essential piece of equipment for the diver, designed to protect the body from low water temperatures and potential environmental hazards such as harsh marine flora and fauna. Wetsuits are most commonly used by recreational divers and are designed to allow water to enter and form an insulating layer between the skin and the suit material. They are ideal for diving in moderately warm waters and are available in a variety of neoprene thicknesses, typically from 2 to 7mm, to accommodate different temperatures.
Semi-dry suits are a hybrid between wetsuits and drysuits, they have seals at the wrists, ankles and neck, which limits the amount of water entering and allows the body heat to be maintained for longer. They are the preferred choice in colder waters where the water temperature drops below 18 degrees Celsius.
Dry suits provide complete insulation from cold water and are essential in extremely cold temperatures or for prolonged immersions. They are equipped with a system of seals and locks that prevent water from entering the suit. Dry suits require additional training from the wearer, as their handling is more complicated and the way buoyancy is controlled differs from wet and semi-dry suits.Dive shrouds: a layer of extra warmthDive shrouds are an essential thermal protection element designed to increase the diver's thermal comfort, allowing for extended time spent underwater. They are particularly important in colder waters, where even the best wet or dry suits may not provide sufficient thermal insulation. Warmers, also known as 'undersuits' or 'base layers', are worn directly underneath the wetsuit and work by trapping body heat, creating an additional insulating layer of air.
Undersuits are made from a variety of materials, such as fleece, merino wool or advanced synthetic fibres, which have excellent thermal insulation properties and the ability to wick moisture away from the body. Merino wool is particularly prized for its ability to insulate even when wet, as well as for its natural antibacterial properties that help reduce odour. Synthetic warmers often have special stretch inserts to enhance comfort of movement, and their quick-drying properties are useful for multiple dives in a single day.Materials and technologies in diving suitsMaterials used in the manufacture of diving suits must meet high requirements for strength, flexibility and thermal insulation. Neoprene is the traditional choice for wetsuits and semi-drysuits, providing good thermal insulation and the flexibility needed to move freely underwater. Modern drysuits often use laminated materials or cordura and rubber blends to resist punctures and tears and provide protection from the cold.
Many wetsuits also utilise advanced technologies such as thermal seam seals or integrated drainage systems to increase their water resistance and durability. Computerised pressure control systems in drysuits help to automatically adjust buoyancy, which is crucial for diver safety, especially in varying depth conditions.
Many drysuits also have integrated pockets to carry essential tools or additional equipment such as underwater lights or dive knives. Quick donning and doffing systems, such as TIZIP zips, which can be operated with one hand, add to the comfort of the suit and its waterproof properties protect against moisture penetration.
The innovative approach to diving suit design, which combines state-of-the-art materials and technology, provides divers with the highest levels of thermal protection and comfort underwater, resulting in longer and safer dives. Choosing the right wetsuit and warmer to suit individual diving needs and conditions is crucial for every diver, regardless of experience or preference.
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