Scuba Diving Equipment – Dry Suits
Dry suits are the key to diver comfort in cold waters and extreme situations, so when choosing one, you’ll want to research the different options before you get to the dive shop. The last thing you want is to walk away with a $3,000 suit you’ll never use or a membrane suit that will leave you trapped underwater and freezing.
When it comes to diving in cold or deep water that is below 60 degrees Fahrenheit , dry suits are the only way to go. Instead of allowing water in like a wet suit, dry suits are specifically intended to keep water out. Some beginners are daunted by the idea that they will need to add air with a Low Pressure Inflator or Buoyancy Compensator Device to offset the inevitable compression that will happen at deeper depths. This is taught in most open water diving courses anyway, so it’s not a big deal to operate. Dry suits work by trapping air between your body and the suit’s outer shell. Many divers like that you can choose a tighter or looser fitting suit, based on individual preference. You can also wear undergarments, fleece, track-suits or thinsulate clothing underneath the dry suit to keep warm.
Dry suits can be made out of several different kinds of material: neoprene, membrane or a hybrid of the two. Neoprene is made out of synthetic rubber and is the most rigid type of suit and though difficult to get on, will keep you the warmest. Another advantage to neoprene is that it’s less susceptible to rips or tears and will maintain functionality and buoyancy if a rip were to occur, making it perfect for those cold water wreck or cave diving expeditions. Membrane shelled suits are generally the most comfortable — made of thinner nylon or vulcanized rubber material, waterproof and breathable — and are recommended for divers who will spend a lot of time out of the water on the boat. Because the material is thinner, divers will need to wear an under layer made of polyester or another tight-fitting material. The latest models are hybrids with a rigid, overall-style neoprene bottom that supports proper kicking and a looser-fitting membrane top to allow easy arm maneuverability.
Your local scuba dive shop will be able to assist you in purchasing dry suits. If you’re shocked at the $1500 – $3000 price tag and don’t foresee yourself ever diving enough to warrant that kind of investment, then you’ll be happy to know most places will rent them to you for around $40-$50 per day. Sometimes you can even find weekly specials or package deals at popular scuba diving vacation destinations.
By Sports Info Editor
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