Commercial diving wetsuits

Types of commercial diving wetsuits

There are several types of commercial diving wetsuits, each developed to meet specific needs and conditions. Here are some of them:

• Neoprene Wetsuit

  The neoprene wetsuit is the most common commercial diving wetsuit. It is manufactured from synthetic rubber with varying thicknesses. This material is capable of retaining body heat, hence providing insulation in cold water. Neoprene wetsuits have a flexible and durable characteristic and are ideal for various diving activities. This includes snorkeling and scuba diving. There are two main types of neoprene wetsuits: closed-cell and open-cell. The closed-cell neoprene has a more rigid structure that is less absorbent. This makes it more effective for surface water sports. On the other hand, open-cell neoprene features a soft and flexible characteristic that enhances comfort and fit. This is, however, more absorbent and requires care when putting on and taking off.

• Dry Suit

  The dry suit is a commercial diving wetsuit designed to keep the diver completely dry. This suit has a layer of insulation and is sealed with gaskets at the neck and wrists. Additionally, there are also dry gloves and boots. The dry suit is ideal for cold-water diving because it minimizes heat loss. Unlike the wetsuit that uses water to insulate, the dry suit remains dry even when diving. This allows for a wider range of insulation materials. The suit is generally made from materials like trilaminate, neoprene, or vulcanized rubber. It also has an inflatable bladder to assist with buoyancy control. This helps the diver maintain an even level of buoyancy in different water conditions.

• Hybrid Wetsuit

  Hybrid wetsuits are a combination of both wetsuit and drysuit characteristics. They are developed to provide the best of both worlds. For instance, a hybrid wetsuit may have a neoprene lower body for flexibility and warmth. This may also have a trilaminate upper body for dryness and insulation. These suits are adaptable for different water temperatures and conditions. Often, they are used by divers who require varying performance levels from their wetsuits. The hybrid wetsuit is also characterized by easy mobility and excellent thermal protection. This makes it ideal for long dives and technical diving.

• Custom-Fit Wetsuit

  Custom-fit wetsuits are developed for professional divers and those with unique requirements. These wetsuits are tailored to the diver's exact measurements. The suits provide a perfect fit that minimizes water entry and maximizes warmth. Custom-fit wetsuits can be made from neoprene, nylon, or other synthetic materials. This provides a high level of comfort and flexibility. These wetsuits are often used in commercial diving, underwater photography, and scientific research. This is due to the need for a precise fit and maximum performance. The process of getting a custom wetsuit involves taking measurements of the diver's chest, waist, hips, inseam, arm length, and neck circumference. This is then manufactured using computer-aided design (CAD) technology.

Design of commercial diving wetsuits

Many aspects, like the body type and thickness of the wetsuit, the kind of material, the type of seams, the entry system, the color and style, and the extras, are involved in the design of commercial diving wetsuits. Here are the key elements to consider;

• Body Types

  This wetsuit is designed to fit the body; there are different types of fits. A loose-fitting wetsuit can let the water flow in and out, while an ill-fitting one can hinder movement. There are three basic types of fits. The one-piece coverall is the most common. It's a single-piece jumpsuit that extends from the neck to the wrists and the legs down to the ankles, commonly used for surface work. The two-piece coverall consists of a top garment that covers the body from the waist up and a pair of trousers. The three-piece coverall consists of one pair of short trousers and a jacket that covers the upper part of the body.

• Thickness and Type of Wetsuit

  Wetsuits come in different thicknesses for different temperatures. A 3mm wetsuit is good for warm water. It keeps the diver warm and allows free movement. The 5mm wetsuit is for slightly colder water. It provides more thermal protection. The 7mm wetsuit is best for cold water. It insulates the diver and keeps them focused on the task. The drysuit is for very cold water. It keeps the diver dry and warm. The semi-dry suit is for cold water too, but it allows a bit more water in for flexibility. The shorty wetsuit is for warm water and snorkeling. It covers the torso and legs, but not the arms and the rest of the legs. The full wetsuit covers everything, but it may not be as comfortable as the shorty.

• Material

  Commercial diving wetsuits are made from neoprene, a synthetic rubber that insulates and is flexible. The thickness varies, with 3mm for warm water and 7mm for cold. The nylon lining adds durability and ease of wear. The GBS (Glued and Blind Stitched) method enhances insulation by preventing water entry. The entry system, whether back zip, front zip, or no zip, affects accessibility and flexibility. Accessories like hooded vests and gloves complement the wetsuit, providing additional warmth and protection.

• Seams

  The seams in a wetsuit are the area where the material is stitched together. There are different methods of seam construction. The flatlock stitch is a basic method that lays the stitch flat to prevent chafing. It's suitable for warm water and provides a strong, flexible seam. The blind stitch is more advanced as it doesn't penetrate the second layer of the material. This makes the seam less visible and more waterproof. The glued and blind stitched (GBS) method uses glue to bond the edges and blind stitching to make the seams watertight. This method is ideal for cold water.

• Entry System

  The entry system in a wetsuit affects how easy it is to get in and out. The back zip system has a zipper at the back. It's easy for someone to use it by themselves, but it may be difficult to reach the zipper. The front zip system has a zipper at the front for easy access but may restrict some movement due to the zipper. The no zip system is the most flexible, but getting in and out may be challenging. The back zip system is good for warmth, the front zip for convenience, and the no zip for flexibility.

• Color and Style

  Commercial diving wetsuits come in different colors and styles for various functions. Black is the most common color for its heat-absorbing property and professional look. Blue is for a cooler look and blends with water. Camouflage is for the military and hunting to blend with surroundings. Red is for visibility and safety, while green is for nature and a warmer look. The full wetsuit covers from head to ankle for maximum protection. The shorty provides less coverage for more freedom. The drysuit keeps the diver dry, and the semi-dry suit is for those who want both warmth and flexibility. The two-piece wetsuit allows more movement, while the thin wetsuit is for warm water and snorkeling.

• Extras

  Commercial diving wetsuits have extras for comfort and performance. Hooded vests keep the head and neck warm. Gloves provide warmth and grip, while boots offer foot protection and insulation. The wetsuit bag is for storage and transport. The repair kit helps fix minor damages, and the dive knife is essential for safety. The wetsuit hanger keeps it dry and well-aerated, and the thermal rash guard gives added thermal protection and prevents rash from the wetsuit. These extras enhance the diving experience and ensure the diver's safety and comfort underwater.

Wearing/Matching suggestions of commercial diving wetsuits

How to wear

To wear a commercial diving wetsuit, start by selecting the right wetsuit for the diving conditions. Step into the wetsuit, one leg at a time, ensuring the suit is pulled up to your thighs. Insert your arms into the sleeves, aligning the shoulders and seams for comfort. Zip up the back or front zipper completely, ensuring no fabric is caught in the zipper. Seal the wetsuit at the neck and wrists if it has seals, to minimize water entry. Put on your dive gear, including the buoyancy control device (BCD) and regulator, adjusting for comfort and mobility. Finally, wear a hood and booties if needed, and ensure everything fits snugly but allows for movement. Check your gear and wetsuit with a buddy before entering the water, ensuring you're both comfortable and ready for the dive ahead.

How to match

Matching a commercial diving wetsuit involves considering several key factors for optimal performance and comfort. First, assess the water temperature and conditions where you'll be diving. For colder waters, choose a wetsuit with a thicker neoprene material, such as 7mm, which provides better insulation. If the water is warmer, a thinner wetsuit, like 3mm or 5mm, will suffice, keeping you flexible and cool. Next, consider the type of diving you'll be doing. For technical or deep diving, opt for a full wetsuit that covers you from head to toe, offering maximum warmth and buoyancy control. If you're snorkeling or doing shallow dives, a shorty wetsuit that covers only your torso and legs is ideal, allowing for greater mobility.

Fit is crucial in matching a wetsuit. It should fit snugly without any gaps, as water would circulate in and eliminate the suit's insulation. Check the length of the sleeves and legs to ensure they end just above your wrists and ankles, providing a comfortable range of motion. The wetsuit should not restrict your breathing or movement. Additionally, look for seams and construction quality. Glued and blind-stitched seams offer better water resistance and durability, reducing the chances of leaks. Lastly, consider the wetsuit's features, such as knee pads for protection, chest or back zippers for easy donning and doffing, and additional pockets for carrying small gear. By matching these elements, you can ensure a comfortable and efficient diving experience with your commercial diving wetsuit.

Q&A

Q1: What thickness of wetsuit is needed for commercial diving?

A1: The thickness of the wetsuit depends on the temperature of the water in which the dives will be made. A 3mm wetsuit is ideal for waters between 16-20°C; 5mm for waters between 12-17°C; 7mm suits the coldest waters at 0-10°C. However, the thickness also determines flexibility, so divers should always balance warmth and mobility.

Q2: Are custom commercial diving wetsuits available?

A2: Yes, many suppliers on Alibaba.com offer the possibility of getting custom diving wetsuits. This can be done for size, thickness, color, and even adding logos and texts to the wetsuit. It is always recommended to provide the correct specifications for a custom wetsuit to ensure it meets the diver's needs.

Q3: How to care for and store a commercial diving wetsuit?

A3: To take care of the wetsuit, it should be rinsed with fresh water after each use, especially if it was used in salt water. It should be dried away from direct sunlight, preferably on a broad surface or on a specially designed hanger for wetsuits. It should be kept in a cool, dry place, preferably in a folded manner, without any pressure on the creases.

Q4: Can a commercial diving wetsuit be repaired?

A4: Yes, diving wetsuits can be repaired. Small tears and punctures can be fixed with neoprene repair kits available from most commercial diving wetsuit suppliers. Seams that are coming apart can also be repaired using adhesive, but in many cases, it is better to have a professional repair the wetsuit to ensure the repairs are done properly.

Q5: What are the signs that a commercial diving wetsuit needs to be replaced?

A5: There are several signs that a wetsuit is no longer usable, such as extensive damage, loss of flexibility, bad odor that cannot be removed, and difficulty in putting on or taking off the wetsuit. If the wetsuit is no longer comfortable or does not provide the right thermal protection, it may be time to replace it.