Although wetsuits tend to be the most popular option for divers in many parts of the world, there are plenty of places where a drysuit would serve your purposes far better. Any time that you are diving in an area that has cold water, the drysuit diving will be your top choice.
The drysuits themselves have some major differences between the wetsuits. They are somewhat looser, and they will keep the water out entirely. By keeping out the water, it helps to ensure that the diver stays warmer. Imagine wearing a wetsuit in frigid water. It would not be a fun experience. When you are headed into colder waters, you want to have the best drysuit to keep you nice and warm during the dive. This is true whether you are diving for pleasure or for work.
In addition, many people use drysuits when they are kayaking and whitewater rafting, as they can keep them warm and dry, but still give them plenty of movement.
Of course, you need to be sure that you have the best possible scuba dry suit available. We’ve collected some top quality drysuit options on the market today. We’ve discussed what they have to offer below, and we’ve included some tips on choosing the best dry suit for your needs to help.
Best Drysuits - Our Top Picks
Hollis Men’s NEOTEK Semi-Drysuit
This is a warm drysuit that is available in a range of sizes. It is made from an 8/7/6 mm mix of compression resistant and super-stretch neoprene This helps with the durability, and neoprene is known for having both thermal and insulating properties. This suit also features an exclusive lavaskin inner liner. It features internal dams for the neck, wrist, and ankles, and it has a hood. In addition, it features a G-lock horizontal front zipper with an internal bib.
This scuba drysuit also features pockets on the legs, which will be handy for carrying a range of different types of equipment whether you are working or diving for fun. The overall quality and durability of the suit is impressive, as well. It has a nice appearance, too, which is different from some of the bulky drysuits of the past.
Stolquist Amp Drysuit with Tunnel Drysuit
One of the first things that most people notice about these drysuits is that they are not the typical black that are expected. Instead, you can choose from Fireball Red and Mango with these suits, which make them easier to see and can provide some added personality.
These diving drysuits feature waterproof, breathable four-layer twin sensors and a relaxed, comfortable fit. They have MasterSeal waterproof cross-chest entry and relief zippers, they are made from neoprene, along with some latex seals. They have attached universal fit drysocks, as well. Those who choose this drysuit will also find reflective panels, a built-in tunnel, and a pocket on the arm with a zipper.
This durable suit even has a Condura reinforced seat and knees, along with articulated armor on the knees. This helps to make this a solid choice for those who may be drysuit for work.
GUL 2018 Dartmouth Eclip Zip Drysuit
This drysuit is not a scuba drysuit. It is a suit that is best suited for surface water activities, such as sailing or jet skiing, for example. This suit could work well for whitewater rafting, as well. It has breathable, hard wearing fabric that is three layers thick. There are 100% waterproof heat taped seams, wrist and neck seals made from neoprene, latex socks, a Velcro zip guard, and a zippered arm pocket with a drainer.
Another nice feature of the suit include the contoured body panels. These can help to reduce the chance of snagging and they can reduce windage. The suit has seat and knee panels that help to add to the durability, and the knees and the legs are articulated with the suit.
O’Neill Men’s Fluid 3mm Neoprene Drysuit
One of the things you will notice about this drysuit is the fact that it offers a looser fitting top and a tighter bottom. This suit is very popular for those who like surfing and waterskiing. It can allow them to get out and enjoy their favored activities even when the water temperatures start to get cooler.
The suit is 100% waterproof and it has Smoothskin dry seals along with a waterproof horizontal back zip and a fluid seam weld. The suite is comfortable to wear and overall, it has a nice look to it that anyone should be happy to wear. This waterproof drysuit does not have socks or boots attached to it.
Body Glove Men’s Drysuit
This is a high-quality drysuit from one of the top companies in the field. It features a wealth of benefits, and it is comfortable. The suit includes a nylon bag for storage, which is nice. The suit comes with nylon sock booties, along with an interior DYNAT zipper, and rubber seals around the wrists and the neck to help keep out the water. It also has a 250 psi low-pressure hose
This particular suite is a good choice as a scuba drysuit. It can help to keep divers warm through the winter. It is a durable option, and it can last for a number of years without needing to be replaced, as long as it is cared for properly.
Body Glove Women’s 3 mm Water Ski Semi Drysuit
This drysuit can be an ideal option for women who enjoy waterskiing and who like the idea of being able to ski even when the water might be getting a bit on the chilly side. This suit has a YKK front zip in the jacket and hook and shoulder fastener, along with a flatlock seam construction for durability. There is also spandex binding on areas of the suit, which can allow for more flexibility and easier movement. The suit has a half hem on the wrist and the ankle cuffs. This is a good looking and long lasting drysuit from Body Glove.
Level Six Emperor 3.0 Ply Drysuit
This drysuit is made from a range of quality materials, including the eXhaust shell, along with the latex neck and the hook and loop splash collar. The cuffs are made from latex, as well, and the cuff closure also features a hook and loop design. This is a very comfortable option that will work well for those who enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking and rafting. It can keep you nice and warm.
One of the other nice features of using this particular drysuit will be the options you have for colors. You could choose from red, yellow, and blue depending on what suits your style and needs.
SEAC Men’s Warmdry 4mm Neoprene Drysuit
This is a high-quality, high-density drysuit that can work extremely well for recreational divers who are spending their time exploring and enjoying some cold water dives. The suit features semi-rigid boots, which you can quickly and easily turn inside out. It has bellowed 1000-denier Cordura pockets, which will make it easy for you to take all of the needed gear along with you.
The suit features a Glide Skin taped collar, along with quality Aquastop wrist closures, which help ensure that the water stays out where it belongs. It also comes with a fabric storage bag along with a hood, hose, and straps.
Ocean Rodeo Heat Breathable Drysuit
This suit is different from the others on the list. it can go from standby mode to full drysuit mode in just seconds depending on what you need. This allows you to keep cooler when you don’t need the full protection of the drysuit. With just a zip, though, you will be in the drysuit mode. There are options for integrated socks or a suit with latex gaskets. This is a flexible and comfortable suit, and it is a good choice for those who love outdoor activities on the water and near the water whenever the temperatures dip.
Why Get a Drysuit?
Different types of drysuit can be used for different things. The goal of the drysuit, however, is always to keep you as dry and as warm as possible.
Whether you will be waterskiing, rafting, boating, or if you need to have a full drysuit that you can use for diving, there are options, and they can make you comfortable and warm even when those temperatures really start to dip. Of course, as you have seen above, there are a number of different options on the market. You need to know how you can narrow down your selection somewhat before you make your choice. Let’s look at some tips that can help.
Related: Drysuit vs Wetsuit Differences
Choosing the Best Drysuit
As you have seen, there are many different types of drysuit available. You need to be sure you are choosing the right one for your needs. Some of the most important things that you will need to consider is the purpose of the drysuit. A drysuit for kayaking will not be the same a scuba drysuit. You also have to consider the material, the size, and the overall quality when you are making your choice.
Now that you have a better understanding of the various types of drysuits that are available today, it should be easier for you to find the one that will work best for your needs, no matter what type of sport you enjoy. Get a quality drysuit, whether it is a scuba drysuit or a suit for skiing and take good care of it.