Freediving Suits

If you want to explore the underwater world in absolute freedom, then you need a free-diving suit.

Free-diving suits are designed to deliver absolute flexibility and comfort while keeping you warm and insulated beneath the surface. Unlike traditional scuba suits, new free-diving wetsuits are typically made from high-quality neoprene, a material known for its excellent insulation properties and elasticity. They fit snuggly on the skin to minimize drag and facilitate movement.

What’s the Purpose of a Free-Diving Suit?

The key feature of a free-diving wetsuit is its ability to maintain body heat. When you dive to depths where water temperatures can be significantly cooler, a well-designed suit means that you can stay submerged for longer periods without experiencing the discomfort of the cold.

This is particularly important in free diving, where energy conservation and comfort can directly impact dive performance and safety. The thickness of the neoprene can vary, with options available to suit different water temperatures and personal preferences. Free-diving suits come in thicknesses of 1-3mm, 5mm, and 7mm. If you usually free dive in open cold waters, go for the thicker one.

Other Free-Diving Suit Features

Buoyancy control

Free-diving suits also offer buoyancy control. The neoprene material provides inherent buoyancy, which helps divers achieve the perfect balance between buoyancy and weight. Good balance helps with smooth and efficient dives, as it allows divers to focus on their technique and surroundings rather than struggling with their buoyancy.

Comfort

Free-diving suits are designed to fit like a second skin. They reduce water resistance and you can almost forget you are wearing them. This close fit is achieved through anatomical paneling and seamless construction techniques. These advanced techniques improve hydrodynamics and prevent chafing and irritation during long dives.

Many free-diving suits also feature reinforced knee and elbow pads for added durability and protection in rugged underwater environments.

Styles and colors

Free-diving suits come in a variety of styles and colors to match both women’s and men’s tastes and diving conditions. Some suits feature camouflage patterns that help divers blend into their underwater surroundings: this is particularly useful for spearfishing or quiet observation of marine life up close.

How do I Choose the Right Free-Diving Suit?

Ready to pick your free-diving suit? Consider factors such as water temperature, diving depth, and personal comfort.

Water temperature

The thickness of the neoprene defines thermal protection. For warm water environments, a 1.5mm to 3mm suit may be enough. In cooler waters, a thicker suit, ranging from 5mm to 7mm, is necessary to maintain body heat and maximize comfort during prolonged dives.

Fit and flexibility

A well-fitting suit is essential for free diving, as it reduces drag and helps you move freely. The suit should fit snugly like a second skin without being too tight or restrictive. Look for suits with anatomical paneling and seamless construction.

Type of neoprene

Different types of neoprene offer different levels of flexibility, durability, and insulation.

Open-cell neoprene is softer and more flexible and provides better insulation as it sits close to the skin. But it can be more delicate and prone to damage.

Closed-cell neoprene is more durable and easier to put on but may offer slightly less flexibility and insulation.

Buoyancy and weight

The buoyancy provided by the neoprene helps with maintaining balance in the water. Thicker suits offer more buoyancy which may require additional weights for deeper dives.

Protection and durability

Consider suits with reinforced areas, such as knee and elbow pads, for added durability and protection, especially if you plan to dive in rocky or rough underwater environments. These features can prolong the life of your suit and provide extra safety during your dives.

Style and camouflage

Free-diving suits come in various styles and colors. Some divers prefer camouflage patterns that help blend into the underwater environment, which can be practical for spearfishing or wildlife observation. Choose a style that suits your diving activities and personal preferences.

Ease of use

Putting on and taking off a free-diving suit can be challenging, especially with open-cell neoprene. Some suits come with zippers or smooth skin linings to make this process easier. Consider how easy it is to don and doff the suit, as this can affect your overall diving experience.

Brand and quality

Invest in a reputable brand known for high-quality free-diving suits. All our Divers Supply free-diving suits are top brands that follow strict terms and conditions protocols and deliver performance and durability.

Free-Diving Suits from Divers Supply

At Divers Supply, we have free-diving suits at the most competitive prices and only work with the top manufacturers. Shop now and enjoy the ultimate diving experience!

FAQs

What is the difference between an open-cell and a closed-cell free-diving suit?

Open-cell suits have neoprene that sits closely to the skin and offers greater flexibility and insulation. They are more comfortable and warmer but can be more delicate and challenging to put on. 

Closed-cell suits are more durable, easier to don and doff, and provide good insulation, though they may not be as flexible as open-cell suits.

How do I determine the right thickness of the suit for my dives?

The thickness of your suit depends on the water temperature where you'll be diving. For warm waters (above 75°F or 24°C), a 1.5mm to 3mm suit is usually sufficient. For cooler waters (60-75°F or 16-24°C), a 3mm to 5mm suit is recommended. In cold waters (below 60°F or 16°C), a 5mm to 7mm suit is necessary to maintain body warmth.

What’s the difference between a free-diving suit and a scuba-diving suit?

Free-diving suits are more flexible and hydrodynamic to allow for greater freedom of movement and reduced drag. Scuba-diving suits are often thicker and less flexible because they are geared towards a different activity.

What should I wear under my free-diving suit?

Most divers wear minimal clothing under their free-diving suits, such as a swimsuit or a thin layer of thermal wear if extra warmth is needed. Avoid wearing bulky clothing that may restrict movement.