Description
Come see us in person to:
- View Trilam, Bilam, and Neoprene material samples, mid layer and base layer options.
- Get measured for a Stock, Made to Order (partial customisation), or a fully custom Made to Measure drysuit
- View different seal and valve options
- Find the best suit for your needs!
When you’re diving, your body temperature is important to keep in mind. What you wear when diving plays a major role in how long your body can stay warm. The best way to stay dry while diving is to use a drysuit. They are designed to keep water out, which is the first step in helping your body stay warm. As a cold water diver, you want a drysuit with the latest technology. BARE Sports provides drysuits with high-quality seals and zippers. These ensure that water stays out and warmth stays in. You can also wear technical undergarments underneath. Layering makes for added comfort and extra protection against the cold. But why even worry about buying a drysuit? Some of the biggest benefits are:
- You lose less body heat and reduce the risk of hypothermia in colder water
- Because your body is able to retain its heat, you can safely dive longer
- Drysuits give you added buoyancy control
- You no longer have to deal with putting on a cold damp wetsuit and starting your dive already cold.
- There is more flexibility to what you can wear in the water. Drysuits let you add, or remove, layers under the drysuit which helps you better manage your comfort levels when diving.
- A drysuit opens the door to new diving opportunities. You’re no longer limited to only diving in warm water.
The Fit – Your drysuit should help you have a warm and comfortable dive. You should choose a suit that does not restrict your normal range of motion. If you are not comfortable walking around and wearing it on land, it won’t be comfortable in the water.
The Valves – An important part of drysuits are the valves. The drysuit creates a seal around your neck, wrist and feet that keeps your body protected from the water. However, as you descend in the water, there can be extra pressure added to the trapped gasses which can modify your buoyancy. A drysuit valve helps regulate those gasses and should be easily accessible during a dive.
The Seals – There are three different types of seals: latex seals, silicone seals and neoprene seals—and the one you pick should largely be based on personal preference.
- Neoprene seals are built into the suit and are typically bulky. On average, however, they provide better warmth (and last longer) than other seal types, making them popular with people who put a premium on heat retention and durability. For some, neoprene seals can cause a skin rash over sustained periods of use, so keep that in mind if you have sensitive skin.
- Silicone seals are good because you can cut them to your desired size. If you cut a seal, just be careful and sure before you make a cut. Silicone works better in hot environments, but snaps in cold. Also, silicone seals are more susceptible to rips and tears, especially when putting on/taking off your suit.
- Latex seals are pretty similar to silicone. You can cut them, but both tear easily and are replaceable. Latex seals cause reactions in certain divers, so check that before committing to a purchase. FYI: Latex can melt when exposed to ozone, or UV, so be sure to protect your latex seals from long-term sun exposure.
The Materials – The three most common materials in drysuits are trilaminate, bilaminate, and neoprene.
- Trilaminate or bilaminate – these lightweight fabrics have no inherent buoyancy and don’t compress at depth, but they’re not as flexible as neoprene. They specialize in keeping you dry while being very durable, but they don’t provide as much insulation.
- Neoprene – These suits provide the most insulation making for the warmest drysuits. They are also more form-fitting and streamlined. For some divers, this makes the drysuit easier to use and maneuver in.
Questions? Ready to order? Need help choosing the best gear for you? Contact Us for helpful advice, additional size, colour, and customization options (as applicable), shipping help, and more. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Let us source it for you! The availability of Back Ordered items may vary and require additional shipping time.