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A diver’s first line of defense against the ocean environment is the exposure protection suit — wetsuits and drysuits. But do you know what neoprene is made from, or what our forefathers used to stay warm underwater? Check out these five surprising facts.
Limestone-based neoprene -- all the rage among environmentally conscious divers -- avoids the use of traditional oil-based products in manufacturing wetsuits but is structurally and functionally the same.
Contrary to popular belief, the real insulation value in neoprene wetsuits comes from the tiny nitrogen bubbles formed in the material itself, not from the water it traps against the diver’s skin.
Before wetsuits, Asian pearl divers of the 19th century used to cover their bodies with grease to stay warm. It’s a technique still used by modern swimmers, such as those crossing the English Channel.
Wetsuits for diving (rather than surfing, paddling or swimming) typically use stiffer varieties of neoprene. This hinders mobility but stands up at depth where the lightweight stuff is pancacked under pressure.
Drysuits, not wetsuits, were the norm in the earliest days of scuba. Prior to 1953, most divers wore drysuits made from natural, dipped rubber.
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Gotta love the gear. Scuba diving is an equipment-intensive sport, and we can thank our lucky stars for that. After all, one of the most enjoyable rituals of diving is discovering new gear, buying new gear, and putting it through its paces while exploring the depths. Each year, an ocean full of new equipment is introduced, and each year, Sport Diver’s staffers collect a bunch of it at the annual DEMA (Diving Equipment and Marketing Association) show to dangle in front of you, our readers. It’s that time again.
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Stretch panels are placed in specific performance zones in the suit and then double-glued with BARE’s Secure-Lock construction. A 360-degree Glideskin neck seal and internal skin-in flip seals at midforearm and midcalf help reduce water entry.
CETATEK’s new aquabionic warp1 fins instantly adapt and continuously change to any kick style and load level based on the demands of the diver. The warp1 blade features unique construction: At rest, it is relatively flat, but when the diver kicks, the sophisticated design creates a deep scoop that channels water to create thrust.
It might not be the sexiest piece of gear, but the mask just might be the most important. Check out our review of 12 new masks to find the one that’s perfect for you.
You don’t need as much as you think you do on your next dive trip. Stroll onto the dive boat with less stress and a lighter load with this list of our six favorite things to leave behind.
Bare’s Trilam Tech Dry is both durable and comfortable. Featuring fell-stitched glue and heat-tapped seams and a front-entry T-Zip MasterSeal waterproof zipper, this rugged suit is available with either neoprene or latex wrist seals, a neoprene or latex neck seal, and a choice of vulcanized neoprene attached boots or neoprene soft socks. The suit comes with suspenders, super-large kneepads and a lifetime guarantee on seams and workmanship.
Tried everything but still do not feel warm enough underwater? Try Thermalution’s Yellow Grade WIRELESS heated undersuit, it turns your ordinary wetsuit or dry suit into a power heated suit in a minute.
