Ahhh, and this one fits just right.

Finding the right wetsuit

Los Angeles, CA – March 22, 2021 (updated November 7, 2013)

Once upon a time, there was a diver named Goldilocks. She went on a trip to the dive shop. Pretty soon, she came upon a wall of wetsuits. She knocked on the door of the dressing room and, when no one answered, she walked right in. We all know the rest of the story, right? She tries them all on and in the end declares, "Ahhh, and this one fits just right." 

Maybe that's not you. And all you did was get super overheated and frustrated with the process. Maybe you resorted to asking the millions on facebook groups dedicated to giving their opinion and everyone has their opinion. Just to order another wetsuit online that didn't fit for you and have to return.  Well there's a better way.

We understand that buying scuba (or freediving) diving gear can be overwhelming. There are so many options.  How can you get that "happily ever after" experience with your wetsuit?
The first thing to understand is the purpose of your suit and how it works. Your wetsuit has one purpose; to keep your body warm when you're in the water. Water can drain heat from your body almost 25 times faster than air. Even when you have a wetsuit that fits perfectly, there will be a little water inside. A thin layer of water between your skin and the suit actually helps keep you warm, but any large, loose places will hold more water than your body maybe able to heat, and could cause you to be cold. Also if it too large in places, water may move in and out of the suit, which will cause even quicker heat loss. So the wetsuit needs to be snugger than street clothes for most people.


You need accurate measurements. We recommend letting us measure you for height, weight, chest, waist, and hips to start. Different manufacturers suits are made from different types of materials and size patterns and will fit differently.  There are also different types of wetsuits – one piece, semi-dry wetsuits, and attached hoods. Remember to check the fit with the gloves, hood, and boots you intend to use.  Some suits can also accommodate layering with vests and hooded vests. Custom suits are an option for those truly hard to fit.  You gotta try them to know if they work.

Okay you’re armed with your measurements, choose a few suits to try on. Remember to make sure you choose from different manufacturers -- they all have different fits (just like your jeans).

When pulling a suit on, make sure you take the time to pull it up snugly in the crotch area. If you let it bag in the crotch, it will affect the way the suit fits at the shoulder. Do the same with the underarm area. Now that you have the suit on, check it for loose or baggy spots. A little wrinkling around the elbows and knees is probably alright. It should fit snugly all over, but it should not pinch or cut off circulation to your neck, feet or hands nor constrain your breathing. Your movements will be slightly restricted, but it should not be difficult to maneuver and touch your toes or do a full squating position.

Take your time and try on as many as it takes to find your perfect wetsuit. You will eventually find the right one and be able to say, "And this one is just right."

We can help you find the right wetsuit or any other dive gear that you need.  Experience counts. Contact Us.

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