The 9 Best Scuba Wetsuits for Optimum Insulation and Comfort

Any diver knows that having one of the best scuba wetsuits is integral to an efficient diving experience. It should fit like a glove while ensuring freedom of movement underwater. However, finding the right choice can be daunting with so many available options.

Various types of scuba wetsuits exist, from shorties to semi-dry suits. Each is suitable for different diving environments, so when looking for the best scuba diving wetsuit, consider where you’ll be diving. Shorties and any 3mm or 5mm thick wetsuit are best if you’re diving in warm water. However, colder water dictates full-body wetsuits like the Scubapro Everflex. 

So, what are the best scuba wetsuits in the market? This article will guide you toward the gold standard of wetsuits that ensure optimum insulation and comfort.

Overview of the Best Scuba Diving Wetsuits

1. Overall Best Wetsuit: Scubapro Everflex Full Wetsuit
2. Best Value for Money: NeoSport 5mm Waterman Unisex John Wetsuit
3. Best 5mm Wetsuit for Men: Scubapro 5mm Sport Men’s Full Wetsuit
4. Best 7mm Wetsuit: Henderson 7mm Thermoprene Full Wetsuit
5. Best Budget 3mm Wetsuit: Cressi 3mm Morea Full Wetsuit

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Types of Scuba Diving Wetsuits

Divers can choose from various wetsuit types, each catering to specific scuba diving preferences. These are the different types you may come across as you search for the best scuba wetsuits:

1. Shorties: These have short sleeves and legs. They are lightweight and ideal for warm water diving (above 78°F / 26°C), offering minimal insulation.
2. Spring suits: These offer a balance of coverage and flexibility, with either long sleeves or shorts. They’re ideal for warm conditions with added sun and abrasion protection. 
3. Full suits: These provide maximum insulation and protection by covering the entire body. Therefore, they are suitable for extended dives in colder temperatures.
4. Semi-dry wetsuits: These are the most advanced and expensive scuba wetsuits, providing enhanced thermal insulation with snug seals, sealed seams, and integrated hoods. They minimize water entry and circulation, ensuring warmth in colder waters (50-60°F / 10-15°C). Therefore, they’re your best bet if you frequently dive in cold water.
5. Farmer Johns: These are sleeveless long johns worn beneath a separate jacket, offering flexibility and insulation tailored to varying water temperatures. 

9 Best Scuba Diving Wetsuits

1.  Scubapro Everflex Full Wetsuit

Our Expert Opinion: Overall Best Wetsuit

The Scubapro Everflex is one of the best scuba diving wetsuits on the market. This 100% plant-based natural rubber wetsuit designed for scuba diving features interior chest and back panels with thermal loop laminate for extra warmth. And ease of movement and comfort is enhanced thanks to the pre-bent legs and arms. The Scubapro Everflex combines exclusive design, premium materials, and sustainability for an enjoyable diving experience.

What You Need to Know

Scubapro’s Everflex is constructed with a material extracted from FSC-certified rubber tree farms. As a result, expect a comfortable yet high-performance companion equivalent to neoprene wetsuits. 

The Everflex’s sustainable construction incorporates dope-dyed yarn, water-based glue, and recyclable packaging. Moreover, the “Pure Design Concept” with fewer seams offers a maximum range of motion.

Multi-thickness panels, including Diamond Span, provide flexibility and warmth. At the same time, abrasion-resistant pads on shoulders and knees increase durability.

Another notable aspect of the Everflex is its compression resistance during dives. That feature minimizes heat loss in water temperatures below 98.6°F (37°C).

Other innovative design elements include a small neck zipper for comfort, a diagonal rear YKK zipper for durability, and I-Safe Straps for securing wrist instruments.

Specs & Features

• Price: $499.00 – $769.00
• Type: Full suit
• Thickness: 3mm / 5mm / 7mm
• Material: 100% Plant-Based Natural Rubber Foam; Polyester
• Seams: Solvent-Free Aqua Glued; Double Blind-Stitched Outer; Single Blind-Stitched Inner
• Closure: Back YKK Zipper w/KA Brass Slider & Pull Tab Leash; Wrist & Ankle Zippers; Adjustable Collar w/Zipper
• Sizes: XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL, 4XL, 5XL

What We Like

• Eco-friendly materials and adhesives used in construction
• Pre-bent legs and arms for easy movement underwater
• CE Certified Class B rating for temperatures from 50°F to 64.5°F (10°C to 18°C) 
• Abrasion-resistant materials

What We Don’t Like

• May be heavier than some other options, which could affect buoyancy and maneuverability
• Unnaturally long arms

2.  NeoSport 5mm Waterman Unisex John Wetsuit

Our Expert Opinion: Best Value for Money

Anyone who spends significant time in or around water will find a suitable companion in the NeoSport Waterman John wetsuit. It’s durable and affordable, making it ideal for those facing harsh environmental conditions. Although it lacks the stretch found in pricier brands, it performs as it should underwater. 

What You Need to Know

The NeoSport Waterman John is a straightforward, no-frills wetsuit designed for watersport enthusiasts. It’s crafted from premium nylon-2 neoprene rubber with glued and sewn seams. That ensures strength and longevity.

Furthermore, the Waterman has diamond plate knee pads, emphasizing its robust design for extensive use. The ankle seals minimize water exchange, boosting warmth. And the Lycra-trimmed edges ensure easy donning and doffing, adding strength.

The Waterman has a two-piece design, with a Farmer John Bottom with a hook and loop shoulder closure for comfort and convenience. Also, this design allows you to replace specific pieces rather than the entire suit. 

Available in various sizes and the color black, the NeoSport 5mm Waterman John offers practicality and value. Therefore, it’s one of the best scuba wetsuits for cost-conscious water enthusiasts in demanding environments. 

Specs & Features

• Price: $69.99
• Type: Farmer Johns
• Thickness: 5mm
• Material: Nylon-2 Neoprene Rubber
• Seams: Glued and sewn
• Closure: Hook & Loop Shoulder Fastener
• Sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL, 3XL

What We Like

• Constructed with soft and comfortable premium nylon-2 neoprene rubber
• Glued and sewn seams ensure strength and durability for various diving environments
• More affordable than other scuba wetsuits
• Suitable for other water activities like freediving

What We Don’t Like

• Water ingress may occur due to neck opening, so a cowl/hood is necessary
• Only available in black
• Doesn’t have the stretch and flexibility of pricier wetsuits 

3.  Scubapro 5mm Sport Men’s Full Wetsuit

Our Expert Opinion: Best 5mm Wetsuit for Men

Whether a new, casual, or seasoned diver, the Scubapro 5mm Sport Full Wetsuit offers comfort and flexibility. It’s constructed with super-soft Surf Foam neoprene to ensure an uninterrupted range of motion. Also, it features a YKK rear zipper with a KA brass slider and pull-tab leash for ease of use. All these aspects come at a high price point, but the wetsuit ensures you get the bang for your buck.

What You Need to Know

The Scubapro 5mm Sport is a next-generation wetsuit for leisurely warm water diving in moderate to shallow depths. It’s certified as a Class B dive suit, making it suitable for water temperatures ranging from 50°F to 64.5°F (10°C to 18°C).

It’s made from super-soft Surf Foam neoprene, an X-Foam variation that enhances flexibility. Therefore, climbing in and out of the wetsuit is easy while experiencing a good range of motion underwater.

Moreover, the Sport is designed with a triathlon cut for ample range of motion in the shoulder and arm areas. Therefore, you’ll be free to move both on the boat and in the water. It also has glued and blind-stitched seams that ensure warmth retention and water resistance.

The Sport is lined with plush materials on its interior materials for enhanced comfort and quick drying and added cushioning beneath zippers. Additionally, the fabric on the shoulders, seat, and knees is abrasion-resistant, reducing wear and tear when shifting gear, sitting, or kneeling.

Therefore, if you’re seeking comfortable, flexible, and durable gear, the Scubapro Sport is the best scuba wetsuit for you. 

Specs & Features

• Price: $359.00
• Type: Full suit
• Thickness: 5mm
• Material: Nylon-2 Neoprene Rubber
• Seams: Glued, Blind Stitched & Liquid Sealed
• Closure: YKK #10 Back Zipper w/Pull-Tab Leash
• Sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL, 3XL

What We Like

• Made from Scubapro’s exclusive X-Foam neoprene, which is environmentally friendly, lightweight, and flexible
• Comfortable fit
• Provides a good range of motion
• Glued and blind-stitched seams for strength and durability

What We Don’t Like

• Water may enter the wetsuit through the zip area, so a hood may be necessary
• High price point

4.  Henderson 7mm Thermoprene Full Wetsuit

Our Expert Opinion: Best 7mm Wetsuit

If you’re seeking high performance and durability, the Henderson 7mm Thermoprene is the best scuba wetsuit for you. It’s crafted from high-quality materials and has features like glued and sewn seams and a self-sealing spine pad over the zipper that reduces water ingress. Also, the wetsuit’s user-friendly design incorporates a #10-YKK back zipper with a zipper tab leash for easy donning and doffing. Overall, it’s among the best wetsuits for diving in cold water, with specific designs for men and women.

What You Need to Know

Henderson’s 7mm Thermoprene wetsuit is made from a blend of high-quality neoprene and a low-pill fabric. It provides 75% more stretch than standard neoprene, ensuring comfort and minimal effort when putting it on. 

The 7mm wetsuit is designed with meticulous attention to quality, featuring glued and sewn seams that reduce water entry. It also has a self-sealing spine pad over the zipper and Freedom Flex kneepads. Those features enhance the suit’s water resistance and durability.

An optimal fit is ensured with the Thermoprene cut, enhancing your physique. Other comfort details like Lycra trimmed cuffs, a spine pad, and an adjustable collar make this wetsuit worth the investment.

Specs & Features

• Price: $317.99
• Type: Full suit
• Thickness: 7mm
• Material: Nylon-2 Neoprene
• Seams: Glued and sewn
• Closure: #10-YKK Back Zipper w/Pull Tab Leash
• Sizes: 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 6 Tall, 8 Tall, 10 Tall, 12 Tall

What We Like

• Easy to put on and take off
• Good size ranges
• Made from high-quality Thermoprene, which provides warmth and durability
• Super stretchy and flexible material
• The self-sealing spine pad over the zipper limits water exchange

What We Don’t Like

• Compared to other wetsuits in its category, it’s relatively more costly
• Has no hood, so you may experience water ingress

5.  Cressi 3mm Morea Full Wetsuit

Our Expert Opinion: Best Budget 3mm Wetsuit

Tropical water activities dictate a reliable wetsuit that keeps you warm and comfortable. That’s precisely what you’ll get with the Cressi 3mm Morea Full Wetsuit without breaking the bank. This is one of the best scuba wetsuits with male and female designs crafted with nylon and neoprene, ensuring easy wearability and superior comfort. Although it’s stiffer than more costly wetsuits, it performs well underwater.

What You Need to Know

Cressi’s 3mm Morea full wetsuit is constructed from 3mm neoprene with Ultraspan nylon II neoprene on the arms and legs. Its anatomical cut and design provide a perfect fit for diving, ensuring ultimate freedom of movement underwater.

The Morea has a rubberized neoprene chest design that offers a non-slip surface for BCD straps. It also has printed knee/shin pads that protect high-wear areas. 

Easy donning and doffing are possible thanks to the back zipper closure with a pull tab leash. And the glued and sewn seams enhance strength, warmth, and durability. 

The Morea is one of the best scuba wetsuits offering affordability without compromising quality. And it’s suitable for summer adventures and year-round excursions in various watersports.

Specs & Features

• Price: $129.95
• Type: Full suit
• Thickness: 3mm
• Material: Nylon II & I Neoprene
• Seams: Glued and sewn
• Closure: Back Zipper w/Pull Tab Leash
• Sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL

What We Like

• Great value for money
• Features a flap that prevents water ingress through the zipper, thanks to its secure Velcro closure
• Good neck seal
• Range of sizes for various body types
• Doesn’t limit movement underwater

What We Don’t Like

• Stiffer than pricier wetsuits, so at least one size larger is ideal
• Relatively short legs

6.  NeoSport 5mm Women’s Full Wetsuit

Our Expert Opinion: Best Women’s 5mm Scuba Wetsuit

Ranked amongst the best 5mm wetsuits for women, the NeoSport 5mm Women’s Full Wetsuit offers versatility and effectiveness for divers. It’s suitable for tropical waters in winter and cooler local dive sites, so it’s also the best wetsuit for diving in cold water. The wetsuit is available in stylish black and lavender and multiple sizes. While other accessories may be necessary to prevent water ingress, the NeoSport is a reliable and robust choice for divers.

What You Need to Know

The NeoSport 5mm Jumpsuit is designed for repeated use by divers exploring a range of underwater environments. It’s made from nylon 2 neoprene rubber, which ensures softness, warmth, and longevity. And it has an anatomical cut pattern for comfort and durability.

Core body warmth is guaranteed with the 5mm thickness in the torso. And the 5mm extremities strike a balance between warmth and flexibility. The wetsuit is designed for easy donning and doffing. It features a generous heavy-duty #10-YKK back zipper with a pull-tab leash for self-application.

The NeoSport also has an adjustable collar that prevents water exchange at the neck. Moreover, all seams are glued, sewn, and spot-tapped at intersecting points. And wrist and ankle seals are spandex trimmed for a secure fit. 

Thermally bonded knee pads offer abrasion resistance, particularly in high-wear areas of the lower legs. Other features like a hook-and-loop fastener collar offer a non-confining stretch fit.

Specs & Features

• Price: $209.99
• Type: Full suit
• Thickness: 5mm
• Material: Nylon-2 Neoprene
• Seams: Glued & Sewn; Spot Tapped at Intersecting Seams
• Closure: Back Zipper w/Zipper Pull-Tab Leash & Hook & Loop Collar
• Sizes: 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14

What We Like

• Constructed from a high-quality material
• Great value for money
• Suitable for other water activities besides scuba diving
• Lavender lining for easy identification underwater

What We Don’t Like

• There may be a potential for water ingress without a hood and booties

7.  Aqualung 3mm AquaFlex Women’s Full Wetsuit

Our Expert Opinion: Best 3mm Wetsuit for Women

Renowned for its exceptional comfort and quality, the Aqualung AquaFlex is the best 3mm wetsuit for women on the market. It’s designed with an ultra-soft inner material for easy donning and doffing. It also has pre-bent anatomic legs and arms for enhanced comfort. Despite the potential for water ingress, the AquaFlex stands out for its quality, comfort, and functionality. 

What You Need to Know

Aqualung’s AquaFlex Wetsuit utilizes AquaFlex neoprene. This material is known for its three times greater stretch than standard neoprene. Therefore, it ensures easy wearing and a perfect fit for all body shapes.

The neoprene layer is both environmentally friendly and resistant to abrasions. Moreover, the wetsuit has liquid-sealed seams crafted through gluing, blind stitching, and liquid rubber sealing. This enhances durability, prevents unraveling, and effectively keeps water out while retaining warmth.

The wetsuit has internal chest and back panels with a thermal loop laminate to maintain core body warmth. Other noteworthy features include a YKK #10 back zipper with a pull tab leash and Spandex edge tape on the wrist cuffs.

Specs & Features

• Price: $330.00
• Type: Full suit
• Thickness: 3mm
• Material: Nylon 2 Neoprene Rubber, Spandex
• Seams: Glued and Blind-Stitched
• Closure: Back Zipper w/Pull Tab Leash
• Sizes: XS, S, M, M/L, L, XL, XXL

What We Like

• Made of four-way stretch neoprene, offering flexibility and comfort
• Features an anatomical cut and design, ensuring a perfect fit
• Easy to put on and take off, thanks to ultra-soft inner material 
• Features Powertex kneepads, which are tough yet highly flexible

What We Don’t Like

• Water ingress may be an issue if it doesn’t fit properly

8.  Bare Velocity Ultra Men’s Full Wetsuit

Our Expert Opinion: Best for a Comfortable Fit

Bare’s Velocity wetsuit excels in durability, fit, feel, and performance for mid to cold-water diving. It incorporates Progressive Full-Stretch (PFS) technology, which strategically integrates full-stretch fabrics in key flexibility areas. As a result, this wetsuit stands out for its fit and performance. 

What You Need to Know

The Velocity wetsuit by Bare features Progressive Full-Stretch (PFS) technology, incorporating three full-stretch material types. That starts with the foundational Bare-Fit design that employs ergonomic shaping patterns and articulated arms and legs.

The Velocity line is designed for a remarkable diving experience and is favored for its practical elements and comfort. It boasts seamless underarms and Bare’s signature flip seals in the forearms and legs to reduce flushing.

In addition, the Velocity line features a 5mm Glide-Skin collar with a 360-degree neck seal that minimizes water entry. A heavy-duty back zipper with an internal sealing flap and a convenient loop for easy donning complements that.

Specs & Features

• Price: $349.95 – $499.95
• Type: Full suit
• Thickness: 3mm / 5mm / 7mm
• Material: Nylon-2 Neoprene Rubber
• Seams: Double-Glued w/Secure-Lock Construction
• Closure: Rear Zipper w/Pull Tab Leash; Ankle Zippers
• Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL, 4XL

What We Like

• Fits like a second skin
• Easy donning and doffing
• Available in tall and short sizes

What We Don’t Like

• It may be tricky to find the right size 

9.  Aqualung 5mm Aquaflex Men’s Full Wetsuit

Our Expert Opinion: Best for Various Ocean Temperatures

Aqualung’s 5mm AquaFlex full wetsuit is well known for its comfort in various ocean temperatures. It strikes a perfect balance of warmth without being too hot or cold. This is all thanks to its four-way stretch neoprene and liquid rubber-sealed seam construction. Besides ensuring warmth, the AquaFlex’s construction enhances durability. Therefore, this is the best scuba wetsuit for diving in various ocean temperatures.

What You Need to Know

The Aqualung 5mm AquaFlex is among the best 5mm wetsuits in the market. It’s crafted with four-way stretch neoprene that enhances your range of motion and facilitates easy donning and doffing. It boasts a meticulous design that includes water-tight seams achieved through glue and blind stitching.

Furthermore, the outer nylon material is non-snag and abrasion-resistant, ensuring longevity. In contrast, the inner material is ultra-soft for easy dressing. The wetsuit also has a silicone traction pad on the left sleeve to prevent the rotation of dive computers underwater.

Powertex kneepads provide durable abrasion resistance without compromising flexibility. And the sculpted silhouette reduces material bunching at joints for effortless movement. 

The wetsuit also includes a YKK #10 back zipper, a kidney pad for warmth, and a spine pad for increased comfort. It also prioritizes environmental consciousness, utilizing non-petroleum-based neoprene material.

Specs & Features

• Price: $375.00
• Type: Full suit
• Thickness: 5mm
• Material: Nylon-2 Neoprene Rubber
• Seams: Glued, Blind Stitched & Liquid Sealed
• Closure: YKK #10 Back Zipper w/Pull-Tab Leash
• Sizes: S, M, M/L, L, XL, XXL, 3XL

What We Like

• Made of four-way stretch neoprene, allowing improved range of motion
• Liquid rubber-sealed seams for warmth and durability
• Easy to get on and take off due to ultra-soft inner lining

What We Don’t Like

• Higher price point than other scuba wetsuits in its category
• Water ingress may occur without proper fit or additional accessories

What to Consider When Looking for the Best Scuba Wetsuit

You’ll come across various options as you search for the best scuba wetsuit. However, instead of going with the first visually appealing choice, there are a few aspects to be aware of to guide your decision. After all, the last thing you want is a wetsuit that’s uncomfortable during dives. Below are the two most important factors to consider.

Fit & Comfort

Fit is everything when it comes to finding the best scuba diving wetsuit. A well-fitted wetsuit feels like a second skin. It creates a seal that traps a thin layer of water between the suit and your body. Your body heat can then warm the water and keep you toasty.  

In contrast, a poorly fitted wetsuit, whether loose or tight, can compromise its effectiveness. This is because water will move in and out, reducing thermal capabilities. Therefore, the fit is the most critical factor to pay attention to.

Wetsuit sizing typically considers height and weight, with specific versions for men and women tailored to their respective body shapes. Therefore, check out the individual manufacturer sizing guides when shopping online to ensure an accurate fit.

Finding the perfect fit is much easier if you’re buying a wetsuit at a physical store. Ensure that the suit fits snugly without gaps or pockets. However, it shouldn’t be so tight that it restricts movement and breathing. 

Also, ensure a proper fit at the seals of the neck, wrists, and ankles. It should be snug but not too tight. The suit should also conform to the body, and the arms and legs should reach your wrists and ankles. 

Furthermore, a well-fitted wetsuit should require a few minutes to put on, indicating the right level of tightness. The aim is to strike a balance between a tight fit that reduces water exchange and provides warmth and comfort without restricting movement.

Thickness

Wetsuit thickness is a measure of insulation level, and it’s measured in millimeters (mm). Suits ideal for warm water conditions range from 1.5 mm to 4 mm, while temperate water suits range from 4mm to 6mm. Thicker suits, generally 7mm thick, are the best for cold water.

Therefore, consider the diving location’s water temperature to choose the best scuba wetsuit. You should also consider potential temperature changes, such as a sudden drop after crossing the thermocline in certain areas. 

Here’s a water temperature guide to help you choose the best scuba diving wetsuit:

Water Temperature	Scuba Wetsuit Thickness
Above 82°F (28°C)	Shorty, 1/8” 3mm
Between 77°F (25°C) and 80°F (27°C)	1/8” 3 mm
Between 70°F (21°C) and 77°F (25°C)	3/16” 5 mm
Between 59°F (15°C) and 68°F (20°C)	1/4” 7 mm
Between 50°F (10°C) and 59°F (15°C)	Semi-dry suit
Below 50°F (10°C)	Dry-suit

Bear in mind that some suits come in two parts. Therefore, they may provide a double neoprene layer over the chest, kidneys, and torso. Also, neoprene compresses with depth because of the tiny air bubbles inside, leading to a loss of buoyancy and warmth. You can retain warmth by wearing a neoprene vest or thermal rash vest. 

The Bottom Line

A high-quality wetsuit is as essential to any diver’s arsenal as a BCD, mask, or regulator. However, narrowing down a suitable option for your needs and preferences can be tricky due to divers being spoiled for choice. 

Therefore, when searching for the best scuba wetsuit, consider how often you’ll be using it and where you’ll be diving. Getting a suit that fits like a glove but doesn’t restrict movements is also crucial. The suit shouldn’t be too tight or loose to ensure comfort and efficiency while diving.