Wetsuit Vs Drysuit: Which Is Best | Key Differences & Benefits

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If you’re looking to stay warm and dry in cold water activities like swimming, surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, or scuba diving, you may have heard about wetsuits and drysuits. While both wetsuits and drysuits are designed to keep you warm in cold water, they differ significantly in their construction, materials, and functionality.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the key differences between wetsuits and drysuits, their costs, benefits, and when to wear each of them. We’ll also answer common questions like “What is a dry suit used for?” and “Do drysuits keep you dry?” So, let’s dive in!

Wetsuit vs Drysuit

Let’s start with the basics. What is the difference between a wetsuit and a dry suit?

Wetsuits are made of neoprene, a stretchy material that traps a thin layer of water between the suit and your skin. This layer of water is then warmed by your body heat, keeping you warm in cold water. Wetsuits are suitable for water temperatures ranging from 50-70°F.

Drysuits, on the other hand, are made of waterproof materials like Gore-Tex or rubber and have wrist, neck, and ankle seals to prevent water from entering the suit. Drysuits are designed to keep you completely dry in water temperatures below 50°F.

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Wetsuit vs Drysuit for Kayaking

Kayaking is a popular cold water activity that requires a suit that provides insulation and protection from cold water. So which is better for kayaking: a wetsuit or a drysuit?

If you’re planning to kayak in water temperatures above 50°F, a wetsuit is a good option. Wetsuits provide insulation and flexibility, making them ideal for kayaking. However, if you’re planning to kayak in colder water temperatures below 50°F, a drysuit is a better choice. Drysuits provide superior insulation and protection from cold water, keeping you dry and warm.

Wetsuit vs Drysuit for Swimming

Swimming in cold water requires a suit that provides warmth and flexibility. So which is better for swimming: a wetsuit or a drysuit?

Wetsuits are ideal for swimming in water temperatures ranging from 50-70°F. They provide insulation, flexibility, and buoyancy, making them perfect for swimming. However, if you’re planning to swim in colder water temperatures below 50°F, a drysuit is a better option. Drysuits provide superior insulation and protection from cold water, keeping you dry and warm.

Wetsuit vs Drysuit for Cold Water

If you’re planning to do any cold water activity, you’ll need a suit that provides warmth and protection from the cold water. So which is better for cold water: a wetsuit or a drysuit?

Wetsuits are suitable for water temperatures ranging from 50-70°F, making them ideal for moderately cold water. However, if you’re planning to do activities in water temperatures below 50°F, a drysuit is a better option. Drysuits provide superior insulation and protection from cold water, keeping you dry and warm.

Wetsuit vs Drysuit for Scuba Diving

Scuba diving requires a suit that provides insulation, protection, and buoyancy. So which is better for scuba diving: a wetsuit or a drysuit?

If you’re planning to scuba dive in water temperatures above 50°F, a wetsuit is a good option. Wetsuits provide insulation and buoyancy, making them ideal for scuba diving. However, if you’re planning to scuba dive in colder water temperatures below 50°F, a drysuit is a better choice.

Drysuits provide superior insulation and protection from the cold water, keeping you dry and warm, and they also allow for layering underneath for added warmth.

Wetsuit vs Drysuit Cost

One factor that may influence your decision between a wetsuit and a drysuit is cost. So, which is more expensive: a wetsuit or a dry suit? Generally, dry suits are more expensive than wetsuits.

This is because they are made of more advanced materials and require more complex construction, including waterproof zippers and seals. However, wetsuits can also be expensive if you opt for higher-quality materials or a full wetsuit instead of a spring suit.

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Wetsuit vs Drysuit Reddit

If you’re still unsure which suit is best for your needs, Reddit can be a helpful resource. The r/scuba and r/surfing subreddits are great places to ask for advice from experienced cold water activity enthusiasts.

Dry Suit for Swimming

If you’re planning to swim in very cold water, a dry suit is essential. Drysuits provide complete protection from the cold water and keep you dry, allowing you to stay warm and comfortable even in very low temperatures.

What is a DrySuit Used For?

Drysuits are designed for cold water activities where staying dry and warm is essential. They are commonly used for scuba diving, kayaking, swimming, and other activities in water temperatures below 50°F.

Drysuit for Swimming in Cold Water

Swimming in very cold water can be dangerous, but a dry suit can help keep you safe and comfortable. Drysuits provide complete protection from the cold water, allowing you to swim for longer periods of time without the risk of hypothermia.

When to Wear a Dry Suit

You should wear a drysuit anytime you’ll be in water temperatures below 50°F, or if you’ll be in colder water for an extended period of time. Drysuits are essential for safety and comfort in very cold water.

7mm Wetsuit vs Drysuit

A 7mm wetsuit is a thick, high-quality wetsuit that provides excellent insulation in moderately cold water. However, in water temperatures below 50°F, a drysuit is a better choice. Drysuits provide superior insulation and protection from cold water.

Dinghy Sailing Wetsuit vs Drysuit

Dinghy sailing can be a cold and wet activity, so you’ll need a suit that provides warmth and protection. If you’re sailing in water temperatures above 50°F, a wetsuit is a good option. However, if you’re sailing in colder water temperatures below 50°F, a drysuit is a better choice.

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Kayak Wetsuit vs Drysuit

Kayaking in cold water requires a suit that provides insulation and protection. If you’re kayaking in water temperatures above 50°F, a wetsuit is a good option. However, if you’re kayaking in colder water temperatures below 50°F, a drysuit is a better choice.

Silfra Snorkeling Wetsuit vs Drysuit

Silfra snorkeling is a popular activity in Iceland, where the water temperature is around 35-39°F. For this activity, a dry suit is essential. Drysuits provide complete protection from the cold water, allowing you to snorkel comfortably for extended periods of time.

Weights Wetsuit vs Drysuit

Weights can be added to both wetsuits and drysuits to provide additional buoyancy and warmth. Whether you choose a wetsuit or a dry suit, you can add weights to customize your suit to your specific needs.

Factors to Consider

Construction and Materials: Wetsuits are made of neoprene, a stretchy, insulating material that traps a thin layer of water between the suit and your skin. The water is then warmed by your body heat, which keeps you warm. Drysuits, on the other hand, are made of a waterproof material like Gore-Tex or rubber and have wrist, neck, and ankle seals to prevent water from entering the suit.
Functionality: Wetsuits are designed to keep you warm in water temperatures ranging from 50-70°F, while drysuits are suitable for temperatures below 50°F. Drysuits also provide better insulation and protection from the cold and can be worn with thermal layers for added warmth.
Cost: Wetsuits are generally less expensive than drysuits, with prices ranging from $50 to $500 depending on the brand, quality, and thickness. Drysuits are more expensive, with prices ranging from $500 to $2,000 or more.
Activity: The type of water activity you’re planning to do will also affect your choice of suit. Wetsuits are suitable for activities like surfing, paddleboarding, and swimming, while dry suits are better for activities like scuba diving, kayaking, and snorkeling.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Wetsuit vs DrySuit

Advantages and DISADVANTAGES of Wetsuit

More affordable than dry suits.
Provide good insulation in cool waters, keeping the body warm and protected.
More flexible and easier to move in than dry suits.

Can be uncomfortable and difficult to put on and take off.
May not provide enough warmth in colder waters.
Can retain water, making the paddler feel wet and cold.

Advantages And DISADVANTAGES of Drysuit

Provide complete protection from water and wind, keeping the body dry and warm.
More comfortable and easier to put on and take off than wetsuits.
More versatile, with options for different water temperatures and activities.

More expensive than wetsuits.
Less flexible and more restrictive than wetsuits, making movement more difficult.
Require more maintenance and care to ensure longevity.

Tips

Consider the water temperature and your activity when choosing between a wetsuit and a drysuit.
Take into account your personal preferences, such as comfort and mobility.
Care for and maintain your suit properly to ensure maximum performance and longevity.
Ask for advice from experienced cold water activity enthusiasts, such as on Reddit.
If cost is a factor, weigh the benefits of each type of suit against their respective costs.

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FAQ’s

Can you swim in a dry suit?

Yes, you can swim in a dry suit. Dry suits are designed to keep you completely dry and warm in cold water, making them ideal for activities such as diving, kayaking, and sailing. They typically have waterproof seals at the neck, wrists, and ankles, and are made from materials that are both durable and breathable. While they may not provide as much flexibility as a wetsuit, they do provide excellent insulation and protection against the elements.

Do wetsuits really keep you warm?

Yes, wetsuits are designed to keep you warm in cold water. Wetsuits work by trapping a layer of water between your body and the suit, which is then heated by your body temperature. This creates a warm, insulating layer that helps to keep you warm in cold water. The thicker the wetsuit, the more insulation it provides. However, wetsuits are not completely waterproof and will eventually let some water in, which can make you feel cold.

Do you wear anything under a wetsuit?

Yes, it is recommended that you wear a rash guard or wetsuit liner under your wetsuit. This helps to prevent chafing and provides an additional layer of insulation. It also makes it easier to put on and take off your wetsuit. Some people also wear neoprene boots, gloves, and hoods to provide additional protection against cold water.

When should you wear a dry suit?

You should wear a drysuit when you will be in water temperatures below 50°F (10°C) or when there is a risk of hypothermia. Drysuits provide complete protection from the cold water and keep you dry, which makes them ideal for activities such as diving, kayaking, and sailing. Drysuits are also recommended for activities where there is a risk of exposure to contaminated water, such as sewage or chemicals, as they provide a barrier between your skin and the water.

Conclusion

Wetsuits and drysuits are both essential for cold water activities, but they differ in their construction, functionality, and cost. Choosing the right suit depends on the water temperature, activity, and personal preference. If you’re on a tight budget and planning to do activities like surfing or paddleboarding, a wetsuit is a good choice.

However, if you’re planning to do scuba diving or kayaking in colder water temperatures, a dry suit is the way to go. Remember to always check the water temperature and choose the appropriate suit to stay safe and comfortable.