Scuba wetsuits
Shop men’s and women’s scuba wetsuits at Dive360, a New Zealand dive retailer based in Tauranga. Compare 3mm, 5mm and 7mm suits, semi-dry wetsuits and jacket-and-long-john setups from brands including Beuchat, Mares and Prodive. Choose around water conditions, fit, dive duration and how easily you feel the cold.
Should I choose a 3mm, 5mm or 7mm wetsuit?
Thinner wetsuits generally suit warmer water, while thicker neoprene provides more insulation. As a starting point:
- 3mm wetsuits are worth considering for warm-water and tropical diving.
- 5mm wetsuits provide more insulation than comparable 3mm suits and may suit milder conditions.
- 7mm wetsuits are worth comparing for cooler-water scuba diving.
There is no single thickness that suits every New Zealand dive. Fit, seals, depth, time underwater, repeated dives and your own cold tolerance all affect warmth. Use thickness as a starting point, not a guarantee.
Which scuba wetsuit styles can I compare?
The Mares Evolution 7mm Mens Wetsuit is a full-length, back-zip one-piece suit with stretchy neoprene. It is a useful starting point when comparing a straightforward thicker scuba wetsuit.
The Beuchat Espadon Bifo 2 5mm Jacket & Long John Bundle combines a lined, hooded jacket with a matching long john. The overlapping layers cover the torso, and you can choose the two pieces’ sizes independently.
How should a scuba wetsuit fit?
A wetsuit should fit closely throughout without restricting normal breathing or movement. Loose areas can allow water to circulate and reduce warmth. Check your chest, waist, hip and height measurements against the exact product’s sizing guide; sizes vary between brands and styles.
What is the difference between a wetsuit and a semi-dry suit?
A semi-dry is still a wetsuit, but its seals and zip design aim to reduce water flushing through the suit. It does not keep you completely dry. Compare construction and fit as well as thickness when deciding between a standard wetsuit and a semi-dry.
Complete your exposure protection
Consider a dive hood as part of your setup. For help choosing a suit, email hello@dive360.co.nz with your measurements and where you plan to dive. We’ll help you work through the options.