Spearfishing Wetsuits

Spearfishing Wetsuits

Wetsuits specifically designed for spearfishing offer many advantages over wetsuits intended for other underwater activities or water sports. The best spearfishing wetsuits are two-piece designs, with a jacket and pants, and have no zippers. These wetsuits provide greater freedom of movement, are warmer at the same thickness, and deliver a higher level of comfort in the water.

The outer surface of the neoprene on a spearfishing wetsuit can be lined or smoothskin, while the inner surface can be open-cell, lined, or coated neoprene, allowing it to meet different needs and personal preferences.

Neoprene, whether smoothskin or lined, can feature neutral patterns or camouflage colors, with thicknesses ranging from 1.5 mm to 8.0 mm to meet different thermal insulation requirements.

What is neoprene?

Neoprene is a synthetic rubber produced through the polymerization of chloroprene, a derivative of petroleum or natural latex. It is valued for its weather resistance, flexibility, and thermal insulation, and is used in a variety of industrial, commercial, and sports applications.

Some companies use calcium carbonate extracted from limestone rock to produce neoprene, making neoprene production much more sustainable than petroleum-derived neoprene.

Quality neoprene is known for its high density, closed-cell structure, greater flexibility, durability, and superior insulating properties, making it ideal for wetsuits and other sports applications.

The best neoprene manufacturers

Neoprene manufacturers are mainly located in Asia, with Japan leading the way in the production of high-quality neoprene.

Below are some of the most widely used neoprene manufacturers and brands for making wetsuits designed for freediving and spearfishing:

• YAMAMOTO – A Japanese company, it has always been synonymous with extremely high quality and sustainability. They pioneered the production of closed-cell neoprene. Yamamoto uses calcium carbonate extracted from limestone rock and food-grade oils to produce its neoprene, making their production much more sustainable than that of other companies that use petroleum or latex derivatives to produce neoprene, which, in addition to being less sustainable, can cause allergic reactions when in contact with the skin. Yamamoto offers various types of neoprene suitable for making wetsuits, such as Yamamoto 39, valued for its excellent price-performance ratio, or Yamamoto 45 neoprene, highly regarded by professionals for its incredible elasticity, durability, and thermal insulation properties.
• HEIWA – Japanese manufacturer of high-quality neoprene. Heiwa produces various types of neoprene for making freediving and spearfishing wetsuits. Heiwa wetsuits are highly valued by deep freedivers because, while maintaining excellent thermal protection and comfort, they allow consistent buoyancy control during descent, limiting the free-fall effect caused by excessive neoprene compression, which also compromises the wetsuit’s insulation.
• DAIWABO – Another Japanese manufacturer known for high-quality neoprene used by freediving and spearfishing wetsuit makers worldwide.
• SHEICO – Taiwanese company and one of the world’s largest producers of neoprene for water sports.
• NAM LIONG – Taiwanese company that produces neoprene for various applications, including wetsuits.

Types of neoprene

Neoprene sheets for freediving and spearfishing wetsuits can vary widely in density, buoyancy, resistance, and elasticity. But neoprene sheets can also have different types of surface finishes.

The neoprene sheet can have the same finish on both sides or, as often happens with sheets intended for freediving wetsuit production, it can feature two different types of finish. Here are the most common:

Lined / Open-Cell Neoprene

The neoprene sheet used to make the wetsuit has a jersey lining on the outside and a raw cut neoprene surface on the inside, called open-cell.

The textile lining, usually nylon or Lycra, is bonded to the outer surface of the neoprene sheet and can offer varying degrees of stretch, as well as a wide range of colors and camouflage patterns.

Open-cell neoprene is so called because it is nothing more than the surface of the neoprene as it appears after being cut. Thicker neoprene sheets are sliced to obtain thinner sheets suitable for wetsuit manufacturing.

Looking at the surface of open-cell neoprene, the microbubbles within the neoprene are exposed and clearly visible in cross-section, giving the impression of a porous or uneven surface. To the touch, open-cell neoprene has noticeable grip and a soft feel.

Open-cell neoprene has the ability to "stick" to the skin, providing a close seal against the wearer’s body and superior thermal insulation.

There is a variant of open-cell neoprene known as "coated." In practice, an extremely thin metallic film is applied to the open-cell neoprene, making it easier to put on.

Smooth / Open-Cell Neoprene

The neoprene sheet used to make the wetsuit has a perfectly smooth, uniform finish on the outside, while the inside features the raw cut surface of open-cell neoprene.

The smooth surface of Neoprene is a characteristic imparted during production of the sheet inside the mold. From each mold, once the Neoprene is sliced into thinner sheets, only two sheets can have the smooth finish on one side: the two sheets in direct contact with the mold.

In some cases, a surface coating can be applied to smooth Neoprene, meaning a film such as Yamamoto SCS or other polyurethane coatings designed to make smooth Neoprene even more hydrodynamic, increasing the freediver’s glide through the water and therefore their speed of movement in the water.

Smooth / Lined Neoprene

The Neoprene sheet used to make the wetsuit has a smooth finish on the outside, while on the inside it has a stretch lining made of nylon, lycra, or other materials.

Sandwich Neoprene

The Neoprene sheet used to make the wetsuit is created by bonding two Neoprene sheets with a lining in between. The sheet that will form the inside of the wetsuit has an open-cell finish, while the sheet that will form the outside of the wetsuit has a smooth finish. Sandwich Neoprene is designed to combine the benefits of smooth/open-cell Neoprene with those of lined/open-cell Neoprene.

Double-lined Neoprene

The Neoprene sheet used to make the wetsuit has a lining on the outside and a lining on the inside. In practice, the Neoprene sheet is enclosed between two linings.

Lined/Open-Cell Neoprene vs Smooth/Open-Cell Neoprene

In the popular imagination, smooth/open-cell wetsuits are considered superior in quality to lined/open-cell Neoprene wetsuits. But with the same Neoprene, this is not true. They are simply two products with different characteristics. Let’s look at what they are.

Lined/open-cell wetsuits are the most widely used worldwide by freedivers and spearfishers of all levels. This is thanks to the characteristics of the Neoprene, which on the inside in contact with the skin is open-cell, very warm and comfortable, while on the outside it has a stretch lining that prevents the fragile Neoprene from tearing.

The outer lining significantly increases the wetsuit’s durability, both when putting it on and in situations where it may come into contact with the seabed or sharp objects. The lining also allows the use of thinner Neoprene, which would be difficult to use without a lining because it would be too prone to tearing. Finally, the lined Neoprene panels that make up the wetsuit are stitched as well as glued, greatly increasing the suit’s strength, so it will last for many years without requiring too much maintenance.

The only downside of lined/open-cell neoprene is that any lining applied to a neoprene sheet usually tends to stiffen it, slightly reducing its elasticity.

Another aspect to consider is that a lined wetsuit, once wet, takes longer to dry than a smooth-skin wetsuit, so wearing a lined wetsuit in winter may make you feel colder during boat transfers.

Smooth-skin/open-cell neoprene wetsuits are the least commonly used, especially by beginners. This is because unlined smooth-skin/open-cell neoprene is much more fragile and prone to tearing. As a result, anyone choosing a smooth-skin/open-cell neoprene wetsuit needs greater experience and care, especially when putting the wetsuit on and taking it off. They must also be more careful about contact with elements that could damage the delicate smooth-skin neoprene.

A smooth-skin/open-cell neoprene wetsuit is generally considered fragile and more demanding to handle. Smooth-skin/open-cell neoprene wetsuits are in fact recommended in thicknesses from 5.0 mm and up, precisely because a greater thickness makes the neoprene more durable and harder to tear. They are less suitable in thicknesses under 4.0 mm because they are too prone to tearing.

Now let’s look at the advantages of smooth-skin/open-cell wetsuits and why they are so popular with many experienced freedivers and spearfishers.

The absence of a lining makes the neoprene more elastic, resulting in a feeling of greater freedom of movement. This is a major advantage, especially in winter, when the greater neoprene thickness reduces mobility.

Smooth-skin neoprene is ideal during boat transfers because the wetsuit dries quickly, preventing the cold wind from chilling you.

Another advantage of smooth-skin wetsuits is that this material can be colored or hand-painted with countless patterns and camouflage designs, allowing each individual wetsuit to be customized and made truly unique.

Neoprene Wetsuit: what thickness should you choose?

When staying in the water for long periods of time, the body loses heat quickly. It is well known that a body immersed in liquid loses heat about 25 times faster than when it is on land. For this reason, a neoprene wetsuit is essential gear for anyone practicing freediving or spearfishing, even in warm waters.

The right wetsuit thickness depends on the water temperature and how sensitive you are to cold. If you are unsure, it is always a good idea to buy a thicker wetsuit, since, if necessary, you can always let cold water in manually to cool down by stretching the wetsuit at the hood, wrist, ankle, or waist.

But what thicknesses are most suitable depending on water temperature?

As mentioned, not everyone feels the cold in the same way. However, below we provide general guidelines based on our experience with thousands of customers.

Here are the recommended thicknesses based on water temperature:

• Water temperature < 18 °C – 6.5 – 8.0 mm wetsuits
• Water temperature 19 – 24 °C – 5.0 – 5.5 mm wetsuits
• Water temperature 24 – 28 °C – 3.0 – 3.5 mm wetsuits
• Water temperature > 29 °C – 1.5 – 2.0 mm wetsuits

As already specified, the values listed above are only a starting point for choosing the correct thickness of a neoprene wetsuit. Always consider your physical characteristics, the dive location, and your personal preferences to make an accurate choice.

Is a custom wetsuit or an off-the-rack wetsuit better?

The term “custom-made” immediately suggests something perfectly tailored to our body. And in many cases, this is true.

But is a custom wetsuit always better than an off-the-rack wetsuit? The answer is… NO! Let’s see why.

Custom wetsuits made by artisan makers are generally high-quality products. However, based on our decade of experience with some of the best artisan makers in the industry, we have found that these wetsuits often need to be sent back for small “adjustments.” In addition, in cases where the freediver’s body shape is fairly standard, we have not observed a significant improvement in the wetsuit’s fit compared to off-the-rack sizes.

At the same time, many artisan makers use standard patterns when body measurements fall within a conventional range, making the “custom-made” wetsuit very similar to an “off-the-rack” wetsuit, while still maintaining the price increase typical of custom products.

Another limitation of artisan makers concerns the patterns of lined wetsuits. Due to low purchase volumes, they cannot access lined neoprene with custom liveries and are therefore forced to use lined neoprene with standard and often outdated camouflage patterns.

When is a custom wetsuit really necessary? It is usually recommended for those with a body shape completely outside standard sizing, such as very tall and slim people, or shorter people with a particularly stocky build.

In 90% of cases, off-the-rack wetsuits currently available on the market, thanks to decades of research and their elasticity, meet the needs of even the most experienced and demanding freedivers and spearfishers.

How to choose the correct size

Choosing the correct size and fit for a spearfishing wetsuit is essential to ensure comfort and optimal performance during freediving sessions. A wetsuit that is too tight can restrict movement, breathing, and cause discomfort, while one that is too loose can allow cold water to enter and reduce thermal efficiency.

To choose the correct size for a spearfishing wetsuit, it is essential to know some of your body measurements. The main measurements to consider include height, weight, chest circumference, waist, and hips. Each wetsuit model will have its own specific size chart, so it is important to consult it to find the size that best fits you.

In addition to checking the size chart, ask your trusted retailer for advice; they will be able to guide you in the best possible way, reducing the risk of buying the wrong wetsuit size.

How do you put on a spearfishing wetsuit?

Putting on a two-piece wetsuit specifically designed for freediving or spearfishing, without zippers, may seem difficult for those with little experience, but in reality, with the right guidance and a bit of practice, it becomes a very simple operation.

Below, let’s see how to put on a wetsuit based on the type of neoprene:

Putting on wetsuits with an internal lined neoprene

Two-piece wetsuits with an internal lining, as mentioned earlier, are used less often than those with open-cell neoprene on the inside. But one aspect that people who prefer this type of wetsuit really like is precisely the “dry” donning process that characterizes this kind of suit.

In fact, wetsuits with an internal lining are put on dry: the inside is not wetted and no lubricating solution is used. Instead, talcum powder can be used to make putting the suit on easier, especially on hot summer days when sweat can increase the liner’s grip on the skin, making the wetsuit harder to put on.

Many appreciate this type of wetsuit in winter because putting it on dry is certainly more comfortable than putting it on “wet.”

Putting on wetsuits with open-cell neoprene lining

Two-piece wetsuits with open-cell neoprene on the inside are the most commonly used by freedivers and spearfishers of all levels. They are put on “wet.”

When the temperature allows, some people put them on directly in the water without adding any lubricant. Being immersed in water makes putting the wetsuit on much easier, which would be impossible dry because of the grip created by the open-cell neoprene.

But in most cases, open-cell lined wetsuits are put on on land or on the boat with the help of a lubricating solution, such as standard soapy water. In practice, shampoo (or any mild skin-friendly cleanser) is poured inside the wetsuit together with water and, after a vigorous “shake” intended to spread the solution and create foam, you proceed with putting it on. At this point it will be quick and easy, because the foam makes the open-cell neoprene inside the wetsuit extremely slippery.

On winter days, it is common to prepare a bottle with a mixture of warm water and shampoo to use when putting the wetsuit on. The warm water helps counter the cold.

For putting on open-cell neoprene wetsuits, there are specific products that can be used instead of soap or shampoo. One worth mentioning is Slippy powder, which is mixed with water and has a formulation developed to avoid irritation or allergic reactions during prolonged contact with the skin.

Peeing in your wetsuit: is it OK?

It is now well established that during spearfishing sessions, or open-water freediving training, you may feel an urgent need to pee. This is partly due to osmotic factors and partly to the diving reflex, which triggers urine production and stimulates diuresis.

So during long days at sea, peeing is inevitable, but is it a good idea to urinate inside the wetsuit?

Many people say it is not a problem but, if possible, it is best to avoid it! Let’s see why:

Unpleasant odor

Peeing inside the wetsuit causes a sharp, pungent odor that remains on the wetsuit and on the wearer’s body. This becomes noticeable as soon as the wetsuit is taken off and may not be very pleasant for the people nearby.

Over time, repeatedly urinating inside the wetsuit makes it extremely difficult to remove the odor from the neoprene, even with frequent washing. As a result, the wetsuit will need to be replaced more often.

Bacterial growth

If urine is not properly removed from the neoprene, it can promote bacterial growth, which is often the cause of skin irritation or infections. This is especially relevant in warm climates, where bacteria proliferate.

Wetsuit damage

Over time, urine accelerates the deterioration of the wetsuit. The chemicals present in urine can weaken the neoprene, making it more prone to tearing and reducing its lifespan and insulating properties.

Cooling

The thermal insulation of a wetsuit, such as those used for freediving and spearfishing, is provided by the thin layer of water between your body and the neoprene. This layer is warmed and kept warm by your body heat and by the neoprene, which insulates it from the surrounding cold water.

When you pee inside the wetsuit, the amount of liquid inside it increases significantly.

When freediving in cold water and peeing inside the wetsuit, at first the urine, at a temperature of 32-37 °C, warms you up, but shortly after it begins to cool because the body cannot keep such a large amount of liquid warm, and soon after you will experience the opposite effect: overall body cooling.

Peeing inside the wetsuit is therefore not recommended, especially in cold water, as it can lead to overall body cooling.

So how can we avoid peeing inside the wetsuit?

In summer or temperate water, simply unzip the wetsuit jacket, lower the pants, and urinate outside the wetsuit. This can also be done directly in the water.

In winter, or in cold water, the commonly called "pee valve" or "fluid expulsion valve" can be installed on the wetsuit pants. Unfortunately, this solution is designed for men only.

The pee valve allows urination outside the wetsuit without having to unzip the jacket and lower the pants, which would let cold water in.

Maintenance and care of spearfishing wetsuits

Proper maintenance and care of spearfishing wetsuits is essential to ensure their long service life. Here are a few tips:

• Rinse the wetsuit with fresh water after every outing to remove salt and other residue. Make sure to rinse both the inside and outside of the wetsuit.
• Hang the wetsuit in a shaded area to dry.
• Avoid direct sun exposure for long periods of time, as sunlight can damage the wetsuit’s neoprene.
• Take particular care when putting the suit on and taking it off to avoid accidental tears in the neoprene. Use your fingertips and the palm of your hand. Never use your fingernails and never pull the neoprene excessively.
• Promptly repair any tear or rip in the neoprene with a dedicated neoprene glue or cement.
• Store the wetsuit in a cool, dry place, away from sources of heat or moisture and out of direct sunlight. You can hang the jacket and pants using a simple hanger.

By following these simple guidelines, you can help ensure a longer service life and optimal performance from your spearfishing wetsuit.

The best spearfishing wetsuit brands

DEEP BLUE carries a wide range of leading industry brands, including C4, Salvimar, Waihana, Mares, Beuchat, Cressi, and many others.

Here are some of the best spearfishing wetsuit brands to consider:

• Waihana: is a Hawaiian brand that produces top-quality spearfishing wetsuits with unique technical solutions in the wetsuit field. The Goliath Grouper wetsuit is especially noteworthy.
• C4: is an Italian brand that produces excellent-quality freediving and spearfishing wetsuits, highly regarded by both dedicated freedivers and spearfishers. The Carbon Rock camouflage wetsuit is especially noteworthy.
• Salvimar: is an Italian brand that produces high-quality spearfishing wetsuits. Salvimar wetsuits are valued for their durability, comfort, and performance. Among the most popular camouflage wetsuits are the men’s Krypsis 101 and, among the women’s models, the SeaWalker.
• H. Dessault: is an Italian brand owned by C4 and offers an excellent men’s camouflage wetsuit, the Black Side.
• Cressi: is an Italian brand with a long tradition in the production of spearfishing equipment. Cressi wetsuits are renowned for their quality, fit, and performance. The new Lampuga wetsuit is especially noteworthy.
• Mares: is another Italian brand offering a wide range of spearfishing wetsuits. Mares wetsuits are valued for their innovative design and technical features. Their Illusion Brown camouflage wetsuit is especially noteworthy.
• Beuchat: is a French brand that produces high-quality spearfishing equipment. Beuchat wetsuits are known for their strength, durability, and fit. The RockSea camouflage wetsuit is especially noteworthy.

These are just some of the best brands and models of sized spearfishing wetsuits available on the market.

Conclusions

In conclusion, a wetsuit is a key piece of gear for anyone who practices spearfishing. Choosing the right wetsuit based on materials, neoprene type, size, and fit is essential for optimizing performance during days at sea. Proper wetsuit maintenance and care will also help ensure long-lasting durability. Choosing a high-quality wetsuit from a trusted brand will let you fully enjoy your underwater adventures in comfort and style.