Ultimate Guide To Scuba Diving Drysuits 2024

As an experienced scuba diver, you understand the critical importance of a reliable drysuit for your underwater safety and comfort, especially in colder waters. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best scuba diving drysuits for 2024, their features, and how to choose the right one for your needs. Whether you are a novice or an experienced diver, this guide will help you make an informed decision.

Let's dive in!

CONTENTS

We will cover the following areas in this guide:

• Why Are the Best Scuba Diving Drysuits in 2024 Important?
• Benefits of Using a Drysuit
• Our Top 5 Scuba Diving Drysuits for 2024
• Is the New Waterproof D1X the Best Drysuit in the World?
• Review of the Aqua Lung Fusion Drysuit by Our PADI Instructor Nick
• How to Choose Your Diving Drysuit
• Key Features to Look for in a Drysuit
• Types of Scuba Diving Drysuits
• Tips on How to Maintain Your Scuba Diving Drysuit
• What is the Best Drysuit to Buy for Scuba Diving?

Why Are the Best Scuba Diving Drysuits in 2024 Important?

Scuba diving drysuits are indispensable for a diver's safety and comfort in cold water environments. With technological advancements and design innovations, the market is continually evolving, offering divers various options. In 2024, the emphasis is on improved thermal protection, durability, and flexibility. The latest models are designed to enhance the diving experience by providing superior insulation and mobility, ensuring you stay warm and comfortable underwater.

Benefits of Using a Drysuit

Using a drysuit offers several benefits that enhance the diving experience, particularly in cold water:

• Thermal Protection: Drysuits provide superior insulation, keeping you warm in cold water and allowing for longer, more comfortable dives.
• Dryness: Unlike wetsuits, drysuits keep you completely dry by creating a waterproof barrier, preventing water from entering.
• Buoyancy Control: Drysuits offer better buoyancy control, making it easier to achieve neutral buoyancy and maintain proper trim underwater.
• Versatility: Drysuits are versatile and can be used in a variety of diving conditions, from cold water to contaminated environments.
• Layering Options: With a drysuit, you can layer thermal undergarments to adjust your insulation level based on the water temperature.
• Durability: High-quality drysuits are made from durable materials that withstand the rigors of diving in harsh environments.

Our Top 5 Scuba Diving Drysuits for 2024

Here are the top 5 scuba diving drysuits for 2024, chosen based on performance, reliability, and diver feedback:

• Santi E.Lite Plus
• Waterproof D1X Hybrid ISS
• Fourth Element Argonaut
• Avatar 101
• Aqua Lung Fusion

Is the New Waterproof D1X the Best Drysuit in the World?

The old Waterproof D1 was regarded by many as the drysuit to buy if you had the budget. The main improvement from the D1 to the D1X is they have improved the patented 3D mesh.

The D1 was the first drysuit to have an ‘insulated constant volume drysuit’. The best way to think of a D1X is that it is a hybrid drysuit. Even though it benefits from the thinner, lighter, and greater flexibility of a trilaminate style drysuit, it has the thermal protection of a crushed neoprene suit.

The D1X is durable and has made significant improvements on the old D1 which was regarded by many as the world’s best drysuit, including:

• Dry Suit Boots: Now 5 times more abrasion resistant.
• Soft and Flexible Neck Ring: Allows you to replace the seal at the dive site with a choice of silicone, latex, or even neoprene.
• Improved Fabric: Less abrasion on the front panel.
• Unique 3D Mesh Liner: Now softer and more flexible, constructed from 50 Denier material.
• Flexible Velcro Tabs: Replaced with better grip.
• Stainless D-rings: New construction on leg pockets.

In our view, this is an expensive suit but given the looks, technology used, thermal protection, durability, weight, and fantastic construction, it does justify the price tag. So in short, it is difficult to say what the best car in the world is, but in our opinion, there are few if any other drysuits that can match the Waterproof D1X.

Our head PADI Instructor Nick has recently bought a D1 and loves it. He would be very happy to share his experience with you if you are looking to purchase one.

The D1X is available to purchase via our online dive store.

Review of the Aqua Lung Fusion Drysuit by Our PADI Instructor Nick

This drysuit changed my perception of drysuit diving. Having tried several different trilaminate suits, my enjoyment of drysuit diving wasn’t at an all-time high. Leaking seals, immobility, and inability to find the correct size had severely deterred me from cold water diving. The problem being wetsuits are not suitable for year-round teaching in the UK. So I was offered a chance to try the Aqua Lung Fusion Sports drysuit, a membrane drysuit that at first I wasn’t sure about, but after donning my undersuit and drysuit, the mobility this suit offered over a typical trilaminate was markedly increased.

I have always struggled to get my fins on wearing a trilaminate. Once on, these drysuits feel completely different and are light and fit quite snug up against the body without the squeeze other drysuits give. The outer layer compresses the membrane to the body, so there are no excess overhanging parts and reduces the amount of trapped air in the drysuit.

Diving in these types of suits is amazing; they don’t require much air on descent to prevent a squeeze and make neutral buoyancy and proper trim a breeze. They are amazingly comfortable and easy to dive in and make teaching in the cooler months so much more enjoyable.

How to Choose Your Diving Drysuit

When choosing a drysuit, consider these key factors to ensure optimal performance and safety:

• Material: Drysuits are typically made from neoprene, trilaminate, or hybrid materials. Choose based on your diving environment and preferences.
• Fit and Comfort: Ensure the drysuit fits well and provides freedom of movement. Check sizing charts and consider trying on different sizes.
• Seals: Look for high-quality neck, wrist, and ankle seals to prevent water ingress.
• Valves: Ensure the drysuit has efficient inflation and exhaust valves for proper buoyancy control.
• Boots: Integrated boots or socks should be durable and fit well with your fins.
• Pockets and D-rings: Useful for carrying accessories and tools during dives.
• Durability: Choose a drysuit made from robust materials that can withstand harsh conditions.
• Price: Set a budget and look for a drysuit that offers the best value for your money.

Key Features to Look for in a Drysuit

When selecting a drysuit, consider these key features:

• Thermal Protection: Look for drysuits with excellent insulation properties to keep you warm in cold waters.
• Seals: High-quality neck, wrist, and ankle seals are crucial for keeping water out.
• Valves: Efficient inflation and exhaust valves are essential for proper buoyancy control.
• Fit and Comfort: Ensure the drysuit fits well and allows for freedom of movement.
• Durability: Choose a drysuit made from durable materials that can withstand harsh conditions.
• Pockets and D-rings: Useful for carrying accessories and tools during dives.
• Boots: Integrated boots or socks should be durable and fit well with your fins.
• Weight: Consider the weight of the drysuit, especially if you plan to travel with it.

Types of Scuba Diving Drysuits

There are three main types of scuba diving drysuits:

• Neoprene Drysuits: Offer good thermal protection and are flexible, but can be heavier and less durable than other types.
• Trilaminate Drysuits: Made from three layers of material, these drysuits are lightweight, durable, and offer excellent mobility.
• Hybrid Drysuits: Combine the benefits of neoprene and trilaminate drysuits, offering good thermal protection and flexibility.

Tips on How to Maintain Your Scuba Diving Drysuit

Proper maintenance of your drysuit ensures its longevity and performance. Here are some tips:

• Rinse After Use: Rinse your drysuit with fresh water after each dive to remove salt, sand, and other debris.
• Dry Thoroughly: Ensure your drysuit is completely dry before storing it to prevent mold and mildew.
• Store Properly: Store your drysuit in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and chemicals.
• Inspect Regularly: Check for any signs of wear and tear, such as damaged seals or leaks, and repair them promptly.
• Lubricate Zippers: Use zipper lubricant regularly to keep the zippers functioning smoothly.
• Follow Manufacturer's Instructions: Always follow the care and maintenance instructions provided by the manufacturer.

What is the Best Drysuit to Buy for Scuba Diving?

Choosing the best drysuit depends on your diving needs, budget, and personal preferences. Here are our top picks:

• Santi E.Lite Plus: Known for its durability and excellent thermal protection.
• Waterproof D1X Hybrid ISS: Offers the flexibility of a trilaminate drysuit with the thermal protection of a neoprene suit.
• Fourth Element Argonaut: Lightweight and durable, ideal for technical diving.
• Avatar 101: Affordable and reliable, great for recreational divers.
• Aqua Lung Fusion: Combines mobility and comfort, perfect for all levels of divers.

Investing in a quality drysuit is essential for safe and enjoyable diving experiences. Consider your diving environment, frequency, and specific needs to choose the best drysuit for you.