You have anticipated diving in colder water and made the decision to go with a drysuit. The drysuit, itself, only provides a minimum of thermal protection. Sure, it keeps you dry, but if you want to be warm, you’ll need to consider an undergarment to do the job effectively without overheating.
What factors do you need to consider when deciding what undergarment(s) to choose? It depends on the water temperature, your preferences and style, and the price.
To help in your research, I’ve put together some categories to consider in your selection process and descriptions of 10 popular undergarments to browse, followed by a comparison table.
If you have any questions or concerns, please let me know in the comments section at the bottom. I’d love to know your thoughts.
The most important feature of an undergarment is warmth. Some materials insulate better than others. Drysuits will leak and the undergarment must still be effective when a little bit wet. In addition, moisture-wicking, that is the ability of the material to eliminate moisture, like sweat, from the body, is important. This will help maintain comfort and avoid that sticky feeling.
Layering
Wearing more than one layer of undergarments is an effective way to maintain warmth. It is best for the undergarments to be designed to be used together. For really cold water a base layer is worn next to the skin and additional layers are added on top. Being bulky and hindering movement is a factor in choosing which garments to be worn together. In addition, accessories including hoods, gloves, and booties designed for colder water will be essential in maintaining warmth.
Design and Fit
There are several options available to suit your personal needs and comfort. Most undergarments are one-piece, full-body models. Two-piece systems with a top and a bottom, which are more versatile, are a choice. You can wear one or the other separately or in conjunction with other undergarments. Some are designed in the form of a vest to put emphasis on warmth for the body’s core. Battery-operated models are also available which are heated. Foot and thumb loops are useful in keeping the garment in place and preventing riding up. Stretch panels can be incorporated in the crotch or armpits for increased mobility and the allowance of proper finning capability. The design should allow the hosing and apparatus for a P-valve (a system that allows the collection of urine during the dive, while maintaining dryness). The undergarment should always fit well and be comfortable or there will be a negative impact on the experience.
Material
A number of different materials are used to accomplish the various functions described. Wicking is important to keep the diver as dry as possible. The material should also provide the necessary warmth while under increased barometric pressure. Fleece is soft and a good insulator and also effectively wicks away moisture. Wool can also be used for increased warmth in colder water and has similar wicking properties. Compression can alter the properties of materials. Some suits use pre-compressed materials like Thinsulate, which is an excellent insulator, yet very thin, and won’t affect buoyancy when changing depth. Nylon and Spandex are two other useful materials that have features that can improve durability and flexibility, respectively, that can be combined with other materials.
Care and Maintenance
Because of the variety of materials that are used in the design and construction of the different undergarments, be sure to follow carefully the instructions from the manufacturer when washing and storing.
For my reviews of related cold water equipment, please check out the popular articles below:
I hope you found this post on drysuit undergarments interesting and useful. If you have any questions or ideas, please feel free to share them in the comments section. If there is no comments section directly below, click here: >>comments<<
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Comments
Dansays
can you give temp ranges that each suit would be good for…what do you mean by moderately cold…I mainly dive in the 50-60 degree range in my local lakes at depth, would the Waterproof Meshtech 3D be a good choice? looking for something warmer and not as bulky as regular store bought fleece.
Thanks a lot for your inquiry. The Waterproof Meshtech 3D will probably suit your temperature requirements well. One diver has reported that he uses that undergarment in Puget Sound where the temperature range is from 45 to 54 degrees F.
Moderately cold refers roughly to temps from 45 to 65 degrees. Cold is below 45 degrees and very cold a little above freezing. Suitability depends on your body weight and individual tolerance, as well.
can you give temp ranges that each suit would be good for…what do you mean by moderately cold…I mainly dive in the 50-60 degree range in my local lakes at depth, would the Waterproof Meshtech 3D be a good choice? looking for something warmer and not as bulky as regular store bought fleece.
Hi Dan,
Thanks a lot for your inquiry. The Waterproof Meshtech 3D will probably suit your temperature requirements well. One diver has reported that he uses that undergarment in Puget Sound where the temperature range is from 45 to 54 degrees F.
Moderately cold refers roughly to temps from 45 to 65 degrees. Cold is below 45 degrees and very cold a little above freezing. Suitability depends on your body weight and individual tolerance, as well.
I hope this helps.
Best regards,
Joe