Freediving

Best Lycra Dive Skins Review

Riffe Digi-Tek Camo Hooded Lycra Dive Skin

Updated August 12, 2022

This post defines and describes Lycra dive skins for freediving and scuba diving in the buying guide just below. Afterward, 10 of the top models are reviewed with photos, several videos, and a comparison table.

If you have any questions or concerns, please use the comments section at the bottom. I’d love to know your thoughts.

Lycra Dive Skins Buying Guide

Exposure Protection

For scuba diving, snorkeling, and freediving, as well as all water sports, we look for exposure protection based on environmental factors including water temperature. When the water is warm, the exposure protection provided by a wetsuit or drysuit is not necessary to fend off the cold, but protection from UV rays, sunburn, stings from jellyfish, sea lice, and abrasions is still desirable.

Lycra Dive Skins

That’s where wearing a Lycra suit, otherwise known as a skin suit or rash guard comes in. Made of lightweight elastic fabricated materials using nylon, polyester, and others, Lycra is the brand name of the original material used which has become generic in usage.

Just wearing some material between your skin and the sun provides protection. An added coating of a particular UV material can enhance protection. A common rating for this type of protection on skin suits is UPF 50. Long sleeves and hoods provide fuller protection from the sun and against various stingers that are uncomfortable to health-threatening anywhere on the body, but particularly so on the head.

Use as an Undergarment

The use of a skin suit underneath a wetsuit makes it easier to don and doff and helps prevent chafing from friction between the skin and the wetsuit.

Features

Most modern materials used are quick drying.

Another feature to consider is the position of the zipper on the front or back. You may have a preference. To reach it a back zipper will require a long strap.

Foot and thumb loops are advantageous in keeping the suit in position rather than riding up.

Knee and elbow pads and other reinforced areas may suit your activities or style of diving.

Many spearfishermen prefer a chest pad for cocking the speargun.

The color of the suit is a factor for hunting or photography. Camouflage and colors that allow you to blend into the background inhibit detection by targets.

Best Lycra Dive Skin Review

Ocean Hunter Chameleon

Best Use: spearfishing
Material: super stretch lycra
Style: full suit, thumb loops, and foot stirrups, SupraTex knee pads, rear zip with Velcro closure and comfortable neoprene neck, neoprene loading pad, flatlock stitching
Colors: dual camo
Women’s Version: not available
Rating: 4.8
Price: $$

Pros: high-quality construction and design with spearfishing in mind

Cons: a touch expensive, but reasonable for all the specialized features

Check the Price

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Aropec Hooded Unisex

Best Use: scuba and freediving
Material: super stretch lycra
Style: full suit with hood, thumb loops, and foot stirrups, front zipper with flap on the inside to cover the zipper preventing abrasion
Colors: black with blue sleeves
Women’s Version: unisex
Rating: 4.5
Price: $$

Pros: good UV protection for the head as well as the rest of the body, easy on and off

Cons: let me know

Check the Price

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Henderson Camo Lycra Hotskin

Best Use: scuba and freediving
Material: premium grade lycra
Style: full suit, thumb loops, and foot stirrups, front zipper, durable overlock stitching
Colors: blue, camo, and free dive
Women’s Version: unisex
Rating: 5
Price: $$

Pros: top brand name, good UV protection, favorite of photographers and budget spearfishermen

Cons: the sizing runs to the small side for some divers

Check the Price

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Scubapro Men’s UPF 50 Steamer

Best Use: scuba and freediving
Material: high-quality nylon spandex
Style: full suit, form-fitting, thumb loops, and foot stirrups, YKK back zipper with a flush guard, high neckline for decreased chafing, multiple sizes
Colors: Aegian (blue/light blue), graphite
Women’s Version: available
Rating: 5
Price: $$

Pros: comfortable and durable polyester, good UV protection, dries quickly, stylish look

Cons: a little pricy

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Skyone Lycra Dive Skin

Best Use: scuba and freediving
Material: lycra spandex
Style: full suit with a hood on men’s model, thumb loops and foot stirrups, front zipper, multiple sizes, UPF 50 protection
Colors: women’s blue and men’s hooded blue
Women’s Version: available
Rating: 4.5
Price: $

Pros: low-priced, good quality suit

Cons: sizing can be off a bit, but the seller will replace

Check the Price

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Mares Lycra Rash Guard Top

Best Use: spearfishing (as part of a set with the bottom below)
Material: Lycra
Style: pullover top, multiple sizes, UV and stinger protection, loading pad for spearfishing
Colors: green or blue camo
Women’s Version: unisex
Rating: 4.7
Price: $

Pros: comfortable, set up for spearfishing

Cons: a little expensive, especially when combined with the bottom

Check the Price

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Mares Pure Instinct Lycra Rash Guard Bottom

Best Use: spearfishing (as a part of a set with the top above)
Material: Lycra
Style: pull-on bottom, ankle straps, tied waistband, UV protection
Colors: green camo, brown camo, brown
Women’s Version: unisex
Rating: 4.7
Price: $

Pros: comfortable, set up for spearfishing

Cons: a little expensive, especially when combined with the top

Check the Price

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Neosport Unisex Sports Skin

Best Use: scuba and freediving
Material: lycra spandex
Style: full suit, thumb loops, and foot stirrups, anatomical cut, long front #10 YKK zipper, multiple sizes, over lock-stitched seams and rolled edges, internal key pocket, machine washable, UPF 50+ protection
Colors: black or black with blue, lavender, purple, or yellow trim
Women’s Version: unisex
Rating: 4.6
Price: $

Pros: moderately priced, good quality, comfortable suit, easy on and off

Cons: let me know

Check the Price

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Riffe Digi-Tek Lycra Hooded Top

Best Use: spearfishing (as a set with the farmer john below)
Material: 4-way stretch Impermeaflex lycra spandex
Style: pullover hooded top, slip-resistant, raglan sleeve construction, cushioned loading chest pad, thumb connectors on the wrist cuffs, added protection on the bottom and back arm panels, Velcro connection at the padded beaver tail, UV protection
Colors: Digi-Tek camo
Women’s Version: not available
Rating: 4.8
Price: $$$

Pros: good set-up for spearfishing

Cons: expensive as a set

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Riffe Digi-Tek Lycra Farmer John

Best Use: spearfishing (as a set with the top above)
Material: 4-way stretch Impermeaflex lycra spandex
Style: farmer john, added protection on the shins, flexible foot bands, UV protection
Colors: Digi-Tek camo
Women’s Version: not available
Rating: 4.8
Price: $$

Pros: good set-up for spearfishing

Cons: expensive as a set

Check the Price

View More From Riffe

Lycra Dive Skin Comparison Table

Dive Skin	Good For	Rating	Price
Ocean Hunter Chameleon	Spearfishing	4.8	$$
Aropec Hooded Unisex	Scuba & Freediving	4.5	$$
Henderson Camo Lycra Hotskin	Scuba & Freediving	5	$$
Scubapro Men's UPF 50 Steamer	Scuba & Freediving	5	$$
Skyone Lycra Dive Skin	Scuba & Freediving	4.5	$
Mares Lycra Rash Guard Top	Spearfishing	4.7	$
Mares Pure Instinct Lycra Rash Guard Bottom	Spearfishing	4.7	$
Neosport Unisex Sports Skin	Scuba & Freediving	4.6	$
Riffe Digi-Tek Lycra Hooded Top	Spearfishing	4.8	$$$
Riffe Digi-Tek Lycra Farmer John	Spearfishing	4.8	$$

Here are some other popular reviews regarding exposure protection:

Feedback and Comments

I hope you have found this review of Lycra dive skins to be useful. If you have any questions, ideas, or personal experiences, please feel free to share them in the comments. If there is no comments section directly below, click here: >>comments<<

Best Freediving Mask Review

1:42 pm by Joe Leave a Comment

Updated October 15, 2022

Aqualung Sphera X Mask - Best Freediving Mask Review — Aqua Lung Sphera X Mask

The mask you choose for scuba diving or simple snorkeling may not be suitable for freediving. An ideal freediving mask needs to be very low volume so that you won’t have to spend precious air eliminating a mask squeeze. In addition, if you are involved in photography, videography, or spearfishing, your field of vision will play a major role. You will want to see as much as possible in order to effectively capture your target. Of course, the usual comfort, water seal, ease of use, and quality of materials are a factor as they are for any mask.

With so many models on the market, the task of selecting the appropriate one may seem a little daunting. Below the major considerations are outlined to guide you through the process. Afterward is a review of a range of 10 of the best freediving masks for your consideration.

If you have any questions or concerns, please use the comments section at the bottom. I’d love to know your thoughts.

For more reviews of related gear and accessories, please check out these popular posts:

Pole Spears Spearguns Spearfishing Wetsuits Lycra Dive Skins Freediving Watches Spearfishing Masks Freediving Fins

How to Choose the Best Freediving Mask

Low Volume

The amount of air that the mask can hold between it and your face is the volume. The smaller the better as you need to equalize the space by adding precious air as you descend. A low-volume mask also will have a low profile allowing you to have a wider field of vision useful for photography and spearfishing.

Materials

Today the best and most commonly used material for the skirt of the mask is silicone. It is soft conforming well to the shape of the face for comfort and water-tightness. Durability is another key factor. On older masks and on some cheaper ones rubber is used. It won’t last as long and doesn’t have the same fit characteristics. Tempered glass withstands the pressure well and is generally much more durable than the plastic you can find on cheap snorkeling masks. There are a few exceptions of quality freediving masks that use plastic lenses, the Aqua Sphere Sphera being one.

Fit

If you put the mask in position on your face without using the strap and inhale through your nose, it should hold itself in place if it fits well. If it won’t hold in place it is too big. Leakage and fogging can happen with such a mask. On the other hand, if it is too small for your face it can place undue pressure on your nose or otherwise feel uncomfortable and quickly become intolerable.

Color of the Skirt

Black is the recommended color for the skirt. Brightly colored versions can cause glare which influences your vision. That would be a problem, particularly for photography or spearfishing where clear vision is essential. Also as a hunter, bright colors are more noticeable and can alert prey to your presence.

Lenses

Dark or colored lenses can also impinge on vision and communication between dive buddies. If you can’t see each other’s eyes, you have lost a point of connection. On the other hand, polarized lenses and those with filters for UV rays can decrease the irritation of the bright sun or glare on the water when at the surface and may be worthwhile for you. Some spearfishermen recently have started to use tinted or mirrored lenses which can tend to brighten up the scene. The mirrored lenses hide the hunter’s eyes, though, which interferes with communication with a buddy but also can help the hunter get a jump on his prey. For divers who would like corrected vision, some mask companies can install prescription lenses or a bottom lens for far-sighted individuals enabling them to see their gauges. When you dive deeper into the water, colors start to disappear from vision, as you know. Some masks have lenses that can compensate for this to a degree and also increase brightness.

Panes

Some masks have a single pane and others have two. A single-paned model is roomier and leaves more space for the nose which divers may prefer. The double-paned models are lower in volume and profile which requires less air to equalize or clear and provides a wider range of vision. It boils down to personal preference.

Straps and Fastening

The strap holds the mask gently in place for the length of your dive. It needs to be comfortable and easy to adjust if necessary. Good masks will have a well-designed system of adjustable buckles.

Best Freediving Mask Review

Oceanways Superview

Suitable for scuba diving and freediving
Lens: single with a special coating to resist UV rays and glare
Colors: black skirt, orange or blue-tinted lens to enhance contrast and depth perception
Other features: extra-soft silicone skirt, a wide field of vision, rigid tear-drop frame
Rating: 4.8
Price: $$

Pros: single-lens frame can be more comfortable across the nose for some, resists glare

Cons: volume not as low as some other models

Check the Price

Cressi Nano

Suitable for experienced freedivers & spearfishermen, and divers with smaller faces
Lens: 2 panes, inverted tear-drop shape for increased downward visibility
Colors: black frame with skirts of clear, black, blue, lilac, pink, white, and yellow
Other features: unbreakable easy to adjust buckle system, comfortable silicone skirt
Rating: 4.8
Price: $$$

Pros: ultra-low volume

Cons: fit a little tight on wider faces

Check the Price

Aqua Lung Micro

Suitable for experienced freedivers & spearfishermen, fits small faces with enough nose room for larger faces
Lens: 2 panes, inverted tear-drop shape for increased downward visibility
Colors: black frame with a black skirt or a clear skirt in combination with frames of a variety of colors
Other features: high-grade comfortable silicone skirt, compact frame, easy to clear, cardanic joint buckles rotate up and down and in and out for pinch-free fit
Rating: 5
Price: $$$$

Pros: ultra-low volume, compact shape for minimal drag

Cons: none reported

Check the Price

Mares Viper

Suitable for all divers, ergonomic design to suit all faces
Lens: 2 panes
Colors: a variety of colors are available
Other features: ergonomic design, double button system for easy adjustment
Rating: 4.6
Price: $$$

Pros: ultra-low volume, compact shape for minimal drag

Cons: nose fit is poor for some with fogging the result, the field of view is comparatively limited

Check the Price

Omer Zero Cubed

Suitable for all divers, freedivers, and spearfishermen who want a wide field of view
Lens: 2 panes
Colors: black, mud, or olive
Other features: comfortable skirt and strap, ultra-low profile, strap buckles swivel 30 degrees for quick adjustments
Rating: 4.5
Price: $$$

Pros: very wide-angle field of view

Cons: some divers experience discomfort from the close-fitting frame

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Scuba Choice Spearfishing

Suitable for beginner freedivers and spearfishermen, men and women with narrow faces
Lens: 2 panes
Colors: black
Other features: comfortable soft silicone skirt, low profile
Rating: 4.3
Price: $

Pros: budget pricing

Cons: uncomfortable fit for some larger faces, beginner-level only freediving, and spearfishing mask

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XS Foto Panorama

Suitable for photographers/videographers who want a big field of view
Lens: Single with a beveled and bonded 3-window panoramic view
Colors: black skirt with a black frame or clear skirt with a black, blue, purple, or yellow frame
Other features: Qwik strap for easy on and off and comfortable fit
Rating: 4.8
Price: $$$

Pros: heavy-duty built-in stainless steel camera mount suitable for all models of GoPro cameras, good field of vision

Cons: a little expensive

Check the Price

Aqua Lung Sphera X

Suitable for freedivers looking for a wide field of vision
Lens: 2 panes, curved Plexisol plastic with a 180-degree field of vision
Colors: black, black with a sand frame, navy blue, clear with a black frame
Other features: comfortable fit, scratch-resistant anti-fog lenses, low profile
Rating: 4.7
Price: $$

Pros: wide field of vision,

Cons: plastic lenses are more fragile than tempered glass

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Kraken Snorkel Freediving Mask

Suitable for freedivers and scuba divers
Lens: single
Colors: all black, black with a red inner frame, or clear with a blue inner frame
Other features: comfortable water-tight fit, scratch and shatter-resistant anti-fog lenses, easy-adjust buckles
Rating: 4.4
Price: $

Pros: low price, durable

Cons: some divers experienced fog build-up

Check the Price

Cressi Scuba Diving Snorkeling Freediving Mask

Suitable for freedivers, fits most faces well, wide field of vision
Lens: single
Colors: 12 different color combinations
Other features: frameless flexible low-volume design, comfortable skirt, easy-to-adjust push buckle system
Rating: 4.5
Price: $$

Pros: low price, quality materials, includes a quality F1 dry-top snorkel

Cons: some divers experienced fog build-up

Check the Price

Best Freediving Masks Comparison Table

Picture	Freediving Mask	Lenses	Best For	Rating	Price
	Oceanways Superview	Single	Experienced Scuba and Freedivers	4.8	$$
	Cressi Nano	2 Panes	Experienced Freedivers & Spearfishermen	4.8	$$$
	Aqua Lung Micro	2 Panes	All Divers	5	$$$$
	Mares Viper	2 Panes	All Divers	4.6	$$$
	Omer Zero Cubed	2 Panes	All Divers	4.5	$$$
	Scuba Choice Spearfishing	2 Panes	Budget - Beginner Freediver/Spearfisherman	4.3	$
	XS Photo Panorama	Single with 3 Window Panoramic View	Videography/Photography	4.8	$$$
	Aqua Lung Sphera X	2 Panes	Experienced Freediver	4.7	$$
	Kraken Aquatics Snorkel Freediving Mask	Single	Budget	4.4	$
	Cressi Scuba Diving Snorkeling Freediving Mask	Single	All Divers	4.5	$$
Picture	Freediving Mask	Lenses	Best For	Rating	Price

For other reviews of masks and snorkels, please check out these posts:

Feedback and Comments

I hope you found this post on freediving masks 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<<

Best Spearfishing Wetsuits Review

11:44 am by Joe Leave a Comment

Updated March 18, 2024

Cressi Apnea Spearfishing Wetsuit - Best Spearfishing Wetsuit Review — Cressi Apnea Spearfishing Wetsuit

A good wetsuit for a spearfisherman is essential. It not only keeps you warm enabling longer periods in the water without risking hypothermia but also provides skin protection from bumps and scrapes and stingers in the water. In addition, a camouflaged suit will allow you to get a jump on your prey.

Whether you are an absolute beginner or would like to replace or upgrade your gear, the goal here is to give you some guidance on how to select the best spearfishing wetsuit for your needs and introduce some top models to consider.

If you have any questions or concerns, please use the comments section at the bottom. I’d love to know your thoughts.

For more reviews of related spearfishing and freediving gear and accessories, please check out these popular posts:

Pole Spears Spearguns Lycra Dive Skins Freediving Watches Freediving Masks Freediving Fins

How to Choose a Spearfishing Wetsuit

Four main factors should be considered in selecting a spearfishing wetsuit:

thickness
camouflage
materials
style

Thickness

The desired thickness of a wetsuit is based on the water temperature – the colder, the thicker. The neoprene in the wetsuit can increase positive buoyancy, so it would be best not to overcompensate for the temperature. Basic guidelines are summarized in this table:

Above 28°C (82°F): 1-2.5 mm
From 20-28°C (70-82°F): 3mm
From 16-20 °C (60-70 °F) 5mm
From 10-16°C (50-60°F): 7mm

Camouflage

Camouflage coloration on wetsuits not only looks cool (to me anyway) but also serves a useful purpose. Hunters everywhere agree, if the prey can’t see you, you can get a jump on it. So if you blend into the background you have greatly enhanced your probability of getting close to your target. The colors used should be based on the environment. If you are in open water, blue is your best bet. In a rocky area, chances are brownish colors will blend in better. For divers spending time in the blue and also closer to the reef, green or blends of blue and brown may be most effective. You could even consider using camo fins to match your wetsuit.

Style

There are several styles of wetsuits in use today. The simplest is a one-piece suit called a steamer. It usually has a zipper up the back or across the chest. Scuba and surfing wetsuits are often steamers but usually lack an important loading pad on the chest desired for spearfishing. That pad provides something to brace your speargun against when you cock it so that bruising or scraping of your skin is prevented. The style that is usually preferred by spearfishermen is a two-piece outfit that includes a bottom that comes above the waist or has a suspender system known as a farmer john. A long-sleeved jacket is used over the top that may or may not include a hood. The top jacket connects to the bottom with Velcro, a zipper, or clips. Some systems overlap not requiring any fasteners.

Materials

A number of materials can be included in a wetsuit with the main component being neoprene, either closed-cell or open-cell.

Closed-cell neoprene has a coating or other material on the surface that isn’t easily permeated by water. They are usually cheaper and more suitable for warmer water. Surfing wetsuits are usually closed-cell models.
Open-cell neoprene is generally used for two-piece systems and suits designed for spearfishing. Water passes through the neoprene and forms a layer between the skin and suit. The suit needs to fit snugly enough that there is little to no water flow inside the suit. The body warms the water within and it is maintained at body temperature. This system is warmer though with the snug fit required takes more effort to put it on.

Best Spearfishing Wetsuits Review

Cressi Tecnica

Best for experienced spearfishermen
Material: open-cell neoprene
Thickness: 1.8mm, 3.5 mm, 5mm
Style: farmer john with full-length jacket, and hood, reinforced knees, elbows, and chest, reinforced seams
Colors: brown camo
Women’s Version: not available
Rating: 4.4
Price: $$

Pros: 3 thicknesses available, durable, effective camo

Cons: fit is a little small for some

Check the Price

SEAC Body Fit

Best for warm water spearfishing
Material: closed-cell neoprene with a smooth exterior
Thickness: 1.5mm
Style: full-length one-piece wetsuit without a hood with knee reinforcements, adjustable neck closure, and wrist and ankle seals
Colors: blue and green camo
Women’s Version: available under the same name, SEAC Body Fit
Rating: 4.7
Price: $

Pros: durable, effective camo

Cons: fit is a little small for larger-sized divers

Check the Price

Salvimar N.A.T. Camo

Best for cold water spearfishing
Material: open-cell neoprene with a nylon exterior
Thickness: 5.5mm
Style: two-piece hooded wetsuit with high-waisted trousers, reinforced elbows, knees, seams, and chest pad
Colors: green camo
Women’s Version: not available
Rating: 4.5
Price: $$

Pros: flexible for a thick suit, effective camo, two-year warranty

Cons: fit runs a little small

Check the Price

Cressi Morea

Best for warm water spearfishing
Material: open-cell neoprene with a nylon exterior
Thickness: 3mm
Style: one-piece full wetsuit with a back zipper and no hood, Velcro neck closure, rubber chest panel, extra padding on knees, shins, and chest
Colors: black with blue or aquamarine accents
Women’s Version: this model is for men or women
Rating: 4.1
Price: $$

Pros: durable, flexible, easy to don and doff, could use for other water sports

Cons: chest pad could be a little thicker for comfort in cocking

Check the Price

Mako Yamamoto Reef Camo

Best for warm water spearfishing
Material: open-cell Yamamoto neoprene
Thickness: 3mm
Style: two-piece hooded, choice of high-waist or farmer john, sewn-in chest and knee pads, ergonomic hood for warmth, integrated knife pocket
Colors: reef camo
Women’s Version: not available
Rating: 4.6
Price: $$

Pros: durable, comfortable, watertight, quality craftsmanship

Cons: knife pocket is awkward to use at times

Check the Price

Riffe Digi-Tek Camo

Best for warm water spearfishing
Material: open-cell Yamamoto neoprene with super-stretch lycra outer shell
Thickness: 3.5mm and 5mm available
Style: two-piece hooded wetsuit, built-in chest and knee pads, non-binding wrist and ankle seals, vented hood for release of excess air
Colors: reef camo
Women’s Version: not available
Rating: 4.6
Price: $$$

Pros: comfortable fit, quality craftsmanship

Cons: none reported

Check the Price

Cressi Apnea

Best for warm to cold water spearfishing and freediving
Material: open-cell neoprene
Thickness: 3.5mm and 5mm available
Style: two-piece hooded wetsuit, high-top pants, reinforced elbows, knees, groin, and chest
Colors: black
Women’s Version: not available
Rating: 4.5
Price: $$

Pros: durable, comfortable fit, quality craftsmanship

Cons: none reported

Check the Price

Salvimar Atlantis

Best for warm water spearfishing
Material: closed-cell neoprene with a nylon exterior
Thickness: 1.5mm
Style: two-piece hooded wetsuit, high-top pants, reinforced elbows, knees, and chest
Colors: multicolored blue camo
Women’s Version: not available
Rating: 5
Price: $$

Pros: comfortable, easy to don and doff, lightweight

Cons: not the most durable against scrapes and bumps

Check the Price

Scubapro Element

Best for spearfishing and freediving
Material: open-cell neoprene with a smooth hydrodynamic exterior, very stretchy and flexible
Thickness: 3mm
Style: two-piece hooded wetsuit, high-waisted trousers, and beavertail jacket
Colors: multicolored black
Women’s Version: available in the same name, Scubapro Element
Rating: 4.6
Price: $$$

Pros: flexible, streamlined for effective freediving

Cons: no reinforced areas for spearfishing needs

Check the Price

Cressi Freedom

Best for warm water freedivers who also do some spearfishing
Material: closed-cell neoprene with a smooth exterior
Thickness: 1.5mm
Style: one-piece without a hood
Colors: multicolored black with fluorescent accents
Women’s Version: available under the same name, Cressi Freedom
Rating: 4.2
Price: $

Pros: flexible, streamlined, easy donning and doffing

Cons: no reinforced areas for spearfishing needs

Check the Price

JBL Vertigo

Best for warm water reef spearfishing
Material: closed-cell stretchy neoprene
Thickness: 2.5mm
Style: one-piece without a hood, with a chest pad and integrated pocket
Colors: green camo
Women’s Version: not available
Rating: 4.1
Price: $$

Pros: easy donning and doffing, pocket convenient for storing accessories

Cons: a hood would help for streamlining

Check the Price

Spearfishing Wetsuit Comparison Table

Picture	Wetsuit	Pieces	Thickness	Best For	Rating	Price
	Cressi Tecnica	2	1.8mm, 3.5mm, 5mm	Variable Water	4.4	$$
	SEAC Body Fit	1	1.5mm	Warm Water	4.7	$
	Salvimar N.A.T. Camo	2	5.5mm	Cold	4.5	$$
	Cressi Morea	1	3mm	Variable Water	4.2	$
	Mako Yamamoto Reef Camo	2	3mm	Variable Water	4.6	$$
	Riffe Digi-Tek Camo	2	3.5mm, 5mm	Variable Water	4.6	$$$
	Cressi Apnea	2	3.5, 5mm	Variable Water	4.5	$$
	Salvimar Atlantis	2	1.5mm	Warm Water	5	$$
	Scubapro Element	2	3mm	Variable Water	4.6	$$$
	Cressi Freedom	1	1.5mm	Warm	4.2	$
	JBL Vertigo	1	2.55mm	Variable Water	4.1	$$
Picture	Wetsuit	Pieces	Thickness	Best For	Rating	Price

Wetsuit Maintenance and Care

For more reviews of related spearfishing and freediving gear and accessories, please check out these popular posts:

Pole Spears Spearguns Lycra Dive Skins Freediving Watches Freediving Masks Freediving Fins

For more information concerning thermal protection and cold water gear, please check these reviews:

Feedback and Comments

I hope you found this post on spearfishing wetsuits 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<<

Best Freediving Watch Review

11:12 am by Joe Leave a Comment

Updated October 12, 2024

Freediving has increased in popularity by leaps and bounds recently. As has happened in scuba diving, the limits are getting pushed further and further. For the serious freediver, a watch or computer can go a long way in not only maintaining safety but also as a tool for training. Real-time data about the environment and your performance during the dive lets you know where you stand and then afterward you have a record that you can analyze and plan from.

Below is a buyer’s guide followed by a number of freediving watch options that I have reviewed to help you more easily make the decision on which one would work best for you. There is a range from the simplest freediving watches all the way up to models suitable for freediving as well as more advanced and technical levels of scuba diving. Videos have been provided for all the models except one to help fill in the gaps in the written material. After that is a comparison table of the reviewed watches, to summarize some of the key features.

If you have any questions or concerns, please use the comments section at the bottom. I’d love to hear your thoughts.

Best Freediving Watch Buyer’s Guide

Modes

Some extremely specialized freediving watches are suitable only for freediving. Many are more versatile and include gauge, air, nitrox, and/or trimix modes. If you are involved in freediving and scuba diving there is a selection of modes available for the sports you want to participate in without having to purchase two watches.

Depth

Like scuba divers, freedivers are continuously increasing the depth of their dives. Today’s dive watch should be operational at depths of at least 330 feet (100 meters).

Dive Logs/Memory

A major function of a dive watch is the logging of the data from your dives. Particularly if you dive a lot, a watch that can track more dives over a longer period of time will be more convenient.

User-Friendliness

It is important to be able to easily use your dive watch. The display needs to be clear and easily readable. Backlighting can be a good feature in poor visibility. Audible alarms need to emit a sound loud enough to hear over boat motors, waves, and other ambient sounds. Often these alarms are regarding surface intervals, depth limits, breath-hold training, or hydration which are significant to be aware of.

Freediving versus Scuba Computers

A scuba computer won’t necessarily be suitable for freediving. One reason is depth ratings. Top-class freedivers can go very deep, much deeper than recreational scuba diving limits. Some scuba computers can’t function properly beyond a certain depth. Also, alarms for ascent rates for scuba divers won’t be applicable to freediving where faster ascents are acceptable and don’t have barotrauma and decompression implications.

Quality and Durability

Brand-name watches are more likely to have the best materials, designs, and craftsmanship that will help to ensure durability and comfort.

Best Freediving Watches

Sherwood Amphos

Best Use: scuba divers who also free-dive
Modes: air, nitrox, gauge, free-dive, and watch
User Changeable Battery: Yes, CR2430
Memory: 24 dives
Features: USB cable enables connection to your computer and downloading of logbook info, DSAT decompression model, selectable audible alarms for different actions and gases, deep stop and safety stop countdown
Rating: 4.6
Price: $$$$

Pros: air integrated for scuba diving eliminating gauge and hose, simple design with easy navigation

Cons: expensive

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Oceanic F10

Best use: free-dive training
Modes: free-dive, and watch
User Changeable Battery: Yes, CR2430
Memory: 99 dives
Features: free dive mode shows depth and elapsed dive time, user-defined surface recovery timer, repeating dive time and depth interval alarms, 3 maximum depth alarms
Rating: 4.7
Price: $$$

Pros: alarms and display great for free dive training

Cons: good for freediving, not so good for scuba diving

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Oceanic Geo 4.0

Best use: nitrox and advanced divers
Modes: air, nitrox, gauge, free, and watch
User Changeable Battery: Yes, CR2430
Memory: 24 scuba dives or 99 free dives
Features: 2 algorithms, 2 Nitrox mixes up to 100% oxygen, firmware auto-updates, audible alarms, gauge mode with run timer, last dive display for maximum depth and dive time, comes with DiverLog+ app to connect with your smartphone
Rating: 4.8
Price: $$

Pros: PC compatible, DiverLog+ app, durable, stylish, easy navigation through the menus

Cons: many complaints about the poor user manual, suggest checking out the Oceanic video below

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Cressi Leonardo

Best use: nitrox and advanced divers
Modes: air, nitrox, and gauge
User Changeable Battery: yes, CR2430
Features: oxygen toxicity indicator, user-adjustable conservatism levels, easy to program single button navigation with large digits, imperial or metric
Rating: 4.5
Price: $$

Pros: high-definition screen, has a battery save mode, ability to reset, low price

Cons: computer interface not included

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Mares Smart

Best use: freediving and watch
Modes: air, nitrox, and free-dive
User Changeable Battery: Yes, CR2430
Memory: 36 hours
Features: ergonomic design, attractive styling, 7 color combinations, calendar, dual time zones, alarms
Rating: 4.7
Price: $$$

Pros: easy to read display

Cons: watch straps are a little short to fit over some cold water wetsuits

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Omer Compact UP-X1 (with Heart Rate Monitor)

Best use: free-dive training
Modes: freediving and watch
User Changeable Battery: no, it’s rechargeable, has a power-save mode
Memory: 250 dives
Features: 4 buttons and 6 screen modes, carbon fiber face ring, heart rate monitor and USB, multiple alerts, automatic dive mode
Rating: 4.6
Price: $$$$

Pros: can use heart monitor for other sports, as well,

Cons: a little expensive

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Tusa Talis

Best use: freediving and watch
Modes: air, nitrox, gauge, free-diving, and watch
User Changeable Battery: yes, Cr2450
Memory: 24 dives
Features: two gas switching, 4 button menu navigation, variable ascent rate indicator, time to fly and desaturation countdowns, comes in white or black
Rating: 4.8
Price: $$

Pros: many features at a reasonable price

Cons: 24 dives of memory is not a lot

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Pyle Multifunction Sport Watch

Best use: freediving and watch
Modes: freediving and watch
User Changeable Battery: yes, Cr2
Memory: 100 hours
Features: 5 modes include the current time, dual time, chronograph, countdown timer, underwater diving, automatic activation, long battery life, alert for fast ascents
Rating: 4.4
Price: $

Pros: very low price, colorful styling

Cons: watch band is a bit short

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Suunto D4i Novo

Best use: scuba and freediving
Modes: air, nitrox, free, and off
User Changeable Battery: yes, Cr2450
Memory: 140 hours
Features: has apnea, air, and nitrox timers, optional wireless gas integration, compact styling, 9 colors available, has scratch guards, includes a USB cable, audible, visual depth, and time alarms
Rating: 4.9
Price: $$$$

Pros: versatile, quality construction, and features

Cons: if you find a problem, please let me know

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Freediving Watch Comparison Table

Picture	Freediving Watch	Users	Modes	Memory	Depth	Rating	Price
	Sherwood Amphos	Scuba & Freediving	Air, Nitrox, Gauge, Freedive, & Watch	24 Dives	330 Feet	4.6	$$$$
	Oceanic F10	Breath Hold Training	Freediving & Watch	99 Dives	399 Feet	4.7	$$$
	Oceanic Geo 4.0	Budget	Watch, Air, Nitrox, Gauge, & Freedive	99 Dives	330 Feet	4.8	$$
	Cressi Leonardo	Budget	Air, Nitrox, & Gauge	60 Dives or 70 Hours	393 Feet	4.5	$$
	Mares Smart	Budget	Air, Nitrox, & Free Dive	36 Hours or 200 Dives	492 Feet	4.7	$$$
	Omer Compact UP-X1	Breath Hold Training	Freediving & Watch	250 Dives	328 Feet	4.6	$$$$
	Tusa Talis	Budget	Air, Nitrox, Gauge, Freediving, & Watch	24 Dives	120 Feet	4.8	$$
	Pyle Multifunction Sport Watch	Budget	Freediving & Watch	100 Hours	328 Feet	4.4	$
	Suunto D4i Novo	Scuba & Freediving	Air, Nitrox, Free, & Off	140 Hours	328 Feet	4.9	$$$$
Picture	Freediving Watch	Users	Modes	Memory	Depth	Rating	Price

For reviews on scuba diving computers and watches, please check out these posts:

Feedback and Comments

I hope you have found this review of freediving watches to be useful. If you have any questions, ideas, or personal experiences, please feel free to share them in the comments. If there is no comments section directly below, click here: >>comments<<

Best Freediving Fins for 2023

10:39 am by Joe Leave a Comment

Updated March 20, 2024

The simplicity of freediving is a major alluring factor. No need for a couple of bags of heavy gear and tanks. All you need to have is a basic mask and some fins. The fins are the key. You want the most functional and energy-efficient design possible to preserve your one breath of air for as long as possible in order to achieve depth and enjoy the adventure without overexerting yourself.

There are many freediving fins on the market today specially designed for different activities and for freedivers of all skill levels that range from low-priced to very expensive. How do you figure out the right fins for you? I’ll break it down here and then introduce some of the best models for you to consider.

If you have any questions or concerns, please use the comments section at the bottom. I’d love to hear your thoughts.

For more reviews of related gear and accessories, please check out these popular posts:

Pole Spears Spearguns Spearfishing Wetsuits Lycra Dive Skins Freediving Watches Spearfishing Masks Freediving Fins Spearfishing Masks

How to Choose the Best Freediving Fins

Skill and Experience Level

Are you just getting started? How much experience do you have in freediving? A beginner would best not opt for the top-of-the-line fins. Cheaper models with polymer plastic blades will be adequate for getting your feet wet. Later when you have a better idea of your ability and style you will be able to make a better decision on the technical aspects and benefits of more expensive fiberglass or carbon fiber models

Material

The blades of freediving fins are usually made from one of three basic materials, polymer plastic, fiberglass, or carbon fiber.

Polymer plastic blades are the least expensive and perform pretty well when new. They have desirable flexibility and are durable against bumps and scrapes. However, after some use, they have a tendency to maintain a bent shape that has lost some efficiency.
Fiberglass blades are more expensive and not as flexible as the polymer plastic version, but maintain their shape in the long term. They are also able to withstand underwater scrapes and bumps well.
Carbon fiber blades are the most efficient with the highest ratio of propulsion to energy used. They maintain their original shape and are very light, but also more fragile than the other two materials. Top competitive freedivers use carbon fiber blades in spite of the fact that they are much more expensive.

Budget

You will need to look at your own finances and commitment to freediving. In addition to the fins, you will need a mask and snorkel and perhaps thermal or skin protection, as well. These long-blade freediving fins start at around $80 for fins with polymer plastic blades and run up to over $600 for a pair with carbon fiber blades. Custom-fit foot pockets and design features can push it up beyond that. Keep in mind that the most important factor is good technique. When you have developed that to a certain level, then the higher-tech fins will be of more use to you. A basic guideline is that:

polymer plastic = the cheapest
fiberglass = mid-range
carbon fiber = the most expensive

Getting a Good Fit

A snug comfortable fit is essential to have an efficient finning technique. If the foot pocket is loose, efficiency and wasted energy will be lost. When purchasing the best practice is to try them on, if possible. If not, do your best to understand the sizing chart. Also, keep in mind that some manufacturers expect that you will be prepared to wear a neoprene sock which can fill in the gap for an oversized foot pocket. The sock can also provide thermal protection and may make for a more comfortable fit.

Separate Foot Pockets and Blades

There are systems in which blades are detachable from foot pockets. In such cases, it is possible to buy them separately and combine them. This will allow you to replace a component while retaining the one you would like to still use, for example when one component is worn out or unsuitable for your current style or ability. You could also use blades and foot pockets that are different brands. This option is more expensive than the purchase of standard nondetachable models.

Blade Stiffness

Freediving fins are available with varying degrees of blade stiffness. The level of stiffness suitable depends on body type and amount of muscle. Generally speaking taller divers produce weaker propulsion than shorter-legged divers making longer blades more effective. Most divers will find soft to medium stiffness suitable. Divers with very weak propulsion will likely prefer soft blades.

Best Freediving Fins Review

Mako Freedive Hunter

Best for beginners
Material: polymer plastic
Interchangeable blade design: no
Stiffness option: no
Many sizes available
Comfortable foot pocket
Rating: 4.4
Price: $

Pros: good value for the low price

Cons: can get bent over time

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Mares Pure Instinct Razor Pro

Best for beginners
Material: polymer plastic
Interchangeable blade design: yes
Stiffness option: no
V-shaped tips
Comfortable foot pocket
Rating: 4.5
Price: $$

Pros: superior design and well constructed

Cons: sizing may be a little large

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Beuchat Mundial One

Best for beginners
Material: polymer plastic
Interchangeable blade design: no
Stiffness option: no
High-quality materials
Stabilizers integrated into foot pocket tips and on the blades
Fishtail fin shape guides the blade more efficiently in the water
Rating: 5
Price: $

Pros: low priced, good value for the money

Cons: can get bent over time

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Rob Allen Scorpia

Best for beginners
Material: polymer plastic
Interchangeable blade design: no
Stiffness option: no
Large size selection
Teflon and neoprene blade coating
Camouflage coloration for hunting
Soft EPDM rubber foot pocket
Rating: 4.5
Price: $$

Pros: high performance for a moderate price

Cons: sizing may be a little large

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Cressi Gara 3000

Best for beginners
Material: polymer plastic
Interchangeable blade design: no
Stiffness option: no
3 material molding process
Comfortable foot pockets with or without diving socks
Cressi fin bag is included
Rating: 4.5
Price: $$

Pros: low priced with bag included

Cons: can get bent over time

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Mako Competition Freediver

Best for intermediate level
Material: fiberglass (10% fiberglass & 90% borealis)
Interchangeable blade design: yes
Stiffness option: yes (soft and medium)
Can upgrade blades to other fiberglass or carbon components
Several materials used in comfortable foot pockets
Many sizes available
Rating: 4.7
Price: $$

Pros: low priced for great features

Cons: blades scratch easily

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Omer Stingray Carbon

Best for advanced level
Material: carbon fiber
Interchangeable blade design: yes
Stiffness option: yes (soft, medium, and hard)
3D camouflage finish
Lightweight
Comfortable foot pockets
Many sizes available
Rating: 5
Price: $$$$$

Pros: top performance for spearfishing

Cons: very expensive, scratch easily

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Maverick C4 Falcon

Best for advanced level
Material: carbon fiber
Interchangeable blade design: yes
Stiffness option: yes (soft, medium, and hard)
Lightweight
High-quality materials and design
Comfortable foot pockets
Rating: 4.5
Price: $$$$

Pros: good for spearfishing

Cons: expensive, scratch easily

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Freediving Fins Comparison Table

Picture	Freediving Fin	Material	Stiffness Options	Interchangeable Blade Option	Rating	Price
	Mako Freedive Hunter	Polymer Plastic	No	No	4.4	$
	Mares Pure Instinct Razor Pro	Polymer Plastic	No	Yes	4.5	$$
	Beuchat Mundial One	Polymer Plastic	No	No	5	$
	Rob Allen Scorpia	Polymer Plastic	No	No	4.5	$$
	Cressi Gara 3000	Polymer Plastic	No	No	4.5	$$
	Mako Competition Freediver	Fiberglass	Yes	Yes	4.7	$$
	Omer Stingray Carbon	Carbon Fiber	Yes	Yes	5	$$$$$
	Maverick C4 Falcon	Carbon Fiber	Yes	Yes	4.5	$$$$
Picture	Freediving Fin	Material	Stiffness Options	Interchangeable Blade Option	Rating	Price

For more reviews of related gear and accessories, please check out these popular posts:

Pole Spears Spearguns Spearfishing Wetsuits Lycra Dive Skins Freediving Watches Spearfishing Masks Freediving Fins Spearfishing Masks

Feedback and Comments

I hope you found this post on freediving fins exciting 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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How to Choose the Best Freediving Mask

Low Volume

Materials

Fit

Color of the Skirt

Lenses

Panes

Straps and Fastening

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Thickness

Camouflage

Style

Materials

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Wetsuit Maintenance and Care

Feedback and Comments

Best Freediving Watch Buyer’s Guide

Modes

Depth

Dive Logs/Memory

User-Friendliness

Freediving versus Scuba Computers

Quality and Durability

Best Freediving Watches

Freediving Watch Comparison Table

Feedback and Comments

How to Choose the Best Freediving Fins

Skill and Experience Level

Material

Budget

Getting a Good Fit

Separate Foot Pockets and Blades

Blade Stiffness

Best Freediving Fins Review

Freediving Fins Comparison Table

Feedback and Comments

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