Wetsuit hoods are vital accessories for snorkeling and scuba diving in any temperature. Dive hoods streamline your profile, keep your hair under control and out of the way of your gear, and protect your face, head, and neck from sources of abrasion.
More versatile than swim caps, a wetsuit dive hood keeps your dive mask cinched close to your head for a better face seal. They can even make respirators more comfortable to wear.
Wetsuit Hood: Added Protection in Cold Water
A wetsuit hood is especially important during cold-water dives. Divers lose a lot of heat from their heads, and dive hoods are an elegant solution. Before you zip up your wetsuit, just tuck the bib or cowl of your wetsuit hood into your wetsuit top or collar for a temperature-protecting seal.
Just as you’d wear a beanie or balaklava during cold weather sports, you should use a wetsuit dive hood when the water temperature is low. For superior comfort and temperature control during cold-water dives and while enjoying cold-water sports, consider these popular wetsuit hoods.
1. Waterproof H1 5/10mm Hood with Hood Air Venting System
Waterproof’s H1 5/10mm Hood was designed and constructed for optimum heat retention, even when cold water tries to rob you of vital warmth. The shape of the wetsuit cap was designed in three dimensions for a perfect, snug fit with glide-skin seals and I-Span super-stretch nylon for easy donning and doffing.
The proprietary Hood Air Venting System uses double one-way valves to prevent air from your regulator becoming trapped in the hood. This improves comfort, fit, and overall protection. The wetsuit hood also offers double layered protection in key areas to prevent heat loss.
Find the perfect size using the size chart. Pair with any women’s or men’s wetsuit for the ideal cold water protection.
2. Scubapro Everflex Bibbed Hood 6/5/4mm
It’s hard to go wrong with the Scubapro Everflex Bibbed Hood 6/5/4mm. A high-stretch Everflex Neoprene exterior delivers superior flexibility and durability. Meanwhile, a plush and comfortable inner lining reduces chafing, itch, and discomfort on longer dives.
Not only is the neoprene found in this wetsuit hood completely non-allergenic and non-toxic, but it’s designed to meet rigorous ecological and environmental standards to keep aquatic environments safer. The solvent-free, water-based glue also provides tight waterproof seals while benefiting the environment.
Whether you’re planning on cold-water kayaking, Arctic scuba diving, or you’re looking for an insulating surf hood for paddle boarding, you’ll love the look, feel, and protection of this bibbed hood.
3. Fourth Element 7mm Neoprene Hood
If searching for a straightforward, affordable, and highly functional 7mm hood for surfers, divers, and SUP enthusiasts, the 7mm Neoprene Hood by Fourth Element is a satisfying choice. It’s easy to put on and remove, and it fits snugly with just enough stretch. It also comes with a glide-skin collar and face seals to minimize water flow and entry.
This wetsuit hood also features micro holes in the top to help vent trapped air without allowing water back in. Combined with your favorite cold water wetsuit or drysuit, this is a dependable wetsuit accessory for staying warm no matter the conditions below the surface.
4. Pinnacle 7mm Merino Lined Zippered Dry Suit Hood
Another full-featured option for a 7mm hood is the Merino Lined Zippered Dry Suit Hood by Pinnacle. The 7mm of titanium-lined neoprene throughout the head and neck areas provide protection and flexibility. Pinnacle’s patented Merino lining adds up to 35% more thermal efficiency than neoprene alone.
Because Merino is antibacterial, you can feel confident that this wetsuit hood is hygienic, odor resistant, and will last longer than other dive hoods on the market. The built-in 3mm face seal with smooth skin seal is trimmable. You can customize the fit to suit your face and chosen face mask. The unique gusseted rear zipper makes doffing and donning easy and quick.
Divers who are concerned about trapped air will appreciate the non-direct automatic vent. The vent lets air escape without allowing water to enter the wetsuit hood. A highly reflective forehead patch is a useful bonus for nighttime dives or dives where visibility is an issue. Your fellow divers will be able to see you from near or afar.
