Although most people associate the tropics with beautiful underwater creatures, shipwrecks, and pristine waters, the world’s colder regions surprisingly host an incredible array of these things as well. If you plan on visiting one of these regions for scuba diving, here are five pieces of gear we think are essential for cold water dives.
Drysuit
You should be prepared with the appropriate gear if you dive in cold water. A drysuit requires some training and practice to get used to adjusting your buoyancy with the suit rather than a BCD. As the name suggests, you will not get wet inside the suit, barring any unfortunate leaks.
Thick Wetsuit(s)
If the water where you’re headed isn’t quite cold enough for you to consider a drysuit, the thickest wetsuit you can get is your next best option. You can add even more insulation by wearing a shorty or jacket-style wetsuit over your leading wetsuit. Remember that your buoyancy will increase with every additional thick layer of neoprene, so adjust your weight or buoyancy control accordingly.
Skin or Rash Guard
Whether you go the single or multiple wetsuit route, wearing a dive skin or a rash guard and leggings can also help increase your warmth underwater. Just like drysuit thermals, this insulating layer can be purchased as a jumpsuit or in separate pieces so you can fine-tune your insulation for your needs.
Hood
Kick that insulating layer up a notch with a hood or a hooded vest if you also want more warmth around your chest and torso. However, hoods are a bit tricky regarding your mask, so be sure they do not interfere with the seal, or you will leak throughout the dive- no fun!
Gloves
You’ll be wearing dive boots or, at the very least, thick booties under your fins. So, the last part left exposed is your hands. Ensure you can feel and use them throughout the dive with a nice pair of thick gloves. You can get them as mitts, fingerless, 3-finger, or 5-finger models in various thicknesses and configurations. Look for a pair with pre-bent fingers for a more natural underwater feel. A good pair of gloves cannot be undervalued and are an essential piece of gear for cold water dives!
Check out our post on preparing for cold water diving so you can be on top of your game!
