Does a Wetsuit Keep You Dry?

You are preparing for your first watersports adventure or planning to step up your game by investing in a piece of professional gear – a proper wetsuit? Wetsuits are essential gear for various water activities like swimming, surfing, snorkeling, freediving, and scuba diving. They are primarily designed to keep you warm in cold water conditions. But how exactly do wetsuits function, and do they keep you dry? Let’s get to the bottom of this question and many more – because being informed will save you from a lot of trouble before, during and after buying your wetsuit.

Do You Still Get Wet in a Wetsuit?

Wetsuits were invented in the early 1950s by Hugh Bradner, a physicist at the University of California, Berkeley. Bradner developed the first wetsuit prototype in 1952 as a solution to the problem of maintaining warmth while submerged in cold water for extended periods. 

His design incorporated neoprene, a synthetic rubber material, which was already used in various industrial applications.

Neoprene proved to be an excellent choice for wetsuits due to its insulating properties. Bradner never intended to make it waterproof. He counted on neoprene’s ability to trap a thin layer of water against the skin. 

So, do you still get wet in a wetsuit?

The answer to this question is a simple YES, you do still get wet in a wetsuit. Wetsuits do not keep you dry underneath, but, they keep you warm, safe from UV rays or harsh surfaces and it will even support your muscles. 

Bradner’s invention revolutionized water sports and activities by allowing individuals to stay comfortable and safe in cold water conditions for longer durations. 

Since its inception, wetsuit designs have evolved significantly, incorporating advancements in materials, construction techniques, and fit to enhance performance and comfort for various water-based activities like surfing, diving, and swimming – yet the basic principle of letting water enter to heat it up never changed.

The Difference Between a Wetsuit and a Drysuit

While the clue is in the name, the differences between drysuits and wetsuits go much further than their ability to keep your skin sealed from the water around you or not. While a drysuit does, a wetsuit does not keep you dry underneath. Because of their different materials, choosing between a drysuit and a wetsuit becomes a question of personal comfort. If you want to know, which of the two options suits you best – hang on while we introduce you into the world of water clothing.

How does a Wetsuit Work?

The secret lies in the neoprene material they’re made of. Neoprene, a synthetic rubber, traps a thin layer of water between the suit and your skin. This trapped water is then warmed by your body heat, creating an insulating barrier against the colder water outside the suit.

The snug fit of a wetsuit plays a crucial role in its effectiveness. By fitting closely to your body, it prevents too much water from entering and exiting the suit, which would otherwise constantly cool you down. This way, the trapped layer of water inside the suit remains relatively warm, helping to maintain your body temperature in chilly water conditions.

Wetsuits come in different thicknesses of neoprene, ranging from 1mm to 7mm. Thicker neoprene provides more insulation and is ideal for colder waters, while thinner suits are suitable for warmer environments. 

Despite their insulation, wetsuits also offer flexibility, allowing for freedom of movement during various water activities. This flexibility is essential for swimming strokes, paddling, and diving maneuvers.

While wetsuits primarily keep you warm rather than dry, their ability to create a thermal barrier with trapped water makes them indispensable for extending your comfort and safety in cold water. 

Whether you’re diving into the surf or exploring beneath the waves, a well-fitted wetsuit ensures you stay comfortable and protected from the elements, enabling you to enjoy your aquatic adventures to the fullest.

How Does a Drysuit Work?

A drysuit operates on the principle of keeping you completely dry rather than relying on water for insulation, unlike wetsuits. Made from waterproof materials such as rubber, neoprene, or Gore-Tex, drysuits prevent water from entering entirely. They feature tight seals at the neck, wrists, and ankles typically made from latex or neoprene, ensuring a watertight fit.

To stay warm, drysuits require insulation provided by undergarments, ranging from lightweight base layers to thick fleece suits depending on water temperature. Once sealed inside, an air layer acts as insulation, trapping body heat and maintaining thermal comfort.

Drysuits also include features like inflation and exhaust valves for buoyancy control, allowing adjustments to float on the water’s surface or descend during diving. Additionally, they may have vents or zipper openings for managing internal temperature and moisture build-up during activities.

Commonly used in cold-water activities such as diving and kayaking, drysuits are essential for safety and comfort in environments where prolonged exposure to cold water could otherwise be hazardous. Their ability to keep you dry and insulated makes them a preferred choice over wetsuits in extreme cold-water conditions.

A List of Pros and Cons

Choosing between a wetsuit and a drysuit depends on the specific activity, water temperature, personal comfort preferences, and budget. Each type offers unique advantages and considerations to ensure safety, warmth, and enjoyment during water-based adventures.

The Wetsuit		The Drysuit
PROs	CONs	PROs	CONs
→ Buoyancy: Provides inherent buoyancy due to the neoprene material.	→ Wetness: Allows water to seep in, which can be uncomfortable in colder conditions.	→ Waterproof: Keeps you completely dry, providing excellent protection against cold water.	→ Buoyancy Control: Requires additional weight for neutral buoyancy due to air trapped inside.
→ Flexibility: Offers good freedom of movement, especially in thinner designs.	→ Temperature Range: Less effective in very cold water without additional layers.	→ Versatility: Suitable for various water temperatures with appropriate undergarments.	→ Cost: Generally more expensive than wetsuits, especially for quality materials.
→ Warmth: Even when wet, neoprene retains some insulating properties.	→ Limited Use: Primarily suitable for activities where water contact is constant.	→ Insulation: Offers superior warmth in extremely cold conditions.	→ Fit: Requires a proper fit and adjustment of seals for effective waterproofing.
→ Affordability: Generally less expensive than drysuits.	→ Potential Chafing: Seams and zippers may cause discomfort with prolonged wear.	→ Comfort: Prevents water from entering, providing a more comfortable experience.	→ Maintenance: Requires careful care to maintain seals and prevent damage.
→ Easy Maintenance: Requires minimal care and can be quickly rinsed and dried.	→ Drying Time: Takes longer to dry compared to drysuits.	→ Longevity: Typically durable and can withstand rugged use over time.	→ Mobility: Can be less flexible than wetsuits, limiting movement in some activities.

The choice between a wetsuit and a drysuit largely hinges on personal comfort preferences. For instance, while a wetsuit offers greater ease of movement during activities like swimming, it can be more challenging to don and remove. 

In contrast, a drysuit provides superior warmth, especially between dives, but may not be as convenient when nature calls. Because let’s be honest – in a three-hour session of surfing, not peeing is simply not an option!

Which type of suit you prefer is in the end your choice. If you are lucky enough to get to try both types, you should definitely do that to get a feeling for which of the two you like best.

How Do I Know if my Wetsuit Works?

Assessing whether your wetsuit is working effectively involves several key aspects that ensure comfort, warmth, and functionality while you’re in the water. Having water in your wetsuit is normal! If any other weird things occur, check the list below, and maybe we can offer a solution for you.

1. Fit and Comfort

A wetsuit should fit snugly, but not too tight. The right fit ensures that the neoprene material is close to your skin, maximizing its insulating properties by trapping a thin layer of water against your body. 

This layer warms up quickly and helps regulate your body temperature. A well-fitting suit should allow you to move freely without restricting your range of motion or causing discomfort.

If you are not sure if you chose the right wetsuit measurements, our Wetsuit Size Guide can help you find the right fit for the optimal performance and a good feeling when you are wearing your nicely fitted wetsuit.

2. Insulation and Warmth

The primary function of a wetsuit is to provide thermal insulation in cold water. When properly worn, you should feel warm and comfortable, even in chilly conditions. 

The key principle behind a wetsuit’s insulation is the layer of water it traps next to your skin. When you first enter the water, the suit allows a small amount of water to seep in. This water quickly warms up from your body heat, forming a protective barrier that helps regulate your temperature in cold conditions.

In colder waters, thicker neoprene (typically 5-7 mm) is preferred to provide adequate insulation. Thinner suits (2-3 mm) are suitable for warmer waters, but may not offer sufficient warmth in colder conditions.

If you don’t feel warm enough it might not be due to a malfunctioning wetsuit but because you need to wear a thicker wetsuit to adapt to the colder water temperatures. A guide for the right wetsuit thickness can help you find the right wetsuit, but ultimately it is your personal temperature perception that dictates which wetsuit thickness you need.

3. Flexibility and Range of Motion

Modern wetsuits are designed to balance insulation with flexibility. High-quality neoprene and strategic seam placement allow for natural movement, especially important for activities like surfing, diving, and swimming. 

A well-fitted wetsuit should feel snug without being constricting. It should allow you to move freely and comfortably during activities such as swimming, surfing, or diving. The neoprene material should stretch and flex with your body movements, providing a second-skin feel that enhances mobility without compromising insulation.

Check that your wetsuit doesn’t restrict your arms, legs, or torso during movement, ensuring you can perform comfortably and efficiently in the water.

4. Seal Effectiveness

So, if a wetsuit has seals, why do you still get wet in a wetsuit? Seals, typically located at the wrists, ankles, and neck, are designed to create a barrier that prevents water from entering the wetsuit. They are often made from materials like neoprene, silicone, or elastic cuffs that provide a snug fit without cutting off circulation.

A good wetsuit should have tight but comfortable seals that minimize water entry. If you experience excessive flushing or cold water entering the suit during activities, it may indicate that the seals need adjustment or that the suit is not the right fit.

Regularly inspect and maintain the seals to ensure they remain effective. Rinse them thoroughly after each use to remove salt, sand, and debris that can degrade the material over time. Apply a suitable seal conditioner or lubricant to keep the seals supple and extend their lifespan.

5. Water Retention

While a wetsuit does not keep you completely dry, it should minimize water exchange inside the suit after the initial layer of water warms up. Excessive water exchange can lead to discomfort and cold sensations. If you consistently feel wet inside the suit, it may be a sign of poor fit or wear and tear that compromises its insulation.

One reason might be that the material of your wetsuit lost its ability to return to its original shape. Especially if you don’t wash your wetsuit correctly or wear it in chlorinated pools, the neoprene deteriorates rapidly and can get cracked and stretched out. 

To avoid that, you should establish a thorough yes easy maintenance routine to wash and dry your wetsuits after use correctly. 

6. Buoyancy

If you feel like your wetsuit doesn’t offer the buoyancy you need, there are a few things you can consider and check. 

Over time, neoprene can lose some of its buoyancy properties due to wear and tear or compression. If your wetsuit is old or heavily used, it may not provide the same buoyancy as when it was new. Consider replacing it if it’s no longer performing adequately.

If you still need more buoyancy, consider using additional buoyancy aids such as a buoyancy vest, inflatable buoyancy device, or buoyant wetsuit accessories like a buoyant hood or boots. Some wetsuits come with options to add or remove buoyancy panels or inserts. Check if your wetsuit allows for adjustments in buoyancy to suit your needs.

Conclusion: Wetsuits Do Not Keep You Dry Underneath – And They Do Not Have to!

While wetsuits are highly effective in keeping you warm by trapping a thin layer of water against your skin, they are not designed to keep you completely dry underneath. This unique mechanism of using water as insulation is what makes wetsuits so effective for various water sports like surfing, diving, and swimming in cooler temperatures. Understanding how wetsuits work can help you make informed decisions about what to wear underneath and how to maximize their performance for your aquatic adventures. 

FAQ – Most asked questions about how does a Wetsuit Keep You Dry