Oregon’s coast and waters beckon divers from near and far. Depending on the season, however, the waters can be incredibly cold. Choosing an optimum wet suit allows water sports enthusiasts in Oregon to experience the warmth they need while performing the activities they love. The following tips will help you choose a wet suit that complements your time in Oregon’s Pacific waters.

Wet Suit Overview

Wet suits are most often made of neoprene. While some wet suits are less expensive, they may not hold up as well as high-quality neoprene wet suits, especially if worn frequently. Wet suits keep the body warm by trapping a layer of water next to the skin. The body’s heat actually warms the water which, in turn, keeps the body comfortable. It takes a few moments, of course, for the water to warm up. A good quality wet suit provides reliable thermal properties and can be worn for diving or snorkeling. When shopping for wet suits, customers should keep in mind that wet suits for diving will necessarily be cut differently than suits for surface-style water sports like surfing.

What Type of Wet Suit Is Right for You?

Many Oregon divers choose layer system wet suits that allow for diving year-round. These suits have largely replaced the old fashioned semi-dry suits. The layer system provides optimum warmth but is also dynamic for use during various seasons and water temperatures. These suits employ two or more layers to provide the required level of warmth. Layer system wet suits are ideal for Oregon waters. During warmer months, some divers prefer full length steamers and sometimes even a shorty wet suit that does not cover arms or legs. Windsurfers and other surface water sport enthusiasts often prefer to wear shorties.

Consider Thickness

While the style of a wet suit will complement your comfort underwater, the thickness of the suit you choose is just as important. Wet suits are sold between 2 mm and 7 mm thickness levels. The colder the water temperature the thicker the suit you should wear. Thinner suits allow for better flexibility while thicker suits provide extra warmth. For diving in Oregon, a 5 or 7 is typically recommended.

Other Considerations

When packing up your scuba gear and heading to Southern Oregon or elsewhere along the coast for a dive, it makes sense to bring along a Sharkskin waterproof shirt which can add to your warmth. If you own a 5 mm wet suit, you may still find yourself shivering after an hour. You can warm up with a waterproof shirt available in large or short sleeves at Coral Sea Scuba and Water Sports located downtown in Grants Pass, Oregon.

You’ll also want to consider the lining of your suit. While plush linings have become popular, titanium linings are excellent at preventing heat loss; titanium linings are ideal for diving off Oregon’s coast.

The right type of wet suit will provide you with the warmth you need as well as the flexibility you crave when diving or snorkeling. If you need help, discuss your needs with the staff at Coral Sea Scuba and Water Sports. They can help you with any questions you have about outfitting yourself for your next dive.