Differences between Scuba Wetsuits and Surf Suits
Although scuba diving and surfing are now the coolest travel projects in the world, do you know the differences between them? If you are not sure, you may want to know about the comparison between diving wetsuits and surfing suits.
What are the differences between Scuba Wetsuits and Surf Suits?
Waterproof Performance
Compared with surf suits, the cuffs and collars of scuba wetsuits are better designed to prevent water from entering. And the stitching of diving suits also has better treatment, such as flatlock stitch and blind-stitch.
Thickness
Diving suits are available in different thicknesses, such as 3mm, 5mm and 7mm, mainly to adapt to the temperature of different regions. Surfing suits are generally available in 1mm, 2mm and 3mm; rarely thicker, because it is inconvenient for the surfer to move when wearing a heavy surf suit.
Resistance to Water Pressure
The resilience of the neoprene material of scuba wetsuits under the pressure of water is much better than that of ordinary fabric. Surfing suits generally do not require resistance to water pressure.
Design Approaches
Wetsuits are designed specifically for diving environments. Some wetsuits are equipped with pockets, some with better abrasion resistance, such as strengthening the protection of the elbow position. In contrast, surfing suits do not need to be designed in such a complicated way.
Colors
Scuba wetsuits aren't usually designed with too many colors, since they would lose their original colors underwater and may become uglier. Surfing suits are different. There are many very beautiful styles of surfing suits.
How to choose scuba wetsuits and surfing suits?
Choosing Wetsuits
Diving wetsuits do not only keep warm, but also protect divers from reefs or harmful animals and plants. Usually, if the water temperature is above 27°C, you do not need to wear a diving wetsuit (a dive skin will work); a wetsuit is needed below 27°C; for water temperature below 10°C, a dry suit is recommended.
Diving wetsuits are made of enclosed microporous rubber and two layers of synthetic fibers. There are a variety of colors to choose from. Their thickness varies from 1mm to 7mm, suitable for water temperature in different regions, latitudes and seasons.
The most important thing in choosing a diving suit is whether it is fit or not. Unfit wetsuits do not only fail to achieve the effect of cold protection, but also result in a lot of water entering, affecting the action of diving.
Suggestion: The diving depth should not exceed 60 meters, since there are great temperature and pressure effects underwater. Even divers with the best diving wetsuits should keep diving above this depth.
Choosing Surf Suits
Surf suit is one of the most basic gear for surfing. For surfing beginners, it may be hard to choose a surf suit. At this time, they can seek the help of surfing friends and surfing clubs.
Generally the thickness, material, length and brand of surfing suits can be selected according to personal needs. A better surfing suit will have good elasticity, warmth retention and windshield. Surfing can be enjoyed in all seasons, while choosing your gear only depends on the weather.
In summer, boys need surfing pants, while girls need bikinis or swimsuits. The best material for swimsuits and surf pants is polyester or elastic fiber. Don't choose a cotton suit for water sports, because it will absorb water and increase weight.
But of course, a neoprene wetsuit can also be worn by surfers depending on the actual situation.