Whilst snorkelling it’s important to maintain and regulate your body heat as it can drop quicker in water than on land. If your temperature is not stabilised the body will use up it’s energy to bring your temperature back up - this is where the wetsuit comes in.
Wetsuits are typically made from Neoprene which is essentially rubbers impregnated with tiny air bubbles that provide flexibility to the material. These air bubbles help trap the divers body heat offering insulation around the body while the surrounding water temperature is quite considerably lower. Wetsuits come in different Neoprene thicknesses dependent on the snorkelers’ susceptibility to the cold and the actual surrounding water temperatures.
Whilst traditional wetsuits as stated above are made from neoprene. Since Sharkskin revolutionised the thermal protection category it is now possible to either replace a traditional 3mm wetsuit with Sharkskin Chillproof and more recently Sharkskin Titanium can replace a 5mm wetsuit.
Snorkelers can also add a Sharkskin garment under a wetsuit for increased warmth and wind protection.
There are different styles and length of wetsuit depending on your preference...
Steamers/ Full Suits - are on piece, full length garments covering all the way to your neck, wrists and ankles.
Shorties or Spring Suits- are also one piece wetsuits but feature short arms and legs. They tend to be popular in warmer waters or among surfers as they allow maximum mobility around key joint areas.
Semi-Dry Suits - are thicker wetsuits generally from 7mm Neoprene and up. They are not completely dry such as a dry suit however, they have reinforced seals at the wrist, neck and ankles to prevent water from escaping therefore insulating the body for longer.
Dive Newcastle offers a full range of wetsuit and thermal wear for snorkelling if you need any further information or advice drop into our store or call or message our team helpfull team.
