Home Dive GearWhat Wetsuit do I need – Shorty, Full Suit or Farmer-John ?



Why do we need Exposure suits?


Wetsuits are by far the most common form of exposure suite you as a diver will encounter and come in many styles, configurations and thickness’s.  In general a wetsuit can keep you suitably warm in waters anywhere between 10C/50F  and 32C/90F (obviously at both ends this can vary depending on the diver)

How does it keep me warm?

Okay, lets bust the main myth about wetsuits – the layer of water between your body and the suit provides very little insulation.

Instead the insulation comes from the thickness of the neoprene.  This explains why you can get differing thickness wetsuits.  The layer of water is heated by they body and as long as it stays this allows the neoprene to insulate you.  This is why its important to have a well fitting wetsuit, as it stops cold water circulating in the suit. Each time you heat that water you lose some body heat and you can start to feel cold.

Neoprene comes in various thickness’s generally between 1.5mm and 7mm.   You will probably find 3mm, 5mm and 7mm are the standard across many diving products.  3mm being for tropical waters and 7mm being suitable for much cooler waters.

How to choose the right Wetsuit


Farmer John or shortie

  • Shortie – As the name suggests, generally a one piece with short sleeves and legs.  Best suited for water 27C/81F and above
  • One Piece – Your standard full length suite either front or rear zipped and often 3mm, 5mm or 7mm thick
  • Two Piece – Generally a long John (often called a Farmer John) and top, or a one piece with a extra hood vest perfect for colder waters.  Available in various thickness’s
  • Semi Dry – Essentially a normal wetsuit with better seals to reduce water entering or leaving the suit.

If you’re looking to purchase your first wetsuit or just wanting to replace that worn old one with the dodgy 80s style dayglo coloured patches then, remember fit is the most important factor and we can give you an advice not just about fit or styles but also what is best for you and your local conditions.