Whether you’ve just signed up for a drysuit course, or if you’re on the lookout for a replacement, you’ll be thrilled with the innovative features many of the newest drysuits offer. Designed to meet the needs of tech divers, and built to withstand environmental challenges, they are available at various prices and come in a surprising array of sizes. Here, we’ll take a look at a few of the newest options from popular manufacturers.
Whites Fusion Drysuits
Whites offers a full line of Fusion drysuit models designed for men and women alike. All drysuits in the Whites Fusion line are made with the company’s signature DryCORE technology which offers a number of benefits including outstanding mobility, superior warmth, and a streamlined fit. For those who have no need for thigh pockets, the Fusion Fit, the Fusion One, or the Fusion Sport are great choices. If thigh pockets are a must-have, then take a look at the Fusion Bullet or the Fusion Technical drysuit.
Whites Fusion drysuits are popular not just for their great looks, but for their outstanding quality. Flat lock-stitched seams, reinforced knees, and comfortable incorporated suspender systems plus sturdy latex seals are just a few of the features you’ll find appealing. Female divers are certain to appreciate the Whites Fusion Fit for Women; it offers comfortable support and a streamlined look. All Whites Fusion drysuit models are available in sizes 2XS – 4XL, meaning there’s a drysuit in this line for just about everyone. Last but not least, Whites makes Fusion drysuits just for rescue teams, as well as for police divers; this means sport divers get the same quality these professionals do.
Santi Drysuits
Santi drysuits offer lasting performance and comfort, thanks to the fact that they’re made using only the best materials; they are carefully manufactured by expert tailors, so superior quality is the first thing you’ll notice when you handle one of these drysuits for the first time.
All Santi drysuit models are equipped with thigh pockets. The Santi E.Lite is a lightweight option that’s great for traveling; the Santi Enduro is more robust and has a telescoping torso for better mobility. The Santi E.Motion is even lighter than the E.Lite, and travelers like the fact that the suspenders on this model have built in pockets for documents, keys, and other items.
Pinnacle Drysuits
With reinforced knees and seats that stand up to the rigors of cave and wreck diving, Pinnacle Drysuits are some of the best on the market. Like Santi and Whites drysuits, they are constructed using only the best quality materials. Favored by military and law enforcement professionals, these drysuits offer outstanding range of motion, thanks to telescoping torsos. All Pinnacle drysuits are equipped with rugged expandable pockets, and all are self-donning. These drysuits are available in a wide range of sizes, with the largest designed to fit a 6’1” man weighing up to 275 pounds.
These are just a few favorites; some other great brands to try include Hollis, Dive Rite, USIA, and Bare. Once you’ve decided which suit will work best for you, take the time to learn about its features and be sure to follow all care and maintenance procedures recommended by the manufacturer. If you plan to purchase your drysuit online, take careful measurements beforehand, and be sure the seller has a good return policy in the event your suit doesn’t fit properly. Many retailers including brick and mortar dive shops and online dive equipment stores have personnel on hand to answer questions and help you decide on the suit and size that will fit your underwater needs best.