Swimsuit is a must have if scuba diving is on your agenda this summer, having all the right equipment is crucial for underwater comfort, safety, and functionality. It’s that time of year again when people start thinking about beach vacations and water activities. Swimsuit material, coverage, and color can make a big difference in your diving experience. Here are some top options for safe and enjoyable scuba diving in 2023.
Table of Contents
Full Coverage for Warmth and Protection
Deep underwater, your body loses heat much faster than on land. Having a swimsuit with full coverage will help retain body heat and keep you comfortable during dives. Look for swimsuits made with thermal material or neoprene that act as insulators. One-piece styles and rash guard sets provide the most coverage for warmth. The extra coverage also protects sensitive areas like the back and chest from irritation. Full-coverage also help prevent skin discomfort from extended time in a wetsuit.
Tight Fit to Reduce Drag
A swimsuit that fits snugly to your body is ideal for scuba diving. Baggy styles can create excess drag and resistance underwater. This makes swimming and diving movements more difficult and tires you out faster. A tight fit also prevents your suit from shifting and creating discomfort. Look for spandex blend swimsuits that hug your body or clip-in bikini styles for a secure fit. One-piece racerback or open-back styles also allow for a full range of arm motion.
Bright Colors for Visibility
While colors like black, navy, or gray may be slimming for poolside lounging, bright colors are best for diving. Solid colors like yellow, pink, or red make you more visible underwater. This helps your dive buddy, group, and even boat crew see you clearly at a distance. Choosing a color that contrasts against the sea environment is key. Florescent accents will make you pop even more. Avoid busy prints or black, which can cause you to disappear into the dark, murky water.
Quick-Dry Fabric
After diving, having a swimsuit that dries quickly once you’re back on board is a bonus. Look for moisture-wicking material like polyester or nylon spandex blends. These fabrics actively pull water away from your skin, allowing it to evaporate efficiently. This prevents that uncomfortable damp, clingy feeling. A quick-dry suit will be ready to wear again for your next dive or activity.
UPF Protection
Remember UV ray protection when you’re spending time on and underwater. Many performance swim fabrics now have a rating of UPF (ultraviolet protection factor). This indicates how effectively the material is blocking harmful sun ultraviolet radiation. UPF 50+ is ideal for maximum protection while diving. Look for suits made with sun-protective fabrics like microfiber, or look for UPF ratings on the label. You can also apply water-resistant sunscreen underneath for extra coverage.
Durable Material
The ocean floor contains rocks, coral, and other hazards that can snag or damage a swimsuit. Choose a style made of durable nylon or polyester that can withstand friction and abrasions during your dives. Seams should be tightly stitched as well. Look for reinforced areas along the legs, stomach, and backside for even greater durability. Don’t risk a wardrobe malfunction underwater. Scout strapped back, cross-back, and fullback styles help keep everything in place.
Swimsuits to Avoid for Diving
When shopping for to wear scuba diving, there are a few styles that you’ll want to avoid:
- Flimsy string bikinis need more coverage, and the strings can easily become untied. Go for a supportive one-piece instead.
- Light colors – Anything light blue, white, tan, or patterned can disappear or look distorted underwater. Bright, solid colors are best.
- Thin fabrics – Flimsy fabrics won’t hold up against rocks or coral. Look for durable polyester or nylon-spandex fabrics.
- Loose cuts – Avoid baggy swim shorts or ill-fitting one-pieces that can ride up and create discomfort. Look for a tight but comfortable compression fit.
- Underwires – Standard underwire bikini tops can become bent and painful with pressure at depth. Go wireless or look for soft cups designed for sport and activity.
Finding the right swimsuit for scuba diving will allow you to stay comfortable, visible, and protected during your underwater adventures. Focus on full coverage, durable, quick-drying fabrics, and bright colors optimized for the marine environment. With the best swimsuit, you can focus on taking in the amazing sights instead of dealing with outfit issues. Have an incredible diving season!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can you scuba dive in a swimsuit?
A: Yes, you can scuba dive in just a swimsuit. A tight-fitting one-piece or two-piece swimsuit works well for warm water diving. For cold water, a wetsuit is recommended for insulation and warmth.
Q: What should I wear for scuba diving?
A: For scuba diving, wear a well-fitting one-piece or two-piece swimsuit made of durable, quick-dry material like nylon or spandex. Full coverage for warmth and bright colors for visibility are recommended. You can wear a wetsuit and rash guard for colder water.
Q: What swimsuit to wear for diving?
A: For diving, choose a swimsuit with full coverage, such as a one-piece, rash guard set, or swim shirt with shorts. Look for tight-fitting styles in bright, solid colors made of quick-dry, abrasion-resistant fabric. UPF protection is a bonus.
Q: What color swimsuit is safest in the ocean?
A: Bright, solid colors like fluorescent yellow, orange, red or green are the safest swimsuit colors for visibility in the ocean. They stand out against the water environment and help your group see you. Avoid black, blue, or patterned suits that can be hard to spot underwater.
