Exposure Suits

Objectives Describe the primary function of an exposure suit. Compare a wet suit to a dry suit. State the typical thickness of a wet suit for diving Monterey. Identify three types of wetsuit material, describe them and state the advantages and disadvantages of each. Identify two basic styles of wet suits, and state the advantages and disadvantages of each. Describe the proper fit of a wet suit. Identify the primary accessories for extra warmth. Describe proper maintenance for a wet suit.

Exposure Suit Function Primary function –Provide insulation while diving –Preserve body heat while diving Secondary function –Provide protection from sun, stings, etc.

Wet Suit Thickness Cold water – mm –Varies with suit style Warm water –2-3 mm

Wet Suit Materials Skin –Neoprene rubber only –Warm Sticks to skin and minimizes water flow Dries quickly after exiting the water –Flexible –Tough to get on Must lubricate –Not as durable but easily repaired

Wet Suit Materials continued Nylon 1 –Neoprene rubber with a layer of nylon on 1 side –Not as flexible as skin –May not be as warm as skin –Somewhat more durable than skin

Wet Suit Materials continued Nylon 2 –Neoprene rubber sandwiched between layers of nylon –Easier on and off –Most durable –Least flexible –Probably the most common today

Wet Suit Materials continued Options –Plush lining May help with warmth May help to dry more quickly –Metal impregnated materials May help with warmth

Options continued Diveskins –Jump suit of lycra and polypropylene Warmth Ease of putting on wet suit

Wet Suit Styles continued Two Piece with step through top and overalls –Combines overall style bottoms with long sleeve step through jacket –Warmer than beaver tail but Bulkier through groin area –Fit is not as easy

Wet Suit Styles continued One Piece Suit –Jump suit style –Usually worn with Vest Shorty

Wet Suit Styles continued Shorty –Short sleeve –Mid-thigh –Typically worn Warm water As accessory

Options Vest with no hoodHooded vest

Options continued Semi dry wet suit –Seals at wrist and ankles Spine pad –Fills in the gap in the spine to prevent pooling of water Knee pads –Protects the suit from abrasion

Wet Suit Styles Continued Beaver tail –Tail comes between legs to fasten jacket –Fits wide range of body sizes

Wet Suit Fit Snug but able to breathe Just enough material in the armpit to move without binding Snug at wrist and ankles No extra material in the small of the back Length –Able to comfortably stand upright –Able to bend over

Maintenance Store out of the sun Store on wide hangers to avoid creases –Creases breakdown suit material and decrease insulation Rinse with –fresh water and wet suit shampoo or detergent/disinfectant.

Dry Suits Keep you dry –Water proof zipper –Attached boots Gloves and hood can also be attached –More expensive –Require more training –Variety of styles and materials

Can You Describe the primary function of an exposure suit. Compare a wet suit to a dry suit. State the typical thickness of a wet suit for diving Monterey. Identify three types of wetsuit material, describe them and state the advantages and disadvantages of each. Identify two basic styles of wet suits, and state the advantages and disadvantages of each. Describe the proper fit of a wet suit. Identify the primary accessories for extra warmth. Describe proper maintenance for a wet suit.

Summary A suit that fits you properly and is of the appropriate thickness for the environment makes a tremendous difference in terms of comfort and warmth.