How Does a Wetsuit Vest Work?

A wetsuit vest is a versatile piece of exposure protection gear that covers the torso but has no sleeves, thus providing maximum freedom for the arms. Depending on its thickness, a wetsuit vest can be used for a variety of watersports and conditions.

A thin vest made of 1-3mm neoprene, can be used as a stand-alone piece of divewear that will protect the torso from scratches and rashes as well as prevent chills in warm water. Furthermore, a thermal vest will be an excellent first layer under a wetsuit providing extra core warmth.

A thicker 3-5mm neoprene makes for a perfect vest for layering in colder water. A specific hooded wetsuit vest is great for minimizing heat loss. It is also often used by freedivers and spearfishermen because of its improved hydrodynamics.

Though most vests are zipperless, a wetsuit vest with a zipper is easier to slip into, especially if you’re layering it on top of your wetsuit.

When to Wear a Wetsuit Vest?

A wetsuit vest is a perfect option for all sports that include paddling. Due to its cut without sleeves, you can move your arms with ease, especially while paddleboarding or kayaking.

Freedom of the arms is also beneficial for swimming and snorkeling in warm water. If you are into diving, freediving, and spearfishing, choose a wetsuit vest as the first layer on colder water dives, or use it as independent dive wear on warm tropical water dives.

A vest will also be an excellent choice for surfing as it provides some protection from breezes as well as allows swimming and surfing without restraining your movement.

Which Vest to Choose?

At DIPNDIVE, you can find wetsuit vests from multiple brands such as Henderson, Sharkskin, Mares, ScubaPro, and Bare. We carry both hooded models and vests without the hood. You can also find options with or without the zipper. So, whether you are into diving, spearfishing, paddleboarding, or surfing, here at DIPNDIVE, you will be able to find the right wetsuit vest that will become your favorite multipurpose piece of dive wear.