Dry Suit Diving – Getting Started
Diving in a dry suit can be a little intimidating (and expensive), but it is an incredibly rewarding experience that opens up a whole new world of diving opportunities. In this blog post, we will take a look at what it’s like to dive in a dry suit for the first time.
First, let’s start with the basics. A dry suit is a specialized diving suit designed to keep you completely dry while diving in cold water. It works by creating a watertight seal around your body, trapping a layer of air between your body and the suit, which insulates you from the cold water.
When you first put on a dry suit, it can feel a bit awkward and cumbersome. Unlike a wetsuit, which is designed to fit tightly against your skin, a dry suit is usually worn over a layer of warm clothing to help insulate you from the cold. This can make the suit feel a little bulky and take some getting used to.
The first time you dive in a dry suit, you will need to adjust to the changes in buoyancy. Since the suit is filled with air, you will need to add or release air from the suit to maintain neutral buoyancy. This can take a little practice to get right, but once you get the hang of it, you will be able to dive comfortably and confidently in a dry suit.
One of the most noticeable differences when diving in a dry suit is the increased mobility and freedom of movement. Unlike a wetsuit, which can be restrictive, a dry suit allows you to move more freely, making it easier to swim, climb, and navigate through the water.
Perhaps the most significant advantage of diving in a dry suit is the ability to dive in cold water without feeling the effects of the cold. With a properly fitted dry suit and appropriate insulation, you can stay warm and comfortable even in water temperatures below 50°F (10°C). This opens up a whole new world of diving opportunities, including wreck diving, ice diving, and cold-water diving.
The best way to begin drysuit diving is to take a class. Most drysuit courses can be completed in a day or two and usually include some pretty cool dives. With a bit of practice and patience, you can learn to dive comfortably and confidently in a dry suit, and explore the stunning underwater world in even the coldest of waters.