Wetsuit FAQ's
What are
the advantages of the unlined cell interior?
The bare rubber of a cell interior suit will seal onto the skin, reducing water ingress into the suit, and making the suit warmer. Rubber is also easier to disinfect, and less likely to develop offensive odours than nylon!
Do I need a made to measure suit?
The neoprene
used in Apneasub suits is very stretchy, and most "standard size" people will
be able to fit in a standard suit.
If you have
trouble buying clothes to fit, you probably need a made to measure suit.
If you are
unsure of what size you need, fill in the measurement form and we will be
able to advise you. No one is exactly a standard size, and a made to measure
suit is always more comfortable.
Most of
our customers seem to think they are well worth the extra £20.
Putting on an open cell wetsuit
What is the best lubricant for donning an unlined suit?
Many people swear by simply using sea water, but this can be a bit bracing in UK conditions. I find a 20-1 water and antibacterial soap solution makes the suit slide on easily and also helps prevent skin irritations. In the winter warm water from a flask is very civilised.
What thickness suit should I buy?
Obviously this depends on water temperatures, but for UK diving a 5mm is a good all round choice.
Why have a smoothskin exterior?
Smoothskin dries quickly, meaning there is less heat lose due to evaporation when sitting on a boat. It is also more flexible than a nylon covered suit, and has less friction in the water. The downside is the need to be very careful putting the suit on, and when diving around sharp edges.
Why have a nylon exterior?
Nylon on the outside makes the suit much tougher and more resistant to tearing, but at the expense of some flexibility. Nylon also has a choice of colours.