The Difference Between Wetsuits & Drysuits

While wetsuits and drysuits are both intended to keep a person warm in cold water, there are several key differences between the two types of suits. Drysuits keep a person warmer and last longer, but they are much more expensive. Wetsuits allow a thin layer of water to enter the suit and do not require the swimmer to wear clothes underneath.

  1. Wetness

    • The primary difference between wetsuits and drysuits is the wetness protection. Drysuits allow almost no water to enter the suit, while wetsuits do. Wetsuits allow a thin layer of water to creep into the suit, and body heat warms the water. Drysuits are equipped with gaskets that don't allow any water to get inside the suit

    Temperature

    • While both wetsuits and drysuits are intended to protect surfers and divers from extremely cold water, drysuits are more effective at keeping the body warm. Drysuits keep the body warmer because the body does not need to use energy to heat water inside the suit. Therefore, drysuits are recommended for water sports in the coldest climates. Wetsuits are appropriate for mildly cold climates, though the choice of a wetsuit or a drysuit is otherwise largely a matter of personal preference.

    Clothes

    • Another big difference between wetsuits and drysuits are the clothes underneath. Drysuits keep the body warmer because the user is intended to wear clothing beneath the suit. The level of warmth is dependent upon the number of layers of clothing worn under the suit. Typically, surfers and other water adventurers do not wear clothes underneath wetsuits, on the other hand. Many wetsuit enthusiasts wear a bathing suit or thin t-shirt to prevent chafing, but no clothing is required.

    Lifespans

    • Drysuits tend to last longer than wetsuits. Therefore, it is generally not wise to buy a used wetsuit since its lifespan is already short. Wetsuits last about two to three years while drysuits typically last more than five years.

    Price

    • One of the biggest differences between drysuits and wetsuits is price. Because drysuits retain warmth better and last longer, they are also more expensive. Typical wetsuits cost $200 to $300 and bargain wetsuits can even go for under $100 as of 2010. Drysuits typically range from $500 to $1000. Even the cheapest drysuits still cost about $350.

    Other Considerations

    • When buying either a wetsuit or a drysuit, it is important to consider other factors about the suits. The drainage system of a suit is very important both for utility and durability. Suits equipped with high-end drainage systems cost more money. Also, the thickness of the suit is important. Wetsuits, in particular, come in a variety of thicknesses--thinner suits are not as warm, but thicker suits are not as pliable.