A 3mm full wetsuit is the most versatile option you can choose if you’re diving in water between 70 and 85 °F (21 and 29 °C). In colder climates, you can add a base layer for extra insulation. And, even in warmer waters, you’ll be thankful for a little extra protection against the elements. The right wetsuit should be warm, flexible, and easy to don and doff. And, if you’re prepared, shopping should be a breeze. In this article, we’ll share our favorite 3mm models and our top tips to keep in mind while shopping.

For more of our top scuba gear recommendations, check out the Best Wetsuits for Women. 

Reviews - The Best Women's 3mm Wetsuit

Cressi Bahia Flex

Specs

• Material: Nylon-2 Neoprene, Rubber
• Closure: Front
• Padding: Knee and Shin
• Seals: Aqua Stop Cuffs
• Seams: Sewn
• Zippers: 1

Features

• Metal YKK Zipper
• Front Closure for Easy Donning and Doffing
• Flexible Panels for Ease of Movement
• Available in Plus Sizes

BEST FOR: CURVY GIRLS

If you’re busty or curvy, you’ve probably tried on a few wetsuits that just didn’t fit. The Cressi Bahia will. This suit is made from ultra-stretchy Neoprene and has flexible panels to give you a better range of motion. It’s available in a wide range of sizes, from XS to 2XL. And, it offers a zippered front closure, making it super easy to get in and out of, even on a moving boat. This model uses a thinner material in the arms and legs too, which makes it easy to tug over your wrists and ankles. But, because this suit’s seams are sewn and not glued, it is best for warm water use.

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Henderson Thermoprene Pro

Specs

• Material: Nylon-2 Neoprene, Lycra
• Closure: Back
• Padding: Spine and Knees
• Seals: Lycra Cuffs
• Seams: Double Glued and Sewn
• Zippers: 1

Features

• Adjustable Collar
• Padded Spine for Comfort and Protection
• Friction Resistant Exterior Fabric Reduces Visible Wear and Tear
• Available in Tall and Petite Sizes

BEST FOR: OVERALL VALUE

When it comes to value, dollar for dollar, you can’t do much better than the Henderson Thermoprene Pro. This wetsuit comes in a wide range of sizes, including tall and petite, so it’s easy to find your perfect fit. Double glued and sewn seams reduce water seepage for maximum warmth while diving. An abrasion-resistant exterior fabric and reinforced padded knees will extend its life for seasons to come. And, comfortable Lycra cuffs make it super easy to pull over your hands and feet. Though it’s hardly the most stylish option out there, this suit does everything you need it to and nothing you don’t. And, it won’t break the bank.

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Scubapro Definition Steamer

Specs

• Material: X Foam Neoprene, Rubber
• Closure: Back
• Padding: Spine, Knees, and Elbows
• Seals: Zippered Neoprene and Rubber Cuffs
• Seams: Glued and Sewn
• Zippers: 6

Features

• Small Front Zipper at the Neck for Comfort Between Dives
• Zippered Wrists and Ankles for Easy Donning and Doffing
• Padded Spine for Comfort and Protection
• Diagonal Back Closure for Easy Zip and Unzip
• Abrasion Resistant Shoulders and Seat Increase Durability
• Made from Petroleum Free Materials

BEST FOR: DIVERS WHO GET COLD 

Do you get cold underwater? The Scubapro Definition Steamer provides all the warmth of a heavy-duty wetsuit but is still light and compact enough for dive travel. And, thanks to an innovative design, all that extra warmth doesn’t equal discomfort during donning and doffing. This model is super easy to get in and out of, thanks to its zippered wrists and ankles, and diagonal back closure. And, a small front zipper at the neck will keep you feeling comfortable between dives, so you won’t have to take your suit off while you wait. Keeping your wetsuit on topside also helps retain core heat and for a warmer second and third dive of the day.

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Bare Evoke

Specs

• Material: Nylon-2 Neoprene, Rubber, Celliant Infrared Fabric Liner
• Closure: Back
• Padding: Spine, Knees
• Seals: Skin-to-Skin Cuffs
• Seams: Glued and Sewn
• Zippers: 1

Features

• Adjustable Collar
• Padded Spine for Comfort and Protection
• Seamless Underarms to Reduce Friction and Chafing
• Available in Tall Sizes
• Sold in Various Colors

BEST FOR: FASHION FOCUSED  

The Bare Evoke looks unlike any other women’s wetsuit thanks to its fashion-focused design. This model, based on yoga and activewear styles, uses a flattering cut and details to accentuate and enhance your figure. And, it comes in a variety of appealing colors, too. But, this suit does more than just look good. Its innovative infrared fabric liner traps and reflects your body heat, using it to warm you to the core throughout every immersion. And, skin-to-skin seals reduce water movement at the wrists, ankles, collar, and zipper for added warmth. Small details like seamless underarms and extra padding around the spine and zipper reduce friction and chafing, keeping you comfortable underwater for longer.

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Aqua Lung Quantum Stretch

Specs

• Material: Nylon-2 Neoprene
• Closure: Front
• Padding: Knee
• Seals: Skin-In Cuffs
• Seams: Glued and Sewn
• Zippers: 1

Features

• Metal YKK Zipper
• Adjustable Collar
• Reinforced Chest Panel for Added Core Warmth
• Texturized Knee Pads for Extra Grip

BEST FOR: BEGINNERS

Are you new to diving? Many divers like to get their own suit straight away because shop rentals can be downright gross. But, your first wetsuit is sure to take a beating. The Aqua Lung Quantum Stretch is up to the challenge! This basic model doesn’t have too many aesthetic details. But, it’s warm, flexible, and affordable. Its texturized kneepads offer extra protection and grip, perfect for divers learning on their knees. And, its reinforced chest panel provides extra warmth around your core, where you’ll need it the most. Best of all, this is one of the most affordable options on the market.

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THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A WOMENS WETSUIT

FIT

Fit is always the most important consideration when shopping for dive gear. But, it’s never more crucial than when you’re buying a wetsuit. A suit that is too tight won’t be comfortable, and one that’s too loose won’t keep you warm.

A wetsuit that fits well should be snug, but not restrict your movements. You should be able to squat and lift your arms over your head comfortably. There should be no pressure around your throat or neck. And, you shouldn’t feel pinching or binding around your groin, armpits, or elbows.

Remember, when your suit fills with water it will loosen a bit. And, Neoprene fabric compresses a bit at depth, so your suit won’t feel as thick. Check out this helpful article from Divers Alert Network for more basic information on wetsuits and how they work underwater.

WATER TEMPERATURE

If you are planning to dive in warm, tropical waters, a 3mm wetsuit should offer plenty of exposure protection. In fact, most divers will be comfortable in temperatures as low as 70 °F (21 °C) if they use a base layer for extra insulation. Divers who are prone to cold should consider investing in a lycra skin suit or full-body rash guard to wear under their wetsuit for added warmth.

Proper fit is vital for a wetsuit to keep you warm. A suit that is loose around the wrists, ankles, or neck will let water in. This flow of water will reduce internal heat, which means you’ll get colder faster.

DONNING AND DOFFING

It’s an old divers joke that putting on your wetsuit is the hardest skill in the entire Open Water course. And unfortunately for many divers, it’s true! If you often struggle getting in and out of your suit, consider a model with features like zippered wrists and ankles, or a front closure.

For divers who find donning and doffing particularly difficult, Lycra socks and gloves can be lifesavers. These low friction fabrics help your hands and feet slide through a wetsuit’s water-resistant wrist and ankle seals without the workout.

PADDING

Most wetsuits come with a little extra padding. But, different models are designed to protect various parts of the body. Nearly all suits have reinforced knees to prevent wear and injury while divers are kneeling on the bottom. And, some styles offer more cushion in the seat, shins, and elbows. If you are prone to lower back pain or pressure, choose a suit with a padded spine for added protection.

SEAMS

No matter how well made your suit is, a small amount of water will enter and exit through its seams. This seepage can reduce body heat and allow you to get cold underwater. So, when it comes to shopping, you’ll want to buy a wetsuit with the best quality construction that you can reasonably afford.

Wetsuits designed for warm water only sometimes feature glued seams. Because these suits are for tropical climates, a bit of extra seepage is less of a concern. But, if you’re a diver who gets cold easily underwater, this type of construction isn’t your best bet. Opt for a suit with seams that are glued or taped, and then sewn over for a more watertight seal.

The most common type of seam found in 3mm suits is glued and sewn. First, the suit’s seams are joined and coated with Neoprene cement on one or both sides (single or double glued). Then they are sewn, using a blind or flatlock stitch. Your suit’s stitching is as vital to your warmth as the seam type, so choose wisely. A blind stitch allows less water to penetrate your seams.

FEATURES EXPLAINED

EXTRA ZIPPERS

A standard wetsuit has only one zipper. But, if you struggle with donning and doffing, or like to keep your suit on between dives, you’ll benefit from a few extra zippers. Some models include these at the wrist, ankles, and neck. Suits designed for cold water may also feature zippers at the chest and groin for extra venting and bathroom breaks.

HIGH-QUALITY HARDWARE

The best quality wetsuits use metal zippers from reputable manufacturers like YKK and heavy-duty Velcro for closures. Avoid any model with zippers that feel flimsy, weak, or overly flexible. These cheaply made parts and pieces won’t stand up to frequent use in saltwater.

PANELS FOR FLEXIBILITY AND WARMTH

Well made wetsuits often feature more than one thickness of Neoprene. Thinner panels in the arms and legs add flexibility and make your suit easier to get in and out of. Thicker panels around the core keep you warmer for longer and add a tiny bit of extra padding where you need it the most.

FRICTION AND ABRASION RESISTANT FABRIC

No matter how good your buoyancy is, you’ll eventually snag your suit. And, other equipment like your BCD will rub wear spots around your shoulders and ribs. But, this kind of wear won’t affect your warmth underwater. If your suit’s outer appearance is important to you, you’ll want a model that uses abrasion and friction-resistant materials on its exterior. These specially designed fabrics will help your wetsuit last longer and look better.

The post Best 3mm Wetsuits for Women of 2022 appeared first on The Adventure Junkies.

For more of our top scuba gear recommendations, check out the Best Scuba BCDs. 

Reviews - Best BCDs for Women

Cressi Travelight

Specs

• Lift Capacity: 14 - 36 lbs
• Style: Jacket
• Dry Weight: 5 - 6 lbs

Features

• Adjustable Height (waist and chest straps that slide up and down to fit all heights)
• Metal D-rings (more durable than plastic)
• Flexible Backplate (for easy packing and storage)

BEST FOR: DIVE TRAVEL

The Cressi Travelight is a lightweight and flexible BCD designed for use in warm water. This jacket offers a cushioned, female-specific wraparound fit that is easily adjusted for a variety of body shapes and sizes. If you’ve been diving with equipment that rides up on the surface, this BCD’s adjustable height waist and chest straps will feel like a total game changer.

Compared to similar models, the Cressi Travelight is one of the most travel-friendly models on the market. Features like featherweight alloy D-rings and a folding backplate shave pounds off without compromising quality. Best of all, this jacket is so small that you can roll it up and stuff it in your carry-on bag!

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Oceanic HERA

Specs

• Lift Capacity: 19 - 40 lbs
• Style: Jacket
• Dry Weight: 8 - 9 lbs

Features

• Adjustable Height (waist and chest straps that slide up and down to fit all heights)
• Metal D-rings (more durable than plastic)
• Mounting Grommets (to store accessories)

BEST FOR: REGULAR WEAR

If you’re a working dive professional or spend multiple days a month in the water, you’ll want a BCD that is comfortable, functional, and can take a beating. The Oceanic Hera features a supportive and well-cushioned fit perfect for regular use, plenty of storage for tools and accessories, and a nearly bulletproof design.

The Oceanic Hera is also a top pick for divers in cold or challenging conditions, thanks to its sturdy construction and high lift capacity. While this BCD is less compact than similar models, its extra bulk won’t bother you a bit. And, it’s one of the most stylish options available in a jacket style.

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Aqua Lung Pearl

Specs

• Lift Capacity: 23 - 44 lbs
• Style: Jacket
• Dry Weight: 8 lbs

Features

• Adjustable Height (waist and chest straps that slide up and down to fit all heights)
• Mounting Grommets (to store accessories)
• Flexible Backplate (for easy packing and storage)

BEST FOR: BEGINNERS

Are you new to diving? The Aqua Lung Pearl offers all the features that you’ll need to get started, and none that you won’t. Its sturdy and traditional design is easy to don and doff, and it won’t wear out after a little bit of newbie use and abuse. Two zippered pockets and grommets for mounting accessories make it easy to stow torches, knives, and signaling devices. And, this BCD’s flexible backplate makes storage and travel a breeze.

Whether you’re diving in warm or cool conditions, the Aqua Lung Pearl offers plenty of lift. So, you’ll feel safe and comfortable above and below water no matter how much weight you’re diving with. This jacket’s adjustable height straps and extra padding ensure that it won’t ride up or dig in, even while swimming on the surface or waiting for the boat.

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Zeagle Zena

Specs

• Lift Capacity: 31 lbs
• Style: Back Inflate
• Dry Weight: 6 lbs

Features

• Expandable Pockets
• Metal D-rings (more durable than plastic)
• Flexible Backplate (for easy packing and storage)
• Modular Design (interchangeable and replaceable pieces)

BEST FOR: CURVY GIRLS

This back inflating system was designed specifically for women and features female friendly perks that no other buoyancy device offers. Its unique front-zipping closure will accommodate even the bustiest of divers without digging in under the arms. And, separate adjustable waist and hip straps guarantee a custom fit, regardless of body type.

A lightweight and pared down design also makes this BCD well suited to dive travel. Small details like undersized D-rings and ultralight expanding pockets will help reduce the weight of your gear bag. Plus, a folding backplate makes the Zeagle Zena easy to roll up and shove into even the most jam-packed of suitcases.

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ScubaPro Ladyhawk

Specs

• Lift Capacity: 34 lbs
• Style: Back Inflate
• Dry Weight: 7 - 8 lbs

Features

• Expandable Pockets
• Metal D-rings (more durable than plastic)
• Flexible Backplate (for easy packing and storage)

BEST FOR: VERSATILITY

The ScubaPro Ladyhawk is one of the best-built BCD’s for women on the market. Its high lift capacity and oversized bladder will keep you safe and comfortable on the surface no matter how much weight you use, making it a top pick for divers in challenging conditions. Swiveling buckles and super adjustable straps fit all body types without digging in. And, it wins plenty of points for style.

Though hardly the most affordable option in its class, the ScubaPro Ladyhawk is worth every penny. High-quality details like stainless steel D-rings, metal zipper pulls, and welded seams are sure to outlast similar models. Its unique buckle-in weight system takes weight integration to a whole new level with no awkward plastic trays or snaps. Plus, roll out expandable pockets ensure that you’ll have plenty of space for all your underwater odds and ends.

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Scubapro Hydros Pro

Specs

• Lift Capacity: 36 - 40 lbs
• Style: Back Inflate
• Dry Weight: 8 - 9 lbs

Features

• Expandable Pockets
• Metal D-rings (more durable than plastic)
• Flexible Backplate (for easy packing and storage)
• Modular Design (interchangeable and replaceable pieces)

BEST FOR: DIVERS WHO ARE HARD ON THEIR GEAR

The ScubaPro Hydros doesn’t look like any other BCD on the market thanks to its innovative modular design. Nearly every piece of this back inflating system can be removed and replaced without ever visiting a service center. All those easy to change parts make this one of the most customizable buoyancy compensators available, and while it is one of the more expensive options, you’ll save a bundle on repairs in the future.

This is also one of the hardest wearing models available, thanks to its injection molded plastic parts and pieces. Its fabric-free Monoprene harness dries faster than any other design, and will never fray or tear. Though super lightweight, this system offers plenty of lift, too. And, the ability to add a crotch strap makes this setup one of the most secure feeling options around.

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Aqua Lung Soul i3

Specs

• Lift Capacity: 22 - 42 lbs
• Style: Jacket
• Dry Weight: 6 - 8 lbs

Features

• Adjustable Height (waist and chest straps that slide up and down to fit all heights)
• Mounting Grommets (to store accessories)
• Flexible Backplate (for easy packing and storage)

BEST FOR: PETITE DIVERS

Designed with female divers in mind, the Aqua Lung Soul i3 offers a super custom fit. Swiveling shoulder straps, an inward tilted harness, and an extra short backplate make this jacket-style BCD perfect for all body types, including women with small frames. This model won’t ride up on the surface or slide around on your back underwater. Plus, its short torso helps keep your center of gravity low, making this one of the most comfortable options available for shore diving and long walks with equipment.

The  Aqua Lung Soul i3 uses a unique one-touch design for inflation and deflation, eliminating the need for a traditional inflator hose. The lever, found at hip height, is simple and intuitive to use, though it does look a bit different than conventional models. Simply lift up to inflate, and push down to dump air from all the jacket’s vents simultaneously, no matter what position your body is in.

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Scubapro Bella

Specs

• Lift Capacity: 22 - 42 lbs
• Style: Jacket
• Dry Weight: 9 lbs

Features

• Adjustable Height (waist and chest straps that slide up and down to fit all heights)
• Metal D-rings (more durable than plastic)
• Mounting Grommets (to store accessories)

BEST FOR: DIVING IN COLD CONDITIONS

When it comes to diving in cold climates, you need a BCD that’s up to the challenge. This stable and comfortable jacket comes standard with extra accessory storage, an all-metal cam lock (for securing your BCD to the tank), and enough lift for divers in the coolest of conditions. Plus, its highly expandable straps will comfortably accommodate even the thickest of wetsuits or a dry suit.   

The ScubaPro Bella has a firm backplate with a built-in carrying handle, perfect for long hauls on land. And, it offers plenty of padding so you won’t feel those plastic parts and pieces digging in during your dive. Best of all, this BCD was built to last with welded seams, metal zippers and rings, and ScubaPro’s unique buckle-in integrated weight system.

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Dive Rite Transpac XT

Specs

• Lift Capacity: 35 lbs
• Style: Back Inflate
• Dry Weight: 5 lbs

Features

• Adjustable Height (waist and chest straps that slide up and down to fit all heights)
• Metal D-rings (more durable than plastic)
• Modular Design (interchangeable and replaceable pieces)

BEST FOR: CAVE, CAVERN, AND WRECK DIVERS

Unlike traditional BCDs, the Dive Rite Transpac XT is a harness and wing setup that requires setup and assembly at home. This type of buoyancy compensator is not for beginners and definitely takes some getting used to. But, if you’re diving in overhead environments, it’s one of the best options available.  

If you are looking for a truly custom fit, the Dive Rite Transpac XT won’t disappoint. Because this BCD uses webbing instead of a premade harness, it’s cut to your exact size. And, its super-streamlined wing sits flat on your back, promising the best trim possible while underwater. Plus, this setup works for single and double tanks and can accommodate more weight than a traditional buoyancy compensator. So, it’s perfect for a variety of advanced applications including technical diving.

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TUSA Jasmine

Specs

• Lift Capacity: 19 - 32 lbs
• Style: Jacket
• Dry Weight: 6 lbs

Features

• Adjustable Height (waist and chest straps that slide up and down to fit all heights)
• Metal D-rings (more durable than plastic)
• Mounting Grommets (to store accessories)

BEST FOR: BUDGET

Budget shoppers rejoice! The Tusa Jasmine has all the features you want in a BCD, but it’s still basic enough for beginners, and it won’t break the bank. This jacket is supportive and comfortable both above and below water thanks to its firm backplate with plenty of padding. And, its straightforward and stylish design doesn’t look like it came from the bargain bin.

This sturdy wraparound jacket offers plenty of lift and more storage than similar models, so it’s a top pick for divers in cool climates. And, while the Tusa Jasmine isn’t a super compact model, it is still lightweight enough for dive travel.

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THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A WOMEN’S BCD

The right buoyancy compensator should fit well and feel totally comfortable both above and below water. But, that is hard to accomplish with a unisex BCD. Standard models are made to fit men, so their designs don’t always work for women’s height, body shape, and weight distribution. That’s why it’s important to consider the design of the BCD you’re considering purchasing before making your final decision. Check out these considerations before buying your women’s-specific BCD to make sure you get the right one for you!

STYLE

BCD’s come in two main styles: jacket and back flotation (AKA back inflate).

Jacket style BCDs, named for their appearance, are the most common models on the market. Most divers are trained using this type of buoyancy device, and they are a popular pick for rental equipment, too. Jacket styles are easy to don and doff, as they slide over the shoulders just like a winter coat. And, they are the most stable and comfortable style on the surface because they push your head and shoulders well above water.

Back flotation BCDs aren’t quite as popular as jackets. But, that doesn’t mean they aren’t awesome. These styles tend to be quite compact and travel-friendly, as their bladders are easier to roll up. Many experienced divers find back flotation BCDs more comfortable and “free” feeling than their bulkier counterparts. This style offers excellent trim and streamlining underwater too, so it’s perfect for divers who are interested in exploring overhead environments like caves and shipwrecks.

FIT

When it comes to shopping for dive gear, fit is always the most important factor. BCDs designed for women fit differently thanks to their higher chest and waist straps, inward angled shoulder harness, shorter backplate, and extra padding.

But, buying a women’s BCD doesn’t guarantee a good fit. You should still try your gear on before buying it whenever possible. When full, your BCD should fit snugly without squeezing or pinching. And, when empty it shouldn’t slide around on your shoulders or waist. You’ll want plenty of room for adjustment in all your straps and buckles, especially if you plan on diving in cold water or using a dry suit.

DIVING CONDITIONS

Where in the world you’ll be diving is a major factor when shopping for a BCD. If you’re diving in cold water or rough surface conditions, you’ll want plenty of lift. Dive travel, especially in warm water climates calls for lighter weight gear. And, if you’re working in the water or diving daily, you’ll want plenty of room for storing accessories and tools.

Overhead environments and technical diving may require specialized equipment. If you plan to take on these challenging conditions, choose a BCD that is versatile enough for reef diving as well as more advanced experiences.

LIFT

Lift describes how much weight your BCD can offset. If you dive with a lot of lead or in cold climates, you’ll want to choose a style that is up to the challenge. A BCD that can’t lift enough won’t hold your head and shoulders high above water when you’re on the surface. And, it can create problems when controlling your buoyancy below water, especially if you are diving with a large amount of weight. If you aren’t sure how much lift you need, your best bet is to overestimate.

DRY WEIGHT

How much your BCD weighs dry is a major consideration when it comes to dive travel. Depending on what gear you own, this may be the heaviest object in your bag! For divers who travel frequently, models that are lightweight and have a flexible backplate are best.

Your BCD’s dry weight can also affect how much weight you need while diving. If you dive with very little weight to begin with, a heavy buoyancy compensator might cause you to feel overweighted, and reduce the amount of lead that you need to use in the water.

Don’t forget that extra features like thick cushioning, metal zippers, and steel D-rings add weight to your BCD. If you are looking to reduce your gear’s overall weight, select a minimalist design or a model rated for dive travel.

FEATURES EXPLAINED

ADJUSTABLE HEIGHT

Some BCDs allow you to move their chest and waist straps up and down to accommodate a shorter torso. This is especially helpful for petite divers who often find their buoyancy compensator’s strap placement too high. Adjusting these straps can keep your gear from riding up on the surface and help you maintain a high center of gravity which is important for proper trim while underwater. A high center of gravity is also vital for shore divers or anyone who carries their gear over long distances on land. Carrying weight too low on your back can cause muscle strain or even injury.

EXPANDABLE POCKETS

Most divers like to carry a few accessories like a knife, torch, and SMB (surface marker buoy) in the pockets of their BCD. While most standard styles include at least one closing pocket, you’ll probably want a bit more storage. Expandable or rollout pockets stow away inside your BCD when you don’t need them and are easy to pull out and expand when you do.

METAL D-RINGS

When it comes to storing accessories, D-rings are some of the most useful attachment points on your BCD. Choosing a model with metal rings over plastic will keep you from losing important equipment underwater. This might add a bit of weight to your gear but is well worth it if you are carrying a dive compass, knife, torch, or other valuable items.

MOUNTING GROMMETS

Some BCDs include mounting grommets for attaching accessories to the outside of your equipment. These are especially handy for storing dive knives and cutting tools, or other small items that you don’t want rattling around in your pockets.

FLEXIBLE BACKPLATE

A flexible back plate instead of hard plastic backing inside your BCD is often associated with dive travel. But, many divers find this style far more comfortable for regular use, especially women. While a plastic backplate with a carrying handle might be convenient, it can also cause discomfort while diving. If you have a curvy figure or are prone to your buoyancy compensator’s plastic pieces digging into your back and sides, look for a folding backplate with plenty of padding.

MODULAR DESIGN

Some BCDs are made of modular pieces, making their parts much easier to change and replace. Most models featuring modular design are back inflating systems with interchangeable straps and panels. One major advantage of this feature is the ability to create a truly custom fit. Modular styles are also very long-lasting because they are so easy to service and repair.

The post Best BCDs for Women of 2022 appeared first on The Adventure Junkies.

Fit and comfort are the most important factors when it comes to scuba wetsuits, and as a woman, finding your perfect cut can be complicated. Suits are engineered for a variety of diving environments and use many different materials and stitching techniques.

We’re making it easy for you to pick the perfect wetsuit for your diving conditions, with these options designed with a woman’s shape in mind. It’s time to break up with those pee-scented rentals for good with reliable new exposure protection that will keep you warm in the water for years to come.

For more of our top scuba gear recommendations, check out the Best Wetsuits for Men. 

Reviews - The Best Women's Scuba Diving Wetsuits

Aqua Lung HydroFlex

Specs

• Seams: Flatlock
• Thickness: 3 mm

BEST FOR: TRAVEL

PROS: Comfortable super-stretch neoprene, heavy duty zipper, stylish design, flexible and easy to pack

CONS:No wrist or ankle zippers, seams are not glued, designed for warm water use only

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Bare Evoke

Specs

• Seams: Blindstitch
• Thickness: 3, 5, 7 mm

BEST FOR: A VARIETY OF BODY TYPES

PROS: Designed for women by women, uses infrared technology to keep you warm, good fit for petite to plus size

CONS: Scratchy interior seams, buoyant fabric may require extra weight, more expensive than similar suits

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Aqua Lung SolAfx

Specs

• Seams: Blindstitch
• Thickness: 8/7 mm

BEST FOR: VERY COLD CONDITIONS

PROS: Liquid fused seams for better insulation, comfortable padded spine, attached hood with vents, good for deep and technical diving

CONS: Sizes run slightly large, no pockets for tech gear, slow drying material

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BARE Elastek

Specs

• Seams: Blindstitch
• Thickness: 7 mm

BEST FOR: LAYERING IN COLD CLIMATES

PROS: Taped seams for a comfortable flat fit, abrasion resistant elbows and knees, flexible design for added mobility

CONS: Less insulation than similar suits, can be difficult to put on thanks to the short back zipper, sizes run slightly small

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Cressi Tortuga

Specs

• Seams: Blindstitch
• Thickness: 2.5 mm

BEST FOR: DIVERS WHO PREFER A SHORTY

PROS: Affordable, easy packing for holiday divers, flexible material that fits well and offers a full range of motion

CONS: Limited abrasion protection, lower quality zipper than similar suits, only suitable for very warm water

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Pinnacle Shadow 2

Specs

• Seams: Flatlock
• Thickness: 1.5 mm

BEST FOR: LAYERING

PROS: 100% UV protection, perfect for layering under a full or short suit, snag-resistant nylon exterior for added durability

CONS: Limited padding in knees and elbows, small Velcro hold down for zipper, more expensive than similar skin suits

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NeoSport XSPAN

Specs

• Seams: Blindstitch
• Thickness: 1.5, 3, 5, 7 mm

BEST FOR: USE IN A VARIETY OF CONDITIONS

PROS: Versatile and suitable for most warm water conditions, more affordable than similar suits, rolled edges create excellent wrist and ankle seals

CONS: Velcro neck closure can cause pilling, little additional padding in the knees and elbows, sizes run large

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Henderson Thermoprene

Specs

• Seams: Blindstitch
• Thickness: 3, 5, 7 mm

BEST FOR: BEGINNER DIVERS

PROS: More flexible material than similar suits, fabric is highly breathable above water, multiple options for zipper location, comes in short and tall specialty sizes

CONS: Limited reinforcement in the knees and elbows, lycra trimmed edges tear easily, weighs more than similar suits

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Cressi Bahia

Specs

• Seams: Flatlock
• Thickness: 2.5 mm

BEST FOR: DIVERS WITH LIMITED MOBILITY

PROS: The front zipper makes this suit ultra easy to put on and take off, offers more freedom of movement than similar suits, good value for price

CONS: Low collar allows some water to enter the suit, external stitching is prone to snags, for warm water use only

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HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST SCUBA DIVING WETSUITS FOR WOMEN

DESIGNED FOR DIVING

Not all wetsuits are created equal. While any type can keep you warm in the water, it might not actually be the best choice for diving.

Suits for surfing and other water sports are not intended to compress at depth and can alter your buoyancy. They also tend to stretch more, insulate less and withstand different levels of wear and tear.

THICKNESS

Some women report chilling faster than men, even in the same underwater environment. Choosing the right wetsuit thickness will keep you comfortable throughout your dive.

Generally, wetsuits come in 3-, 5- and 7-millimeter neoprene. Some suits are designed for very warm water or to be used as a base layer. These are also available in 1- and 2-millimeter versions.

Many wetsuits are designed with extra insulation for your core. When you see thickness represented with two numbers, the first number is the thickness of the torso. The second is the thickness of the arms and legs.

While all scuba divers experience cold differently, these basic guidelines can help you select the suit thickness best for you.

• 3 mm: 70 – 85° F (21 – 28° C)
• 5 mm: 60 – 75° F (16 – 20° C)
• 7 mm: 50 – 70° F (10 – 20° C)

If you plan on diving in water colder than this, you’ll need a drysuit. For more information on cold water exposure suits and accessories, check out our packing list for cold water diving.

When unsure, you should always err on the side of more protection. Also, consider buying several wetsuits if you dive in a variety of conditions.

MATERIALS

Scuba diving wetsuits are generally constructed from open or closed cell neoprene and lycra.

LYCRA

Lycra skin suits offer minimal protection and are great for tropical diving. While they don’t provide much warmth, lycra suits do protect your skin from the sun, stings and underwater abrasions. They also serve as excellent base layers to wear under thicker wetsuits.

CLOSED CELL NEOPRENE

Closed cell neoprene wetsuits are the most popular. They are also used for rental equipment. They are rigid, can maintain their shape and have a rubbery feel.

A closed cell suit will be your most cost effective and long lasting option, but they do have a few downsides. They are less flexible and insulating than their open cell counterparts.

OPEN CELL NEOPRENE

Open cell wetsuits are the highest quality and most comfortable option on the market. They are softer and more flexible than closed cell suits, making them easier to put on and take off. They also conform to your body, providing better insulation. This is especially important for women who dive.

A good open cell wetsuit protects your core, reduces chafing and skin irritation, and enhances your range of motion.

SEAMS

The difference between stitches used for scuba diving wetsuits is simple. Smaller stitches and fewer holes in the neoprene mean less wind and water penetrating your suit. The better your seams are stitched, while the warmer you will stay during your dive.

OVERLOCK STITCH

An overlock stitch is obvious, thanks to its bulky seams inside the suit. This is a common style for rental equipment because it is strong and rigid. Suitable for warm water only, this construction is affordable and durable, but less insulating than other options.

FLATLOCK STITCH

Easily seen from the outside of the suit, the flatlock stitch looks like railroad tracks. This is a more comfortable option with its flat interior seam, which reduces chafing and improves flexibility. These seams are still not watertight and perform best in warm and temperate water.

BLINDSTITCH

Designed for cold water, the blindstitch comes in several versions varying in warmth, and flexibility. Like the flat stitch, but narrower, these seams are either taped or glued then stitched. This helps prevent cold water entering the suit making it suitable for use in low temperatures.

Zippers are also weak points where water can enter your wetsuit. The best quality suits use metal zippers instead of plastic and back them with extra neoprene. These added details are important when diving in cold conditions.

SIZE

The right fit is the most important aspect to consider when buying your wetsuit. An ill-fitting suit may flush, leak, or limit your mobility. Sizes vary between manufacturers, so be sure to check a size chart before buying. Shop for your body type, or better yet try the suit on in person.

Your wetsuit should fit close to the skin, with no sagging of excessive bunching. Remember, only a thin layer of water should fit between your body and your suit. Some women wear a rash guard or lycra suit underneath for extra skin protection.

When trying on your suit, be sure that you can lift your arms and stretch your shoulders. You should also be able to squat down as if to pick something up. All zippers should stay in place, and you should feel no major restriction in motion. For additional tips and tricks, check out our guide – how should a wetsuit fit.

BUDGET

Your scuba diving wetsuit is a long term investment. While price is always a factor in purchasing equipment, you should focus on comfort and fit first. Consider what environment you’ll be using the suit in, and what quality you will need to stay safe and warm while diving.

Prices vary based on a suit’s thickness, seam construction, and special features. You can expect to spend $200 to $400 for a high-quality wetsuit but remember that with proper care, this piece of equipment will last for many years.

Also, be sure to factor accessories into your budget. You may want to buy extra exposure protection such as a hood, gloves, a rash guard, and boots.

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