7 Questions to Ask Before Buying Your Next Wetsuit

Your wetsuit is your second skin. It’s the barrier that keeps you comfortable, protects you from the environment, and—most importantly—allows you to extend your bottom time by preventing the shivers. But walk into any dive shop or browse an online store, and you’ll find a bewildering array of thicknesses, materials, and price points.

At Paragon Dive Store, we know that the "best" wetsuit isn't necessarily the most expensive one; it’s the one that fits your specific body and your specific diving goals. Whether you’re preparing for a weekend trip to San Carlos or boarding a liveaboard for a tropical getaway, asking the right questions before you swipe your card will ensure you aren't left out in the cold.

Here are seven essential questions you should ask to find the perfect wetsuit for your next adventure.

1. What is the Primary Water Temperature I’ll Be Diving In?

This is the foundation of your choice. Wetsuits work by trapping a thin layer of water against your skin, which your body then heats. The thicker the neoprene, the more insulation you have.

• 2mm - 3mm: Ideal for true tropical diving (78°F+).
• 5mm: The "Goldilocks" thickness for many divers. It’s perfect for the Sea of Cortez and temperate ocean environments.
• 7mm: Necessary for colder water (60°F–70°F).

2. Is the Fit "Handshake Snug" or "Tourniquet Tight"?

Fit is the single most important factor in a wetsuit's performance. If a suit is too loose, water will "flush" through it, constantly replacing the warm water with new, cold water.

When trying on a suit, look for air pockets in the small of your back and ensure you have a full range of motion to reach your valves or adjust your gear.

3. What Kind of Seam Construction Does It Have?

How the pieces of neoprene are joined together tells you a lot about the suit’s warmth:

• Flatlock: Comfortable but allows some water seepage. Best for warm water.
• Glued and Blindstitched (GBS): Creates a nearly watertight seam. Great for 5mm suits.
• Liquid Taped/Sealed Seams: The gold standard for maximum warmth and durability.

4. Is it Standard Neoprene or "Ultra-Stretch"?

Modern "Ultra-stretch" neoprene is far more flexible, making it much easier to put on and take off. This is a huge benefit when you're doing multiple dives a day on a boat.

Shop Our Collection of Wetsuits at Paragon!

5. Front Zip or Back Zip?

Back zips are classic and easy to get into, while front zips often provide a better seal around the neck and more flexibility across the back. Try both to see which feels more natural for your reach.

6. Does it Have Thermal Internal Lining?

Many high-end 5mm and 7mm suits feature a fuzzy, fleece-like internal lining. This reflects body heat and dries much faster between dives—a lifesaver on that second morning dive!

7. How Does it Integrate with My Other Gear?

Check if the ankle zippers accommodate your boots and if the wrist seals work well with your dive computer (like your Shearwater). Consider how the suit pairs with a hooded vest for those cooler deep dives.

The Paragon Conclusion

Buying a wetsuit is a commitment to your future comfort. At Paragon Dive Store, we carry a wide range of suits designed to handle everything from tropical reefs to cool deep-water sites. Stop by our Tucson store to try on a few models and make sure you get the best fit today!