Gear Reviews: Wetsuits vs. Rashguards — What To Wear in Tropical Dives

Warm tropical waters still present choices: full/short wetsuits for thermal protection or rashguards for UV and abrasion safety. Here’s how to decide.

Rashguards (advantages)

• Lightweight and quick-drying.
• Protect skin from sun, jelly contact, and minor scrapes.
• Ideal where water temps are >26–28°C.

Wetsuits (advantages)

• Provide thermal insulation and buoyancy.
• Shorties (2–3mm) are popular in tropical dive centers for early morning dives or boats with wind chill.
• Fullsuit (3–5mm) for slightly cooler conditions or long-duration dives.

Practical tips

• Use a thin wetsuit (2–3mm) if early morning or seasonal temps cool the water.
• Match suit thickness to your personal cold tolerance rather than strictly to ambient temps.
• Rinse suits with fresh water and hang in shade to prolong life.

Travel advice

Rashguards fold small and are convenient for travel; shorty wetsuits take more space but add comfort when mornings are chilly. Many divers keep both options on hand.

Choosing the right skin-protection improves your comfort and extends your diving day. If in doubt, rent locally first to see what works for your body and the local conditions.