Embarking on a scuba diving adventure in the mesmerizing waters of Riviera Maya, Mexico, is a dream come true for water enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.
But before you take the plunge into the captivating marine wonderland, it’s essential to unlock the secrets to scuba comfort and protection by choosing the perfect attire to wear under your wetsuit.
Let’s delve into this comprehensive guide that covers everything you need to know about what to wear under a wetsuit!
The Importance of Proper Undergarments
When deciding what to wear for scuba diving, it’s essential to consider the environment and water temperature. Here are some factors to take into account:
1. Water Temperature: The water temperature will dictate the thickness of the wetsuit you need. Warmer waters may require only lycra rash guards or a bathing suit, while in colder waters you may need thermal base layers.
2. Hygiene: Renting a wetsuit means it has been worn by others before you. At DivePoint, we obviously clean and sanitize all of our wetsuits between dives, but wearing swimwear under your wetsuit gives you additional peace of mind.
3. Comfort and Chafing: Wetsuits can cause chafing in areas with a lot of movement, like the neck and armpits. Wearing a rash guard, or using some chafing creams can help prevent this.
4. Layering for Extra Warmth: In colder temperatures, adding thin layers underneath your wetsuit can provide additional insulation without the need for a thicker, potentially more restrictive wetsuit.
5. UV Protection and Defense: Some swimwear offers UV protection. Additionally, they can provide extra protection against scrapes, stings, cuts, and bites.
6. Changing Convenience: Taking off your wetsuit in public places can be challenging, and often there are no changing facilities – especially on the beach! Wearing a swimsuit underneath your wetsuit can help avoid any decency concerns and simplify changing.
What to Wear Under a Wetsuit for Women
It’s time to prioritize comfort and practicality over fashion-forward choices. While a swimsuit or bikini under your wetsuit is the norm, not all designs are suitable for the underwater world of diving. That is, unless you want to risk showing a little too much skin to your dive buddies.
Say goodbye to flimsy string bikinis and strapless options! Instead, opt for swimwear designs that offer a secure fit to avoid readjusting during dives. Consider high-quality, quick-drying materials that won’t cause discomfort when layered with the wetsuit.
Suitable Swimwear Options for Women
One-Piece Swimsuits
Dive into the trend of one-piece swimsuits for scuba diving! One-piece swimsuits are a popular choice for scuba diving under a wetsuit. They provide full coverage and reduce the risk of shifting or riding up during dives. Look for designs with secure straps and a snug fit to ensure the swimsuit stays in place throughout your underwater adventure.
High-Neck Bikinis
For those who prefer a two-piece, opt for high-neck bikinis. They offer better coverage and stability, ensuring you stay comfortable and confident during your underwater escapades.
Swimwear to Avoid
String Bikinis
As much as they may dazzle on the beach, string bikinis and scuba diving don’t mix well. Thin strings can lead to discomfort or unwanted wardrobe malfunctions. Especially between dives, when you might wish to slip your wetsuit down to your waist, there’s many a female diver been caught out and not had her string bikini top positioned where it should have been. Choose security over style for this adventure!
Strapless Bikinis
Strapless bikinis might look chic, but they lack the support needed for active movements during scuba diving. Without secure straps, there is a higher chance of the bikini slipping down or shifting uncomfortably under the wetsuit.
Rash Guards for Scuba Diving
A rash guard is like a swimming t-shirt, that is typically made from a lightweight, quick-drying fabric. The primary purpose of a rash guard is to shield your skin from potential irritation caused by the rubbing of the wetsuit’s neoprene material.
Rash guards and dive skins are a great defense against potential skin irritation. They also provide protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays, without the need for sunscreen, which can often be damaging to the reefs we dive in.
By choosing a long-sleeved rash guard, you’ll be shielded from the rubbing of the wetsuit’s neoprene material, as well as sunburn during those surface intervals on the dive boat. Plus, they make donning the wetsuit easier too.
What to Wear Under a Wetsuit for Men
Male divers can opt for swim trunks as their base layer. When selecting swim trunks, it’s essential to choose ones with a tight and streamlined fit. Tight-fitting swim trunks are less likely to bunch up or create uncomfortable friction under the wetsuit, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable dive.
Baggy board shorts may be a favorite on the beach, but underwater, they can be awkward to fit under a tight-fitting wetsuit and may lead to bunching and discomfort during your dive.
Full Body Skin Suits
Full body dive skin suits are a fantastic option for both women and men when considering what to wear under a wetsuit for scuba diving in Riviera Maya.
These skin-tight, one-piece suits provide comprehensive coverage, minimizing potential skin irritation and chafing (wetsuit rash) caused by the wetsuit’s neoprene material. They also make it much easier to slip on a wetsuit in the first place! Dive skin suits are typically made from lightweight, quick-drying swimsuit fabrics, designed for the water.
Additionally, their snug fit ensures they stay in place during dives, eliminating the need for frequent adjustments. The full body coverage of these suits also offers protection against the sun’s harmful UV rays, making them an excellent choice for extended periods of time spent exploring the underwater world. Dive skin suits are available in various stylish designs and colors, allowing divers to express their individuality while maintaining practicality during their scuba adventures.
Additional Scuba 
Gear Considerations
Prepare yourself for the elements with some essential accessories. When the water’s chilly, a neoprene hood will keep your head warm, ensuring comfort during extended dives. Neoprene socks come to the rescue, keeping your feet toasty and blisters at bay, especially when using full-foot fins.
However, be mindful that some reefs in Riviera Maya might not allow gloves to preserve the delicate marine environment, so respect the rules and leave them behind when necessary.
Considerations for Water Temperatures
Dress smartly based on the water temperature. In warmer waters, lighter undergarments will suffice. For cooler temperatures or extended dives, layer up with thicker options to maintain your warmth throughout the adventure.
Check out this blog for more info about best wetsuits for different temperatures.
Fitting and Sizing: Finding the Perfect Wetsuit Fit
Before you make your final choices, ensure a snug yet comfortable fit when trying on undergarments with your wetsuit. Avoid clothing that is too tight, as it may constrict blood flow and lead to discomfort during extended dives.
Similarly, excessively loose undergarments can create air pockets, reducing the effectiveness of your wetsuit’s insulation.
Now You Know What To Wear Under A Wetsuit
As you gear up for your scuba diving adventure in Riviera Maya, remember that choosing what you wear under your wetsuit is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Prioritize comfort, fit, and security, so you can focus on the underwater beauty of Riviera Maya without any distractions.
Come diving with us, to the oceans and cenotes of the Riviera Maya soon!
Happy diving!
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