A shorty wetsuit which is also known as ‘shorties’, is a type of wetsuit that covers the torso with short sleeves for both the arms and legs. Divers frequently ask when they should choose a shorty wetsuit over a full-body one. Let’s know the answer here in this article.

When to Choose a Shorty Wetsuit

The primary reason for wearing a wetsuit is trying to preserve the heat of a diver’s body thanks to its ability to trap a layer of water against the skin that is warmed by the body temperature and serves as an insulator.

These wetsuits are also made from a material of foam neoprene that can trap air bubbles in the fabric and as a result of that a layer of water can be trapped. So, the question is Won’t a full-body wetsuit insulate better than a shorty wetsuit?

What are Shorty Wetsuits Good for?

Shorty wetsuits are the best option for warmer water conditions, as it provides a balance between protecting your body from the sun and insulating you in mild cool waters.

With shorties, you have freedom of movement which make it completely suitable for some activities, such as paddleboarding or snorkeling in moderate temperatures.

Can You Wear a Shorty Wetsuit in Winter?

The recommended temperature for wearing a shorty wetsuit having a thickness of 2mm is around 19°C.

Shorty Wetsuit vs Full-body Wetsuit

A full-body wetsuit, without doubt, can insulate your body better than a shorty wetsuit. Shorties are considered a good choice for warmer waters in which you should be flexible in your movement with almost no need for thermal insulation.

A shorty wetsuit is the best option for water with 72F (22C), as it can provide your body with sufficient insulation and allow you to stay in the water longer.

Wearing shorties is considered easy compared to full-body wetsuits. Those who prefer board shorts will find it easier to switch to shorty wetsuits due to the simplicity to put it on and take it off. The ease of wearing along with the flexibility in limb movement is considered one of the advantages of the shorty wetsuit.

However, There is a continuous debate about the fact that shorty wetsuits provide less protection to divers’ arms and legs from the stings of bumps, jelly fish, and scrapes.

Scuba divers who prefer shorties will disagree, and affirms the benefits of shorties (such as, having a lightweight wetsuit coupled with the ease in package and the ease of wear) make it covers the need for the greater protection which the full-body wetsuit can provide.

Is a Shorty Wetsuit Worth it?

A 1-2mm Shorty Wetsuit is considered a great option to protect you from windchill on early mornings of summer and also provides UV protection.

Shorties are available in a collection of long-sleeves, sleeveless, short-sleeves, short legged, and full-legged styles. In case of hot weather, board shorts and a neoprene top or rash vest can be a good alternative.

Conclusion

In the end, there are two simple factors by which you can choose to wear a shorty wetsuit, the temperature of the water and personal preference.

If you usually choose dive spots with warm climes and find putting in and taking off a wetsuit is a difficult thing, you may need a pair of shorties to be included in your scuba diving equipment, that can offer a far better insulation in addition to improved buoyancy instead of not wearing anything.