How Wetsuits Protect You from the Cold

Posted on June 18, 2009
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A wetsuit is truly a very helpful invention in the world of water sports as well as other activities that deal with waters. Exposure to cold temperatures especially when you are submerged in water can be risky and may lead you to a fatal condition called hypothermia.

The risk of hypothermia is greater in the water than in land, thus whatever water sport you are into, may it be surfing or triathlon, it is important always to think of safety. Especially if you are submerged in water for long such as in scuba diving and snorkeling, it is always advisable to wear your wetsuit.

A wetsuit is a flexible garment that is worn snugly on the body. It comes in different styles from a full body suit or a sleeveless full body suit or a vest. The style usually depends on body coverage you need and of course the water temperature.

The rubber material that makes up a wetsuit is waterproofed, but the wetsuit is designed with openings on the neck the arms and the legs that allow water to get into the suit when you submerge in water. However, this is designed to allow only a small quantity of water. Large amounts of water coming into the suit can lead to fast depletion of body heat, thus it is important that other parts of the wetsuit do not allow entry or exit of water. This is why wetsuit seams should be carefully stitched or glued.

The very minimal water trapped in between the suit and your body will then prevent the loss of heat from your body. It is important that you choose a wetsuit that fits you well and snugly fits your body to make sure you have a wetsuit that will effectively work to protect you.

Aside from the warmth, wetsuits also tend to add buoyancy when you are in the water. This allows you to easily float in water and, of course, swim faster.

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