What to Wear Under Your Wetsuit: Divers, SURFERS, and SNORKELERS
Agreed, choosing what to wear under your wetsuit seems like a small thing, but it makes a huge difference for comfort, warmth, and the whole experience.
After decades running Swahili Divers – East Africa's leading dive center right here in Pemba Island – I can tell you it's one of the most common questions I get. Even the most experienced divers can still sometimes feel confused about what to wear under a wetsuit for a dive trip.
Personally, a rash guard is my go-to. I'm not the slimmest guy, and it helps avoid that awkward wetsuit-on-bare-skin feeling, plus prevents chafing in the tropical heat. But the "right" answer really depends on where you're headed into the water.
In this guide, I’ll go over all the possible options you can wear under your wetsuit when diving, snorkeling or surfing in different waters and regions.
Let's break it all down.
Why You Need To Wear Something Under Your WetSuit?
Key thing to get your head around: wetsuits don't keep you dry. They trap a thin layer of water next to your skin, and your body warms that water up. That’s what keeps you warm when you go diving, snorkeling or surfing.
A good wetsuit fit is crucial, and so is the right undergarment choice.
What to Wear Under a Wetsuit: Options for Every Situation
Warm Water: Here in the tropical islands of East Africa, options are open.
Swimsuit: Classic choice, gives you freedom of movement.
Rash Guard: Protects from the sun and prevents chafing from the wetsuit itself. Thin material dries fast.
Dive Skin: Full-body suit, usually Lycra. Makes getting a wetsuit on/off a breeze, and still offers some sun and sting protection.
Nothing: Perfectly fine, but a wetsuit getting on bare skin can be less comfortable – depends on the person.
Cold Water: It's all about layering to trap warmth.
Rash Guard: Base layer for protection even in cold conditions.
Dive Skin: Same idea as in warm water, adds that bit of extra insulation.
Thermal Layers: Fleece or specialized dive thermals go on top, thickness depends on the water temperature.
Rental Wetsuits: Hygiene is king here:
Swimsuit, Rash Guard, or Dive Skin are a must. If it's colder, add thin thermals underneath. I see a lot of beginners try to skip this, and they regret it. Trust me, you don't want to think about what's been in that suit before you!
Learn how to pick the right wetsuit for your size and dives from our wetsuit thickness guide and temperature chart.
What Else Do You Consider When Choosing What to Wear Under Your WetSuit?
Your wetsuit will make or break your dive. It is such an important dive equipment that you must be careful how you wear it.
Comfort: Seams on your underwear will become torture points under a wetsuit. Go seamless, or with flatlock seams on rash guards. Tight stuff restricts movement – not ideal underwater.
Ease of Donning/Doffing: Anyone who's wrestled with a wetsuit knows the struggle. A dive skin is a lifesaver, especially if you're like me and not the most flexible person.
Personal Preferences: Some folks feel more comfortable with an extra layer even when it's not strictly needed for warmth. It's all about what works for you.
What NOT to Wear Under a Wetsuit
I’d avoid these particular clothing types when wearing a wetsuit for a dive or surf…
Bulky Clothing: Sweatshirts, jeans... yeah, don't do it. Ruins your wetsuit's fit, which messes up how it keeps you warm, plus you can't move properly.
Cotton: Holds water, gets cold, and takes ages to dry. It does the opposite of what a wetsuit is supposed to.
Wetsuit Care & Cleaning
A clean wetsuit is a happy wetsuit, and it'll last you way longer.
Why Cleaning Matters? Salt, sand, and let's be real, sometimes pee, all build up. That makes it smelly and breaks down the neoprene over time.
How to Wash a Wetsuit
Rinse, rinse, rinse: Freshwater after every use. Hang it inside-out to dry fully.
Special Soap: Every so often, use wetsuit shampoo designed to be gentle on neoprene.
Drying: Out of direct sunlight, that'll damage it. Proper hanging is key - a chunky hanger prevents shoulder creases.
"We enjoyed some wonderful dives with Swahili Divers during our holidays in Pemba this July/August. Mike and the team are very professional, and always ready to support and find solutions. The dive sites are very diverse and can be used for junior open water divers up to very experienced ones. That means shallow water to super nice wall dives. Thanks for the wonderful time with you!! "
Regards, Nicole & Patrick and the 3 kids;-)
Looking for new dive experiences at thrilling locations that will guarantee awe and excitement? Come dive with our groups on Pemba Island, Zanzibar. Get in touch with us to learn more about our group dives.
FAQs About Wetsuit Undergarments
Should I go commando under my wetsuit?
That's a personal choice. Hygiene-wise, it's usually fine, especially in your own suit. Just rinse well! If you're prone to chafing, a base layer might be wise.
Can I wear boardshorts under a wetsuit?
You can, but they tend to bunch up uncomfortably. Opt for tight-fitting, specific dive shorts instead, or skip them.
What kind of underwear is best with a wetsuit?
Breathable, quick-drying fabrics are your friend.
"We had a great time!Came here for the snorkeling. We were dropped with our guide at great locations for snorkeling rather than wherever the divers were going. Recommend for snorkeling! The staff, especially Mike, were so helpful and couldn't do enough for us."
Hannah, United Kingdom
"We enjoyed some wonderful dives with Swahili Divers during our holidays in Pemba this July/August. Mike and the team are very professional, and always ready to support and find solutions. The dive sites are very diverse and can be used for junior open water divers up to very experienced ones. That means shallow water to super nice wall dives. Thanks for the wonderful time with you!! "
Regards, Nicole & Patrick and the 3 kids;-)
