Master Cold Water Dives: 5 Essentials for Every Drysuit Diver

The drysuit is only the start. Cold water diving rewards divers who prepare for the small things: warm hands, a dry neck, a reliable gas supply. These five items earn their place in every cold water kit bag.

1. Proper undergarments

Your undergarment does the actual insulating. Choose a breathable, wicking base layer and a thicker mid-layer, and adjust to the water temperature. Cotton is a poor choice because it holds moisture.

2. Gloves or dry gloves

Hands lose heat quickly and cold fingers make it hard to work your gear. Thick neoprene gloves are simple and affordable. Dry-glove systems keep hands completely dry and are popular for very cold water, though they add cost and need practice.

3. A good hood

A large share of heat is lost through the head. A well-fitting hood with a snug face seal makes an immediate difference in comfort. Look for a design that matches your mask shape.

4. Regulators rated for cold water

Very cold water can cause some regulators to free-flow. Check the manufacturer’s specification and look for designs marked as suitable for cold water use, especially if you dive below about 10 °C. See our regulators for options.

5. Redundancy you trust

Cold water and low visibility reward a backup plan: a spare mask, a cutting tool, a backup light, and a surface marker buoy. Redundancy is not paranoia, it is part of diving well.

Final tip: care for the seals

Latex or silicone neck and wrist seals perish if neglected. Rinse, dry and store them properly, and carry spares. A small repair kit is cheap insurance.

Explore our cold water range in Diving Equipment.