What Wetsuit Should You Use for Freediving in Hawaii?

Hawaii’s water may feel warm at first, but freedivers spend long periods moving slowly, resting at the surface and completing repeated dives. A wetsuit helps with warmth, sun protection, minor abrasion protection and comfort.

The best wetsuit depends on the season, weather, session length, personal cold tolerance and type of training.

Thickness

Many divers in Hawaii use a thin full-length wetsuit, but there is no single thickness that is right for everyone.

A diver who gets cold easily or is spending several hours in the water may need more insulation than someone completing a short, active session. Wind and surface conditions can also make a diver feel colder between dives.

Confirm the expected conditions and recommended thickness before purchasing or renting a suit.

Fit matters

A wetsuit should fit closely without restricting comfortable breathing or movement.

Loose areas allow water to circulate and reduce warmth. A suit that is excessively tight around the neck, chest or shoulders can make breathing and relaxation uncomfortable.

Freediving-specific suits are designed for flexibility and warmth, but a suitable full-length surfing or diving wetsuit may work for introductory training when approved by the instructor.

Buoyancy and weights

Wetsuits add buoyancy. Thicker suits generally require more weight, but weighting must be selected carefully.

Do not copy another diver’s weight setup. Correct weighting depends on the wetsuit, body composition, water type and planned depth. Your instructor should help determine an appropriate configuration.

Full-length protection

A full-length suit provides more protection from sun exposure, boat contact, lines and minor contact with the environment.

For the Creative Photo Session, a full wetsuit is required.

Before your course

Check the individual course page to see what equipment is supplied. If you need to rent a wetsuit, arrange it before the morning of the course so there is time to confirm the fit.

Do not buy an expensive freediving suit solely from an online size chart if you are uncertain about the fit. Contact Mitch at [email protected] for course-specific guidance.

Compare the available freediving courses on Oahu and review the equipment FAQ before booking.