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How Do I Stay Warm in a Wetsuit?
Whether you’re diving through thermoclines in the Galapagos or snorkelling in breezy Atlantic waters, staying warm can make all the difference between a great dive and a short one. At fourth element, we’re all about helping you stay comfortable so you can focus on what matters – your time underwater.
So, what’s the key to warmth in the water? It’s all about smart layering and the right gear.
Here’s how to stay warm in a wetsuit…
Start with the Right Wetsuit
Our Xenos and Proteus II wetsuits are trusted by divers around the world. From the quick-drying, easy-don design of the Xenos to the advanced Hydrolock system in the Proteus II, both suits are engineered to perform.
And with 3mm, 5mm and 7mm options available in the Xenos and 3mm and 5mm for the Proteus II, there’s a wetsuit to match your diving environment – whether you’re exploring temperate waters or diving into cooler currents.
Boost Your Warmth with the Neoprene Hooded Vest
One of the most effective – and underrated – ways to stay warm is by adding our neoprene hooded vest. Designed to layer seamlessly under your wetsuit, the vest features 3mm neoprene through the core and a 5mm hood, delivering serious thermal protection without adding bulk or excessive buoyancy.
Pairing it with a 5mm wetsuit? You’ll effectively have 8mm over your core.
Wearing a 7mm? You’re looking at a toasty 10mm where it counts – without feeling like a marshmallow.
Alex, our UK Sales Account Manager, wore the vest under a 5mm Proteus II in Lanzarote: “The water was about 18°C. I did two dives and didn’t feel the cold at all. The combination worked perfectly.”
Alex Griffin
Rannva, our Head of Sales, was cautious about combining the hooded vest with the Hydrolock neck seal of the Proteus II, but after diving in the Galapagos, she was sold: “I thought it might be too tight or restrictive, but it was the opposite. It worked brilliantly. The Proteus II zipped up easily over the vest and the hood sealed perfectly around my face. I even had to crack it open to equalise!”
Rannva Joermundsson
How to Layer It Right
Rannva’s trick for suiting up?
Put the vest on first, keeping the hood off.
Pull the Proteus II up to the waist.
When you’re ready, pull up the vest hood, then the Proteus Neck Seal (collar) over your head, and zip up.
Need to wait before getting in? Just flip the hood back and stay comfy.
Go Lighter with Thermocline
Looking for an alternative to neoprene, or something to layer under a wetsuit for added protection? Our Thermocline range is made using recycled materials and provides a lightweight, flexible option for added thermal protection (equivalent to 2mm neoprene) ideal for travel, warm-water dives, or even as a base layer under your existing suit. No need for extra weights either – our Thermocline has neutral buoyancy!
Don’t Forget the Surface
Keeping warm before and after your dive is just as important. Our Tidal Robes are designed for exactly that—sheltering you from the wind, rain, and post-dive chills while giving you a comfortable space to change. Perfect for beach days, boat decks, and those early morning starts.
Top Tips to Stay Warm
Layer a neoprene hooded vest under your 5mm or 7mm suit for an instant thermal boost
Use the Proteus II or Xenos wetsuits depending on your preferred features
Add a Thermocline base layer for flexible, ocean-positive insulation
Use a Tidal Robe to stay warm before and after your dives
Don’t overheat while suiting up – layer up just before getting in
Staying warm doesn’t have to mean bulky or restrictive gear. With the right combination, you’ll dive longer, feel better, and get the most out of every adventure.
