Yes, it's common to wear various layers of clothing under a drysuit to enhance comfort, provide insulation, and manage moisture. The exact clothing you wear under a drysuit can vary based on personal preference, water temperature, and the type of diving you're doing. Here's a general idea of what divers might wear under a drysuit:
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Base Layer: A moisture-wicking base layer, often made of materials like polyester or merino wool, is worn next to the skin. It helps manage sweat and provides a smooth surface against the skin to reduce friction.
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Insulating Layer: Depending on the water temperature, divers might wear one or more insulating layers to keep warm. These layers can be made of fleece, synthetic materials, or thicker merino wool.
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Thermal Underwear: In colder water, thermal underwear designed for diving can provide additional insulation to keep the body warm.
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Socks: Drysuit socks are commonly worn to provide insulation for the feet and prevent discomfort from moisture. Alternatively, some divers wear neoprene or wool socks.
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Gloves: Drysuit gloves or separate neoprene gloves are worn to keep the hands warm and protected from the cold water.
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Hood: A neoprene hood or separate hood can provide warmth and help prevent heat loss from the head.
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Undersuit: Some divers use specific drysuit undersuits that are designed to provide insulation and moisture management. These undersuits are often lightweight and compact.
It's important to note that the clothing worn under a drysuit should be comfortable, not too tight, and should not restrict movement. Layers should be added or removed based on the diving conditions and the diver's comfort level. Additionally, choosing moisture-wicking materials is crucial to manage sweat and prevent discomfort during the dive.
Before each dive, it's a good practice to do a buoyancy check to determine the correct amount of weight needed, taking into account the type and thickness of the clothing you're wearing under the drysuit.