What types of drysuits are available?

There are several types of drysuits available, each designed to suit different diving conditions, preferences, and purposes. The main types of drysuits include:

Membrane Drysuits: These drysuits are made from lightweight, flexible materials that provide the waterproof barrier. They rely on insulating undergarments to provide warmth. Membrane drysuits are often preferred by technical divers because of their flexibility and adaptability to different undergarments based on water temperature.
Neoprene Drysuits: Neoprene drysuits are made from thick neoprene material, similar to wetsuits. They provide both insulation and waterproofing in a single layer. These suits are often preferred for colder water diving where the additional insulation is necessary.
Crushed Neoprene Drysuits: These are a type of neoprene drysuit where the neoprene is compressed during the manufacturing process. This creates a dense, tough material that offers better insulation and durability compared to traditional neoprene suits.
Trilaminate Drysuits: Trilaminate suits consist of three layers: an outer shell for durability, a middle layer for waterproofing, and an inner lining for comfort. They are lightweight, often used by technical divers, and allow divers to choose their insulating undergarments.
Front-Entry Drysuits: These drysuits have a diagonal waterproof zipper that runs across the front of the body, from one shoulder to the opposite hip. They are relatively easy to don and doff and are commonly used in recreational diving.
Back-Entry Drysuits: These drysuits have a waterproof zipper along the back of the body. They require assistance to zip up and are often used in technical diving, as they provide a streamlined profile that's helpful when diving with multiple tanks and equipment.
Hybrid Drysuits: These drysuits combine different materials to offer specific benefits. For example, a hybrid suit might have a neoprene upper body and a membrane lower body. This can provide better mobility and insulation where needed.
Surface Drysuits: Surface drysuits, also known as drysuits for surface water activities, are used for activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. They are designed to keep the wearer dry on the surface but may not be suitable for diving due to their design and construction.
Specialized Drysuits: Some drysuits are designed for specific types of diving, such as ice diving or military applications. These suits may have additional features for extreme conditions.