TOP 14 Best Spearfishing Wetsuits in 2024 (A Buyer’s Guide & Reviews)

“Darling it’s better down where it’s wetter” sang Sebastian in The Little Mermaid – and he just might be right.

But that’s all very well and good if you happen to be a red Jamaican crab.

For us humans, we need a bit of extra help to venture into his undersea world, especially if we want to go scuba diving or spearfishing.

And with the latter in mind, I’ve put together a review of the best spearfishing wetsuits on the market right now – so you can join Sebastian and hunt all his mates.

A buyer’s guide and FAQ section will follow.

Altogether now…”UNDER THE SEA…!”

(Note: wetsuits are usually available for both men and women, with some models being a unisex design. For the most part, the male version is featured).

The 14 Best Wetsuits for Spearfishing in 2024

SpearPro Open Cell Spearfishing Wetsuit

First up we have this open-cell freediving and spearfishing wetsuit from SpearPro. Designed with a smart, stylish, and effective “deep passion” blue camo, this suit should bring you success in a variety of environments.

The high-density neoprene offers a four-way stretch for comfort, longevity, and durability, while the PU material on the chest loading pad provides control and protection when you’re setting up your speargun.

Aquastops are located at the hood, ankle and cuffs to limit water infiltration, and it’s available in a choice of thicknesses, so you can choose the suit that will suit the conditions you’re diving in.

Pros

  • Name to trust.
  • Premium quality materials.
  • Reinforced knees and elbows.
  • Excellent flexibility.
  • Stylish and effective camo.

Cons

  • Expensive.

Takeaway

Designed with the pros in mind, this is a top-quality wetsuit from one of the leading spearfishing and freediving brands on the market, and the camouflage is one of the most effective you won’t see.

Cressi Blue Hunter Wetsuit

Another leading brand for all things subsea, Italian company Cressi are well-known in diving circles, and have been in the game since 1946.

The Blue Hunter wetsuit also offers an attractive, effective camouflage that’s ideal for both spearfishers and underwater filmmakers.

Made from a durable, double-lined neoprene, it’s anatomically cut to provide you with complete freedom of movement, with Aquastops under the YKK zippers to limit water intake.

A neoprene-lined neck seal is both practical and super comfortable, and it’s also available as a two-piece option if that’s what you’d prefer.

Pros

  • Name to trust.
  • Highly effective camo design.
  • Pre-shaped legs.
  • Comfortable and flexible.
  • Gun loading pad.

Cons

  • Reports of some challenges with sizing – make sure you double-check.

Takeaway

It’s hard to fault this spearfishing wetsuit that offers one of the best camouflage designs out there. Pick one of these up and the fish will never see you coming.

Salvimar N.A.T. Wetsuit

Staying in Italy, we have this wetsuit from popular spearfishing and diving brand Salvimar. Standing for Natural Advanced Texture, it’s an open cell design with nylon external lining, with additional, reinforced padding in all the areas you’ll need it the most.

This is actually a two-piece wetsuit, which is ideal if that’s the style you prefer. A chest gun-loading platform is also included, and the HT-welded seams ensure durability and longevity that won’t let you down.

And the 5.5 millimeter thickness ensures you’ll be warm and comfortable in most spearfishing waters around the world.

Pros

  • Name to trust.
  • Quality seams.
  • Comfortable to wear.
  • Beavertail adjustable closure.

Cons

  • Again, sizing might be a problem.

Takeaway

Yet another suit with an excellent camo pattern, this is a super-comfortable and practical two-piece that should have you sticking those fish in no time.

And you can check out more Salvimar products in this review of the best spearfishing masks.

SEAC Men's Body-Fit Wetsuit

Italian designers are at it again with this 1.5 millimeter dive skin wetsuit that’s ideal for hunting in warmer waters.

Founded in 1971, SEAC is another leading brand in the diving world, and this body-fit neoprene offering is a good example of their quality.

Anatomically-formed legs and arms provide you with a free-range of movement, while the smooth skin wrist and ankle seals prevent too much water getting in. You’ll find the Tatex polyurethane knee and shin protection to be invaluable if you’re diving close to rocks and other underwater obstacles.

Two millimeter Melco tape offers relief at the chest and sternum from seams, and you have the bonus of a gun-loading pad for comfort when pulling back those rubbers on your speargun.

Pros

  • Attractive camo design.
  • Reinforced stress points.
  • Excellent freedom of movement.
  • Enables unrestricted breathing.

Cons

  • Not that warm.

Takeaway

Best for use in tropical waters where a dive skin is all you need, this is a decent option that will get the job done, but certainly not the best spearfishing wetsuit for cold water on the market.

Dyung Tec Wetsuit

It doesn’t have to be a named brand to offer quality, and this Dyung Tec wetsuit does just that, especially considering the price point.

An ideal option if you’re just starting out in the sport and you want to give it a try, this three millimeter camouflage suit is one-piece, and uses a combination of materials to offer peak performance.

Heavy-duty YKK zippers with hook and loop closure allow for easy-on and off, while the flatlock seams are smooth and comfortable on the skin.

Finally, padding on the knees is nicely located for protection against bumps, cuts, and scrapes from rocky bottoms.

Pros

  • Outstanding price.
  • Effective digi-camo.
  • Chest gun-load pad.
  • Snug, comfortable collar.
  • Highly rated.

Cons

  • Zipper issues reported.

Takeaway

A great option for beginners, this is an affordable spearfishing wetsuit that lets you try out the sport without breaking the bank. You’ll most certainly want to upgrade in the future, though.

Riffe Digi-Tek Camo Wetsuit

Riffe are a highly respected and well-known spearfishing brand that specializes in spearguns, with over 40 years of experience in the sport (and a fascinating history to boot).

They also happen to make some of the best spearfishing wetsuits available in 2024, and this Digi-Tek camo 3.5 millimeter two-piece option is no exception.

Made with premium-quality, open-cell neoprene, the face, wrist, and ankles are designed to prevent water entry, while the vented hood allows excess air to be released.

Proven to blend divers in with their environment, this wetsuit is the real deal, and will give you the best chance of stickin’ success.

Pros

  • Name to trust.
  • Premium-build quality throughout.
  • Chest and knee padding.
  • Very flexible.
  • Highly effective camouflage.

Cons

  • Very expensive.

Takeaway

You’re going to pay a little more for this kind of quality, as the camouflage design alone is worth every cent. This is up there with the finest spearfishing wetsuits money can buy.

Mako Spearguns Reversible Yamamoto Wetsuit

Now this is a bright idea. Never again will you have to choose between wetsuit colors, with this ingenious reversible option from Mako.

Another brand famous for their quality spearguns, it appears they also know how to do wetsuits, as this versatile offering is made from Yamamoto neoprene which is reputed to be the best example of the material in the world.

It’s easy to switch up your look depending on the waters you’re fishing, with a closed-cell, dual-camo design that’s easy to get on and off.

Be the envy of your fellow divers and eliminate the need to purchase more than one suit with Mako Spearfishing.

Pros

  • Name to trust.
  • Highly versatile.
  • Knife pocket built-in on both sides.
  • Gun load padding on chest.
  • Affordable price point.

Cons

  • None apparent!

Takeaway

A great idea from Mako that lets you fish in blue or green waters, saving you money and giving you the edge over the fish in multiple locations and environments. And at this price, you can’t really go wrong, it’s like two wetsuits for the price of one.

Mares Pure Instinct Spearfishing Wetsuit

For spearfishing and freediving in colder waters, this seven millimeter wetsuit jacket from Mares is ideal.

Designed with an excellent camouflage pattern, you’ll easily blend into the background of the ocean floor given the right conditions, and the open-cell neoprene offers you unbeatable freedom of movement, comfort, fit, and warmth.

The rugged double-lined beaver tail with quick-connect grommets makes pairing with wetsuit leggings simple and comfortable, and the Melcotape reinforced chest pad provides the best possible gun-loading platform to prevent injury when setting up your weapon.

Pros

  • Name to trust.
  • Specially designed camouflage.
  • Ergonomically form-fitting.
  • Very warm.

Cons

  • Leggings sold separately.

Takeaway

It was the camouflage design of this wetsuit jacket that caught my eye, but you can be sure it won’t catch the eyes of the fish, giving you the perfect opportunity to catch them instead.

ZCCO Men's Premium Neoprene Wetsuit

As an alternative to all the camo suits, I thought I’d include this black version, which makes for a more versatile option if you enjoy a variety of activities.

Suitable for just about any water sport out there, it’s three millimeters of premium-quality neoprene, with a smooth skin collar, arms, and legs for easy on and off, and to limit water from entering the suit for a warmer, more comfortable fit.

A super-stylish design, just about anyone will look the part wearing this wetsuit, and you should try using it with one of these fishing float tubes that offer a “home base” and place to store your catch while on/in the water.

Pros

  • Outstanding price.
  • YKK zipper with easy-pull.
  • Versatile, multi-sport use.
  • Highly rated.

Cons

  • No gun load chest pad.
  • A bit light on the padding in general.

Takeaway

If you’re looking for the best all-rounder when it comes to wetsuits, then you could do a lot worse than this. Perfect for casual water users or anyone on a budget, this makes an ideal wetsuit for beginners – no matter the sport.

UR MAX Beauty Camo Wetsuit

Here we have a suit for men and women that comes in a wonderful selection of camo colors, many of which are like works of art.

Another design that lends itself to multiple water sports, you can pretty much use this suit for anything, and look like a Jackson Pollock while doing it.

Made with three millimeter neoprene, it provides ample protection against underwater hazards as well as offering excellent heat retention, so you can dive for longer and be super-comfortable in the process.

Your hardest decision is going to be what color to choose.

Pros

  • Excellent price point.
  • Versatile use.
  • YKK zippers.
  • Chest padding for gun load.

Cons

  • Might be a bit too busy for some.
  • Not really a dedicated spearfishing suit.

Takeaway

A great option if you really want to make a fashion statement, the selection of camo colors here offer spearfishers, freedivers, and underwater videographers the chance to choose the perfect suit for their preferred diving conditions.

Mako Spearguns 3D Yamamoto Reef Wetsuit

Another Mako Spearguns entry now with this Yamamoto neoprene wetsuit that features a highly effective reef camo design.

For use in colder waters, the seven millimeter wetsuit has an integrated hood for added warmth, with an ergonomic construction to allow maximum range of movement so you’re not restricted.

The padding isn’t glued on, but rather sewn into the material, ensuring you have durable, long-lasting protection where you need it most – including the chest area for a speargun reload platform.

In fact, it’s probably one of the best spearfishing wetsuits for padding on the market.

Pros

  • Name to trust.
  • Premium-quality neoprene.
  • Smart camo design.
  • Excellent protection.
  • Knife holder in thigh.

Cons

  • Expensive.

Takeaway

This is a top-drawer spearfishing wetsuit all-around, offering professional quality in every department. If you’re fishing in colder waters, then look no further.

Beuchat Mundial Camo Wetsuit

One of the oldest underwater equipment and apparel companies in the world, it would be remiss of me not to include a wetsuit from French brand Beuchat.

The eco-conscious company has been in the game since 1934, so they know a thing or two about the deep, and this wetsuit is the perfect example of that passion and expertise.

Made with open-cell neoprene, the two-piece suit has been specially designed for spearfishers, with an epic camo scheme that will blend into multiple environments.

Elongated “Supratex” padding protects you in key places, and the ergonomic hood jacket is perfect for those chillier dives.

Pros

  • World-class design and construction.
  • Name to trust.
  • State-of-the-art padding.
  • Seal titanium inside with EWS system.
  • Joints without stitching.

Cons

  • On the more expensive side.

Takeaway

Even though you’re paying a little more, this is still an outstanding price for the quality you’re getting in this wetsuit from Beuchat. Perhaps this is what Jacques Cousteau would have been wearing had he been alive today.

Nataly Osmann Camo Spearfishing Wetsuit

Let’s dial it back a notch now with another budget-friendly option, ideal for anyone just starting out in the sport.

And although you’re paying a lot less than the more high-end models, you’re still getting a lot of bang for your buck here.

This is a two-piece design that has a built-in hood, available in a choice of camo colors that can cater for a variety of diving environments.

Soft and flexible, the three millimeter neoprene provides ample thermal protection and defense against underwater geography and stinging sea critters.

And that all-important chest padding is useful for loading your fish sticker.

Pros

  • Great price.
  • Versatile use.
  • Highly rated.
  • Practical camo designs to choose from.

Cons

  • Not as durable as more expensive brands.

Takeaway

Another entry-level option that offers excellent value for money so you can literally dip your toe into the waters of the spearfishing world. And if you hit beginners’ luck and bag a ton of fish with this baby, then it’ll be a total win-win.

Sea Sports Spearfishing Camo Wetsuit

This Sea Sports wetsuit has been designed with an attractive, traditional green camo color that wouldn’t look out of place in the field.

A one-piece, three millimeter construction, it has reinforced stitching in key stress areas, and a durable back zip with self pull for easy on and off.

You’ll find plenty of extra padding with the addition of Kevlar in the knee area, as well as including a chest loading pad for speargun use.

It runs true to fit, with comfortable sizing options that should suit most body types.

An ideal suit for anyone new to the sport, this is a versatile spearfishing wetsuit that’s well worth your consideration.

Pros

  • Great price.
  • Attractive camo design.
  • Durable stitching and padding.

Cons

  • The zipper isn’t the best quality.

Takeaway

This makes a great first wetsuit gift for anyone looking to take up spearfishing, and you should pick up some quality fishing shoes for wearing with it when you’ve removed your diving fins.

How to Choose the Best Spearfishing Wetsuit

There are a lot of things to consider before purchasing your first spearfishing wetsuit. Or, even if you’re an old pro, you might find some useful information, tips, and advice in the buyer’s guide below.

Here’s what you should be looking out for before “adding to cart.”

fisherman in wetsuit and mask in preparation for spearfishing

Do You Need a Wetsuit for Spearfishing?

If you’re splashing around in tropical waters at shallow depths – when you’re snorkeling, for example – using a wetsuit is likely overkill. You don’t really need it in those temperatures.

However, you must always consider the thermocline – the steep temperature difference between an upper body of water, and the lower body that occurs at a certain depth.

Even warmer water gets cold both with the deeper you dive and the longer you spend in it. Given that your body will be cooled down over 25 times faster under the waves than over them, a wetsuit for spearfishing is essential for the vast majority of the time.

It’s non-negotiable in colder waters, or if diving at depth, and it can also provide you with excellent protection from any bumps, scrapes, and – to a certain degree – any unsavory encounters you might have down there with the locals.

Using a quality wetsuit for spearfishing will also significantly increase your chances of success, as you’ll be able to swim undetected if you’re wearing a suitably colored or camouflage suit.

And when it comes down to it, the more comfortable you are, the longer you can spearfish for.

Too long, didn’t read – yes, you need a wetsuit for spearfishing, because science.

spearfishing man with wetsuit and underwater speargun in deep of lake swimming

Thickness

The thickness of any wetsuit is very important as it will dictate the level of insulation you will benefit from, and give you an indication as to the water temperature you can comfortably swim in.

Before embarking on a spearfishing trip, you should be fully aware of the conditions, so you can choose a suitable wetsuit thickness.

Wetsuits will typically be available in three, five, and seven millimeter thicknesses. The colder the water, the thicker the wetsuit will need to be.

You should also pay attention to how cold or hot you personally run. If, like me, you tend to feel the chill a bit more, you’ll probably benefit from a thicker wetsuit even in warmer temperatures.

The trade-off is that as you increase the thickness, you will lose some mobility. This might not be that important to scuba divers, but for spearfishing, it can make a big difference when you’re hunting and you require a full range of unrestricted movement and agility.

You need to strike a good balance between the two.

And remember, if your wetsuit is a poor fit, you’ll still get cold regardless of the thickness.

As a rule of thumb, you should follow the wetsuit thickness/water temperature guide below.

  • Above 85 degrees Fahrenheit (29C) – A one millimeter dive skin will be sufficient.
  • Over 79 degrees Fahrenheit (25C) – A three millimeter wetsuit is recommended.
  • Between 66-78 degrees Fahrenheit (18-25.5C) – A five millimeter is the most common wetsuit.
  • From 50-65 degrees Fahrenheit (10-17C) – A seven millimeter wetsuit is essential.

For the vast majority of spearfishing locations and conditions around the world, it’s doubtful you’ll need anything more than five millimeter, with most regular spearfishers using either a dive skin or three millimeter suit as their go-to thickness.

Color/Camouflage

For any hunter in the animal kingdom, man or beast – camouflage is as essential to attack as it is to defense.

In this case, the color of your spearfishing wetsuit isn’t just a fashion statement, it can be the difference between fish or pizza for dinner.

Try to choose a camo scheme that reflects the environment you’ll be diving in. When in doubt, greens and blues are usually a safe bet.

Black wetsuits can also be used – and they’re significantly better than bright colors – but you’ll still stick out like a human in an underwater world.

Some divers believe that camouflage suits don’t make that much of a difference if you’re skilled enough, but if something is going to give you an edge – especially for beginners – then it’s well worth choosing that option.

man swimming with speargun in lake

Type of Wetsuit

As much as there is a variation in wetsuit thickness, so too there is a variation in the type of wetsuit you can use. Below, I’ve briefly outlined your options in a bite-sized guide within a guide.

  • Dive skin – a thin protective layer that covers your whole body and helps prevent skin injuries and UV damage, but is of no use in colder temperatures. Not made from neoprene.
  • The shorty – a standard wetsuit that has its arms and legs cut off. Think Greek statue on a surfboard, ideal for tropical diving, but not regularly used for spearfishing as it offers little protection.
  • Short John/Jane – a wetsuit that typically has legs, but a vest-style top with no arms.
  • Full length – as the name suggests, a one-piece wetsuit that fully covers your arms and legs. Sometimes referred to as a steamer.
  • Two-piece – Another no-brainer, it’s the same as a full length, but the torso and legs are separate, so it’s possible to wear one without the other. Two piece wetsuits are very popular spearfishing options.
  • Hoods – Wetsuits that have the added protection/warmth from a built-in hood. Usually preferred by divers in colder waters.

Open-Cell/Closed-Cell

You’ll hear/read about these two terms a lot when it comes to choosing a wetsuit – no matter what activity you’re using the suit for. It’s just as relevant for spearfishing as it is for freediving and scuba.

It’s to do with the lining of the wetsuit itself. An open-cell wetsuit is just the bare neoprene, whereas a closed-cell wetsuit has a lining of nylon.

For spearfishing, open cell suits are preferred, as they offer greater warmth and superior flexibility. They also provide the best fit, as after one wear you’ll have an excellent, form-fitting seal.

This opinion is changing, however, and there are a couple of notable downsides, which is why some spearfishers still tend to prefer closed-cell suits – particularly for beginners.

Open-cell wetsuits aren’t nearly as durable, and can tear easily if you’re not careful.

Sharp rocks, fingernails, or simply careless use can damage the suit, and while it’s repairable, it’s still an inconvenience that’s best avoided.

Oh, and I almost forgot. Perhaps the biggest downside of an open-cell suit is you need to shoe-horn it on. By that I mean, you’re not getting into it without using soapy water or some kind of lubricant, like Shark Snot, for example (which is actually just seaweed extract).

Finally, open-cell neoprene pores are the ideal home for bacteria – so you need to make sure you give your wetsuit a full clean after each use with a good wetsuit wash if using this type.

Protection/Gun Loading Pad

Some wetsuits come with additional protection and layering in key locations to help prevent injury and ensure your diving experience is as comfortable as possible.

This might include spinal padding that protects your back from carrying an air tank.

Elbow and knee padding is also advantageous, to protect these exposed regions from bumps, scrapes, and knocks in a hostile underwater environment.

Even cheap spearfishing wetsuits should come with a gun loading pad positioned around the chest, to help you load your speargun more comfortably, and without the risk of injury.

And speaking of guns, check out this excellent review on the best spearfishing guns on the market if you’ve not yet armed yourself for the hunt.

Last but by no means least, don’t forget about the protection a wetsuit will provide from the sun.

UV rays are a constant threat when undertaking any outdoor activity, but are typically most damaging in the warmer locations in the world – which just happen to coincide with global spearfishing hot spots.

Often overlooked, the UV protection a full-body wetsuit can provide is invaluable.

Sizing and Fit

Having a wetsuit that fits well is vitally important – otherwise you might as well not wear one at all.

As such, it’s imperative you get your sizing right, so do your homework on a particular brand’s measurements. Remember that European sizing is different from the USA, and other manufacturers around the world might use alternative systems.

A general rule-of-thumb is to always go a size up from what you would usually wear, but always use the sizing guides before confirming your choice.

Cost

Branded wetsuits can cost a substantial amount of money – and there’s a reason for that – as they will be the most durable, long-lasting, and effective options on the market.

They also feature the latest technology when it comes to materials, fabrics, and hardware.

When it comes to budgeting your purchase, I would suggest matching it to your skill level. There’s no need to spend the big bucks if you’re just starting out, and especially if you’ve never even been diving before.

That said, I would always suggest going for the best spearfishing wetsuit you can afford. It’s a demanding sport, and you want something quality that’s going to last, protect your body, and ensure you have every chance of success.

man spearfishing in ocean

FAQs

What is the best wetsuit for spearfishing?

You should be looking for a suit that is very comfortable, fits super-snug, offers the best protection against rocks and other hazards, and is insulated to suit the water temperature in which you’re diving.

Aside from that, the best spearfishing wetsuits will have the addition of a chest pad for speargun loading, and offer effective camouflage to keep you undetectable when you’re on the hunt.

Most of the suits in this review fit that criteria, but if I were to pick one, I’d go with the Riffe Digi-Tek.

Do you need a wetsuit for spearfishing?

For shallow dives in warm water, you can probably get away with either a dive skin or not wearing a wetsuit at all. However, this is more for snorkeling, and certainly not if you intend on staying in the water for a long time.

So, for spearfishing, I would say you definitely need a wetsuit, especially if you’re in colder waters, you’re going to be diving all day, and/or you’re diving deeper than around 20 meters. Forget about the thermocline at your peril.

Do you need a camo wetsuit for spearfishing?

It’s not essential, and many divers can spearfish successfully simply by using a black or other muted color suit.

However, a good-quality camo wetsuit will help you blend into your surroundings and dramatically improve your strike rate. Professional spearfishers swear that it’s vital to give yourself this edge.

Whatever you do, don’t wear anything bright, whereas the best freediving wetsuits can be any color you want.

Why do divers wear black wetsuits?

Good question. There are a number of reasons why wetsuits are predominately black.

First and foremost, black is the best color for UV resistance and heat insulation. Black neoprene is also the strongest type, and will last longer with more durability compared to colored materials.

Aside from that, it all comes down to money. Black wetsuits are much cheaper to produce, and to keep costs down, most manufacturers still use black as their color of choice.

How much does a wetsuit cost?

Wetsuit prices can vary as wildly as the colors and styles they come in. If you’re looking for a ball-park figure, I’d say anywhere from $50 for a value, entry-level suit, to around $1000 for the high-end, professional gear.

Basically, there’s a suit to suit every budget imaginable, so it’s up to you how much you want to spend.

How do I clean my wetsuit?

Glad you asked – as it’s very important you stick to a good wetsuit cleaning regimen, especially if you’re wearing an open-cell suit that can be a playground for bacteria given the optimum conditions of warm dampness.

Start by picking up some wetsuit cleaner to give you the best chance of getting rid of odors and the nasty stuff, and then watch this video below for some excellent tips and advice on how to clean your wetsuit.

What is the best speargun?

Glad you asked. Check out this review of the best spearguns for the money – and you’ll surely find the perfect weapon with which to go into battle, and save yourself some money in the process.

What is the best material for a wetsuit?

Neoprene is the material that wetsuits are primarily made of, as it has a number of practical and effective qualities that make it the best fit.

Most notably, its ability to retain warmth, with the air pockets able to hold water that is quickly heated by our bodies.

However, not all neoprene is made equal, and there are levels when it comes to quality you should be wary of. How your wetsuit is made is likely very different from that of your mouse pad.

Summary

Spearfishing has been with us for centuries, and we’re improving ways to hunt and catch fish all the time.

That includes developing some of the best spearfishing wetsuits on the market, so I hope this review has helped you make your choice. Let me know which suit you’ve gone for and why.

Alternatively, you could always try bowfishing with one of these awesome bowfishing bows – which is an exciting, fast-paced, and very popular alternative way to catch our food.

Either way, good hunting, and happy fishing!

Bob Hoffmann

The author of this post is Bob Hoffmann. Bob has spend most of his childhood fishing with his father and now share all his knowledge with other anglers. Feel free to leave a comment below.

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