Drysuits are Sealed Watertight for Diving in Frigid Water

If you dive in waters below 50 or 60 degrees Fahrenheit, you probably will need a drysuit. Just ask the urchin divers and mussel harvesters who scuba dive daily in the frigid North Atlantic waters.

Drysuits keep the diver dry and warm with a water-tight seal. Frigid waters cannot seep into the suit. Undergarments -- thermal underwear and wool socks -- are worn under the drysuit for an added layer of protection. Wrist and neck seals often are coated with silicone spray. Gloves and a hood also are worn.

Drysuits are inflated when divers enter the water. The air helps with buoyancy and keeps divers warm. Drysuits are deflated on ascent.