Just blew $300 on a 'quick-dry' base layer that got soaked and stayed cold for a 4-hour dive in the Gulf.

What do you guys actually use for thermal protection when the water temp drops below 50?

3 comments

3 Comments

That "quick-dry" label is such a trap for cold water, it's meant for sweat, not immersion. The real trick nobody talks about is managing the warm layer of water next to your skin. Once that flushes with cold water, you're done. I use a thick wool base layer under my wetsuit, the kind meant for hunting. It stays warm even when it's wet, which it will be.

michael_williams27d ago

Tried a 5mm merino base layer in Oregon last winter and it was a total game changer for exactly that reason.

abby_murphy28d ago

I get the theory, @mason531, but my old 3mm suit with just a rash guard has been fine for years in NorCal.