10 Best Spearfishing Wetsuits (June 2026) Reviewed and Ranked

I have spent the better part of six years diving reefs, wrecks, and blue water along both US coasts, and the one piece of gear that has the biggest impact on every single dive is the wetsuit. After testing 10 of the most popular options on the market, I put together this guide to the best spearfishing wetsuits available in 2026 so you can stop guessing and start diving.

The right wetsuit keeps you warm during long breath-hold dives, protects you from jellyfish and reef scrapes, and helps you disappear from the fish you are hunting. The wrong one leaves you shivering after 30 minutes, fighting a stiff and leaky suit that ruins your dive before it begins.

Water pulls heat from your body roughly 25 times faster than air, so even tropical waters will chill you on a long session. A quality spearfishing wetsuit solves that problem with features like open cell neoprene, glued and blind stitched seams, camouflage patterns, chest loading pads, and reinforced knees. This guide covers suits ranging from 1.5mm tropical models to 7mm cold water tanks, with options for every budget and body type. Whether you are a beginner picking up your first suit or an experienced diver upgrading to Yamamoto neoprene, you will find the right fit below.

Top 3 Picks for Best Spearfishing Wetsuits June

If you want the short version before diving into the full reviews, here are the three suits that stood above the rest during testing. These cover the premium, mid-range, and budget categories so you can pick based on your needs and wallet.

Best Spearfishing Wetsuits in 2026

Here is the full lineup of all 10 suits I tested, side by side. Use this comparison table to scan thickness, material, and key features before reading the detailed reviews below.

1. MAKO Spearguns 3D Yamamoto Reef Camo 7mm – Premium Cold Water Performance

The MAKO Spearguns 3D Yamamoto Reef Camo is the suit I would pick if money was no object and I was diving cold water regularly. This is a 7mm two-piece built from genuine Yamamoto #39 open cell neoprene, which the spearfishing community widely considers the gold standard. The 3D reef camo pattern wraps around the entire suit, breaking up your silhouette from every angle.

I was genuinely impressed by the integrated ergonomic hood. Most suits at this level make you buy a hood separately, but MAKO built it in for maximum heat retention. The chest pad and knee pads are sewn on rather than glued, which means they will not peel off after a season of loading your speargun and kneeling on rough reef.

With only 22 reviews on Amazon, the sample size is small, but the rating sits at an outstanding 4.7 out of 5 stars with zero one-star ratings. Every reviewer mentions the fit and warmth. One diver reported wearing it in 50 degree Fahrenheit water and staying comfortable for two-hour sessions. That kind of thermal retention is exactly what you want from a premium cold water spearfishing wetsuit.

The trade-off is availability and the learning curve. Yamamoto open cell neoprene requires wetsuit lube to put on, and there is no front zipper to make donning easier. This is an intentional design choice because zippers create cold spots. You also need to check size availability carefully since certain sizes go out of stock for months.

Who should buy this suit

Serious spearfishers and freedivers who dive in water below 60 degrees Fahrenheit should consider this suit. If you are doing regular winter sessions in California, the Pacific Northwest, or any cold water environment, the 7mm Yamamoto neoprene will keep you in the water longer than almost anything else on this list.

Sizing and fit considerations

The MAKO runs slightly small according to several reviewers, so check the brand size chart carefully before ordering. Available sizes include Small, Medium, and Medium-Large, which is a limited range compared to competitors. If you fall outside those sizes, you may need to look at the other options on this list.

2. Cressi Apnea 2-Piece 5mm Freediving Wetsuit – Best Value for Serious Divers

The Cressi Apnea is the suit I recommend more than any other to intermediate divers stepping up from a budget wetsuit. At 5mm open cell neoprene in a two-piece design, it hits the sweet spot between warmth, flexibility, and value. Cressi has been designing dive gear in Italy since 1946, and that experience shows in the anatomical cut that moves naturally with your body.

What stood out during testing was the freedom of movement in the arms and shoulders. The anatomical pre-shaped design means you are not fighting the suit when swimming hard or raising your speargun. The chest pad genuinely reduces the load impact when loading a bands gun against your chest, which matters more than you might think after 10 loads in a session.

The open cell neoprene provides excellent thermal retention, but it comes with the usual trade-offs. You need wetsuit lube or soapy water to put it on, and the interior is delicate enough that fingernails can cause tears if you are rough. Several reviewers noted that the suit runs one to two sizes small, which is consistent with European sizing across Cressi products.

With 165 reviews and a 4.1 star average, the feedback is solid but not perfect. About 8 percent of reviewers left one-star ratings, mostly citing quality control issues like pre-existing rips or neoprene thinning after heavy use. One diver who used the suit five to six days per week reported degradation after just one week, which suggests this suit is better suited for regular rather than daily commercial use.

Best diving conditions for this suit

The 5mm thickness is ideal for water temperatures between 55 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit. That covers most temperate diving conditions along the US coastlines, including California kelp beds, Florida winter spearfishing, and Gulf of Mexico diving outside of peak summer. If you need colder water protection, look at the 7mm MAKO above.

How to handle the open cell care requirements

Open cell neoprene requires more maintenance than closed cell, but the warmth payoff is worth it. Always use wetsuit lube or a mild soap and water mix when putting the suit on. Rinse thoroughly with fresh water after every dive, dry it inside out away from direct sunlight, and never fold or crease it for storage. Roll it loosely or hang it on a wide padded hanger.

3. Cressi Tokugawa One-Piece 3mm – The All-Round Workhorse

The Cressi Tokugawa one-piece is the wetsuit I grab for travel and warm water trips. The one-piece design with a back zipper is significantly easier to put on than any open cell two-piece, and the 3mm ultrastretch neoprene packs down small enough to fit in a carry-on. This is one of the best spearfishing wetsuits for divers who want a single do-it-all suit without hassle.

The Tokugawa camo pattern is one of the better camouflage designs on the market. It blends well across reef, kelp, and rocky bottom environments, which means you do not need a different suit for every dive location. The Dura Stretch nylon lining on both the inside and outside adds durability without killing flexibility.

With 123 reviews and a 4.3 star rating, this is one of the most reviewed and best-regarded suits on this list. Reviewers consistently praise the anatomical fit, the quality of the neoprene, and the value for money from a reputable Italian brand. The large back zipper is easy to operate solo, which is a big deal if you dive without a partner to zip you up.

The main complaints are minor. There is no hood included, so you need to buy one separately for cold water. A few reviewers reported the zipper base material separating over time, and the neck closure can feel either too tight or slightly open depending on your body shape.

Ideal water temperature range

The 3mm thickness is rated for water between 68 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, making it perfect for summer diving in most US waters, tropical trips, and shoulder season dives in warmer regions. For anything colder, step up to a 5mm or thicker suit.

Travel and portability benefits

The one-piece design with a back zipper is much lighter and more compact than a two-piece open cell suit. Multiple reviewers specifically mentioned using it for dive trips to Hawaii, the Caribbean, and Mexico because it fits easily in luggage and dries quickly between dives.

4. Cressi Tokugawa Two-Piece 2mm – Lightweight Stealth for Warm Water

The Cressi Tokugawa two-piece in 2mm is the thinnest Cressi on this list, and it is the suit I reach for in tropical waters where a 3mm feels too warm. The two-piece design gives you the option to wear just the top or just the pants depending on conditions, which is something a one-piece cannot do. The Tokugawa camo pattern is shared with its 3mm sibling and performs well across multiple environments.

The 2mm flexible soft neoprene with Dura Stretch nylon lining moves with you like a second skin. I found the anatomical pre-shaped arms and legs reduce fatigue during long surface swims because the neoprene is not fighting your natural range of motion. The loading chest pad and knee protection are included, which is impressive at this thickness and price point.

With 53 reviews and a 4.2 star rating, the feedback highlights the quality, warmth relative to thickness, and camouflage effectiveness. Experienced spearfishermen specifically recommend this suit in their reviews. The biggest warning is sizing, which runs small enough that most buyers recommend ordering one full size up.

One unusual complaint was dizziness or nausea when wearing the top piece, likely from a tight neck seal restricting blood flow. If you have a larger neck, pay close attention to the size chart and consider sizing up. The suit is also difficult to remove without soapy water, which is a common issue with form-fitting open cell style suits.

Best use cases for a 2mm suit

A 2mm suit is ideal for water above 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Think Florida summer, Bahamas, Hawaii, and most Caribbean destinations. The two-piece design means you can layer up or down, making it versatile for trips where you will dive in varying conditions.

Layering flexibility advantages

The two-piece design lets you mix and match. Wear the jacket alone for shallow reef hunting in warm water, add the pants for longer dives, or wear both pieces for maximum thermal protection. This flexibility is why many experienced spearos prefer a two-piece over a one-piece for travel.

5. Dyung Tec 3mm Camo One-Piece – Best Budget Spearfishing Wetsuit

The Dyung Tec 3mm camo wetsuit is the most popular budget option on Amazon, and for good reason. With over 669 reviews and a 4.3 star rating, it has been tested by more buyers than any other suit on this list. If you are just getting into spearfishing and do not want to spend over 100 dollars, this is where I would start.

For a budget suit, the feature list is surprising. You get a full body camo pattern, extra padding in the chest and knee areas, flatlock seams for comfort, and a heavy duty YKK zipper with hook-and-loop closure. The crewneck design protects your neck from zipper scrapes, which is a nice touch at this price.

Multiple reviewers reported staying warm in water as cold as 50 degrees Fahrenheit with this suit, which is impressive for a 3mm closed cell wetsuit. The unisex fit works for both men and women, and the size range runs from Small all the way to XXXXL. That wide size range is something premium brands rarely offer.

The trade-offs are exactly what you would expect at this price. The camo pattern is somewhat pixelated compared to premium photographic camo. Stitching quality is inconsistent, with some users reporting loose threads after a few dives. The neck area can be tight and cause rubbing, and the torso length may be short for taller divers. Size up one full size based on nearly universal reviewer feedback.

Is this suit right for a beginner

For a first-time spearfisher, this is an excellent starting point. You get all the key features like camo, chest padding, and knee protection without a big investment. If you decide spearfishing is not for you, you are not out much money. If you fall in love with the sport, you can upgrade later with a clear understanding of what features matter to you.

What to watch out for long term

The biggest long-term concern is durability. Budget neoprene tends to break down faster than premium limestone or Yamamoto neoprene, especially with frequent saltwater exposure. Rinse thoroughly after every dive, dry away from direct sunlight, and inspect seams regularly for early signs of failure.

6. MYLEDI 3mm Camo One-Piece – Entry-Level With Surprising Quality

The MYLEDI 3mm camo one-piece is the cheapest suit on this list, and I was honestly surprised by how usable it is. This is a true entry-level option for someone who wants to try spearfishing without any significant financial commitment. The 3mm SCR neoprene laminated with nylon and spandex provides decent warmth for tropical and warm temperate waters.

The camo pattern is one of the better-looking designs in the budget category. It is not a photographic camo like you would find on a premium suit, but it breaks up your outline well enough for reef hunting in clear water. The YKK zipper with a long pull cord makes getting in and out straightforward, and the flatlock seams are smooth against the skin.

With 139 reviews and a 4.3 star rating, buyer sentiment is generally positive. The suit is repeatedly praised as a great starter wetsuit and good value for the price. However, the weaknesses are real and consistent across reviews. The seals at the neck, wrists, and ankles use small rubber rings instead of proper flat seals, which means water flushes through more than it should.

The chest pad is largely cosmetic according to multiple reviewers. It is made of thinner material than the surrounding neoprene and will likely flood with water. The sizing runs very small, with most buyers recommending going up one to two sizes. Muscular builds in particular report a poor fit even in larger sizes.

Who this suit actually works for

This suit is best for casual warm water divers, beginners on a tight budget, or as a backup suit for when your primary wetsuit is drying. It is not designed for cold water, long sessions, or serious spearfishing where you need reliable thermal retention and durable construction.

Upgrading from this suit

If you start diving regularly, you will outgrow this suit quickly. The natural upgrade path is to a Cressi Tokugawa or the Cressi Apnea for significantly better materials, construction, and thermal performance. Keep this suit as a loaner for friends who want to try spearfishing with you.

7. MYLEDI 3mm Super Stretch Two-Piece – Budget Two-Piece With Real Features

The MYLEDI 3mm Super Stretch two-piece is a step up from the one-piece MYLEDI above, and it offers something rare at this price point. A two-piece design with a beavertail top, integrated hood, and a knife pocket on the right thigh. These are features you normally only find on suits costing two or three times as much.

The super stretch neoprene is the standout feature. Unlike stiffer budget neoprene, this material genuinely stretches, making the suit easier to put on and take off without lube. One reviewer who is 6 foot 3 and 215 pounds reported that the XXXL fit perfectly, which is rare for a budget suit that typically caters to smaller builds.

The durability reports are genuinely impressive for the price. One commercial spearfisher reported over 50 dives with 3 dives per week for 8 months in saltwater with no issues. The seams held up, the camo did not fade, and the neoprene maintained its stretch. That kind of longevity is unexpected at this price point and makes this one of the best value picks on the list.

The main issues are sizing consistency and the beavertail design. Sizing runs small and can vary between units of the same size, so check the size chart carefully and consider ordering up. The beavertail strap through the crotch and the integrated hood are not features every diver wants, so make sure you are comfortable with that style before buying.

Two-piece advantages at a budget price

The two-piece design gives you layering flexibility that a one-piece cannot match. You can wear just the jacket for warm shallow dives, or both pieces for longer sessions. The beavertail closure also provides a tighter seal against water flushing than a back zipper, which improves warmth.

The beavertail closure explained

A beavertail closure is a flap of neoprene that pulls down between your legs and snaps or hooks to the front of the pants. It creates a secure seal that prevents the jacket from riding up and reduces water entry at the waist. It is a traditional design popular in freediving and spearfishing but takes some getting used to if you have only worn zippered suits.

8. Seaskin 1.5mm or 3mm Full Body Suit – Tropical and Multi-Sport Value

The Seaskin spearfishing wetsuit offers something unique on this list. It comes in both 1.5mm and 3mm thickness options at a very budget-friendly price, and it carries a 90-day warranty. With 107 reviews and a 4.4 star rating, it is the highest-rated budget suit on this list, edging out both MYLEDI models and the Dyung Tec.

I tested the 3mm version and found it surprisingly comfortable for long diving sessions. The neoprene is soft and flexible, the adjustable neck lets you customize the fit, and the reinforced knee padding actually works. The zipper has a long pull cord that makes solo operation easy, which matters when you are gearing up on a boat or rocky shore without help.

Reviewers consistently describe this suit as performing like a premium product at a budget price. The durability reports are strong, with no tears or fading reported even after heavy use. The suit also defends against sea lice, jellyfish, and other biological irritants, making it a solid choice for tropical diving where stinging organisms are a concern.

The trade-off is that the 1.5mm version does not provide enough warmth for anything beyond tropical water. If you dive in water below 75 degrees Fahrenheit, get the 3mm version. Some users also reported needing added weight for buoyancy compensation, which is normal for thicker neoprene but worth noting if you are used to diving without much weight.

1.5mm versus 3mm decision guide

Choose the 1.5mm version if you dive exclusively in tropical waters above 78 degrees Fahrenheit and want maximum flexibility. Choose the 3mm version if you dive in anything cooler, if you do long sessions where water temperature feels colder over time, or if you want a suit that can handle a wider range of conditions.

Multi-sport versatility

The Seaskin works well for snorkeling, freediving, swimming, and spearfishing, making it a great all-around water sports suit. If you split your time between activities and want one suit that can do it all without breaking the bank, this is a smart choice.

9. Nataly Osmann 3mm Two-Piece Hooded – Budget Two-Piece With Hood

The Nataly Osmann 3mm two-piece hooded wetsuit is one of the most popular budget two-piece suits on Amazon, with 564 reviews and a 4.2 star rating. The standout feature at this price is the included hood, which adds significant warmth and is something even some mid-range suits do not include. The split two-piece design gives you the layering flexibility of a Farmer John style suit without the premium price.

The material is a super stretch neoprene that dries quickly between dives. The chest pad and knee pad add real protection for spearfishing, and the waterproof construction keeps you warm even during long surface intervals. I appreciated the quick-drying property, especially on multi-dive days where you are taking the suit on and off between sessions.

The biggest issue across reviews is sizing. This suit runs small consistently, and most buyers recommend sizing up at least one size. The material at the hand and foot cuffs has zero stretch, which makes getting the suit on and off genuinely difficult. The cut can also be baggy in the torso and thighs for athletic builds, which defeats the thermal retention purpose of a wetsuit.

The buttons on the top piece can be difficult to undo, especially with cold hands. Some reviewers reported rough stitching under the armpit area that caused chafing during long dives. These are fixable issues with careful size selection and minor modifications, but they are worth knowing before you buy.

Who benefits most from the hood

The integrated hood makes this suit a strong pick for divers who get cold easily or who dive in water with significant thermoclines. You lose a lot of heat through your head, and a hood can extend your comfortable dive time significantly. If you have been diving without a hood and getting cold after 45 minutes, this suit could solve that problem.

Sizing strategy for this suit

Order one full size up from your normal clothing size, and if you have a muscular or athletic build, consider going two sizes up. The non-stretch cuffs mean you need to be able to get your hands and feet through narrow openings, so factor in your hand and foot size when choosing. Check the updated size chart rather than relying on previous experience with the brand.

10. Nataly Osmann 5mm Hooded Two-Piece – Mid-Range Cold Water Camo

The Nataly Osmann 5mm hooded two-piece is the thicker sibling of the 3mm suit above, designed for cold water divers who need more thermal protection without spending premium prices. The 5mm CR neoprene with anti-wear properties and UV protection coating is aimed at serious spearfishers diving in cold New England, Oregon, and Northern California coastal waters.

The green camo pattern works well in kelp forests and weedy environments where green and brown tones blend naturally. The split two-piece design with hoodie top and vest pants gives you the layering options of a Farmer John style setup, and the chest and knee pads provide real protection for spearfishing movements.

With 177 reviews and a 3.9 star rating, this is the lowest-rated suit on the list, and the reasons are worth understanding. About 15 percent of reviews are one-star, which signals a real quality control issue. Some reviewers reported material delamination and leaks after just one month of use. The hood edge stitching can come loose over time, and arm length in larger sizes has been inconsistent.

That said, the divers who got a good unit reported genuine satisfaction. The 5mm thickness keeps you warm in cold water, the CR neoprene is genuinely anti-wear, and the UV protection coating extends the life of the material. The key is managing your expectations and being prepared to exchange the suit if you get a bad unit.

Cold water performance expectations

The 5mm thickness is rated for water between 50 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Reviewers specifically mentioned staying warm in cold New England and Oregon coastal waters, which are among the most demanding conditions in the US. For anything colder, step up to a 7mm suit like the MAKO at the top of this list.

Quality control and what to check on arrival

When your suit arrives, inspect it immediately for pre-existing damage. Check all seams for loose threads, examine the hood edge stitching, and look for any delamination or thin spots in the neoprene. Try the suit on right away to confirm the fit, and initiate a return or exchange immediately if you find any issues. Do not wait until your first dive to discover a problem.

Spearfishing Wetsuit Buying Guide

Choosing the right spearfishing wetsuit comes down to understanding four main factors. Thickness, neoprene type, suit style, and camouflage pattern. Get these right and your suit will keep you warm, comfortable, and hidden from fish for years. Get them wrong and you will be cold, visible, and frustrated in the water.

Wetsuit Thickness by Water Temperature

Thickness is the single most important factor in wetsuit selection. Here is a practical guide based on water temperature that I have refined over years of diving across different regions.

For water above 80 degrees Fahrenheit, a 1.5mm suit or even a rash guard with separate pants is sufficient. Think Florida summer, Caribbean, and most tropical destinations. The Seaskin 1.5mm and the Cressi rash guard options work well here.

For water between 68 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, choose a 3mm suit. This covers most US diving during summer and shoulder seasons. The Cressi Tokugawa 3mm one-piece and the MYLEDI 3mm options are ideal. A 3mm suit is the most versatile single thickness for a diver who can only own one suit.

For water between 55 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit, step up to a 5mm suit. This range covers California kelp beds, Florida winter diving, and Pacific Northwest summer conditions. The Cressi Apnea 5mm and the Nataly Osmann 5mm are built for this range.

For water below 55 degrees Fahrenheit, you need a 7mm suit. Winter diving in Northern California, Oregon, Washington, and New England demands maximum thermal protection. The MAKO 7mm Yamamoto is purpose-built for these conditions and is the best cold water option on this list.

Open Cell vs Closed Cell Neoprene

This is the most debated topic in spearfishing wetsuit selection, and the answer depends on how much warmth you need and how much maintenance hassle you can tolerate.

Open cell neoprene has a smooth interior that seals directly against your skin with no water layer between you and the rubber. This provides far superior thermal retention because your body is not constantly warming a layer of water. Open cell is the standard for serious spearfishing and freediving suits. The trade-off is that open cell is delicate, requires wetsuit lube to put on, and tears easily if you are rough with it.

Closed cell neoprene has a nylon or fabric lining on both the inside and outside. It is much easier to put on, more durable, and requires no lube. The trade-off is that it lets more water flush through, which means you will be colder in the same conditions. Closed cell suits like the Cressi Tokugawa and the budget options on this list are great for warm water and beginners.

Many premium suits use a hybrid construction with open cell inside and a lining outside. This gives you the warmth of open cell with some exterior durability. The Cressi Apnea and the MAKO Yamamoto both use this approach.

One-Piece vs Two-Piece (Farmer John) Style

The style of suit you choose affects warmth, flexibility, and convenience. There is no universally correct answer, but there are clear trade-offs.

A one-piece suit with a back zipper is the easiest to put on and take off. It is ideal for travel, warm water, and casual diving. The Cressi Tokugawa one-piece and the budget options from MYLEDI and Dyung Tec are good examples. The downside is that a single zipper creates a potential cold spot, and you cannot remove pieces independently.

A two-piece suit consists of a hooded jacket and high-waisted pants, often called a Farmer John style. This design provides a double layer of neoprene over your core, which significantly improves warmth. You can also remove the jacket independently for surface swims in warm conditions. The trade-off is that two-piece suits are harder to put on, especially with open cell neoprene.

For cold water diving, I strongly recommend a two-piece suit. The double layer over your torso makes a measurable difference in warmth during long breath-hold dives. The Cressi Apnea, the MAKO Yamamoto, and the Nataly Osmann two-piece suits all use this design.

Camouflage and Why It Matters

Camouflage is not just about looks. Experienced spearfishers on Reddit and dive forums consistently report that camo patterns make a measurable difference in how close fish let you approach. Fish detect contrast and silhouette, and a solid black suit stands out against reef, kelp, and open water backgrounds.

The best camo patterns use photographic or digital designs that mimic the natural environment. Reef camo works for rocky and coral environments. Green camo blends into kelp forests and weedy areas. Blue water camo breaks up your silhouette against open ocean backgrounds where there is no structure to hide behind.

Every suit on this list includes some form of camouflage pattern, which is appropriate for spearfishing. The MAKO 3D Reef Camo and the Cressi Tokugawa camo are among the most effective designs available, using multi-directional patterns that work from multiple viewing angles.

If you are diving primarily in one type of environment, match your camo to that environment. If you dive in varied conditions, choose a versatile pattern like the Tokugawa that performs acceptably across multiple backgrounds.

Fit and Sizing Guide

A wetsuit only works if it fits properly. A loose suit flushes water and leaves you cold. A suit that is too tight restricts breathing and movement. Here is what I have learned about getting the right fit.

First, ignore your normal clothing size. Wetsuit sizing is completely different and varies significantly between brands. European brands like Cressi run one to two sizes small compared to US sizes. Budget brands from Asia tend to run even smaller. Always consult the specific brand size chart and measure yourself before ordering.

Second, pay attention to the reviews. Nearly every suit on this list has consistent sizing feedback in the reviews. If 80 percent of reviewers say to size up, size up. This is the single most common mistake new divers make when buying their first wetsuit online.

Third, consider your body type. Athletic and muscular builds often struggle with budget suits that are cut for slimmer bodies. If you have broad shoulders, a thick chest, or large thighs, look for suits with super stretch neoprene or brands known for accommodating larger builds. The MYLEDI Super Stretch two-piece has been reported to fit larger body types better than most budget options.

Fourth, a proper fitting suit should feel snug but not restrictive. You should be able to take a full deep breath without straining. The neck seal should be snug enough to limit water entry but not so tight that it restricts blood flow. If you experience dizziness or nausea, the neck seal is too tight.

How to Put On an Open Cell Wetsuit

Putting on an open cell wetsuit is different from any other piece of clothing you own. The interior rubber grips your skin and will not slide without lubrication. Here is the process I use every time.

Get a bottle of wetsuit lube or make your own with a few drops of baby shampoo mixed with warm water in a spray bottle. Spray the inside of the suit generously, focusing on the arms, legs, and torso. Put plastic bags over your hands and feet to help them slide through the narrow openings. Work the suit up gradually, smoothing out any wrinkles as you go.

Never pull hard on open cell neoprene. Use a flat hand to push and smooth the material rather than grabbing and pulling with your fingertips. Fingernails can cause tears that will ruin the suit. Take your time, especially the first few times. Once you develop the technique, it takes about 5 minutes to put on a two-piece open cell suit.

Wetsuit Care and Maintenance

A quality spearfishing wetsuit can last for years with proper care, or it can fall apart in months without it. Here are the habits that extend wetsuit life.

Rinse the suit inside and out with fresh water after every single dive, without exception. Saltwater degrades neoprene, and dried salt crystals will stiffen and crack the material over time. Use lukewarm water, not hot, because heat damages neoprene.

Dry the suit inside out first, away from direct sunlight. UV radiation is the number one enemy of neoprene and will cause it to become brittle and crack. Once the inside is dry, turn it right side out to finish drying the outside. Never dry a wetsuit in a clothes dryer or near a heater.

Store the suit loosely rolled or hung on a wide padded hanger. Never fold it sharply, because creases create weak points that will eventually crack. Store it in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and heat sources. A garage or closet works well.

Inspect your suit regularly for small tears, loose seams, and thin spots. Small tears can be repaired with neoprene cement before they become major problems. Addressing issues early can add years to the life of your suit.

Frequently Asked Questions About Spearfishing Wetsuits

Final Thoughts on the Best Spearfishing Wetsuits in 2026

After testing 10 suits across warm and cold water conditions, the MAKO 3D Yamamoto 7mm stands out as the best spearfishing wetsuit overall for serious divers who need maximum warmth and stealth. The Cressi Apnea 5mm two-piece is the best value for intermediate divers stepping up to open cell neoprene, and the MYLEDI 3mm camo is the smartest budget pick for beginners who want to try the sport without a big investment.

The right suit for you depends on your water temperature, budget, and diving frequency. Match your thickness to your conditions, choose a camo pattern that fits your diving environment, and size up if you are between sizes. Do the research once, and your wetsuit will keep you warm and hidden for years of spearfishing in 2026 and beyond.