You deserve a plus size scuba suit that fits right and feels comfortable every time you dive. Many plus size divers face real challenges when searching for the perfect suit, like:
Suits designed from regular patterns, not for plus size bodies
Needing to choose men’s suits that don’t fit the chest, hips, or arms well
Brands not offering enough options or real representation
You might even feel forced to buy custom suits, which can get expensive. Finding a plus size scuba suit that actually works for your body should not be so hard. This guide will help you find the right fit, boost your confidence, and make your next dive a great experience.
Key Takeaways
Getting a plus size scuba suit that fits right helps you feel good, stay safe, and be confident in the water. – Pick suits with panels you can adjust, stretchy neoprene, and sizes made for plus size bodies. – Check your height and weight carefully and use size charts or brand tools to find your best fit. – Pick how thick your suit is by thinking about the water temperature; use thin suits for warm water and thick suits for cold water. – Take care of your wetsuit by rinsing it, drying it in the shade, and storing it the right way so it lasts longer.
Why Fit Matters
Common Challenges
When you shop for a plus size scuba suit, you might notice that finding the right fit is not always easy. Many brands use standard sizing, which means they just make everything bigger by the same amount. Your body is unique, so this approach often does not work. You may have a larger waist but a shorter back, or broad shoulders with a smaller bust. Off-the-shelf suits rarely match all your measurements.
Here are some of the most common challenges you might face:
Hard to find a suit that fits your waist, bust, shoulders, and hips all at once
Standard sizes do not match your body shape, especially if you need different adjustments for different areas
Many suits feel tight or restrictive, especially around the chest
You may need modular or customizable gear to get a comfortable fit
Adjustable features like removable chest straps or waistband extenders are rare
Some suits do not offer enough lift capacity for your weight and suit thickness
Brands often do not offer enough size options for women
Tip: Look for suits with adjustable panels or modular parts. These features can help you get a better fit and feel more comfortable in the water.
Comfort and Safety
A suit that does not fit well can ruin your dive. If your wetsuit feels too loose, cold water can rush in and make you chilly fast. If it feels too tight, you might get chafing or feel like you cannot move your arms and legs freely. You want a suit that hugs your body but does not squeeze.
When you wear a suit with stretch panels and adjustable closures, you get more comfort and flexibility. This helps you stay warm and move easily underwater. A good fit keeps you safe, protects your skin, and lets you focus on enjoying your dive. Always choose a suit that fits your body, not just the size on the tag.
Choosing a Plus Size Scuba Suit
Measuring for Fit
Getting the right fit for your plus size scuba suit makes a huge difference. Start by measuring your height and weight. These numbers help you find your size on most charts. If you have more curves, look for special sizes like “Athena” for women or “Tall” for men. These options give you a better fit for your body shape.
Follow these steps to measure for the best fit:
Measure your height and weight first.
Check if your body type matches a regular, Athena, or Tall size.
If your height and weight do not match one size, pick based on which is higher.
Decide if you want a snug, performance fit or a looser, comfort fit.
If you are between sizes, size down for a tighter fit or up for more comfort.
Use the brand’s size finder tool if they have one.
Ask customer support for help if you feel unsure.
Tip: A wetsuit should feel snug but not squeeze you. It should take a few minutes to put on, but you should still move and breathe easily.
Key Features
When you shop for wetsuits, look for features that make you feel great. Stretchy neoprene lets you move without feeling trapped. Wider cuts and adjustable panels help the suit fit your curves. A good size chart and easy returns make shopping less stressful.
Choose a suit that feels custom made, not baggy or frumpy.
Make sure you can put it on and take it off without a struggle.
Accessories like zip care and wetsuit wash keep your suit in top shape.
Some shops let you buy all your gear in one place, which saves time.
Suit Thickness and Materials
The right thickness keeps you comfortable in the water. A cold-water wetsuit is thicker, usually 5mm or more. This keeps you warm but can feel stiff. For warm water shortie dives, pick a thinner suit, like 2mm or 3mm. These suits give you more flexibility and feel lighter.
Nylon lining makes wetsuits last longer and easier to put on. Open cell neoprene feels warmer but needs more care. If you dive in different places, you might want to layer a thin suit with a vest or use a separate hood. For most warm water shortie dives, a 2mm or 3mm suit works best.
Remember, a suit that is too big lets water rush in and makes you cold. Always choose a snug fit for comfort and safety.
Top 10 Plus Size Scuba Suits
Billabong Synergy Natural Upcycler
You want a suit that feels good and looks great. The Billabong Synergy Natural Upcycler stands out for its eco-friendly materials and flexible fit. This suit works best for hourglass and pear-shaped bodies. It offers a wide range of sizes, going up to size 24. The stretchy neoprene hugs your curves but never feels tight. You get options for both 3/2mm and 4/3mm thickness, so you can pick what works for your dive. This suit shines in warm water shortie dives, but you can layer it for cooler days. You can find it at Cleanline Surf or Amazon.
Tip: The Synergy’s wider chest and hip panels help you move easily, even if you have a larger bust or hips.
Henderson Thermoprene Pro
If you want one of the best scuba wetsuits for plus size divers, check out the Henderson Thermoprene Pro. This suit fits apple, hourglass, and tall body types. Sizes go up to 3XL, and you can choose from 3mm, 5 mm wetsuits, and even thicker options for a true cold-water wetsuit. The super soft neoprene stretches up to 250%, so you never feel squeezed. The suit uses big panels and fewer seams, which keeps you warmer and stops cold water from getting in. The Aqua Silk™ lining feels soft against your skin. You can buy this plus size scuba suit at Wetsuit Wearhouse or Henderson’s website.
Super stretchy for easy movement
Double glued and sewn seams for durability
Great for cold or warm water shortie dives
Hevto 3/2mm and 5/4mm Wetsuits
Hevto makes wetsuits that flatter plus-size curves. These suits fit best if you have a fuller waist, hips, or thighs. Sizes run from 16 to 28. The 3/2mm thickness is perfect for warm water shortie adventures, while the 5/4mm option gives you more warmth for cooler dives. The back zipper makes it easy to put on and take off. Some divers say the waist feels loose, so you might want to size down for a snug fit. You can buy Hevto wetsuits on Amazon or Wetsuit Wearhouse.
Feature | Details |
|---|---|
Best Fit | Curvy, fuller hips/thighs |
Size Range | 16-28 |
Thickness | 3/2mm (plus size), 5/4mm (standard) |
Notable Features | Flexible, easy on/off, flatlock stitching |
Where to Buy | Amazon, Wetsuit Wearhouse |
Many users love how easy these suits are to wear and how warm they feel in the water.
Bare Reactive 7mm
You need a real cold-water wetsuit for chilly dives. The Bare Reactive 7mm is a top pick for plus size scuba suit fans who want warmth and comfort. This suit fits broad shoulders, larger busts, and tall divers. The 7mm thickness keeps you warm in cold water, and the stretchy panels let you move without feeling stiff. The suit comes in sizes up to 3XL. You can buy it at Wetsuit Wearhouse or specialty dive shops.
Best for cold water and longer dives
Flexible fit for many body types
Great thermal protection
Cressi Tortuga 2.5mm
If you love warm water shortie dives, the Cressi Tortuga 2.5mm is a great choice. This suit fits petite, athletic, and straight body types. The 2.5mm thickness keeps you comfortable in tropical water. The suit comes in sizes up to XXL, and the stretchy neoprene lets you move freely. You can find it on Amazon or at dive shops.
Lightweight and easy to pack
Best for warm water shortie trips
Simple design with a comfortable fit
NeoSport 3mm Neoprene
NeoSport makes some of the best scuba wetsuits for all shapes and sizes. The 3mm Neoprene suit fits apple, hourglass, and unisex body types. Sizes go up to 3XL. The anatomical cut pattern hugs your body, and the adjustable Velcro® collar gives you a custom fit. The Lycra® trimmed wrist and ankle seals keep water out. This suit works well for warm water shortie dives and can handle cooler water with extra layers. You can buy NeoSport wetsuits at Wetsuit Wearhouse or Amazon.
Snug, watertight fit for comfort
Flexible and easy to move in
Great for long dives without discomfort
Nike Essential Dri FIT Hydroguard
You want a suit that works for swimming and diving. The Nike Essential Dri FIT Hydroguard is a top pick for all body types, especially if you want extra sun protection. The extended sizes fit plus size swimmers well. The short sleeves give you more coverage, and the Dri-FIT fabric keeps you dry and cool. This suit is perfect for warm water shortie dives and pool sessions. You can find it at Nike or Walmart.
Lightweight and breathable
Extended fit for comfort
Great for casual and competitive swimmers
Body Glove Plus Size Wetsuits
Body Glove offers wetsuits for many shapes, including larger busts, broad shoulders, and curvy hips. Sizes go up to 3XL, and you can pick from 3mm or 5 mm wetsuits. The suits use stretchy neoprene and have wider cuts for a better fit. These suits work for both cold-water wetsuit needs and warm water shortie dives. You can buy them at Body Glove’s website or Wetsuit Wearhouse.
Flexible fit for many body types
Good for layering in cold water
Easy to put on and take off
Wetsuit Wearhouse Fullsuits
You want lots of choices in one place. Wetsuit Wearhouse Fullsuits offer a huge range of plus size scuba suit options. You can filter by size, water temperature, and style. These suits fit all body types, including tall, petite, and curvy. Sizes go up to 6X in some brands. You can find both 3mm and 5 mm wetsuits for warm water shortie or cold-water wetsuit dives. Shop directly at Wetsuit Wearhouse’s website for the best selection.
Use their size charts and customer support to find your perfect fit.
Scuba Sisters Plus Size Apparel
Scuba Sisters Plus Size Apparel helps you find gear that fits non-standard body shapes. Their wetsuits, made by TommyDSports, go up to size 6X. These suits work for apple, pear, and hourglass shapes. The suits have improved based on real diver feedback, so you get a better fit. Scuba Sisters also gives tips on using longer weight belts and flexible masks. You can buy their wetsuits and accessories at the Scuba Sisters website.
Affordable and inclusive sizing
Community support for new divers
Great for warm water shortie dives and pool practice
Note: Scuba Sisters encourages you to test your gear in a pool before your first big dive.
Best Scuba Gear Tips
Fit Adjustments
Getting the right fit can make your dive much more comfortable. You have several ways to adjust your plus size scuba suit for a better feel:
Try a plus size rash guard under your wetsuit. Rash guards come in sizes up to 7X and use stretchy, breathable fabric. Many have adjustable drawstrings at the hem for a custom fit.
Look for rash guards with thumb holes or front zippers. These features help keep sleeves in place and prevent chafing.
Use a snug base layer under your wetsuit. This adds warmth and reduces rubbing.
For cold water, layer an insulation top or vest between your base layer and wetsuit. You can even double up with two wetsuits if you need extra warmth.
Test your layers before diving to make sure you can move and stay safe.
Tip: Rash guards also give you UPF 50+ sun protection, so you stay safe from the sun while you dive.
Sizing Up or Down
Choosing the right size is important for comfort and safety. If you are between sizes, think about how you want your suit to feel:
Size down if you want a snug, performance fit. This helps keep water out and keeps you warmer.
Size up if you want more comfort or plan to wear extra layers underneath.
Avoid suits that feel too loose. Water can rush in and make you cold.
Use size charts and read customer reviews to find the best fit for your body shape.
Remember, a suit should feel snug but not squeeze you or limit your movement.
Suit Care
Taking care of your wetsuit helps it last longer and stay comfortable. Here are some easy steps:
Take off your wetsuit gently. Unzip it fully and peel it off slowly to avoid tears.
Rinse your suit with fresh, cold water after every dive. This removes salt, chlorine, and dirt.
Wash your suit with a mild soap or neoprene cleaner. Use a soft brush or sponge.
Dry your suit inside out on a wide hanger in a shaded, airy spot. Never use direct sunlight or heat.
Store your wetsuit on a thick, padded hanger to keep its shape. Make sure it is completely dry before storing.
Check your suit for mold or damage from time to time.
Get your suit checked by a pro every year or after 100 dives.
Note: Suits with strong seams and ankle loops, like some of the best scuba gear, stretch and fit better over time. Good care keeps your suit comfy and durable for many dives.
Choosing a plus size scuba suit that fits your body and your diving needs can change everything. Many plus size divers say that a good fit brings comfort, confidence, and a sense of belonging in the water. The top 10 suits here give you choices for every shape and style. The scuba gear world now focuses on more inclusive and adaptive designs, so you have better options than ever. Use these tips and trust yourself. You deserve to dive with comfort and joy! 🐠
FAQ
What if I fall between two sizes on the chart?
You should try the larger size first. A suit that is too tight can feel uncomfortable and restrict movement. If you want a snugger fit, wear a rash guard or base layer underneath.
How do I know if my wetsuit fits right?
Your wetsuit should feel snug but not squeeze you. You should move your arms and legs easily. If water pools inside or you feel cold fast, the suit may be too loose.
Can I use a plus size wetsuit for other water sports?
Yes! You can wear your wetsuit for snorkeling, paddleboarding, or swimming. Just check the thickness and style. Thinner suits work best for warm water and active sports.
How do I make my wetsuit last longer?
Rinse your suit with fresh water after every use. Hang it to dry in the shade. Avoid folding or leaving it in the sun. Store it on a wide hanger to keep its shape.
Where can I find the best deals on plus size scuba suits?
You can shop online at Wetsuit Wearhouse, Amazon, or specialty dive shops. Look for sales at the end of the season. Sign up for brand newsletters to get discount codes.
