The Best Spearfishing Wetsuit to Buy in 2024

Growing up by Australia’s beaches was awesome, but without a good spearfishing wetsuit, your time in the water won’t last long. Your wetsuit is like a second skin, keeping you warm, comfortable, and protected from the sun and sea creatures. 

It shields you from jellyfish stings, fish scales, and reef scrapes, saving you from cuts and bruises. In this guide, I’ll help you pick the right spearfishing wetsuit. But if you want a top recommendation, go for the Salvimar N.A.T. wetsuit. Its camo design and perfect fit make it a winner.

Also Read: Hawaii Fishing: The Complete Guide for 2024

Here are some top picks for spearfishing wetsuits:

• Overall Best: Salvimar N.A.T. 3.5mm Two Piece Spearfishing Wetsuit
• Favourite for Women: Salvimar Seawalker Womens 3.5mm Spearfishing Wetsuit
• Top Quality: Mako Spearguns Spearfishing Wetsuit 3D Yamamoto Reef Camo 5mm
• Great for Beginners: A Cressi spearfishing wetsuit featuring a loading chest pad in a one-piece design.
• Ideal for Pros: Salvimar N.A.T. 5.5mm Two Piece Spearfishing Wetsuit
• Affordable Option: A Myledi neoprene wetsuit for men, boasting a 3mm super stretch design in camouflage print.
• Ideal for cold water conditions, the Mako Spearguns spearfishing wetsuit offers a 7mm thickness with 3D Yamamoto reef camouflage.
• Perfect for Warm Water: SEAC One-Piece Camouflage 1.5 mm Neoprene Spearfishing Wetsuit
• Sun and Stinger Protection: Cressi Camouflage Rash Guard + Patterned Pants

When picking a spearfishing wetsuit, consider these key points:

• Thickness: How much warmth do you need?
• Style: Do you prefer one-piece or two-piece?
• Material: Open or closed cell?
• Fit: Does it snugly fit your body shape?

Everyone’s needs vary. For me, spearfishing on Australia’s East Coast is my top choice.

Editor’s Pick: The Top Choice for the Ultimate Spearfishing Wetsuit

I’m a big Salvimar fan when it comes to spearfishing wetsuits. They’re super durable and pay close attention to details like stitching. This set includes high-waist pants and a top with a beaver-tail cut and a clip to secure it.

The wetsuit’s inside is stitch-free and stretchy, making it comfy. It’s easy to put on and take off, especially with a bit of conditioner mixed with water. The 3.5mm thickness is just right for the water temps where I dive. I dig the green camo shades and the hood, which protects my neck from the sun.

Why we think Salvimar makes the best wetsuit for spearfishing:

The wetsuit features reinforced chest and knees with PuffGum padding to prevent damage. It also has glued and blind-stitched seams for extra toughness. With a two-clip beaver tail, the jacket stays securely in place without sacrificing comfort. 

The NAT neoprene offers some stretch (from 1mm to 2mm), ensuring a snug fit. Its camouflage green design blends well with seaweed and surroundings where I spearfish.

Wife’s Choice: The Best Spearfishing Wetsuit

My wife adores the 3.5mm Seawalker two-piece wetsuit from Salvimar for its colour and fit. This set includes high-waist trousers and a hooded jacket, secured by a beavertail seal. What sets it apart is its stretchy, comfy feel and easy wearability.

Inside, it features Salvimar’s Q-FOAM open-cell neoprene, while the elastic Salvimar Camo print protects the outside. The double GBS cross seams add strength and durability. But what won her over were the beautiful blue camo colours.

Top-tier Choice: The Ultimate Spearfishing Wetsuit

Mako Spearguns offers one of the best spearfishing wetsuits, made with top-quality Yamamoto neoprene. The standout feature is its exceptional stretch, providing up to 30% more flexibility than other wetsuits. This means better movement in the water and a snugger fit.

Available in high-waist or Farmer John styles, the wetsuit includes a beavertail for secure jacket placement. What I love most is the sewn-in padding on the chest and knees, making it super durable. Plus, details like wrist and ankle cuffs keep cold water out, and even a built-in knife pocket.

Best for Beginners: The Best Spearfishing Wetsuit

This one-piece wetsuit from Cressi is perfect for beginners getting into spearfishing. Simple to wear and remove. Made of soft 3mm neoprene, it’s flexible and allows for a wide range of motion while spearfishing.

The Dura Stretch nylon lining adds durability without restricting movement. Printed with Tokugawa camouflage, it suits various underwater environments. I found the cut to be just right, with enough room in all the important areas.

Best for Professionals: The Best Spearfishing Wetsuit

When it comes to spearfishing like a pro, you can’t go wrong with the Salvimar wetsuit. It’s my top pick, offering everything you need for those long hours in the water. The 3.5mm version is my personal favorite, but for serious pros, the 5.5mm version is the ultimate treat. Despite its thickness, it feels surprisingly lightweight, though you might need a hand getting it off after your dive!

One thing to note: Salvimar wetsuits tend to run a bit small, so be sure to order a size up for the perfect fit.

Best Cheap Option: The Best Spearfishing Wetsuit

Discovering a budget-friendly spearfishing wetsuit that doesn’t compromise on quality is always a win. This affordable option surprised me with its impressive value for money. Crafted from 3mm neoprene, it provides ample warmth in the water, thanks to its SCR laminating inside and spandex-covered outside, ensuring flexibility and comfort.

While the fit is generally good, I found the arms and thighs to be slightly loose. It’s not a deal-breaker considering the price, but a snugger fit would enhance the experience. Choose from three different prints and enjoy the additional padding on the chest and knees. It’s an unbeatable deal at this price point.

Best for Cold Water: The Best Spearfishing Wetsuit

Spearfishing in chilly waters between 4 and 20 degrees Celsius (39°F to 68°F) demands serious insulation to stay warm. That’s where a minimum 7mm wetsuit becomes essential, providing the necessary thickness to combat the cold.

The Mako Spearguns’ 3D Yamamoto Reef Camo wetsuit stood out in our tests as the ultimate choice for cold water spearfishing. Its remarkable thickness, coupled with the Farmer John’s cut featuring two layers of neoprene over the chest, ensures exceptional warmth retention.

What sets it apart is its flexibility and comfort, crucial for extended dives in frigid waters. The integrated ergonomic hood seals snugly around your face, while the tighter wrist and ankle cuffs effectively keep out the cold water. When it comes to braving the cold, this wetsuit is the undisputed champion.

Best for Warm Water: The Best Spearfishing Wetsuit

When spearfishing in tropical waters or anywhere above 26 degrees Celsius (79°F+), opting for a thin and lightweight wetsuit is crucial to prevent overheating. That’s where the SEAC wetsuit shines.

Crafted from 1.5mm double-lined neoprene, this wetsuit strikes the perfect balance between insulation and breathability. Designed as a single-piece suit akin to surfing wetsuits, it boasts a single zipper at the back for maximum comfort and ease of use.

Reinforced knees with latex PU inserts and a sternum pad for reloading assistance add to its practicality. In warm waters, this wetsuit from SEAC is a top choice for spearfishing, providing both functionality and comfort.

Best for Sun/Stinger Protection: The Best Spearfishing Wetsuit

In regions like the far north of Queensland where water temperatures soar, traditional wetsuits may be unnecessary. However, staying protected from the sun and potential stingers remains crucial. For this, a full rash suit is your best companion.

The Cressi camouflage option stands out for its functionality and comfort. Available in both hooded and crew neck cuts, it features a padded chest piece to guard against bruising during reloads. Crafted from an 80% nylon and 20% spandex blend, it offers a snug fit that adapts to your body shape effortlessly.

The drawstring closure on the pants ensures they stay in place throughout your dive, while the added knee pads provide durability in areas prone to wear and tear. Whether it’s shielding against sunburn or warding off stingers, the Cressi rash suit is a reliable choice for spearfishers in tropical waters.

With numerous brands offering quality wetsuits, finding the right fit can be challenging. If you’re considering alternatives, here are our insights from testing various brands. Each has its strengths, from durability to comfort and features like reinforced knees. We aim to provide you with valuable information to make an informed decision for your spearfishing gear.

Shortlist: The Best Spearfishing Wetsuit

Consider the top-notch Cressi model for your spearfishing needs. Crafted from super soft open-cell neoprene, it offers flexibility and comfort in the water. The anatomical design ensures a great fit, while the camouflage design aids in stealth underwater.

This two-piece suit features nylon mimetic zones in key areas for added comfort. Watertight seals on the wrists, hood, and ankles prevent water entry, and reinforced knees, shins, and elbows enhance durability.

Shortlist: The Best Spearfishing Wetsuit

Don’t miss out on Riffe’s Digi-Tek wetsuits, a favourite among spearfishing enthusiasts. Featuring glued and blind-stitched seams, these wetsuits exude quality. What sets them apart is the option of both original and slim fit versions, catering to various body types.

Equipped with a padded loading pad on the chest and reinforced knees, these wetsuits offer both comfort and durability.

Shortlist: The Best Spearfishing Wetsuit

For a versatile option suitable for both surfing and spearfishing, consider the Reactor II from O’Neill. This neoprene suit features a surfer-style zippered close on the back, with open-cell sections limited to the chest and back for easy wearability.

Boasting extended knee pads for enhanced durability, the flatlock stitching technique ensures maximum flexibility and stretch strength.

Shortlist: The Best Spearfishing Wetsuit

Consider the Salvimar Atlantis Spearfishing Wetsuit for your tropical open-water adventures. Its surfer-inspired one-piece design and 1.5mm thickness make it unsuitable for cold conditions but excels in warmer waters. The zippered back ensures effortless wearability, while the stretchy neoprene provides excellent flexibility.

Shortlist: The Best Spearfishing Wetsuit

Check out the SEAC two-piece spearfishing wetsuit for a top-notch option. This set includes a hooded jacket and high-waisted pants, featuring a unique camouflage design ideal for rocky and weedy areas. The velcro beavertail closure adds convenience.

What sets it apart is the padded protection on the knees, elbows, and lower back, as well as the 7mm supratex chest guard for easy speargun loading.

Ranking the best spearfishing wetsuits was no easy feat, considering the variety of personal preferences and the diverse needs dictated by different water temperatures. Our approach involved thorough testing of each wetsuit reviewed, allowing us to formulate recommendations based on our own experiences and opinions.

Comfort is paramount during spearfishing adventures, and maintaining warmth is crucial for an enjoyable experience. Water is an efficient conductor of heat, sapping body warmth four times faster than air. While refreshing on hot days, prolonged exposure can lead to hypothermia.

A wetsuit is a vital barrier against this heat loss, ensuring your body remains comfortable. It’s an essential gear for any spearfisher, offering protection and comfort in various aquatic environments.

Choosing the right wetsuit thickness depends largely on personal preference and the water temperature you’ll be diving in. Here’s a general guide to help you decide:

•  Above 86 degrees (30°C): A rash guard is likely sufficient for sun protection.
•  80 to 86 degrees (26°C to 30°C): Consider a 1.5mm wetsuit at most.
•  75 to 80 degrees (24°C to 26°C): Opt for a 3mm wetsuit.
•  65 to 75 degrees (18°C to 24°C): A 5mm wetsuit should suffice.
•  Below 65 degrees (18°C): Look for a 7mm (or thicker) wetsuit for optimal insulation against the cold water.

Spearfishing wetsuits typically come in two styles: one-piece and two-piece. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:

• One-piece wetsuit: Similar to those worn by surfers or scuba divers, these feature a zipper up the back for easy wearability. While convenient, they may lack flexibility and a hood.
• Two-piece wetsuit: The preferred choice among spearfishers, this consists of trousers and a jacket. Options include incorporated hoods and waist-to-neck trousers. Farmer John (or Long John) style is popular, providing extra core protection and warmth.

For spearfishing, the Farmer John style is widely favoured for its enhanced core protection and warmth.

Spearfishing wetsuits are typically crafted from neoprene, but not all neoprene is the same. Consider these factors:

• Neoprene Grade: Higher-grade neoprene, like Mako’s 3D Yamamoto Reef, offers superior durability.
• Open-cell vs. Closed-cell Neoprene: Open-cell neoprene, found in premium wetsuits, provides better flexibility and insulation by sitting closer to the skin, while closed-cell neoprene allows more water inside. Open-cell wetsuits are more efficient at retaining body heat but require careful handling due to their fragile nature.

Opting for an open-cell wetsuit ensures maximum manoeuvrability underwater, ideal for spearfishing.

Achieving the right fit for your wetsuit is crucial for comfort and performance. Here’s what to consider:

• Snug but not tight: The wetsuit should fit snugly, especially around the shoulders, without restricting movement or causing discomfort.
• Avoid excess folds or looseness: Too much looseness can lead to water leakage and loss of warmth. Ensure there are no extra folds or loose spaces where water can flow in.
• Try before you buy: Visit a local dive shop to try on different sizes and styles. Pay attention to comfort and mobility, ensuring there’s no tightness in sensitive areas like armpits or groin.
• Check manufacturer size charts: Measure yourself and compare your size to the manufacturer’s size chart. Remember that each brand may have a slightly different cut, so it’s essential to find the best fit for your body shape and size.
• Consider a hood: If you prefer wearing a hood, ensure it fits well and feels comfortable around your face and neck. 

Ultimately, finding the right fit ensures optimal comfort and performance while spearfishing.

Putting on an open-cell spearfishing wetsuit can be tricky, but with the right technique, it’s manageable. Here’s what you need to know:

• Use lubricant: Neoprene can be sticky, making it difficult to put on the wetsuit. Mix a little conditioner with water or use a purpose-built product to lubricate the suit. This not only aids in wearing the wetsuit but also prevents it from smelling like a hair conditioner.
• Take care to avoid tearing: Be gentle when putting on the wetsuit to avoid tearing, especially with open-cell neoprene which is more fragile.
• Be patient: Putting on a wetsuit may take some time and practice, so be patient and take your time to avoid getting stuck halfway.

With the right lubricant and technique, donning your spearfishing wetsuit will become easier and less daunting.

While some may argue that the appearance of your wetsuit doesn’t affect your spearfishing success, there’s merit to choosing a camouflage print. Here’s why:

• Breaking up your outline: A camo print helps break up your silhouette underwater, making it harder for fish to detect you. This can allow you to get closer to fish before they notice you, increasing your chances of a successful shot.
• Enhanced stealth: In open water especially, a camo wetsuit can help you remain unseen for longer periods, giving you more time to approach fish without spooking them.
• Cool factor: Let’s face it, camo wetsuits just look cooler! 

While your skills as a spearfisher are paramount, a camo wetsuit can provide an added advantage by improving your ability to stalk and shoot fish underwater.

When selecting your ideal spearfishing wetsuit, consider three crucial factors: thickness for warmth, style for comfort, and the neoprene type. For optimal performance, opt for a Farmer John cut with a green camo print, like the Salvimar N.A.T. model. 

Its quality neoprene ensures durability and flexibility underwater. No products were found. This combination provides warmth, mobility, and stealth, enhancing your spearfishing experience.

For the ultimate spearfishing experience in 2024, look no further than the Salvimar N.A.T. This top-of-the-line wetsuit combines warmth, flexibility, and stealth with its Farmer John cut and green camo print. Crafted from high-quality neoprene, it ensures durability and comfort underwater. 

While considering other options, this standout choice reigns supreme for its unmatched performance. Invest in the Salvimar N.A.T. for your spearfishing adventures and elevate your underwater pursuits to new heights.