Key Takeaway:
- Blind-stitched seams are the best option for spearfishing wetsuits: These seams are perfect for keeping water out of the suit and will keep the diver warmer in cold water. Blind-stitched seams are also less likely to irritate the skin when it is rubbing against the suit’s material, reducing the chances of chafing.
- Overlocked seams can be a cheaper alternative to blind-stitched seams: While overlocked seams won’t keep water out as well as blind-stitched seams, they are still a solid choice for spearfishing wetsuits. They are also a more affordable option and may be a better choice for beginner divers who are just getting started and require a wetsuit that fits within their budget.
- Avoid flatlock seams for spearfishing wetsuits: Flatlock seams tend to be used for wetsuits that will be used primarily for water sports like surfing or swimming, but they are not recommended for spearfishing. The seams are not as durable and allow more water to enter the suit, making them a poor choice for long diving sessions in cold water conditions.
Confused about which wetsuit seam type to pick for spearfishing? Let us aid you in making the correct choice. Unveil which wetsuit seam is ideal for you. Check out this comprehensive guide for the answers!
Types of Wetsuit Seams
In the world of spearfishing, having the right wetsuit can make all the difference. One key factor to consider is the type of seams used in the wetsuit construction. In this section, we will take a closer look at the different types of wetsuit seams available for spearfishing. Our sub-sections will cover:
- Glued and blindstitched seams
- Sealed seams
- Taped seams
We’ll explore how sealed seams work, the benefits they offer for spearfishing, and how they compare to other types of seams. By the end of this section, you’ll have a better understanding of which wetsuit seam type is best suited for your spearfishing needs.
Glued and Blindstitched Seams
Glued and Blindstitched Seams are super popular for wetsuits. They’re great for lots of water activities, like spearfishing, surfing, and scuba diving. These seams give warmth and protection against stuff like sunburn, jellyfish, and sharp crustaceans.
There are many styles of wetsuits. Options are single-piece suits, two-piece, and long johns with a jacket. It depends on the water temperature and your activity to decide what type and thickness of wetsuit you should get. For spearfishing, it’s best to get a purpose-designed wetsuit from a specialized shop. Or get a custom-tailored suit for a better fit.
Brand names like Polosub, Forza Tre, and Freediving are recommended for wetsuits. Yamamoto neoprene is usually used. It can be closed-cell or open-cell. Closed-cell is better for insulation and buoyancy. Open-cell is better for warmth and fit. Smoothskin wetsuits have a watertight seal and no bubbles, so they provide better insulation.
Wetsuits with glued and blind-stitched seams are reinforced at elbows, knees, and bum. Overlock and flatlock stitching might also be used, depending on the suit. You can add knife pockets and kevlar loading pads for more protection.
To complete your wetsuit, you need 3mm gloves, 3-5mm booties, and fins socks. You should choose a high-end or budget wetsuit based on your needs, especially if you’re going spearfishing in Northern Queensland, New Zealand, or Southern Australia.
How Glued and Blindstitched Seams Work
Gluing and blindstitching are two common seams used in wetsuits. Gluing is sealed with adhesive, while the other uses sewing without piercing the fabric.
Spearfishing wetsuits are designed for safety and comfort. Divers opt for open or closed cell wetsuits, to avoid piercings from hazards.
Diving suits must match the diver’s needs. Camouflage suits blend in with environment. Perfect fit is crucial – single and two-piece suits exist.
Farmer-John style pants with a beaver-tail closure are popular. Smooth-skin neoprene wetsuits stop water entering.
Gloves and socks offer extra protection. Inner lining is nylon, outer is superstretch neoprene.
When selecting a wetsuit, consider water & weather conditions, ease of movement & personal preference. Size chart & colors/patterns help achieve the perfect fit.
Benefits of Glued and Blindstitched Seams for Spearfishing
Glued and blindstitched seams are essential for spearfishing wetsuits. They provide warmth, mobility and protection from stings and scratches. They are thicker than those found on surf suits, making them ideal for cold water diving. They also offer a seal against jellyfish, man-o-war, rocks and corals. Plus, they reinforce the seams and improve the wetsuit’s durability.
When selecting a wetsuit, consider fit and size, as well as materials. Heiwa and Daiwabo have single or two-piece designs with an open cell finish. Sizing charts help to ensure the right fit, and some wetsuits offer mix and match capabilities. High waist designs give flexibility, and hoods provide warmth and padding. Camo wetsuits are popular with experienced spearfishers, and smoothskin or nylon liners offer a comfortable feel. Lycra or Spandex Dive Skin wetsuits offer increased maneuverability and face fabric padding.
In conclusion, glued and blindstitched seams are the best for spearfishing. They make a durable, flexible and warm wetsuit that protects from stings, scratches and invasive marine creatures. Buy from a reputable gear shop for a quality wetsuit.
Sealed Seams
When picking out a wetsuit for spearfishing, sealed seams are key. There are several kinds: gluing and blind-stitching, liquid sealed, and welded. Plus, the flatlock stitch – the simplest – is often found on shop wetsuits.
- Gluing and Blind-Stitching: The neoprene is glued together and reinforced with a blind stitch. It’s strong and flexible, keeping heat in well.
- Liquid Sealed Seams: Use liquid neoprene to form a water-resistant bond. They’re lightweight and work well in tropical waters.
- Welded Seams: Use heat bonding for a solid, watertight seam. These are often found on high-end wetsuits and provide prime insulation and warmth.
Lastly, consider the environment, dive buddy, and wetsuit features. Things like wetsuit gloves, dive socks, and beaver tails can all affect the wetsuit’s performance. Don’t forget to check the size chart for the right fit.
How Sealed Seams Work
When it comes to spearfishing wetsuits, sealed seams are essential. These are designed to keep water out so you can stay warm and protected. We’ll talk about two common types of sealed seams.
Flatlock seams are two pieces of neoprene stitched together. They are great for warm water and usually found in open-cell wetsuits. But they don’t provide much insulation in colder waters. If you are spearfishing in a tropical climate, flatlock would be ideal.
Glued and blind-stitched seams are glued and reinforced with a blind stitch. These offer great heat retention and perfect for colder waters. They come in one-piece or two-piece wetsuits. The two-piece is better for those with size chart differences. Spearos often use them for camouflage wetsuits.
Sealed seams are not the only thing to consider when buying a wetsuit. You need to think about thickness, cut, smooth skin, seals, and coverage areas like wetsuit socks. Pay attention to these factors and you can find the right wetsuit for your needs and stay warm and protected.
Benefits of Sealed Seams for Spearfishing
Sealed seams are designed for spearfishing and offer multiple benefits. When shopping for gear, it’s important to get a wetsuit with sealed seams. These seams protect from fire corals and increase durability. Plus, they can be customized and offer more comfort than naked neoprene.
Stitched and glued seams are popular, as they offer a balance between durability and comfort. They come in single/two-piece wetsuits for both genders and smoothskin neoprene with a Powertex coating. Sealed seams from a reputable shop are essential for any diver. Opting for a steamer with sealed seams is a great choice for spearfishing in tropical paradises.
Taped Seams
Taped seams are a favorite type of wetsuit seam for spearfishing. They are usually used in thin suits or two-piece ones. Both male and female divers can use them. It is vital to check a wetsuit size chart when selecting one for the right fit.
The seams have an extra layer of fabric or lining for added strength. This makes them an ideal choice for spearfishing gear shops.
In comparison to open-cell wetsuits, taped seam wetsuits are simpler to put on and take off with a back zipper. Also, they come in different colors for divers to choose from.
To extend the life of the seam tape and wetsuit, rinse it with fresh water after use. Hang dry it inside out for best results.
How Taped Seams Work
Taped seams? A must-have for divers and spearfishers! These provide a watertight and strong seal to keep you warm underwater. Taping seams is a process of sealing the areas where two pieces of neoprene meet. Heat-bonded tape and waterproof material are used for this. They are more common in high-end wetsuits and custom-made off-the-shelf wetsuits, than open-cell wetsuits. Plus, they come in different colors, making them easily recognizable and inspectable.
So, when you choose a wetsuit for spearfishing, pay attention to the type of seams. Taped seams are often the most watertight and durable option. Additionally, when storing your wetsuit, hang it up in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. This will prolong the life of the taped seams.
These facts make taped seams a great choice for spearfishing!
Benefits of Taped Seams for Spearfishing
Taped seams are a must for spearfishing wetsuits! They provide unbeatable waterproofing and strength. Stitched or glued seams aren’t as good. Tape lines the seams, which stops tears and deformation from rough underwater conditions. Plus, no excess glue or stitching to irritate your skin. It’s also more comfortable, and lets less water in.
You can also pick your favorite color for your taped seam wetsuit! If you’re serious about spearfishing, taped seams are the way to go – durability, waterproofing, and comfort all come with it.
Choosing the Best Seams for Spearfishing
Choosing the right wetsuit for spearfishing can make all the difference in comfort, mobility, and performance. In this section, we will take a closer look at the various types of seams used in wetsuits and discuss which ones are the best suited for spearfishing.
Specifically, we will explore the benefits of taped seams and how they work to keep water out. We will then delve into the various considerations that come into play when deciding between taped seams and other types of seams, such as:
- strength
- temperature
- durability
- flexibility
Water Temperature Considerations
Water temp is key when picking the best wetsuit seams for spearfishing. Different types exist, each with its own pros and cons, depending on what you need and your budget.
Single-piece wetsuits offer a good balance of protection and durability. They usually have flatlock stitching, which provides a comfy, breathable fit, but isn’t totally waterproof.
Two-piece wetsuits are better for extreme water conditions and temp fluctuations. These have either glued/blind-stitched seams or overlock stitching plus reinforcing taping/lined seams, for great insulation and durability. Open-cell wetsuits are made from neoprene treated with lubricant for easy wear and removal.
Color also matters when picking the best wetsuit seams for spearfishing. Blue and green are popular since they blend in with the ocean’s colors and don’t scare off fish.
To sum up, when selecting wetsuit seams for spearfishing, think about water temperature, insulation, durability, and comfort. With the right wetsuit, you’ll have a successful and enjoyable time.
Durability and Longevity
Choosing a wetsuit for spearfishing? Seams matter! Single-piece and two-piece suits are available, in different materials.
Flatlock seams are common and cheap, but not as strong or warm as glued seams.
Glued seams have liquid tape or seam tape added for extra strength and warmth.
Open cell wetsuits are great for spearfishing, with a better seal and good insulation. However, they require more care. To enjoy a comfortable dive, pick a wetsuit with proper seams, like glued seams, for durability and longevity.
Comfort and Flexibility
When selecting a wetsuit for spearfishing, comfort and flexibility are key. A two-piece wetsuit with flatlock seams offers maximum flexibility and customization. Research shows divers with two-piece wetsuits have greater mobility underwater.
Single-piece wetsuits with glued and blind-stitched seams are simple and easy to use. But, they may not offer the same level of flexibility.
It’s all about personal preference and diving needs. Choose a wetsuit that fits well and allows for movement underwater. The right wetsuit ensures a comfy, flexible diving experience.
Some Facts About A Guide to Wetsuit Seams: Which Type is Best for Spearfishing?
- ✅ “Blind-stitched” seams are the most popular choice for spearfishing wetsuits, as they offer a comfortable, watertight seal. (Source: Spearfishing Today)
- ✅ “Flatlock” seams are another option for spearfishing wetsuits, although they lack the water-tightness of blind-stitched seams. (Source: The Adventure Junkies)
- ✅ “Taped” seams are a third option for spearfishing wetsuits, providing an extra barrier against water intrusion. (Source: Aqualung)
- ✅ Ultra-stretch neoprene is a popular choice for spearfishing wetsuits, as it allows for a full range of motion. (Source: Spearfishing Reviews)
- ✅ Spearfishing wetsuits often have reinforced knee pads and chest loading pads for added durability and comfort. (Source: Divers Warehouse)
FAQs about A Guide To Wetsuit Seams: Which Type Is Best For Spearfishing?
What is a purpose-designed wetsuit?
A purpose-designed wetsuit is a type of wetsuit that is specifically designed for a particular activity. In the case of spearfishing, a purpose-designed wetsuit has features such as thermal and wearing protection and camouflages that work to improve comfort and safety.
What is the difference between a two-piece wetsuit and a single-piece wetsuit?
A two-piece wetsuit consists of a separate jacket and pants, while a single-piece wetsuit is a one-piece outfit with a zipper up the back. The main advantage of a two-piece is that it allows for greater flexibility than a single-piece wetsuit, but a single piece is usually easier to get on and off.
What type of seam is best for spearfishing wetsuits?
The best type of seam for a spearfishing wetsuit is either blind-stitched or glued and stitched seams. These seams will help prevent water from seeping into the suit and can provide extra warmth and comfort for the diver. Flatlock seams can be used for warmer waters, but they tend to be less durable and more prone to leaking than other types of seams.
Is a colourful wetsuit better for spearfishing?
Not necessarily. While many spearfishers prefer brightly coloured wetsuits because they are easier to see underwater, a camouflaged wetsuit may be better for blending in with your surroundings and remaining stealthy.
What are the benefits of a purpose-designed spearfishing wetsuit?
A purpose-designed spearfishing wetsuit can offer several advantages over a generic wetsuit. These can include improved thermal protection, durability, and camouflage that helps you blend in with your surroundings. Purpose-designed wetsuits also tend to have reinforced knees, elbow, and chest areas to provide extra protection when diving and loading a speargun.
How do I choose the right wetsuit size for spearfishing?
Choosing the right wetsuit size for spearfishing is important for both safety and comfort. To get started, measure your height, weight, chest, waist, and hip measurements, and then use a size chart provided by the manufacturer to help you choose the right size. It’s also important to try on wetsuits before purchasing, if possible, to ensure a proper fit.
Jump to Section
- 1 Key Takeaway:
- 2 Types of Wetsuit Seams
- 3 Choosing the Best Seams for Spearfishing
- 4 Some Facts About A Guide to Wetsuit Seams: Which Type is Best for Spearfishing?
- 5 FAQs about A Guide To Wetsuit Seams: Which Type Is Best For Spearfishing?
- 5.1 What is a purpose-designed wetsuit?
- 5.2 What is the difference between a two-piece wetsuit and a single-piece wetsuit?
- 5.3 What type of seam is best for spearfishing wetsuits?
- 5.4 Is a colourful wetsuit better for spearfishing?
- 5.5 What are the benefits of a purpose-designed spearfishing wetsuit?
- 5.6 How do I choose the right wetsuit size for spearfishing?