DrySuit Diver
Scuba diving in California often means diving in colder waters, especially along the central and northern coasts or at depth even in the southern regions. A drysuit certification offers several advantages in these conditions. Here's a breakdown of the key benefits in taking a drysuit course
NOTES: We've added certain items to the course most students need, if you do not need one, or any of these items. You can remove them at checkout.
Availability: In Stock
Advantages of Dry Suit Diving in California
1. Cold Water Protection
- California waters can range from 50–65°F (10–18°C) year-round.
- A dry suit keeps you completely sealed from water, unlike wetsuits that allow water in.
- Better insulation options (e.g., fleece, Thinsulate) allow for longer, warmer dives.
2. Extended Dive Seasons
- Allows comfortable diving year-round, including in colder months when wetsuits become impractical.
- Popular California dive spots like Monterey Bay, Channel Islands, and Catalina benefit from this.
3. Increased Safety & Comfort
- Staying dry prevents hypothermia, reducing fatigue and improving concentration.
- Ideal for multiple dives per day or liveaboard trips, as you're not repeatedly soaking in cold water.
4. More Buoyancy Control Training
- The dry suit specialty course teaches you to manage buoyancy with your suit, adding to your overall dive skills.
- This added control is helpful in kelp forests, where maneuverability is important.
5. Access to Advanced Dive Sites
- Some of California’s best sites (wrecks, deeper reefs, coldwater offshore sites) are colder or at depth.