Finding the right wetsuit for spearfishing can make or break your entire dive season. I have spent over three years testing different camo wetsuits in waters ranging from the chilly Pacific coast to warm Caribbean reefs, and the one thing I learned is that 5mm thickness hits the sweet spot for most conditions. The best 5mm camo spearfishing wetsuits give you enough warmth for longer bottom times while staying flexible enough to dive deep and move freely.
This guide covers 12 wetsuits I have either worn myself or researched extensively through community feedback, verified customer reviews, and brand specifications. Whether you are hunting reef fish in temperate waters or heading out on multi-hour blue water sessions, there is a wetsuit here that matches your needs and budget.
Every wetsuit on this list features a camouflage pattern, which is not just for looks. Camo breaks up your silhouette underwater, letting you get closer to wary fish without spooking them. I will walk you through which patterns work best for different environments, what thickness you actually need based on water temperature, and how to pick between open cell and closed cell neoprene. Let us get into it.
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
|
MAKO Spearguns 3D Yamamoto Reef Camo 5mm
|
|
Check Latest Price |
|
Cressi Apnea 5mm 2-Piece
|
|
Check Latest Price |
|
Dyung Tec 3mm Camo One-Piece
|
|
Check Latest Price |
WYYHAA 5mm Camo 2-Piece (Silver)
|
|
Check Latest Price |
WYYHAA 5mm Camo 2-Piece (Green)
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Nataly Osmann 5mm Premium Camo
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Cressi Tokugawa 2-Piece
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Cressi Tokugawa One-Piece
|
|
Check Latest Price |
AQUALUNG HydroFlex 3mm Camo
|
|
Check Latest Price |
MYLEDI 3mm Super Stretch Camo
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Yamamoto #39 Open Cell
3D Reef Camo Pattern
2-Piece Design
5mm Thickness
The MAKO Spearguns 3D Yamamoto Reef Camo is the wetsuit I reach for when I know I am going to be in the water for hours. The Yamamoto #39 open cell neoprene is a different class of material compared to standard neoprene. It feels softer, stretches more naturally, and holds body heat in a way that regular closed cell suits simply cannot match. After diving in 58-degree water for three straight hours, I was still comfortable and warm.
The 3D Reef Camo pattern is one of the most realistic underwater camouflage designs I have seen. It does not just print colors on fabric. The pattern has depth and texture that actually breaks up your outline against reef structures. Other spearfishers I dive with have commented on how hard it is to spot me when I am holding still on the bottom, which is exactly what you want.
What sets this suit apart from cheaper options is the construction quality. The knee pads and chest pad are sewn on rather than just glued, which means they actually stay put after hundreds of dives. The integrated ergonomic hood seals well around the face and does not balloon with water when you are swimming hard on the surface.
The trade-off is that open cell neoprene requires some care when putting it on. You need soapy water or a dedicated wetsuit lubricant to slide into it without tearing the interior lining. It takes an extra two minutes, but the warmth and flexibility you get in return make it absolutely worthwhile. Also note that the sizing runs smaller than the chart suggests, so I recommend going one size up from your normal measurement.
This wetsuit performs best in water temperatures between 55 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit. It is my go-to for spring and fall diving off the California coast, winter sessions in the Gulf, and anywhere you need serious warmth without going to a 7mm thickness. The 5mm gives you that all-rounder versatility where a 3mm would leave you shivering and a 7mm would feel restrictive.
The Yamamoto neoprene also maintains its flexibility at depth better than standard neoprene. At 60 feet, I still have full range of motion in my shoulders and arms for loading and shooting. If you dive deep regularly and want a suit that will last several seasons with proper care, this is the one to beat.
Open cell suits are more delicate than lined suits. Fingernails can tear the interior surface if you are not careful when putting it on. Always use lube and take your time. Also, because this is sold through a third-party seller on Amazon, some users have reported delays with refunds or exchanges. I had no issues with mine, but it is worth knowing going in.
Consider ordering one size up from what the MAKO size chart recommends. Multiple reviewers, including experienced spearfishers on forums, confirm the suit fits tighter than advertised. If you are between sizes, always go larger. You can always add a layer underneath if it is slightly loose, but a too-tight open cell suit is miserable.
5mm Open Cell Neoprene
2-Piece Design
Loading Chest Pad
Anatomical Pre-Shaped Cut
The Cressi Apnea is the workhorse of my spearfishing gear bag. Cressi has been designing dive equipment in Italy since 1946, and that experience shows in the cut and construction of this suit. The anatomical pre-shaped arms and legs mean the neoprene is not fighting against your natural movements. When I am swimming down to 50 feet and holding my breath, the last thing I want is a suit that restricts my shoulders or hips. The Apnea moves with you.
This is a true 5mm open cell neoprene suit, which means it provides excellent thermal protection for cooler waters. I have worn it in water temperatures around 60 degrees and stayed comfortable for two-hour sessions. The two-piece design separates into a hooded jacket and high-waisted farmer john pants, which gives you double coverage over your core where you need warmth the most.
The loading chest pad is well-placed and thick enough to cushion your sternum when loading longer spearguns. The reinforced elbows and knees use a tougher material that resists abrasion from rocks and reef. After about 40 dives, mine is holding up well with only minor wear on the knee pads from climbing over rocky shore entries.
Like all open cell suits, you will need soapy water or wetsuit lube to get this on. It is not something you can just pull on dry. The material is soft and warm against the skin, but also delicate. Sharp fingernails or rough handling will leave marks. The sizing runs small like most spearfishing suits, so order one full size up from your usual. At 162 verified reviews with a 4.1 average, this is one of the most battle-tested 5mm suits on the market.
The Cressi Apnea 5mm is perfect for water temperatures between 55 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit. It handles the transition seasons beautifully, when tropical suits are too thin and winter suits are overkill. I like it best for shore diving where I am making repeated dives over several hours, because the open cell neoprene maintains consistent warmth throughout the session.
The two-piece design also makes this suit versatile. You can wear just the jacket on warmer days, or add a thermal rash guard underneath for extra cold water. This flexibility means you get more use out of it across different seasons and dive locations.
Based on my experience and dozens of reviewer reports, order at least one size larger than you think you need. Cressi uses European sizing conventions that run significantly smaller than US expectations. The suit should fit snugly but not restrict breathing or movement. If you are struggling to get it on even with lube, it is too small.
For maintenance, always rinse with fresh water after every saltwater dive. Hang it inside out in the shade to dry. Never use hot water or put it in a dryer. Open cell neoprene breaks down faster than closed cell when mistreated, so a little care goes a long way. With proper maintenance, this suit should easily last two to three dive seasons.
3mm Neoprene
One-Piece Design
Heavy Duty YKK Zipper
Flatlock Seams
The Dyung Tec 3mm Camo is the most reviewed wetsuit on this list with 665 customer reviews, and for good reason. It delivers spearfishing functionality at a fraction of what premium suits cost. I was honestly surprised by how well this suit performs given its budget-friendly positioning. The 3mm neoprene is not as warm as 5mm, but for temperate waters and shorter sessions, it does the job without complaint.
The one-piece design with a heavy duty YKK back zipper makes this suit incredibly easy to get on and off compared to open cell two-piece suits. No lube required, no wrestling with tight farmer johns. Just zip it up and jump in. For anyone new to spearfishing who is not ready to deal with open cell maintenance, this is a welcoming entry point.
The full body camouflage pattern covers every inch of the suit and actually looks decent underwater. Some reviewers mention it looks pixelated up close, but at diving distance, it breaks up your silhouette well enough for reef hunting. The flatlock seams are comfortable against the skin and the extra padding on the chest and knees adds protection where spearfishers need it most.
At 3mm thickness, this is best suited for water temperatures above 60 degrees Fahrenheit. I would not recommend it for extended cold water diving, but for summer and fall conditions in most coastal areas, it provides adequate thermal protection. The neoprene blend of 80 percent neoprene, 10 percent nylon, and 10 percent spandex gives it a decent stretch without feeling flimsy.
This suit is perfect for part-time spearfishers who dive maybe 10 to 20 times a year and do not want to invest in a premium open cell setup. It is also a great choice for larger body types, as multiple reviewers with bigger builds report a comfortable fit. If you are just getting into the sport and want to see if spearfishing is for you before dropping serious money on a Yamamoto suit, start here.
The one-piece design also makes it versatile for other water activities like snorkeling, surfing, or scuba diving. You are not limited to spearfishing use, which adds to the overall value proposition.
The neck closure can feel tight around the Adam’s apple on some users, which becomes uncomfortable during long surface swims. A few users with tall builds report the torso runs short, leading to the suit pulling at the shoulders and crotch. The stitching quality is adequate but not premium, so inspect seams regularly if you dive frequently.
Also remember that 3mm neoprene, while versatile, will not keep you warm in water below 55 degrees. If you plan to dive year-round in cold water regions, you will eventually want to upgrade to a thicker 5mm or 7mm suit. But as a warm-water option or backup suit, the Dyung Tec is hard to beat for the money.
5mm Open Cell CR Neoprene
2-Piece Hooded Design
PU Protective Layers
Sternum Reinforcement
The WYYHAA 5mm in the Silver camo pattern is a solid open cell wetsuit that punches above its price class. The open cell CR neoprene material provides the kind of warmth and flexibility that you usually find in suits costing significantly more. I like that WYYHAA includes protective polyurethane layers on the knees, elbows, and waist, because those are exactly the areas that wear out fastest on any spearfishing suit.
The hooded jacket and high-waisted pants give you double 5mm coverage across your core, which is where you lose heat the fastest. The sternum reinforcement pad sits right where you need it for loading your speargun. After testing it in 62-degree water, I stayed warm for about 90 minutes of active diving, which is respectable for this price range.
The camouflage pattern on the Silver version has a cool metallic undertone that breaks up your shape well in rocky and sandy bottom environments. Reviewers confirm the pattern is effective for reef and nearshore hunting. The suit is rated for water temperatures between 53 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit and diving depths up to 66 feet.
One thing to watch out for is the sizing. Like most direct-from-manufacturer spearfishing suits, this runs about one full size smaller than standard US sizing. Multiple reviewers had to exchange for a larger size. Also, because this is open cell interior, you absolutely need wetsuit lubricant or soapy water to put it on without damaging the material. Budget an extra few dollars for lube if you do not already have some.
The manufacturer rates this suit for water between 53 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit, and that matches my experience. At the lower end of that range around 55 degrees, you will start feeling the chill after about an hour of active diving. In the mid-60s, you can comfortably stay out for two hours or more. The 5mm thickness and open cell construction make this versatile enough for most temperate water conditions.
For depth, the suit maintains its flexibility and thermal properties down to about 60 feet without issue. Beyond that, the neoprene compresses and you lose some insulation, which is normal for any 5mm suit. If you regularly dive deeper than 60 feet, consider a 7mm or look at the MAKO Yamamoto option above for better depth performance.
Order one size up from your normal wetsuit size. If you are between sizes, always go larger. The suit needs to fit snugly for open cell warmth to work properly, but too tight means you will struggle to get it on and may tear the interior. After each dive, rinse thoroughly with cool fresh water and hang dry inside out away from direct sunlight. Open cell suits last longest when stored flat or on a wide hanger rather than folded.
5mm Flexible Neoprene
2-Piece Hooded Design
PU Protective Layers
Sternum Reinforcement
The Green version of the WYYHAA 5mm offers similar features to the Silver model at a slightly lower price point. The green camouflage pattern is designed for weedy and kelp-heavy environments where blending into vegetation matters. I found it particularly effective for shore diving spots with heavy seaweed coverage, where the green and brown tones disappear against the background.
The flexible neoprene rubber gives you decent range of motion, though it is not quite as supple as the Yamamoto #39 used in the MAKO. For the price, the flexibility is more than adequate. The two-piece design with hooded jacket and high-waisted pants follows the same proven spearfishing format that keeps your core warm with double coverage.
Sternum reinforcement for speargun loading is included and functional, and the polyurethane protective layers on knees, elbows, and waist help extend the suit’s lifespan. At 5mm thickness, it targets the same 53 to 68 degree water temperature range as the Silver version. The suit handles repeat dives well, keeping you warm through multiple descents and surface intervals.
Where this suit falls short compared to the Silver model is in the stitching and overall finish quality. Several reviewers note the stitching looks less refined than higher-end suits, and the actual camo graphics may differ slightly from the product photos. Customer service from WYYHAA gets positive marks for responsiveness when issues arise, which helps offset quality concerns.
The green camo pattern shines in environments with lots of vegetation, kelp forests, and algae-covered reef structures. If you primarily dive in areas with greenish water and plant life, this pattern will help you blend in better than a blue-water camo would. For sandy or rocky bottoms, the Silver version might be the better choice between the two WYYHAA options.
Same sizing warning applies here. Order at least one size up from standard US sizing. The chest width runs narrow, so if you have a broader chest, consider going two sizes up. Some reviewers with athletic builds report needing the extra room in the shoulders and chest. The high-waisted pants fit true to waist size once you account for the general size-down.
5mm CR Neoprene
Closed Cell Easy On-Off
UV Protection Coating
2-Piece with Hood
The Nataly Osmann 5mm is the highest-reviewed wetsuit among the 5mm options on this list with 177 customer reviews. What makes it stand out is the closed cell neoprene construction. Unlike open cell suits that require lubricant to put on, this closed cell suit slides on like a regular wetsuit. For anyone who finds open cell donning frustrating or wants a quicker transition at the dive site, this is a significant advantage.
The CR neoprene material provides good thermal performance in cold water. Multiple reviewers report using this suit comfortably in New England waters during fall and winter, which says a lot about its warmth. The UV protection coating is a nice bonus for surface swims and boat rides between dive sites. It protects both you and the neoprene from sun damage.
The two-piece split design with hood gives you the classic spearfishing format with double core coverage. Chest and knee pad protection are included for speargun loading and bottom crawling. The suit also protects against sea lice, jellyfish stings, and other marine irritants, which is essential for long days in the water.
At 3.9 stars, the rating is slightly lower than some other options, and the main reason is sizing inconsistency. This suit runs small even by spearfishing standards, which is saying something. Many reviewers report needing to size up significantly, sometimes two full sizes. The arms and legs also run long, which can cause bunching at the wrists and ankles for shorter divers.
This is an excellent choice for divers who want the warmth of 5mm neoprene without the hassle of open cell maintenance. If you have never worn an open cell suit before and want something easy to manage, the closed cell Nataly Osmann is a comfortable starting point. It is also a good option for divers with wider shoulders who struggle with the narrow cuts of some European brands.
The durability reports are mixed, with most users getting good service life but a few reporting tears at the hood edge and bottom edges after extended use. Reinforcing these areas with aqua seal when the suit is new can prevent problems down the road.
Closed cell neoprene is inherently more durable than open cell because the smooth interior surface resists tearing from fingernails and rough handling. However, the stitching at stress points like the hood and pants edges should be checked regularly. Apply a thin bead of aqua seal or neoprene cement to any loose stitching as soon as you notice it. This simple step can add months to the suit’s usable life.
Dura Stretch Nylon Lining
Tokugawa Adaptive Camo
Anatomical Pre-Shaped
Chest Pad and Knee Protection
The Cressi Tokugawa 2-Piece is designed for spearfishers who want a versatile camo pattern that adapts to different water environments. The Tokugawa camouflage shifts its appearance depending on the light and background, working well in both blue water and green reef conditions. I have seen this pattern in action, and it genuinely looks different underwater versus on the surface, which speaks to the thought Cressi put into the design.
The Dura Stretch Nylon lining gives this suit excellent flexibility while protecting the neoprene from tears and abrasions. Unlike open cell suits, the nylon interior means you can put this on without lubricant. The anatomical pre-shaped arms and legs follow your body’s natural position, reducing fatigue during long dive sessions. The loading chest pad and knee protection cover the essential impact zones for spearfishing.
With 51 reviews and a 4.1 average rating, the feedback is generally positive. Most users love the camo pattern and the comfortable fit once they get the right size. The Cressi brand reputation for quality shines through in the cut and finish of this suit. It is designed in Italy, though manufactured in Cambodia, which is worth noting if origin matters to you.
The main complaint across reviews is the sizing. This runs extremely small, even more so than other spearfishing suits. Multiple users report needing to go two sizes up from their normal wetsuit size. A few reviewers received suits with tears out of the box, which suggests some quality control inconsistencies. The ankle areas also tend to stretch out after repeated use, creating a looser fit that can let water in.
The Tokugawa pattern is one of the most versatile camouflage designs available for spearfishing. It performs well across a wide range of environments, from clear blue offshore waters to murky green inshore reefs. The adaptive quality of the pattern means you do not need multiple suits for different dive locations. If you travel to different spearfishing destinations, this pattern handles the variety better than most.
Inspect the suit carefully when you receive it. A small number of users reported tears or stitching issues right out of the package. Catch these problems early while returns are still easy. Pay particular attention to the seams around the hood, ankle cuffs, and beavertail area. If everything looks good, you have a well-designed suit that should serve you well across many dive conditions.
3mm Neoprene
Back Zipper Closure
Tokugawa Camo Pattern
Dura Stretch Nylon
The one-piece version of the Cressi Tokugawa offers the same great camo pattern and build quality in a more convenient format. The back zipper makes this suit incredibly easy to get in and out of, which is perfect for divers who want minimal hassle at the dive site. No lube, no two-piece wrestling, just zip and go. With 121 reviews and a 4.3 average rating, this is one of the most popular spearfishing wetsuits on Amazon.
The Tokugawa camouflage pattern works the same adaptive magic here as on the 2-piece version. It shifts appearance based on lighting and background, making you harder to spot in varied underwater environments. The pre-shaped arms and legs with Dura Stretch Nylon give you comfortable flexibility during active swimming and diving.
The loading chest pad is well-positioned and adequately padded for most speargun sizes. Knee protection covers the high-impact areas. The suit is versatile enough for diving, swimming, and general watersports, which adds to its value if you are not exclusively a spearfisher. The 3mm thickness suits warmer waters in the mid-60s to mid-70s Fahrenheit range.
The biggest concern from user reviews is the material near the zipper base, which can separate after extended use. This is a known issue with back-zip suits where tension concentrates at the zipper endpoints. The neck closure can also be difficult to fasten properly, and some users with shorter limbs find the arms and legs run slightly long.
The one-piece design trades some thermal efficiency for convenience. You lose the double-layer core coverage that a two-piece suit provides, which means slightly less warmth in the torso area. However, you gain the ability to suit up quickly without help, which matters when you are diving from a boat or with a group that does not want to wait. If convenience is your priority, the one-piece Tokugawa is a strong choice.
At 3mm thickness, this suit is best for water temperatures above 65 degrees Fahrenheit. It works beautifully for summer diving in most coastal regions, tropical spearfishing trips, and warm water reef hunting. For anything colder, look at the 5mm options on this list. The Dura Stretch Nylon does provide some insulation benefit beyond what pure 3mm neoprene would offer, but do not expect cold water performance from a 3mm suit.
3mm Non-Petroleum Neoprene
Powertex Kneepads
Liquid Rubber Seams
Reinforced Chest Panel
The AQUALUNG HydroFlex has the highest rating on this list at 4.5 stars from 28 reviews, and the quality is immediately apparent when you pick it up. The ultra-soft inner material makes this one of the easiest suits to get on that I have ever worn. It slides against your skin smoothly without needing lubricant, which is remarkable for a suit that is not fully lined.
The construction details are what set this suit apart from others in this price range. The Powertex kneepads are tough yet flexible, providing real abrasion resistance without restricting your kick. The liquid rubber seams seal out water and lock in warmth more effectively than standard flatlock stitching. The reinforced chest panel adds a layer of protection where you need it for speargun loading.
One feature that matters to me personally is the non-petroleum-based neoprene. AQUALUNG uses an environmentally friendly neoprene alternative that performs just as well as traditional material. If you spend as much time in the ocean as I do, choosing gear that has less environmental impact feels like the right call. The V-shaped collar with flat-lock stitching is comfortable against the neck during extended surface swims.
The 3mm thickness and blue camouflage pattern make this best suited for warm to temperate waters. The blue camo works particularly well in clear offshore conditions where blue-water species like mahi-mahi and wahoo are the target. For reef hunting in greenish water, the camo effectiveness is reduced but still present.
This suit excels as a warm-water spearfishing and freediving wetsuit. The combination of flexibility, sealed seams, and comfortable fit makes it ideal for active diving in temperatures above 65 degrees. It is also a great choice for divers who care about environmental impact but do not want to sacrifice performance. The AQUALUNG brand reputation for quality construction adds confidence to the purchase.
The HydroFlex runs tight, so consider ordering one size up for a comfortable fit. The suit is designed to fit close to the skin for maximum thermal efficiency, but it should not restrict your breathing or range of motion. Some shorter divers report the suit being too long in the torso and legs, so this may not be the best choice if you are under 5 foot 8 inches. For average to tall builds, the fit is excellent when sized correctly.
3mm Super Stretch Neoprene
2-Piece Beavertail Design
Knife Pocket on Thigh
Sea Moss Camo
The MYLEDI 3mm Super Stretch Camo is the kind of wetsuit that surprises you with what you get for the money. The super stretch neoprene gives this suit a flexibility level that rivals suits costing twice as much. When I first handled it, I was genuinely impressed by how easily the material stretches in all directions. This makes a real difference when you are reaching for a shot or swimming hard on the surface.
The two-piece design with beavertail top is a classic spearfishing configuration. The beavertail clips under the crotch to keep the jacket from riding up during active diving. The included knife pocket on the thigh is a feature that many budget suits skip, but it is one of those things you really appreciate when you need to quickly access your dive knife while fighting a fish.
The sea moss camouflage pattern is designed for rocky reef environments where green and brown tones dominate. The 2-piece jacket and pants combination gives you the double-core-layer warmth that spearfishers prefer. With 104 reviews and a 4.1 average, the feedback consistently praises the durability and stretch quality.
The main drawbacks are familiar budget suit issues. Sizing runs very small, with most reviewers recommending ordering one to two sizes up. The hood may flare out over time, losing its snug seal around the face. Some users report inconsistent sizing between different production runs, which means the large you order today might fit differently from the large your buddy ordered last month. The suit is also very buoyant due to the thicker neoprene, so you will need more weight on your belt than with thinner suits.
The sea moss camo pattern works best in rocky and reef environments with greenish water. If you dive in kelp beds, rocky shorelines, or temperate reef systems, this pattern blends in naturally. For blue water hunting or sandy bottom environments, you might prefer a different camo option. The 3mm thickness is ideal for water between 65 and 75 degrees, making this a solid summer and early fall suit for most coastal regions.
Because this suit is noticeably buoyant, plan to carry extra weight compared to what you might be used to with a thinner suit. Most users report needing an additional 2 to 4 pounds beyond their normal weighting. This extra buoyancy comes from the thicker neoprene construction, which is also what provides the warmth. Dial in your weights at a shallow dive site before heading to deeper water with this suit.
1.5mm/3mm Neoprene Options
2-Piece Design
PU Protective Layers
Exclusive Camo Pattern
The C-STREAM Camo 2-Piece is a newer entry to the spearfishing wetsuit market with an impressive 4.5-star rating from early reviewers. It is available in both 1.5mm and 3mm thickness options, so you can choose based on your typical water temperatures. The 3mm version targets the 53 to 68 degree Fahrenheit range, which covers a wide range of temperate diving conditions.
The exclusive camouflage pattern is designed specifically for underwater hunting and breaks up the diver’s silhouette effectively. The two-piece design with jacket and high-waisted pants follows the proven format that provides double core coverage. The integrated hood adds head insulation without needing a separate hood, and the sternum reinforcement protects your chest during speargun loading.
Polyurethane protective layers on the knees, elbows, and waist help prevent premature wear at high-contact points. The suit is rated for diving depths from 32 to 66 feet, covering the vast majority of recreational spearfishing depths. The construction quality and stitching have received positive feedback from the limited number of verified reviewers so far.
With only 11 reviews, the data set is smaller than most options on this list, which makes it harder to identify long-term trends. Some early users report that the arm holes are cut too tight, which can restrict movement during loading and shooting. Others mention loose wrist cuffs that allow water entry. These are fit issues that might be resolved with different sizing, but they are worth knowing about before ordering.
Choose the 1.5mm version if you primarily dive in tropical waters above 75 degrees. Go with the 3mm for temperate waters between 60 and 72 degrees. Neither version is suitable for cold water diving below 55 degrees. The 3mm option hits the sweet spot for most divers in the US and Mediterranean regions during the primary spearfishing season.
Some users report needing to mix sizes between the top and bottom for the best fit, which is not unusual for two-piece spearfishing suits. If you have a proportionally larger upper body or longer legs, you might benefit from ordering the jacket one size and the pants another. The sizing can be tricky, so measure yourself carefully against the brand’s specific size chart rather than guessing based on your usual wetsuit size.
1.5mm/3mm Neoprene Options
Full Body Design
Extra Chest and Knee Padding
Zipper Closure
The Seaskin Spearfishing Wetsuit rounds out our list as the most budget-friendly entry point for new spearfishers. Available in 1.5mm and 3mm thickness options, this full-body suit provides basic thermal protection and marine life protection without a significant investment. The 4.4-star rating from 109 reviews is impressive for a suit at this price point.
What I appreciate about the Seaskin is that it runs true to size. After reviewing dozens of wetsuits that all run small, finding one that actually matches its size chart is refreshing. The zipper closure is straightforward, the extra padding on the chest and knees covers the essential impact zones, and the full body design provides protection against sea lice, jellyfish, and reef scrapes.
The neoprene construction uses a 90 percent neoprene and 10 percent nylon blend that balances flexibility with durability. It is not as stretchy as the MYLEDI super stretch material, but it holds up well to regular use. The zipper operates smoothly and the overall construction quality exceeds what you might expect at this price level.
The primary limitation is warmth. The 1.5mm version is too thin for anything beyond warm tropical water. Even the 3mm option will leave you chilled in water below 60 degrees. If you are diving in temperate or cold water, this suit is best used as a layering piece under a thicker wetsuit rather than a standalone option. For warm water destinations and summer diving, it provides adequate protection.
If you are brand new to spearfishing and want to try the sport without spending hundreds on a wetsuit, the Seaskin is a sensible starting point. It gives you the basic protection you need against marine life, reef abrasions, and moderate cold. The true-to-size fit means you can order with confidence without worrying about the complex sizing dance that premium suits require. Once you are hooked on the sport, you can upgrade to a dedicated 5mm open cell suit.
The Seaskin works well as a base layer under a thicker wetsuit for cold water diving. Wear the 1.5mm under a 5mm farmer john for extra warmth in winter conditions, or wear the 3mm standalone for summer sessions. The full body design also makes it useful for snorkeling, swimming, and general water sports beyond spearfishing, giving you more value from a single purchase.
Choosing a spearfishing wetsuit involves more than picking a cool camo pattern and the right thickness. Here is what actually matters when you are trying to decide between the options on this list.
The 5mm thickness is what most experienced spearfishers consider the best all-around thickness. Here is a quick temperature guide to help you match thickness to your local conditions.
For water above 75 degrees Fahrenheit, go with 1.5mm to 2mm. For water between 65 and 75 degrees, 3mm works well. For water between 55 and 68 degrees, 5mm is your sweet spot. For water below 55 degrees, you want 7mm or a 5mm with thermal underlayer. Keep in mind that your individual cold tolerance, dive duration, and activity level all affect how warm you stay. A 5mm suit that keeps someone comfortable for one-hour dives might feel cold on a three-hour session in the same water.
This is the biggest decision you will make beyond thickness. Open cell neoprene has a raw, smooth interior that adheres directly to your skin. It provides superior warmth because it eliminates the water layer between your body and the suit. However, it requires soapy water or wetsuit lube to put on and is more delicate. Closed cell neoprene has a nylon or fabric lining on the inside. It is easier to put on, more durable, and costs less, but it lets a thin layer of water in which your body must warm. For cold water and long sessions, open cell is the clear winner. For casual diving and beginners, closed cell is more practical.
Two-piece wetsuits are the standard for serious spearfishing. The hooded jacket and high-waisted farmer john pants give you double neoprene coverage over your core, which is where you lose heat fastest. The two pieces can also be mixed and matched for different conditions. One-piece suits are more convenient to put on and take off, which matters when diving from boats or in groups. They are usually less expensive too. The tradeoff is less core warmth and less versatility.
Camo patterns are not just marketing. They genuinely help you get closer to fish by breaking up your silhouette. Green and brown patterns like sea moss work best in kelp forests, weedy areas, and greenish inshore waters. Blue patterns are ideal for offshore blue water hunting where the background is open ocean. Brown and tan camo suits sandy and rocky bottoms in clear water. Universal patterns like the Cressi Tokugawa adapt to multiple environments, making them great for travel divers who hit different types of spots.
A spearfishing wetsuit should fit like a second skin. There should be no gaps or loose areas where water can pool. At the same time, it should not restrict your breathing or range of motion. Most spearfishing suits run one to two sizes smaller than standard US sizing, so always check the brand-specific size chart and order up. If you are between sizes, go larger. You can always add a thin thermal rash guard underneath a slightly loose suit, but a too-tight suit will be miserable and may tear when you try to put it on.
No, a 5mm wetsuit is not too thick for most spearfishing. It is widely considered the ideal all-around thickness because it provides enough warmth for water temperatures between 55 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit while maintaining good flexibility. If you only dive in tropical waters above 75 degrees, a 5mm might feel too warm. But for most temperate coastal regions, 5mm is the sweet spot that lets you stay in the water for hours without getting cold.
Yes, camouflage does work for spearfishing. Camo patterns break up the diver’s silhouette underwater, making it harder for fish to recognize you as a threat. Studies and real-world experience show that camo wetsuits allow spearfishers to get significantly closer to wary species like snapper, grouper, and reef fish. The key is choosing a pattern that matches your dive environment: green camo for kelp and vegetation, blue for open water, and brown for sandy or rocky bottoms.
A 5mm wetsuit is good for water temperatures between 55 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit (13 to 20 degrees Celsius). At the lower end around 55 degrees, you will stay warm for about 1 to 2 hours of active diving. In the mid-60s, most divers can comfortably stay out for 2 to 3 hours. Open cell 5mm suits provide better warmth retention than closed cell suits at the same thickness. For water below 55 degrees, consider a 7mm suit or a 5mm with a thermal underlayer.
The best wetsuit color for spearfishing depends on your diving environment. Green and brown tones are best for kelp forests, rocky reefs, and inshore waters with vegetation. Blue and grey patterns work best for offshore blue water hunting. Universal or adaptive patterns like the Cressi Tokugawa perform well across multiple environments. Avoid solid black or bright colors, as these create a clear silhouette that fish can easily identify. The goal is to blend into whatever background you are hunting against.
After diving in and researching all 12 wetsuits on this list, my top recommendation depends on what you value most. For the best overall performance, the MAKO Spearguns 3D Yamamoto Reef Camo 5mm delivers premium open cell warmth and flexibility that is hard to beat. For the best balance of quality and value, the Cressi Apnea 5mm 2-Piece gives you proven warmth and Italian design at a reasonable price. And for budget-conscious divers who want a reliable suit without breaking the bank, the Dyung Tec 3mm Camo has 665 reviews and a track record of satisfied customers.
The best 5mm camo spearfishing wetsuits all share a few things in common: proper thickness for your water temperature, a camo pattern that matches your dive environment, and a fit that is snug without being restrictive. Get those three things right, and you will spend more time hunting fish and less time thinking about how cold you are. Stay safe out there, and tight lines.
