Open-Cell Freediving Wetsuits vs Scuba Wetsuits

If you’re new to freediving—or crossing over from scuba—you might wonder why freedivers make such a big deal about wetsuits. After all, neoprene is neoprene… right?

Not quite.

While freediving and scuba wetsuits may look similar on the hanger, they’re designed for very different realities underwater. Choosing the right one can make a huge difference in warmth, comfort, and performance.

Let’s break it down.

What Is an Open-Cell Freediving Wetsuit?

Open-cell wetsuits are the standard for freediving. On the inside, they have raw neoprene rather than a fabric lining. When paired with a lubricant (usually water mixed with conditioner), the suit adheres directly to your skin.

Why freedivers prefer open-cell suits:

• Exceptional warmth with less thickness

• Minimal water flushing, even during long sessions

• Superior flexibility for full breathing and relaxed movement

• Better buoyancy consistency as the suit compresses with depth

In short, they’re built for efficiency—because every unnecessary movement costs oxygen.

What About Scuba Wetsuits?

Scuba wetsuits are lined with fabric on the inside (and usually the outside). They’re designed for:

• Easy donning without lubrication

• Durability around tanks, BCDs, and boat decks

• Longer, more static dives with external air supply

They do their job very well—for scuba diving.

Can You Freedive in a Scuba Wetsuit?

Yes—you can. Many people do at the beginning.

But most quickly notice:

• Feeling cold despite wearing a thicker suit

• Restricted breathing during breath-up

• Increased drag and fatigue

• Less comfort during repeated dives

It works, but it’s far from ideal—especially as dive times increase.

Why Open-Cell Suits Make Sense for Freediving

Freediving prioritizes:

• Relaxation

• Thermal efficiency

• Streamlining

• Energy conservation

Open-cell wetsuits support all of these. It’s common for freedivers to feel warmer in a 3mm open-cell suit than in a 5mm scuba wetsuit—because less water moves between your skin and the neoprene.

That’s physics doing its thing.

Final Thoughts

Scuba wetsuits are built for tanks.
Open-cell wetsuits are built for breath-hold humans.

If you’re serious about comfort, safety, and progression in freediving, an open-cell wetsuit isn’t an upgrade—it’s simply the right tool for the job.

At Fish N CHill, we believe the right equipment helps you relax, dive better, and enjoy the water longer. And that’s always the goal.

Ocean calm.