What is a primary purpose of the seals in a dry suit?

The primary purpose of the seals in a dry suit is to prevent water from entering the suit. These seals are strategically located at the openings for the neck, wrists, and sometimes the ankles. They help create a watertight barrier, ensuring that the diver remains dry while submerged in water. By keeping water out of the suit, divers can maintain their body heat more effectively and reduce the risk of hypothermia, which is particularly important in colder water conditions. This aspect of dry suits is crucial for comfort and safety while diving, as moisture can significantly affect the diver's experience and health.

While buoyancy control is important in diving, it is primarily achieved through the suit's overall design and the use of gas in the suit rather than through the seals themselves. Thermal insulation is provided by the suit materials rather than the seals, and while seals can contribute to ease of donning and doffing, their main function is to ensure that the suit remains dry for the diver.