What is the primary purpose of a dry suit when diving?

The primary purpose of a dry suit when diving is to prevent exposure to cold water. Unlike wetsuits that allow water to flow in and warm up against the body, dry suits are designed to keep the diver completely dry by trapping air and providing an insulating layer. This is particularly important in colder water conditions, where hypothermia can pose a significant risk even during relatively short dives.

By maintaining a barrier between the diver's body and the cold water, a dry suit allows divers to stay warm and comfortable, thus extending their time underwater in cold environments without being adversely affected by the temperature. While a properly fitted dry suit can assist with buoyancy control and potentially allow for longer dive durations, its primary function remains thermal insulation and comfort. Therefore, the ability to maintain a safe body temperature in cold conditions is the key reason divers choose to use dry suits.