Custom Wet Suits

From LoveToKnow Swimsuits

Are custom wet suits better than ready-made? You decide.

Why Buy Custom Wet Suits?

If you've already started your search for a wet suit, then you're probably aware of the many great products available. Color selections are better, and stretchy, breathable fabrics offer greater mobility than ever before.

So, with all the great choices available, what could possibly entice anyone to go all the way and order custom diving suits? How about the fact that no matter how terrific an "off the rack" wet suit might be, there's just nothing better than having it all your own way.

First, let's talk about the fit. Yes, you can get a great fit with a ready-made suit, but why settle for great when you can have perfect? It takes a considerable amount of time to be measured, and in the end you're only going to wind up with the suit that comes the closest to your ideal size. When you decide to go custom, the fit is exact.

Second, custom diving suits can eliminate buyer's remorse. You never have to pick between two suits that each have some, but not all of the features you want. You can specify everything down to the last detail.

Third, aren't you worth it? Whether you need a wet suit for work or play, you're going to spend considerable time wearing it. Why not invest now in a suit you're going to feel totally satisfied with? You'll probably wear it longer, and if you amortize the cost over the extra years you avoid buying a new suit, you just might wind up saving money in the long run.

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Let's Go Shopping!

Now that we've covered why, let's talk about where to go for truly excellent custom wet suits.

Aquaflite suits are top of the line, and come with a lifetime warranty on seams and zippers. If you gain or lose weight, or just change shape, you can have them re-tailor the suit for a small fee instead of paying for another. Choose from cool/cold water suits or warm, with or without hoods. Aquaflite also offers suits for physically challenged divers too; all the more reason to shop there.

LiquidFit offers just about anything you could want in a wet suit, if their products list is anything to judge by. You can purchase a suit for your child that will grow with him/her. As for your own needs, you’ll be glad to know that LiquidFit boasts of some of the most powerful seams in the industry, and they have quite a few materials and colors to choose from.

Eagle Reef offers both custom diving suits or stock-fit. It’s up to you. They carry styles for adults and children, and give you a choice of one-piece, French-cut or step-in wet suits. To order a custom wet suit, you’ll definitely need to know how to measure your body. Eagle Reef has you covered.

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Alternatives to Custom Suits

Although nothing beats a tailor-made suit, custom wet suits do take longer to buy than decent off the rack suits. If turnaround time is a consideration, a high quality, ready-made wet suit may be a better option. Most of today's off the rack suits stretch so well they provide an adequate fit for a wide range of body types.

Of course, you'll still need to go through the measuring process, but you'll walk out of the store with a suit the very same day.

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Getting Measured

Each wet suit retailer has developed their own measuring guidelines to achieve the best fit with their products. That's why it's important to speak with a sales rep first to make sure you have all the measurements you'll need to provide. Better yet, let the professionals do the work for you and take expert measurements of your body themselves. Nearly all wet suit retailers provide this service.

Here are a few pointers to help you get the most accurate measurements from you fitting session.

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How to Stand

Remember all those times your parents told you to stand up straight? They knew what they were talking about. Slouching will result in measurements that say you're shorter than you really are. Stand straight with your head up and feet spread slightly apart. Resist the urge to look down at the person taking your measurements and try to stay still.

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Under the Suit

Wear whatever you’re going to be wearing under your wet suit to the fitting, whether it's a rash guard or a simple T-shirt. Your suit should fit like a second skin, not a sausage skin that's about to burst. Extra layers add bulk, and you need to take them into account during your fitting.

By the same token, don't get fitted wearing your street clothes or you'll wind up with a suit that is slightly too big.

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Measurements Needed

You're going to need to take a lot of measurements. Some of them may seem a bit redundant, but they honestly are necessary.

For example, you’ll need to measure from the top of your shoulder to the chest, waist, hips, crotch, and ankle. Then, you'll need to measure from the ankle to the crotch, mid-thigh, knee, below the knee, calf, and armpit.

Circumferences needed include: