Exposure Suits

Because of the water temperature (about 4°C in fresh water) exposure suits are mandatory. Some consider a dry suit mandatory; however, a thick wetsuit is also sufficient for hardier divers. A wetsuit can be pre-heated by pouring warm water into the suit. A hood and gloves are mandatory, and dry suit divers have the option of using hoods and gloves that keep their head and hands dry. Some prefer a to use a full face diving mask to essentially eliminate any contact with the cold water.

The biggest draw back to using a wet suit is the chilling effect of the water evaporating off the suit has on the diver. This can be reduced by using a heated shelter.