The Sharkskin T2 Chillproof one-piece full suit, designed for warmth, sun protection, and resistance to marine stingers, became my trusted companion in the challenging conditions of the Galapagos.
Despite initial doubts about its effectiveness, it delivered exceptional warmth and safety amidst volcanic rocks and sharp terrains. Its ease of wear and compactness distinguished it from traditional wetsuits, marking it a standout choice for divers seeking comfort and functionality.
This suit blends advanced features with practical design, making it a pivotal piece of gear for underwater exploration.
- Shape designed for females
- Flexible, stretchy material
- Offers substantial thermal protection
- Easy to get on
- Quick drying
- Warmth may be subjective
Table of Contents
Specs/Technical Info
- Chest zip - greater flexibility in the torso
- 4-way stretch material
- Upper arm zip pocket
- Thigh cargo pocket
- Titanium infrared (FIR) nanotechnology
- 100% wind protection
- Thermal reflection
- Tailored for women
- Equivalent to a 4-5mm wetsuit
When the team at Sharkskin heard about my trip to the Galapagos Islands, they offered to send me the Chillproof T2 Suit to test and review.
However, this does not impact my review, which is an honest account of my experience with this wetsuit.
Sharkskin T2 Chillproof Suit Performance
The performance of the Sharkskin T2 Chillproof suit in the unpredictable waters of the Galapagos was, honestly, nothing short of remarkable.
Initially, I harboured doubts about the suit’s thin profile but my skepticism, however, was quickly washed away by the suit’s exceptional warmth and comfort.
The suit’s technology proved its worth, shielding me from the cold that I feared would penetrate its slender barrier. It was a revelation, feeling the suit’s fabric cling to my skin, not just as a layer of protection but as a source of heat, keeping the cold at bay. The experience was akin to discovering a hidden strength within, bolstered by the suit’s innovative design.
The joy of diving, unhindered by bulky gear or the nagging cold, was rejuvenated. With each dive, my confidence in the Sharkskin suit grew, turning what was once doubt into admiration.
Beyond its exceptional warmth, the Sharkskin T2 Chillproof suit was a dream to take on and off, a feature that truly set it apart during my Galapagos adventure. Even when soaked from previous dives, slipping into the suit felt effortless, a stark contrast to the struggle I observed in others wrestling with their wet neoprene suits.
This ease of use, combined with the suit’s lightweight and compact nature, not only streamlined my preparation process but also infused each dive with a sense of simplicity and joy. The convenience of donning the suit, wet or dry, added a layer of comfort and efficiency to my diving experience, transforming a routine task into a seamless transition between dives.
This journey from skepticism to trust underscores the transformative power of Sharkskin’s technology, a testament to its ability to exceed the expectations of divers in search of adventure.
Sharkskin T2 Chillproof Suit Durability
The durability of the Sharkskin T2 Chillproof suit stood up to the rigorous demands of diving in the Galapagos, an environment known for its volcanic rocks and sharp underwater terrains.
Throughout my dives, the suit faced these abrasive conditions head-on, emerging unscathed and proving its high-quality construction. The inclusion of knee and elbow pad prints not only provided flexibility but also offered abrasion resistance, a testament to the thoughtful design aimed at extending the suit’s lifespan.
This resilience against wear and tear was particularly impressive, considering the suit’s lighter, less bulky nature compared to traditional neoprene wetsuits. It reassured me that the Sharkskin suit was not just a short-term investment but a durable companion for future diving expeditions.
The ability of this suit to withstand the harsh underwater environment, without compromising on comfort or performance, solidifies its status as a reliable choice for divers who demand durability without sacrificing flexibility or warmth.
Sharkskin T2 Hood
Pairing the Sharkskin T2 Chillproof suit with its matching hood (purchased seperately) amplifies the diving experience, providing an additional level of thermal protection and comfort.
The hood not only extends the suit’s warmth to cover the head, a critical area for heat retention, but also integrates seamlessly with the suit’s design, ensuring reduced water ingress and maintaining a streamlined profile in the water. This combination enhances overall warmth without sacrificing flexibility or adding unnecessary bulk, making it a game-changer for divers seeking to maximise their warmth and performance in cooler waters.
The addition of the hood offers a holistic approach to thermal protection, allowing divers to fully immerse themselves in their underwater adventures with confidence and comfort.
Sharkskin T2 Socks
The inclusion of the Sharkskin socks (purchased seperately) with the T2 Chillproof suit significantly enhanced my diving comfort and convenience.
These socks not only provided an extra layer of warmth for my feet, crucial for those dives where the thermoclines hit, but they also made slipping into my dive boots a seamless process. The smooth texture of the socks against the interior of the boots eliminated any friction, allowing for an effortless transition that saved time and spared me the usual struggle.
This small addition made a big difference in my overall diving experience, ensuring that every aspect, from head to toe, was covered in comfort and designed for the diver’s ease.
Sharkskin T2 Vest
The Sharkskin T2 Chillproof vest (purchased seperately), when layered over the suit, offers an additional shield of warmth focused on the core, where maintaining temperature is vital for overall body warmth.
My decision to utilise this extra layer of protection during a particularly brisk dive underscored its value. The vest provided an extra barrier against the cold, ensuring my core remained insulated without compromising mobility or comfort.
However, the sole performance of the T2 Chillproof suit meant that for most of my dives, this additional layer was a choice rather than a necessity. The versatility to adapt my gear to the diving conditions at hand, adding or removing layers as needed, truly enhanced my experience, giving me the confidence to face varying underwater climates with just the right amount of protection.
This vest could be worn seperate to the suit too, over skins for example in warmer environments.
The T2 Chillproof suit on its own does offer the protection that a 4-5mm neoprene suit would offer.
However, The hood, socks and vest are great if you are looking for additional protection in cooler waters.
Sharkskin T2 Price
With a retail price around £600.00, this suit positions itself in the premium segment of the market. When comparing it to conventional 5mm neoprene suits, which can range widely in price but generally fall between £200 to £600 depending on the brand and features, the Sharkskin T2 Chillproof Suit is pricier, but stands out for the advanced technology and unparalleled comfort it offers.
The suit’s cost reflects its innovative design, incorporating Titanium Far Infrared technology for superior warmth retention, and its versatility across a range of water temperatures. While some may hesitate at the price, the suit’s durability, ease of use (being notably easy to don and doff, even when wet), and its performance in varying conditions justify the investment for serious divers.
It’s worth noting that for those who prioritise warmth, comfort, and ease of movement over traditional neoprene’s buoyancy and price, the Sharkskin T2 Chillproof Women’s Suit offers a compelling, albeit pricier, alternative.
What Sets Sharkskin Suits Apart?
Sharkskin wetsuits stand out from neoprene suits with their unique Chest Zip design and Titanium Far Infrared nanotechnology, which not only increases flexibility but also retains warmth, is renowned for it’s innovative design and technological, improving my dives in cooler waters.
Their commitment to quality is evident through features like the breathable membrane, windproof protection, and abrasion-resistant materials, all tailored for the diver’s comfort and movement.
My personal journey with Sharkskin has been quite transformative. The wetsuit’s thoughtful design, including the zippered pockets and strategic padding, coupled with the 4-way stretch material, and shape specifically designed for females, offered me a level of convenience and mobility I hadn’t found in other suits. The suit’s lightweight and compact nature proved invaluable for travel and underwater exploration.
The global diving community’s admiration for Sharkskin is well-founded. Their wetsuits not only cater to the practical needs of divers but also embody a blend of innovation and functionality that enhances underwater performance.
Sharkskin Titanium Far Infrared (FIR)
The heart of the Sharkskin T2 Chillproof suit lies in its groundbreaking Titanium Far Infrared (FIR) nano-technology, a feature that wraps divers in a warm embrace, even in the chill of the deep.
With titanium nanoparticles woven into the very fabric of the suit, it acts as a mirror, reflecting the body’s own warmth back onto the skin, fostering a cocoon of heat. This isn’t just about staying warm; it’s about feeling a surge of comfort and vitality, as the FIR technology boosts blood circulation, enhancing both metabolic function and recovery.
Diving in this innovative suit is akin to being enveloped in a warm hug, turning the cooler, mysterious waters into a welcoming environment. During one of my dives in the Galapagos, the temperature plunged to a brisk 22 degrees Celsius. Despite sensing the chill, the suit’s technology ensured that the cold was merely a sensation, not a deterrent, allowing me to continue my underwater exploration without having to cut the dive short.
The Sharkskin T2 Chillproof suit, with its fusion of technology and comfort, truly stands as a beacon of warmth and well-being for divers venturing into the embrace of the sea.
Are Sharkskin Suits Any Good?
My own experience with Sharkskin suits has been largely positive. I found them to be an excellent option for maintaining body temperature in cooler waters, without the bulkiness associated with traditional wetsuits.
I enjoyed the ability to reduce my weights thanks to the neutrally buoyant material and I felt the unique material composition offered a snug fit and good flexibility, allowing for unimpeded movement underwater.
However, for a comprehensive perspective, exploring a broader spectrum of user experiences is crucial. Further investigation into feedback from divers who have worn Sharkskin suits reveals a general satisfaction with their in-water performance. Yet, some noted that the suits took longer to dry than expected, potentially due to restricted airflow in their drying area.
I noticed that some others noted that the suit feels tight when dry but fits well while diving and some remarked that the suits are more akin to a 3mm than 5mm in terms of warmth, suggesting that while they offer good protection, they might not be as warm as some divers expect.
This research suggests that while Sharkskin suits are flexible and offer almost no buoyancy, they might not replace thicker neoprene suits in colder conditions. The varying experiences with warmth and drying time highlight the suit’s dependence on specific diving conditions and personal preferences.
In summary, Sharkskin suits offer a good balance of warmth, flexibility, and neutral buoyancy for many divers, but it’s crucial to consider individual needs and local water temperatures. They might not be the ultimate solution for all diving conditions, especially for those looking for the warmth of a thicker neoprene suit. Yet, for divers seeking a lightweight and flexible alternative, Sharkskin suits are definitely worth considering.
Is Sharkskin Warm?
Sharkskin’s performance in terms of warmth is a topic I can speak to from personal experience. Diving in the Galapagos, where water temperatures averaged 26 degrees Celsius, I really put my Sharkskin suit to the test. The real challenge came when encountering a significant drop in temperature due to thermoclines. Despite these fluctuations, my Sharkskin suit held up impressively.
Over the course of four dives a day, I found that my body didn’t struggle to retain heat, even by the last dive. The suit’s ability to maintain warmth in cooler conditions was remarkable, a testament to its design and the materials used.
However, it’s worth noting that my background as a cold water diver may play a role in this perception. I am accustomed to navigating the challenges of temperature variability and have developed a certain resilience to cold. Sharkskin’s effectiveness in retaining heat can vary from person to person, influenced by individual tolerance to cold and diving conditions.
In my case, the suit exceeded expectations, offering a level of thermal protection that kept me comfortable even when faced with unexpected cold patches.
In essence, while Sharkskin proved to be a reliable ally against the cold for me, divers should consider their own cold tolerance and the specific conditions they’ll be facing. My experience suggests that Sharkskin can indeed provide substantial warmth, even in challenging conditions, but individual experiences may vary.
Conclusion
In my opinion, the Sharkskin T2 Chillproof suit excels in warmth, flexibility, and durability, making it a standout choice for divers.
My experience in the Galapagos showcased its brilliant warmth retention, ease of use, and travel-friendly design. The integration of Titanium Far Infrared nanotechnology enhances warmth without the bulkiness of traditional suits, offering a unique advantage in terms of thermal protection and comfort.
However, it’s essential to temper expectations with the understanding that warmth perception is subjective and can vary based on individual tolerance and diving conditions.
While the suit’s price may be higher than conventional neoprene suits, its advanced features, including the innovative chest zip and spacious pockets, provide significant value. These benefits, along with the reduction in weight requirements and increased ease of movement, can justify the investment for many divers.
My personal journey with this suit in varying temperatures confirmed its reliability as a warm, flexible, and convenient option for divers exploring different environments. It caters well to a range of conditions and diver preferences, affirming its reputation within the diving community.
