Sharkskin size guide

Wearing Sharkskin™ under a wetsuit doesn't just keep you warm underwater; it also protects you from cooling down between dives. For optimum effectiveness, your Sharkskin™ undergarment should fit snugly under your wetsuit to avoid creasing or discomfort.

Choosing the right size for your Sharkskin™ diving undergarment 

A diving suit that's too small can be uncomfortable, limit your freedom of movement and put excessive pressure on certain areas of the body, which can impede blood circulation and accelerate the feeling of cold. Conversely, a garment that's too large can create creases, encouraging water ingress and reducing the fabric's thermal efficiency. What's more, Chillproof material absorbs water in total immersion, and a garment that's too loose could become heavy and uncomfortable. Optimum fit therefore ensures better insulation, fluid mobility and effective protection against wind chill.

Fitting tips 

For a looser fit, opt for a size up, based on your measurements and the size chart. For a tighter fit, choose the next size down.

When putting on Chillproof or T2 Chillproof garments, start by pulling the zipper up to the narrowest part of your waist, then pull the top down towards your hips. Once you've pulled the zipper down, pull it up again (see video for details).

You may need a different size for the top and bottom. We recommend taking measurements for each part of your body, rather than simply choosing the same size for top and bottom.

If you're tall and slim, opt for a more fitted cut, even if it may be slightly short in the arms and legs.

Sharkskin Chillproof technology at the service of the diving world:

Sharkskin™ Chillproof is a cutting-edge technical textile designed to guarantee optimum thermal insulation and exceptional comfort during your dives.  The range offers you thermal insulation equivalent to 3 mm of neoprene. Its three-layer design combines protection from the cold, wind resistance and durability against the elements. Featuring a breathable membrane and antimicrobial technology, it wicks moisture, reduces odors and offers optimum freedom of movement.

Sharkskin technology consists of :

• A technical fleece inner layer: composed of hollow threads, it wicks away moisture and perspiration to keep you dry and warm.
• A windproof, breathable mid-layer: this technical membrane completely blocks the wind while regulating body temperature, reducing wind chill.
• A tough, stretchy outer layer: a blend of nylon and Lycra, designed for durability, optimum UV protection and water-repellent DWR treatment.

Recommendation for your activities 

If you're wearing Sharkskin™ on its own, whether in or out of the water (SUP, surfing, surfskiing, kitesurfing, windsurfing, sailing, etc.), opt for a snug rather than loose fit. Chillproof technology absorbs water in total immersion, and a garment that's too loose could become uncomfortable due to the extra weight of absorbed water.

A perfect fit guarantees better thermal insulation, optimal freedom of movement and limits water infiltration. Conversely, the wrong size can detract from your comfort and diving experience.

If you wear Sharkskin™ as a stand-alone garment out of the water 100% of the time (e.g. for recreational kayaking, as a thermal garment for mountain biking, skiing, etc.), you may be more comfortable with a slightly looser fit.

Of course, the best thing is to find your nearest Sharkskin™ dealer and try on the model best suited to your favorite water sports. Most water sports enthusiasts have a wardrobe full of Sharkskin™, suitable for different seasons, conditions and water activities.

Manufacturer's advice:

Sharkskin offers detailed size charts for men, women and juniors, covering a range of products such as tops, pants, full wetsuits and accessories. To consult the size chart corresponding to your category and product type, please visit the official Sharkskin size guide page. 

If, despite this size guide, you still have doubts about choosing your size or about which article is best suited to your needs, please don't hesitate to contact us. You can also visit the Sharkskin section of our Diveavenue.com website, where each product sheet provides you with all the essential information.