Even when diving in the tropics, 3 mm wetsuits continue to be the exposure protection of choice for most divers — they’re easy to wiggle into, offer protection from scrapes and stings, and don’t hinder a diver’s underwater movements. Even more important, you can get the perfect amount of thermal protection and a number of all-important water-blocking features. Check out these nine models to find one that’s right for you.

1. Aqua Lung Aquaflex 3 MM

›› Four-way high-stretch neoprene enhances range of motion

›› Glued and blind-stitched seams eliminate water seepage

›› Adjustable smoothskin neck seal minimizes water “scooping” when kicking through the water

›› Prebent anatomic legs and arms allow for a more natural body position

This long-time Aqua Lung favorite still features a soft interior liner and tight-weave exterior fabric, but has been upgraded with glued and blind-stitched seams — making a good, durable suit even better. Contact: aqualung.com MSRP: $295

2. Bare Elastek 3 MM - Editor's Pick

›› Four-way-stretch neoprene cut in a three-dimensional shape for comfort

›› Double-glued and blind-stitched seams coated with liquid seam tape

›› Velcro-adjustable 360-degree smoothskin neck seal provides a dry, snug fit

›› Smoothskin seals on wrists and ankles, plus double sealing flaps on the heavy-duty zipper

An outstanding warmer, this suit is feature-packed. No matter where you look, from seams to seals to material, the take-away is top quality. Contact: baresports.com MSRP: $350

3. Body Glove Exo 3 MM

›› Seams are glued and blind-stitched on the exterior, and coated with fluidseal on the interior for strength and comfort against the skin

›› Thermofiber interior lining makes easy work of donning and doffing

›› Embossed nonskid patterns on shoul- ders, elbows and wrists protect the suit while minimizing gear slippage

›› Cushy kneepads protect the legs without inhibiting leg movement

This is a straightforward wetsuit that adds a little style to its function with a combination of BG patching and colorful pinstriping. Contact: bodyglove.com msrp: $360

4. Camaro Pronomic 3 MM

›› Unique stitchless hot-welded seams are taped inside and out to resist seepage

›› Zippers with gussets on wrists and ankles make getting in and out of the suit easy

›› A relief zipper on the neck ratchets up between-dive comfort

›› Special G-Lock full-length zipper equals negligible water intrusion

Sporting a host of convenience features, this suit is built tough; much of its construction is similar to suits designed for much harsher environments than the tropics. Contact: camaro.at MSRP: $320

5. Cressi Spring Ultraspan 3.5 MM

›› Rugged construction includes glued and blind-stitched seams

›› Comfortable, short smoothskin seals at wrists and ankles minimize seepage

›› Smoothskin neck seal provides 360-degree protection and includes an adjustable Velcro tab

›› Embossed rubber kneepads cover a lot of leg area

Offering upmarket seam work, Aquastop smoothskin seals and a great tricolor design, this flexible suit delivers the goods. For all its features, you can’t beat this price. Contact: cressi.com MSRP: $230

6. Fourth Element Proteus 3 MM

›› 1.5 mm neoprene internal panel with pullover neck seal keeps water from sneaking in through the back

›› Seams are glued and blind-stitched on the outside and taped on the inside for double protection

›› First-rate sealing system includes a double-sealing neck with a rolled smoothskin edge

›› High-flex rubber patterning on knees, shoulders and waist protect the suit, and keep gear from slipping

You won’t find a 3 mm suit with more- efficient sealing surfaces than this warmer, and the neoprene is soft and supple. Contact: fourthelement.com MSRP: $299

7. Mares Reef 2.5 MM

›› Flat-lock seams lay more comfortably against bare skin

›› The 3 mm chest panel is smooth rub- ber so it dries fast — plus it looks cool

›› Nylon-jersey lining makes climbing in and out of this suit a breeze

›› Embossed kneepads protect the legs but don’t inhibit kicking action

Lightweight and compact for easy packing, the Reef delivers just enough neoprene to keep you warm without putting a serious dent in your wallet. The eye-catching graphics and multi- colored panels are icing on the cake. Contact: mares.com MSRP: $160

8. Scubapro Everflex 3/2 MM

›› 3 mm and 2 mm panels provide a combination of warmth and flexibility

›› Seams are glued and double-thread blind-stitched on the exterior for durability, and single-blind-stitched on the interior to cut down on chafing

›› Super-fine fleece lining feels great against the skin

›› Extended smoothskin wrist and ankle seals provide an excellent barrier to water seepage

This full-featured suit goes above and beyond with the big stuff — seams, seals and comfort — plus offers lots of small touches that make diving more fun. Contact: scubapro.com MSRP: $319

9. Subgear Element 3 MM

›› Medium-stretch neoprene and higher-stretch panels offer warmth and flexibility

›› Smoothskin wrist and ankle seals help keep water out and body warmth in

›› Plush lining in the torso area feels good against the skin, plus makes it easier to climb into

›› Adjustable neck collar with front relief zipper is comfortable whether at depth or on deck

Designed specifically for female divers, the Element keeps you warm and lets you look great while doing it. With these limited-edition graphics and contrasting color panels, you’ll definitely stand out in a crowd. Contact: subgear.com MSRP: $269

Related Reading: 5 New Semidry Wetsuits We Love

10. Tilos 3/2 Delphite Superstretch

›› A trio of high-stretch materials delivers warmth and flexibility

›› Rolled smooth-skin seals on wrists and ankles, plus a 360-degree adjustable smoothskin neck seal, keep water intrusion to a minimum

›› Massive, prebent Tatex kneepads are thick and cushiony yet don’t hinder a diver’s lower-leg movements

›› Flat-locked stitched seams are comfortable against the skin

This elastic suit delivers a lot of comfort and freedom of movement, and offers a sealing system you might expect to find on much-pricier suits.Contact: tilos.com MSRP: $180

11. Waterproof W3 3.5 MM

›› Microcell neoprene that’s glued and blind-stitched, and a nylon plush lining, make for a durable yet comfortable suit

›› Double ankle and wrist cuffs have zippers to make suiting up a snap

›› A double-flap smoothskin zipper seal keeps water from sneaking in through the back

›› Nonslip protection on shoulders and backside keep both gear and diver from slipping and sliding

Few warm-water suits are outfitted with as many functional features as the W3. The slightly thicker neoprene is a bonus for divers who get cold. Contact: waterproof-usa.com MSRP: $295