BARE Men’s 1mm S-FLEX Hooded Wetsuit Vest

Add warmth where you need it most—without replacing your favorite wetsuit.

The BARE Men’s 1mm S-FLEX Hooded Wetsuit Vest is a flexible thermal layer designed to keep your core, head, and neck warmer in the water. Wear it alone for tropical diving or layer it underneath a 3mm, 5mm, or 7mm wetsuit for additional insulation in cooler conditions.

It is especially useful for cold-water diving in places such as California, where even a thick wetsuit may not provide enough warmth for longer dives, repetitive dives, or divers who naturally get cold. The slim 1mm construction adds valuable thermal protection without the bulk of another full wetsuit.

Extra Warmth Under Your Existing Wetsuit

There is no need to replace your current wetsuit just because you need a little more insulation. This hooded vest can be worn underneath virtually any properly fitting full wetsuit, including:

• 3mm wetsuits for added warmth in mild or variable conditions
• 5mm wetsuits for cooler-water diving and longer sessions
• 7mm wetsuits for extra protection during cold-water dives
• Rental wetsuits when you want your own comfortable thermal layer
• Full suits without attached hoods when you need head and neck coverage

Layering the vest beneath a wetsuit adds 1mm of insulation around your torso while the integrated hood helps reduce heat loss from your head and neck. Always make sure the combined layers fit comfortably and do not restrict breathing, circulation, or movement.

Made for Cold-Water Diving

California diving can involve cold water, changing temperatures, thermoclines, and extended bottom times. Even when wearing a 5mm or 7mm wetsuit, additional insulation around the torso and head can make a noticeable difference in comfort.

This BARE hooded vest is a practical addition for:

• California coastal diving
• Cool-water scuba diving
• Repetitive dives
• Longer bottom times
• Divers who tend to get cold quickly
• Adding warmth without purchasing a heavier wetsuit

Because the vest is sleeveless, it increases warmth around your most important areas without adding extra material around the arms.

Flexible S-FLEX Neoprene

The vest is made with 1mm S-FLEX neoprene, BARE’s proprietary stretch material designed for comfort and mobility. Its supple construction follows your body’s movement, helping the vest fit smoothly beneath another wetsuit without feeling unnecessarily stiff or bulky.

The soft exterior finish also makes the vest easier to pull on and remove—an important advantage when gearing up between dives.

Integrated Hood for Better Thermal Protection

A significant amount of comfort can be lost when the head and neck are exposed to cold water. The vest’s attached hood provides continuous coverage from the torso through the neck and head, helping reduce water entry and heat loss.

The integrated design also eliminates the exposed gap that can occur between a separate hood and wetsuit collar.

Comfortable, Unrestricted Movement

The sleeveless cut leaves your shoulders and arms free for swimming, paddling, managing equipment, and moving naturally underwater. Flatseam construction provides flexibility and a smooth feel, while stretch nylon binding creates comfortable, durable edges.

Whether you are descending along a California reef, completing multiple boat dives, or snorkeling in warmer water, the vest is designed to provide warmth without getting in your way.

Key Features

• 1mm S-FLEX neoprene for lightweight thermal insulation
• Integrated hood for added head and neck protection
• Adds warmth beneath 3mm, 5mm, and 7mm wetsuits
• Ideal for cold-water and California diving
• Can also be worn alone in tropical or warm water
• Full-stretch construction supports natural movement
• Sleeveless design keeps the arms and shoulders unrestricted
• Flatseam construction improves flexibility and comfort
• Stretch nylon binding creates smooth, durable edges
• Soft finish makes the vest easier to put on and remove
• Lightweight pullover design with no bulky front zipper
• Suitable for recreational scuba diving, snorkeling, and other water activities

Wear It Alone or as a Layer

In warm tropical conditions, wear the vest by itself for lightweight coverage and additional core warmth. When temperatures drop, wear it underneath your full wetsuit to create a more versatile thermal system.

This flexibility makes the BARE 1mm Hooded Vest a useful piece of dive gear for traveling divers, local California divers, and anyone who encounters changing water temperatures throughout the year.

Fit and Sizing

For effective insulation, the vest should fit snugly against the body without restricting breathing or movement. A loose fit may allow excess water to circulate and reduce warmth.

When wearing the vest under another wetsuit, confirm that both layers fit comfortably together. If your outer wetsuit is already extremely tight, adding another layer may restrict movement or circulation. Compare your measurements with the BARE men’s sizing chart before choosing your size.

Care Instructions

• Rinse thoroughly with fresh water after every use
• Hand wash with a wetsuit-safe cleaner when needed
• Allow it to air dry away from direct sunlight and excessive heat
• Store completely dry on a suitable hanger
• Do not machine wash, tumble dry, bleach, or iron