Scuba diving gloves aren’t just ordinary swimming gloves. They’re an essential piece of gear that can make a big difference in your experience as you explore the world beneath the surface. Choosing the right gloves for scuba diving usually comes down to thickness, closure type, finger shape, anti-slip features, and finding the right size for you.
Why Use Scuba Diving Gloves?
Scuba diving gloves keep your hands warm and protect them while you dive. You should use these gloves whenever you're diving in colder waters, during winter months, or if your hands tend to get cold easily.
Besides keeping you warm, gloves for scuba diving also protect against sharp or abrasive objects like rocks, coral, and marine life. They are essential tools for wreck divers and photographers, as well as anyone likely to encounter rough underwater terrain.
Glove Thicknesses
Scuba diving gloves come in various thicknesses, typically measured in millimeters. The thickness you choose depends on the water temperature and personal preference. In colder water or more hostile environments, you should choose thicker gloves.
Glove thickness ranges from under 2mm to 7mm. Keep in mind that thicker gloves are more likely to hinder your mobility.
Wrist Straps vs Zippered Wrists
Gloves with wrist straps have a simple adjustable band that secures the glove around your wrist. They’re easy to put on and take off, and they’re often preferred for their simplicity.
Diving gloves with zippered wrists have a zipper running along the wrist area. They provide a more secure fit and are excellent for sealing out water, which is why they’re preferred in colder waters. However, they may be a bit more challenging to put on and take off.
Pre-Bent Fingers and Anti-Slip Palms
To enhance your diving experience, many scuba diving gloves feature pre-bent fingers. This design mimics the natural shape of your hand to add comfort and dexterity, which means you can more easily grip objects and control your gear underwater.
Anti-slip palms are essential for maintaining a strong grip on objects and preventing equipment from slipping out of your hand. This is especially important when handling cameras, lights, spearguns, or other gear that you need to hold securely.
