The Best Shorty Wetsuits: Our Top Picks in 2026
If you’re hunting for the best shorty wetsuits for for your next tropical dive experience, you’ve landed in the right spot.
Wetsuits are essential when diving in certain conditions and picking the right one can make or break your entire dive.
Whether you’re a vacation diver or an aspiring future instructor, we’ve got the details on our top picks that you can check out today.
So, let’s not waste anymore time and get into it!
Need a quick refresher on the types of wetsuits out there? Check this guide out:
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Quick Comparison
Before we get into the depths, here’s a quick look at how our top picks stack up. Peek at the table below to see if any catch your attention, then dive into the full reviews for all the spicy details. Click those links if you see something you like!
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Cressi Playa Flex
3.4
- Front-zip Shorty Wetsuit ideal for snorkeling, swimming, and other water related activities
- The Front-Zip make really easy the donning and doffing. Made in 2.5 mm double-lined high-stretch Neoprene that ensure warmth and durability.
- Elastic Ultraspan Neoprene braided seal on arms and legs to keep water out.
- Separate anatomical cuts for both men and women.
The Cressi Playa Flex shorty wetsuit is thoughtfully engineered for versatility and comfort, making it a fantastic choice for scuba divers. Constructed from durable 3mm double-lined high-stretch Neoprene, this shorty gives you reliable thermal protection perfectly suited for temperate and tropical aquatic adventures.
A key user-friendly feature is the front-zip closure that uses a reliable YKK zipper. This design is strategically positioned to make the entire donning and doffing process quick and painless. The suit has anatomical cuts, separated for men and women, to give you a true “second skin” fit that maximizes both warmth and comfort.
Flex areas are seamlessly integrated to give you completely unrestricted movement, especially around the arms. To keep you warmer longer, the suit uses elastic Ultraspan Neoprene braided seals at the extremities to minimize water infiltration. This winning combination of high-quality materials and thoughtful Italian design makes sure the Playa Flex gives you excellent performance and durability, living up to Cressi’s impressive heritage as a water sports pioneer since 1946.
| Men | Women |
|---|---|
| XS | XS |
| S | S |
| M | M |
| L | L |
| XL | XL |
| XXL | |
| 3XL |
Aqualung HydroFlex Shorty
4.8
- Constructed with premium Nylon-2 Neoprene Rubber, this 3mm shorty wetsuit offers superior flexibility for unrestricted movement during any water activity.
- The 3mm neoprene thickness provides excellent thermal insulation, keeping you warm and comfortable in moderate water temperatures for extended periods.
- Glued and flatlock stitched seams with a liquid-rubber seal enhance the wetsuit's durability, ensuring long-lasting performance and resistance to wear and tear.
The Aqualung HydroFlex is an exceptional choice for warm-water exploration. It combines high-stretch performance with an environmentally conscious design.
The suit’s major advantage is its super-stretch neoprene, which offers an incredible elongation capability. This thing can stretch up to 250% more than traditional neoprene, giving you outstanding comfort both during underwater movement and when taking the suit on or off.
The neoprene is non-petroleum-based and uses a PAH-free formula, aligning with eco-friendly manufacturing practices.
For superior comfort against the skin, the suit uses durable flatlock stitching and a comfortable V-shaped collar. The design is built to withstand dive wear with a laminated chest panel for wind and abrasion resistance, and high-performance Powertex knee panels that give you excellent abrasion protection while maintaining flexibility.
The HydroFlex also includes several dive-specific features for convenience and durability. There are o-ring seals on the wrists and ankles help to limit water entry and flushing, printed shoulder designs protect the suit from abrasion caused by the BCD harness, printed wrist designs help to keep your dive computer securely in place during the dive, and the suit uses a heavy-duty #10 zipper with a durable loop for easy opening and closing.
Available in both men’s and women’s styles.
| Men | Women |
|---|---|
| XS | XS |
| S | S |
| M (Reg, Short, Tall) | M (Reg, Short, Tall) |
| ML | ML |
| L (Reg, Short, Tall) | L (Reg, Short, Tall) |
| XL | XL |
| 2XL | 2XL |
| 3XL |
Click the link to check it out!
Henderson Greenprene Shorty
5
- Bio-Span interior fabric laminate is made from recycled water bottles
- Aqua Silk exterior fabric laminate is ultra durable, abrasion and Velcro resistant
- Minimal seams and larger Greenprene panels, keep you warmer longer.
- Anatomical fit and patterns that have been proven in the Henderson pattern
- Soft sealing collar with Closure dock
The Henderson Greenprene represents a revolutionary approach to wetsuit technology, combining superior performance with genuine environmental responsibility. At its core is Greenprene, a sustainable, neoprene-free insulating foam made from deproteinized natural rubber, sugar cane, plant oils, and oyster shells. USDA Bio Preferred approved, Greenprene gives you exceptional warmth and UV resistance while being significantly lighter than traditional neoprene. All this without sacrificing stretch or durability.
The suit’s dual-fabric laminate system increases functionality. The recycled AQUA-SILK exterior, crafted from recycled water bottles with Oeko-Tex certification, gives you superior durability and fast-drying properties. The interior BIO-SPAN laminate gives you unmatched comfort and stretch performance. This means you’ll have unrestricted movement in demanding water conditions.
This suit addresses a critical gap in the market: those with neoprene allergies or sensitivities. Henderson offers a unique testing program. They’ll send you a sample Greenprene wrist cuff for physician evaluation before you have to commit to a full suit. This could be the solution allergy sufferers have been seeking.
From design to packaging, sustainability is kept top of mind. Recycled cardboard boxes, recycled paper wrapping, and soy-based inks show Henderson’s commitment to the environment.
The suit is available in both men’s and women’s sizes.
| Men | Women |
|---|---|
| XS | |
| S | 4 |
| M | 6 |
| ML | 8 |
| L | 10 |
| XL | 12 |
| 2XL | 14 |
| 3XL | 16 |
| 4XL | 18 |
| 5XL | 20 |
| 6XL | 22 |
| 24 |
Mares M-Flex Shorty
5
- Made from premium ultra-stretch neoprene, offering exceptional flexibility and comfort; This ensures easy movement during dives while providing a supportive fit
- Features updated sizing, designed to accommodate a broader range of body types; This ensures an optimal fit
- Ideal for warm water environments, this M-Flex shorty wet suit provides just the right level of insulation for comfort without overheating
Mares is proud to introduce the newly redesigned M-FLEX Wetsuit Line. This line was engineered to deliver an incredible fit and flexibility across a wide range of diving conditions and budgets.
The foundation of the M-FLEX suit is its use of high-quality ultra-stretch neoprene. This material gives you maximum comfort and freedom of movement, both on the surface and during underwater exploration. To make this suit accessible and comfortable for more divers, Mares has implemented newly redesigned sizing to make sure the fit is adaptable to a wide variety of body types.
If you’re also looking for a full-length wetsuit, this line offers versatility for any environment, as it is available in a full range of thicknesses (from 1mm to 7 mm), making it a suitable option for everything from warm-water tropical diving to temperate conditions.
The M-FLEX uses a new streamlined cut and design with minimal graphics and logos. This gives off a clean, sharp, and contemporary aesthetic. With its focus on adaptable sizing, quality materials, and a full range of thicknesses, the M-FLEX line has an option to meet nearly every dive need and budget.
Available in both men’s and women’s styles.
| Men | Women |
|---|---|
| S | 4 |
| M | 6 |
| L | 8 |
| XL | 10 |
| 2XL | 12 |
| 3XL | 14 |
| 16 |
SCUBAPRO Definition Shorty
4.4
- SCUBAPRO's proven N2S (Nylon 2 Sides) neoprene construction is durable and long-lasting, while the plush inner lining delivers comfort.
- An advanced cut enhances flexibility and increases range of motion, so you can easily maneuver in warm waters.
- Donning and doffing the suit is a breeze thanks to the diagonal rear YKK zipper, which includes a brass slider that contributes to long-term durability.
The SCUBAPRO Definition Steamer is the ideal thermal protection for warm and cold water (full-length wetsuit) divers seeking comfort without compromise.
The suit is built with SCUBAPRO’s exclusive Body Map System and uses advanced 3D cutting and strategic material inserts to give you a glove-like fit that moves with your body. The proven N2S (Nylon 2 Sides) construction perfectly balances warmth and mobility, and also does well if you need to layer. The suit does all this while still feeling remarkably soft against your skin.
The Definition Steamer excels in thoughtful engineering details. The diagonal rear YKK zipper with brass slider gives you durability and effortless donning and doffing.
Durability is reinforced through strategically placed abrasion-resistant fabric on shoulders and seat. Made from X-Foam, a petroleum-free limestone neoprene, the suit reflects SCUBAPRO’s environmental commitment. Additional practical features include a solvent-free glue assembly process.
The 3mm version suit is CE certified Class D for waters above 72°F. You can expect the shorty version to be comfortable for temps higher than that.
Available in both men’s and women’s styles.
| Men | Women |
|---|---|
| XS | XS |
| S | S |
| M | M |
| L | L |
| XL | XL |
| 2XL | 2XL |
| 3XL |
Wrapping Up
There you have it. Five of the best wetsuits for women, each with its own perks.
Whether you’re fresh out of your PADI class, a seasoned diver, or just want something sleek for your setup, there’s something here for you.
- Cressi Playa Flex: Budget pick that gets the job done.
- Aqualung Hydroflex Shorty: Alternative for those that prefer a back zipper
- Henderson Greenprene Shorty: Alternative option for those allergic to neoprene.
- Mares M-Flex Shorty: Value pick from a well-known brand.
- SCUBAPRO Definition Shorty: A high-end option for those looking for the best.
So, what are you waiting for? Check out those links, snag your favorite, and get ready to dive in style!
Why Are These Shorty Wetsuits Good?
Superior Flexibility for Comfort: Many of these suits feature ultra-stretch or 250% super-stretch neoprene, significantly improving mobility. This high degree of stretch allows the suit to conform perfectly to the body.
Durability and Abrasion Resistance: Wetsuits designed for diving feature strategic reinforcements to withstand the wear and tear associated with carrying heavy scuba gear. Nearly all models include rugged zippers and some include reinforcements in high-wear areas.
Simplified Donning and Doffing: Comfortable and stress-free operation is built into these suits to improve the dive experience. Features like front zippers and high-stretch neoprene help to limit water entry and make taking the suit on and off easier.
Optimized Thermal Insulation: The variety of thicknesses offered in these suits we tailored specifically for warm water diving. Each brand comes with its own touches to enhance your comfort.
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