Does a Wetsuit Protect Against Jellyfish Stings
Lauren December 3rd, 2024 Posted In: Articles
Do Wetsuits Protect Against Jellyfish Stings?
Ever wondered, ‘Do wetsuits protect against jellyfish and their stings?’ You’re not alone! Whether you’re a beachgoer enjoying the sun and the water, or a surfer waiting to catch the next wave, there are certain elements you can’t always predict or avoid. We’re talking sharks, surfing in the rain, rashes, rip tides, and even jellyfish. So, does a wetsuit protect against jellyfish stings? Find out!
How Can a Wetsuit Protect You
Jellyfish can pop up out of nowhere in the ocean. As you may have experienced or have heard, a jellyfish sting on bare skin is certainly one of the more unpleasant feelings in life. Luckily for you and your skin, a wetsuit can be a great protective layer from painful stings. And while you pee in your wetsuit, at least no one has to pee on your jellyfish sting thanks to the wetsuit.
Does the Thickness of a Wetsuit Matter for Jellyfish Protection?
When it comes to avoiding the sting of an unexpected jellyfish encounter, not all wetsuits are created equal! The thickness and coverage of your suit play a big role in how much protection you’ll get.
Thicker wetsuits—like 5mm and thicker cold water fullsuits—are champs at creating a barrier between your skin and those pesky tentacles. They’re especially useful if you’re diving or surfing in areas known for larger or more venomous jellyfish. On the other hand, thinner suits or shorty wetsuits (think 2mm or less) might let smaller jellyfish spines sneak through, especially on exposed areas like arms and legs.
Wetsuit Coverage Matters
And don’t forget about coverage! A full-body wetsuit offers top-notch protection by keeping almost all of your skin covered, making it a smart choice for stinger-heavy zones. While rash guards and wetsuit tops provide some shielding, they leave more skin exposed—great for warm waters, not so much for jellyfish territory.
Fun Fact: Some jellyfish, like the immortal jellyfish (Turritopsis dohrnii), can revert to a younger state instead of dying. While they’ve mastered the art of rebirth, your best rebirth from a sting-free day at the beach is a trusty wetsuit!
So, if you’re planning a dive, surf, or snorkel in jellyfish-prone waters, aim for a full wetsuit with a higher thickness. You’ll be thankful for that extra layer when you glide through the waves, worry-free.
Does Neoprene Protect Against Jellyfish?
Surfers, swimmers, divers, and others tend to wear wetsuits to add warmth and protection while in the water. Not only do the neoprene material wetsuits are made out of trap water to keep you warm, it also acts as a great deterrent to jellyfish. The wetsuit is a barrier and ensures that your bare skin does not fall victim to a jellyfish sting.
However, keep in mind that not all wetsuits are full length and that you can still be susceptible to stings in uncovered areas of the body. A full wetsuit is great to protect your entire body, but a jellyfish can still sting your exposed hands, feet, and head. You can wear gloves, boots, and a hood to add even more protection in that case.
To Sum It Up
Yes, a wetsuit protects against jellyfish stings. A wetsuit can also protect against rash, sunburn, and potentially prevent hypothermia. Rash guards can even help prevent jellyfish stings. They act similar to wetsuits but remember, if it’s exposed, it’s prone to be stung. A short sleeve rash guard can protect your core and upper body, but won’t protect your entire arm and hands from a sting!
Don’t fall victim to a sting or other issues in the water – wear a wetsuit or rash guard! Contact us today for help choosing your next wetsuit.
Editor’s Note
This article was originally published in 2022 and has since been reviewed and updated.
