Which equipment is used for thermal protection during diving?

Thermal protection is essential in diving to maintain body temperature in varying water conditions. Wetsuits and drysuits serve this critical purpose.

Wetsuits are made from neoprene, which creates insulation by trapping water between the suit and the skin. This layer of water is warmed by body heat, providing a certain degree of thermal protection. Wetsuits are ideal for warmer water conditions or for short dives in cooler environments.

Dry suits, on the other hand, are designed to keep the diver completely dry. They are made of waterproof materials and use a system that prevents water from entering the suit. This allows for insulation layers beneath the suit, such as thermal undergarments, to be worn, offering enhanced warmth in colder waters.

Both types of suits are fundamental in ensuring divers can safely and comfortably participate in diving activities without the risk of hypothermia, especially during prolonged exposures to cold water.

The other choices focus on equipment that serves different purposes, such as buoyancy control or underwater navigation, rather than on thermal protection. Therefore, wetsuits and drysuits are the most appropriate choices for providing thermal protection during diving activities.