Belize Diving: What To Wear

Belize is a popular destination for divers, with its warm, clear waters and stunning coral reefs. When preparing for a diving trip to Belize, it's important to consider what to wear to ensure a comfortable and safe experience. Here's an introduction to help you plan your diving attire:

Belize offers a diverse range of diving spots, from the famous Great Blue Hole to vibrant coral reefs and marine ecosystems. The country has a tropical climate, so it's crucial to dress appropriately for the warm weather and sun exposure.

When diving in Belize, it's recommended to wear a comfortable swimsuit that allows for easy movement. Rash guards are also highly suggested to protect your skin from the sun and potential stings. The sun can be intense, so wearing a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen with a high SPF is essential.

Additionally, it's best to avoid wearing jewellery or cotton clothing. Jewellery can get caught on equipment, and cotton becomes heavy and uncomfortable when wet. Instead, opt for synthetic materials that dry quickly.

Remember to bring along a waterproof camera to capture the beauty of Belize's underwater world. Also, stay hydrated before and after your dive, and if you're prone to motion sickness, consider taking medication to prevent nausea.

Lastly, if you plan to explore the diverse topside attractions, such as rainforest walks, cave exploring, or visiting Mayan temples, ensure you pack appropriate clothing and footwear for those activities as well.

Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, rash guard

Sun protection is a crucial aspect of diving in Belize, as the sun can be intense and may cause sunburn, even when it is not visible. Here are some essential items for safeguarding yourself from the sun's harmful rays:

Hat

Wearing a sun hat is vital for shielding your scalp from sunburn. Opt for a hat with a wide brim that provides ample shade for your face and neck. Additionally, consider a hat with a strap to ensure it stays securely on your head, especially when faced with windy conditions.

Sunglasses

Sunglasses are a must-have for any diving trip to Belize. They protect your eyes from the sun's glare, reducing the risk of eye strain and long-term damage. Polarized sunglasses are ideal as they help minimize glare from the water, enhancing your visibility underwater.

Sunscreen

Sunscreen is indispensable for diving in Belize. Choose a reef-safe sunscreen with natural, non-toxic ingredients such as zinc oxide or titanium oxide. Avoid sunscreens containing oxybenzone, avobenzone, octinoxate, and other chemicals known to harm coral reefs. Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed areas of your skin, including your face, neck, and hands. Reapply regularly, especially after swimming or towel-drying.

Rash Guard

Rash guards are essential for sun protection while diving in Belize. These lightweight, quick-drying shirts provide coverage for your arms and torso, shielding your skin from the sun's harmful UV rays. Opt for rash guards with long sleeves and a high neck for maximum protection. Some rash guards even offer built-in UV protection, providing an additional layer of defence against the sun.

Swimwear: swimsuit, trunks, rash guard

When diving in Belize, it is important to wear the proper clothing and gear. The water temperature in Belize ranges from 77 °F (25 °C) to 86 °F (30 °C), so a wetsuit is not necessary. However, it is important to wear a swimsuit, trunks, or a rash guard that will protect your skin from the sun and from stings.

Rash guards are form-fitting athletic shirts designed to protect your skin from chafing, sunburns, and board rash. They are typically made of lightweight, sweat-wicking fabrics like polyester, neoprene, lycra, and spandex. Rash guards can also provide protection from jellyfish stings. They are commonly worn by surfers under their wetsuits and can be used for swimming and other water sports. When choosing a rash guard, look for features such as sun protection (preferably UPF 50), quick-drying fabric, and a zip-up or sleeve option that suits your needs.

Swim shirts, also known as surf shirts, are designed to provide protection from UV radiation. They are similar to rash guards but tend to have a looser fit, making them more comfortable for activities like swimming and surfing. Like rash guards, swim shirts are made with comfortable, chafe-free seams.

Swimsuits and trunks are also suitable for diving in Belize. However, it is important to choose a style that provides adequate coverage and protection from the sun and other elements. Look for swimsuits made with sun-protective fabric (UPF 50) to reduce your risk of sunburn. Additionally, consider the type of fabric used, as synthetic fabrics like polyester are quick-drying and commonly used for swimsuits.

In summary, when selecting swimwear for diving in Belize, consider the following:

• Temperature: The water temperature in Belize is typically warm, so a wetsuit is not necessary.
• Sun protection: Choose swimwear that offers sun protection, such as UPF 50 fabric, to protect your skin from sun damage.
• Fabric: Look for lightweight, quick-drying fabrics like polyester, lycra, and spandex.
• Coverage: Select a style that provides adequate coverage, such as long sleeves or a one-piece swimsuit, to protect your skin from the sun and stings.

Footwear: water shoes, sandals

When diving in Belize, it is important to wear shoes that will protect your feet from the elements. The water temperature ranges from 77°F (25°C) to 86°F (30°C), so you won't need to worry about keeping your feet warm. However, the country's diverse landscape, which includes everything from lush rainforests and ancient Maya ruins to idyllic islands and the vibrant Caribbean Sea, calls for footwear that is both versatile and functional.

Water shoes are an excellent option for diving in Belize, as they provide protection from sharp coral and rocks and can also be worn during other activities such as hiking and walking on the beach. When choosing water shoes, look for those made from quick-drying materials with sturdy soles that offer good grip. The shoes should also have a secure fit to prevent them from slipping off during various wet situations. Some recommended water shoes for diving include the Fourth Element Rock Hopper Water Shoe, which is made from almost 90% recycled material and features a fin strap retainer, and the Tusa Sport Aqua Shoe, which is lightweight, quick-drying, and easy to get on and off.

Sandals can also be a good option for diving in Belize, especially if you plan on spending a lot of time near the water. Look for durable sandals that can handle getting wet. Keens and Teva are two brands known for their durable water sandals and hybrid water shoes. Keep in mind that sandals may not offer as much protection for your feet as water shoes, so if you plan on doing a lot of hiking or walking on uneven terrain, you may want to opt for water shoes instead.

Ultimately, the type of footwear you choose for diving in Belize will depend on your personal preferences and the specific activities you plan to participate in. Both water shoes and sandals can be suitable options, so consider your needs and choose the option that best meets them.

Don't wear jewellery

While scuba diving in Belize, it is important to wear the proper clothing and gear to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. One thing to keep in mind is that you should not wear jewellery, especially when diving in the ocean. Here are several reasons why it is not advisable to wear jewellery while diving:

Attracting Sharks and Barracudas:

Shiny jewellery, such as necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, can reflect light and act as a lure, attracting unwanted visitors like sharks and barracudas. While shark attacks are rare, it is better to be cautious and avoid wearing anything that might make you more noticeable to these predators.

Safety Hazards:

Loose jewellery, such as necklaces, can pose a safety hazard when diving. If a necklace gets caught in the intake of a pool drain, it can become a strangulation hazard or trap you underwater, making it difficult to breathe. It is always better to avoid wearing jewellery to eliminate these risks.

Loss or Damage:

Jewellery can easily be lost or damaged while diving. Your fingers may shrink in the water, making it difficult to keep rings secure. Additionally, the salt water can corrode or damage certain types of jewellery. It is best to leave your treasured jewellery at home or in your hotel room to avoid losing or damaging it.

Snags and Entanglement:

Jewellery can also get snagged or entangled during a dive. Dangly earrings or necklaces can get caught on equipment, such as hood or mask straps, increasing the risk of damage or entanglement. It is safer to avoid wearing jewellery that could get caught on other gear.

Unnecessary Risk:

Diving already comes with its own set of risks and challenges. Wearing jewellery adds an unnecessary risk factor to an activity that requires focus and attention. By leaving your jewellery behind, you eliminate one potential source of distraction or hazard.

In summary, when preparing for a dive in Belize or elsewhere, it is best to leave your jewellery at home or in a secure location. This will help ensure your safety, reduce the risk of losing or damaging your valuables, and allow you to focus on enjoying the dive itself without any unnecessary distractions or hazards.

Avoid cotton

When diving in Belize, it is important to wear the proper clothing and gear. The water temperature ranges from 77°F (25°C) to 86°F (30°C), so a wetsuit is not necessary. However, it is important to wear clothing that will protect your skin from the sun and from stings.

Cotton clothing should be avoided when diving. Cotton is hydrophilic, meaning it absorbs water. As a result, it takes more work and energy from your body to generate the extra heat needed to dry it out. This can be dangerous, especially in cold weather, as water that gets into the fabric will have a tendency to cling to it, making the wearer colder. In addition, cotton binds with water, creating a drag effect that can slow you down and lead to early fatigue.

Instead of cotton, opt for clothing made from hydrophobic fibres such as polyester, which do not absorb water and allow moisture to escape from the fabric more easily. Synthetic fabrics such as Lycra, nylon, and polyester are commonly used for swimsuits and bikinis because they dry quickly. For example, the fabric of a comyn bikini is extremely durable and quick-drying, while RipSkirts are made with fabric that has excellent water-absorption properties.

Frequently asked questions