AKONA SECO BOOT

$87-$92, akona.com

Do you hate having water slosh around in your boots post-dive? Outfitted with a specially designed perforated sole, these boots drain immediately upon exiting the water but won’t flush with cool water while kicking during a dive. A long zipper and convenient pull loops make for easy donning and doffing. We found that the rubber sole provides good protection and a secure grip on slippery surfaces.

Related Reading: [10 Best New 5 mm Wetsuits](10 Best New 5 mm Wetsuits)

XS SCUBA TOUCH GLOVES

$44.95, xsscuba.com

Divers no longer need to choose between warmth and dexterity thanks to these 3 mm gloves, which allow the wearer to temporarily expose their thumb and forefinger to manipulate smaller items and touch screens. The adjustable hook-and-loop wrist closure is easy to operate and can be removed to accommodate a dive watch or computer in its place. Our test divers were vying for repeat turns with these gloves.

Related Reading: 2024 Scuba Diving Gear Guide

ULTRAWARMTH WET HOOD

$115.95-$125.95, baresports.com

Your head accounts for 20 to 40 percent of your heat loss during a dive. Outfitted with Bare’s Omnired infrared technology, this hood not only slows down heat loss but also reflects your lost thermal energy back at you. We were skeptical at first, but even when donning this hood wet, we felt it warmed up quicker than other similar head coverings.

PINNACLE MERINO LINER

$29.95, pinnacleaquatics.com

Made of merino wool, these pajama-soft gloves retain their insulating abilities even when wet. They can be worn under any glove for enhanced thermal protection without affecting buoyancy or dexterity. We tried them with Pinnacle’s 2 mm Attack glove and the previously mentioned XS Scuba Touch to great effect.

Related Reading: Best New Scuba Gear May 2024

AKONA VENTED ZIPPERED HOOD

$71, akona.com

This vented hood has a rear zipper that opens to facilitate effortless donning and doffing, and closes to ensure a secure, tight-fitting seal around the diver’s head. Stretchy neoprene allows for good range of motion.

SCUBAPRO EVERFLEX ARCH BOOT

$93, scubapro.com

Arch support and a wide-cut foot pocket keep these 5 mm boots incredibly comfortable during long days on your feet and in the water. The no-zip entry reduces bulk and a potential failure point. It is very easy to slide on and off. The boot has a fl eecy, quick-drying lining and a sturdy, slip-resistant sole.