Selecting a new pair of dive boots is somewhat of a luxury. Unlike most diving equipment, in which function and price varies greatly (and is almost always high), the majority of dive boots tend to function as well as one another and for a relatively inexpensive price too. Therefore, you have a greater level of freedom, allowing you to choose a boot based almost solely on looks alone. That being said, however, there are some basic features and differences to look out for in a dive boot: a good fitting boot is essential for happy diving. Check out our product recommendations and buyer’s advice guide to ensure you pick the best wetsuit boot for scuba diving.
The Best Wetsuit Boots for Scuba Diving Reviewed
#1 – Aqua Lung Superzip Ergo
The Aqua Lung Superzip is a favourite among many divers. Aside from its comfort and flexibility, what most divers love about this boot is its durability. This is a boot that will last you many years, and one you can put through tough conditions day after day. The sole of the boot is anatomically sculpted for greater comfort and reduced dead air space. The vulcanized rubber sole combined with the heavy-duty YKK zipper makes for a tough, long-lasting construction. The benefit of this boot comes also from the fact that it is available in three different neoprene densities allowing you to select one based on your dive environment.
Features
- New anatomically correct ERGO shaped footbed and outsole.
- Asymmetric toe, instep, and heel cap for added protection & durability.
- Flexible vulcanized rubber outsole.
- Non-corrosive YKK #10 heavy-duty zipper.
- Available in various neoprene densities (3/5/6.5mm)
#2 – Mares Trilastic 5mm
The Mares Trilastic is an excellent choice for those looking for thermal insulation and grip. The hard rubber sole offers the diver excellent grip capability. The toe and heel areas are reinforced with vulcanized rubber, offering greater protection and comfort to the diver. This combination of grip and protection also makes the Trilastic a boot well suited to rocky shore entries. In terms of warmth, the zipper comes with a dam that keeps water seepage to a minimum, resulting in greater insulation.
Features
- Excellent thermal insulation.
- Hard sole for control and power.
- Rubber sole ensures sure grip.
- Zipper dam prevents water seepage.
- Toe & heel reinforced with vulcanized rubber.
#3 – SEAC Pro HD
The SEAC Pro HD is the ultimate boot for protection and stability, making it the best for divers faced with rocky shore entries. The excellent arch support provided by the boot makes it great for divers having to walk long distances on the shore whilst fully equipped. The added stability makes these types of entries much safer and easier. The durability and high-grip sole of the boot also makes it ideal against sharp rocks and other jagged obstacles. Similarly, the 6mm neoprene makes this boot perfect for cold water divers. These are a pair of boots that will last you many years and dives.
Features
- Fully protective wetsuit boots with rigidly molded, high-grip sole.
- Easy-to-grip zipper and reinforced hook-and-loop closure.
- Excellent arch support; heel air bubble helps reduce stress.
- 6mm neoprene is great for cooler waters.
#4 – Tilos TruFit
The Tilos TruFit is the perfect boot for those wanting simplicity and functionality at an affordable price. These boots work to reduce volume and dead air space due to their anatomical design. They are also available in 3/5/7mm which makes them perfect for divers in a wide variety of conditions.
Features
- Available in 3/5/7mm.
- Soft sole design.
- Lower Volume: TruFit boots have less volume over the instep. This reduces excess water in the boots which makes them warmer. It also makes it easier to get in and out of your fins
- Asymmetrical Toe Box: The toe box on TruFit boots is shaped like the outline of your toes. This reduces dead space around the toes for a perfect fit
- Metal YYK Zipper.
#5 – Cressi Isla
The Cressi Isla’s are a good all-rounder boot, available in two different neoprene densities. The reinforced toe and heel sections of the boot make for additional protection without sacrificing comfort. These are a great boot for a wide variety of divers at different levels. They also make for a small-sized, lightweight boot for travel.
Features
- Built-in fin strap holder.
- Reinforced toe and heel sections.
- Available in 5 & 7mm.
- Soft sole design.
Buyer’s Advice Guide
When selecting a pair of wetsuit boots, there are two main factors to take into consideration:
- Surface conditions to be used in.
- Water temperature.
By surface conditions, we refer specifically to the type of entry that you will be using. A dive boot required to take you on long, rocky walks to the shoreline will have different characteristics to that needed only for boat diving. The primary difference is that of the sole. A boot used for shore entries on undulating terrain will have a hard sole. This hard sole will provide protection as well as increase stability, making for easier and safer shore entries. On the other hand, if the boot will be used only for boat diving operations, then a soft sole will suffice. Many divers also report increased comfort with soft sole boots, given the added flexibility they afford.
With regards to water temperature, it is impossible to set a strict guideline determining what neoprene density is adequate for what temperature, as tolerance to the cold is very much a personal matter. However, in general, we can say that:
< 15°C = 6.5/7 mm
15 – 24°C = 5 mm
> 24°C = 3 mm
Another consideration when selecting a boot is that of a low versus a high cut boot. A low cut boot is designed for warmer temperatures where additional water ingress is not a large concern. Conversely, a high cut boot is designed for colder temperatures, in which the top of the boot can overlap with the wetsuit, creating a better seal for insulation.