<P> The "Dive Skin" was originally invented to protect scuba divers in Queensland Australia against the "Box" jellyfish (Chironex fleckeri) </P> <P> In 1978, Tony Farmer was a swimsuit designer and manufacturer who owned a business called "Daring Designs". Besides swimwear he also did underwear and aerobic wear which included a full suit in Lycra / Spandex . He became a scuba diver and that was the catalyst to the invention of the "dive skin" as we know it today . </P> <P> Wetsuits are relatively inexpensive, simple, expanded neoprene suits that are typically used where the water temperature is between 10 and 25 ° C (50 and 77 ° F). The foamed neoprene of the suit thermally insulates the wearer . Although water can enter the suit, a close fitting suit prevents excessive heat loss because little of the water warmed inside the suit escapes from the suit to be replaced by cold water, a process referred to as "flushing". </P> <P> Proper fit is critical for warmth . A suit that is too loose will allow a large amount of water to circulate over the diver's skin, taking up body heat . A suit that is too tight is very uncomfortable and can impair circulation at the neck, a very dangerous condition which can cause blackouts . For this reason, many divers choose to have wetsuits custom - tailored instead of buying them "off the rack". Many companies offer this service and the cost is often comparable to an off - the - rack suit . </P>

What is the purpose of a wet suit