What is the primary reason for wearing a wetsuit during dives?

Wearing a wetsuit during dives is primarily aimed at retaining body heat. Water conducts heat away from the body much faster than air, which means that without proper insulation, divers can quickly become cold, especially in cooler waters. Wetsuits are designed with neoprene material, which provides insulation by trapping a thin layer of water between the suit and the body. As the body warms this water, it creates a barrier that helps maintain a comfortable temperature during the dive.

While buoyancy control, protection from marine life, and fashion might be considerations for divers, the key function of a wetsuit relates to thermal protection. Other options may provide secondary benefits; however, the overarching purpose of a wetsuit is to help divers stay warm in cold water environments, ensuring comfort and safety throughout the dive.