The Silfra SnorkelingWhat to Wear Snorkeling at Silfra
What the operator supplies
When you arrive at the tour meeting point, you get a drysuit (a rubber suit with sealed wrists and neck, insulated from water), an undersuit (thermal lining worn under the drysuit), a neoprene hood that covers your head and ears, and gloves. The operator has been doing this for years and knows how to fit these to you. The hood and gloves are the only things that keep your face and hands from losing heat too fast.
What you bring
Thermal base layers. Bring long underwear or a thermal base layer. This goes under the undersuit and the drysuit. Most people wear a long-sleeved thermal shirt and thermal bottoms. The material matters — synthetic or wool works; cotton does not.
Thick wool socks. Do not skimp on this. Your feet are inside the drysuit and you need good insulation. Bring the thickest wool socks you have.
A towel. You need a way to dry off after. Bring one.
Underwear. Most people wear synthetic or merino underwear under the thermal base layer (no cotton). You will change back into dry clothes after, so bring a change of everything.
Glasses and contacts
Eyeglasses do not work underwater. Leave them at the shore. If you wear soft contact lenses, you can keep them in; they work fine and the goggles seal around them. If you wear rigid gas-permeable lenses, talk to your guide about comfort. Most guides have seen it work but it is individual.
What not to wear
Do not wear a wetsuit under the drysuit. It makes you buoyant in the wrong way and harder to move in the suit. The undersuit is warm enough. Do not wear a t-shirt under the thermal base layer; you want skin-tight insulation, not air pockets that trap water.
The drysuit neck and wrist seals are snug and take practice to understand. Guides will show you how to roll them down when you arrive. Practice at the shore before you enter the water, and ask your guide to check your seals.
Book and ask about sizing in advance
The most direct way to float between two continents is a guided tour — a live guide, all gear included, and the fissure in its full clarity, with free cancellation.
Most tours let you arrive early to practice getting into the suit at your own pace. The guides are used to first-timers fumbling; it is normal. You will get it.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wear a wetsuit under the drysuit?
No. The drysuit is already thick, and a wetsuit adds buoyancy and restricts movement. Wear thermal base layers instead; they are thin, flexible, and designed to work under drysuits.
What if I do not have thermal base layers?
Ask your operator. Most have extras and can fit you in generic thermals for a small extra fee or free, depending on availability. Buy or borrow a set before you go if you can, just to avoid last-minute scrambling.
Do I need a rash guard or dive skin?
No. The drysuit and gloves do the job. A dive skin under the drysuit is overkill and uncomfortable.