Hood — What It Is and Why It Matters
A diving hood is a neoprene head covering that reduces heat loss from the head and protects the ears and neck in cold water. The head is responsible for a significant portion of body heat loss, making a hood essential in water below about 21°C (70°F). Hoods come in separate pull-on styles or as attached components of wetsuits and drysuits.
Hood thickness ranges from 3mm for mild cold to 7mm or more for very cold water. Proper fit is important — too tight causes jaw fatigue and headaches, too loose allows water flushing. Vented hoods have small openings over the ears to equalize pressure during descent.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what temperature should I wear a hood?
Most divers start wearing a hood in water below 21°C (70°F), though individual tolerance varies. In water below 15°C (59°F), a hood is essential for most people. Cold-sensitive divers may want a hood even in warmer conditions.
Will a hood affect my hearing underwater?
Yes, somewhat. Neoprene over the ears muffles sounds. Vented hoods reduce this effect and help with ear equalization. Most divers adapt quickly and find the warmth benefits far outweigh the minor reduction in hearing.
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