Bare Velocity Ultra 3mm Wetsuit Review
My favorite wetsuit thanks to its perfect fit, easy donning, and solid warmth down to the mid 60s °F. The XLT sizing matches my body shape exactly, with no flushing or discomfort. It performs flawlessly for warm-water scuba, and while not the cheapest option, its comfort and reliability make it worth the price. I’d buy it again without hesitation.
Overall Score: 9.0 / 10 (Exceptional)
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Perfect fit with no flushing or discomfort | May wear at crotch strap area over time |
| Easy donning and doffing | Not suitable for cooler dives below mid 60s |
| My favorite suit for warm water diving | None so far within its intended use |
Why I Chose Bare Velocity Ultra 3mm
I already had experience with Bare wetsuits and discovered that their XLT sizing fits my body shape almost perfectly. When I needed a lightweight, warm water suit for tropical trips and quarry dives in the mid 60s °F range, the Velocity Ultra 3mm was a clear choice. I wasn’t looking for something bulky. I wanted a wetsuit that felt like part of my body, and that’s exactly what I got.
Performance in the Water
- Fit: The XLT size feels purpose-built for my frame. It fits like a glove with no gaps or water flushing.
- Warmth: I use this down to the mid 60s and stay warm. I know that's not typical, but it works for me.
- Donning/Doffing: Extremely easy to get in and out of, especially compared to thicker suits. No struggle at all.
- Expected Wear: No durability issues so far, but I suspect the crotch area may eventually show wear from the backplate strap.
Verdict
This is my favorite wetsuit. It’s the one I reach for whenever the conditions allow. I trust it, I’m comfortable in it, and it never distracts me during a dive. I only use it for scuba, but within that scope it’s excellent.
Would I buy it again? Yes — without hesitation.
Deep Dive into the Score
Scoring System: Each category is scored out of 10 and weighted by importance. This model is used consistently across all gear reviews for transparency.
| Category | Score (0–10) | Weight | Weighted Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Function & Performance | 10 | 30% | 3.0 |
| Ease of Use | 10 | 20% | 2.0 |
| Versatility | 8 | 15% | 1.2 |
| Durability & Build Quality | 8 | 15% | 1.2 |
| Value | 8 | 10% | 0.8 |
| Brand Trust & Transparency | 8 | 10% | 0.8 |
| Total | 9.0 | ||
Rounded Display Score: 9.0
Deep Dive Score Explanations
- Function & Performance – 10: Delivers flawless comfort and thermal performance within its intended range. I wouldn’t change a thing.
- Ease of Use – 10: The easiest wetsuit I own to get on and off. Lightweight and hassle-free.
- Versatility – 8: Performs exactly as needed for scuba. While I don’t use it for other activities, it’s not limited by design.
- Durability & Build Quality – 8: No problems to date. Long-term concern is wear in the crotch from backplate strap friction.
- Value – 8: Not a budget suit, but delivers premium performance and fit for the price.
- Brand Trust & Transparency – 8: Bare’s sizing is consistent and has worked across all three wetsuits I’ve owned from them.