Bare Velocity 5mm Wetsuit Review
Last updated: June 2025
- Precise XLT fit: snug and flush-free
- Reliable mid-range warmth: bridges 3mm and drysuit comfort
- Used purchase value: near-new suit for less
- Solid durability: seams hold up over seasons
- Heavier than 3mm: slower drying and requires more effort
My go-to wetsuit for dives that are too cold for my 3mm but don’t require a drysuit. I bought it used in near-new condition, and it fits perfectly thanks to Bare’s XLT sizing. It’s warm, reliable, and fills an important middle role in my dive kit. I’d absolutely buy it again if I needed to replace it.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent fit and thermal comfort | Heavier and slower drying than 3mm |
| Great mid-range thermal option | Requires more effort to don and doff |
| Bought used in near-new condition | Too warm for some quarry dives |
Why I Chose Bare Velocity 5mm
I found this suit used through a local dive shop owner who had only worn it a couple of times. Since I already knew that Bare’s XLT sizing fit me perfectly, picking up this 5mm version was a no-brainer. It fills the exact gap between my 3mm warm-water suit and full drysuit. When the quarry is too cold for the 3mm but not worth the hassle of a drysuit, this is the wetsuit I reach for.
Verdict
This wetsuit fills an important role in my kit. It’s not glamorous, but it’s reliable, comfortable, and versatile for in-between conditions. I didn’t pay full retail, but even if I had, it would have been a solid investment.
Would I buy it again? Yes. Especially if I found it used in great condition like this one.
Who Bare Velocity 5mm Is Best For
This item is best suited for:
- Divers needing a midrange thermal layer between 3mm and drysuit
It may not be ideal for:
- Warm-water-only divers who prefer light 3mm suits
- Travelers wanting quick-drying wetsuits
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 | Raw Score | Weight | Weighted |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Function & Performance | Exceptional | 9.0 | 30% | 2.70 |
| Ease of Use | Strong | 8.0 | 20% | 1.60 |
| Versatility | Exceptional | 9.0 | 15% | 1.35 |
| Durability & Build Quality | Strong | 8.0 | 15% | 1.20 |
| Value | Exceptional | 9.0 | 10% | 0.90 |
| Brand Trust & Transparency | Strong | 8.0 | 10% | 0.80 |
| Total | 8.55 / 10 | |||
Rounded Display Score: 8.6 / 10 — Strong
Deep Dive Score Explanations
- Function & Performance – 9: Warm and reliable for midrange temps where my 3mm falls short.
- Ease of Use – 8: Slightly more effort to don and doff than a thinner suit but still manageable.
- Versatility – 9: Ideal for shoulder-season dives when a drysuit feels excessive.
- Durability & Build Quality – 8: Seams remain intact, neoprene hasn’t compressed much over time.
- Value – 9: Not a budget suit, but delivers premium performance and fit for the price.
- Brand Trust & Transparency – 8: Another example of Bare’s consistent sizing and dependable build quality.
Performance in the Water
- Fit: Just like the 3mm version, the XLT sizing is spot-on for my frame. Snug, warm, and no flushing.
- Warmth: Great for shoulder season quarry dives and cooler days when 3mm isn’t enough. Never been cold in it.
- Donning/Doffing: A little more effort compared to the 3mm, as expected, but not frustrating.
- Condition: Despite being used, it was in near-new shape and has held up well through several dive seasons.