Santi E.Lite+ Drysuit Review

Last updated: July 2025

• Targeted reinforcement: Heavy-duty panels shield high-wear zones without making the suit rigid.
• Easy donning: Telescoping torso and front-entry zipper streamline gearing up.
• Flexible boot options: Neoprene socks let me swap between rock boots and lighter shoes.
• Glove versatility: Silicone seals work with both wet and dry glove systems.
• Lifetime support: DRIS backs it with free annual maintenance, adding long-term value.

Overall Score: 9.3 / 10 (Exceptional)

See current pricing at: Dive Right In Scuba or Paragon Dive Shop

A rugged yet flexible drysuit ideal for cold-water diving with semi-custom fit and long-term reliability.

Pros & Cons

Why I Chose the Santi E.Lite+

I spent nearly two hours at Dive Right In Scuba with one of their drysuit specialists, reviewing the full Santi lineup and competing models from DUI and Apeks. After a detailed fitting, I only needed a few adjustments for semi-custom sizing and Santi didn’t charge extra for them. The suit arrived with a perfect fit right out of the box.

I wasn’t planning to squeeze through jagged caves or only dive in clear water. I needed a suit that could handle Midwest quarries, boat ladders, and gear-heavy dives without feeling like a tank. The E.Lite+ gave me just that. A suit with targeted durability, great fit and finish, a telescoping torso, and color options that made it feel like mine. And with DRIS offering a lifetime warranty and free yearly maintenance, it felt like a future-proof investment.

Verdict

The E.Lite+ is a serious drysuit for serious divers. It’s not the lightest or cheapest, but it performs flawlessly and fits like a second skin. The sock system lets me dial in my boot fit, and the ring system gives me flexibility across glove types. Add DRIS’s free yearly maintenance, and this suit is ready to last.

Would I buy it again? Yes — it fits my dives, my needs, and makes no compromises on quality.

Who the Santi E.Lite+ Is Best For

This item is best suited for:

• Divers who need rugged protection for quarries, boats, and gear-intensive dives
• Anyone wanting semi-custom fit without sacrificing flexibility or movement
• Divers who value long-term support such as lifetime warranties and maintenance programs

It may not be ideal for:

• Divers on tight budgets who do not require premium build features
• Travelers seeking the lightest possible drysuit for frequent flights

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.

Rounded Display Score: 9.3 / 10 — Exceptional

Deep Dive Score Explanations

• Function & Performance – 10.0: No leaks. Apeks valves work reliably. Telescoping torso and front zip offer flexibility without sacrificing seal integrity.
• Ease of Use – 9.0: Donning is easy. Sock system simplifies boot fit. Ring system is great for seal changes, but gloves require practice and lubrication.
• Versatility – 8.5: Excels in cold-water and general diving. Slightly limited glove compatibility through the ring system drops it half a point.
• Durability & Build Quality – 10.0: Materials, stitching, seams, and zipper are all built to last. No signs of wear after repeated dives.
• Value – 7.0: High cost, but the included semi-custom fit and lifetime service program improve long-term value for regular divers.
• Brand Trust & Transparency – 10.0: Santi’s quality reputation is well-earned. DRIS’s warranty and maintenance policy only add to that confidence.

Performance in the Water

• Buoyancy Control: Stable and predictable with no issues venting or inflating. Valves are smooth and reliable.
• Mobility: Telescoping torso and front zip allow free movement for valve drills and surface prep.
• Boot System: Neoprene socks gave me the freedom to switch from DUI rock boots to Fourth Element shoes for better ankle flex.
• Glove Compatibility: Silicone seals with Santi rings are perfect for wet gloves. Dry gloves work too, but take finesse and silicone spray.