Bare Velocity 5mm Wetsuit Review

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.

By Tyler Allison · Updated June 2025
Bare Velocity (5mm)
Use
Bought used in near-new condition
Current role
Midrange wetsuit between my 3mm and drysuit
Still in my kit
Yes

The Short Version

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.

What Works

  • Excellent fit and thermal comfort
  • Great mid-range thermal option
  • Bought used in near-new condition

What Doesn't

  • Heavier and slower drying than 3mm
  • Requires more effort to don and doff
  • 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.

Who It Makes Sense 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

What It Is Like to Dive

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.

Ownership and Value

The seams remain intact, and the neoprene has not compressed much through several dive seasons. There is more effort involved in putting it on and taking it off than with my 3mm suit, but it remains manageable. Buying this one used in near-new condition made its fit and performance particularly good value.