Fourth Element Arctic Set Review
A robust, all-purpose undergarment for drysuit diving across a wide range of conditions. Warm, reliable, and easy to layer with, the Arctic was my first undergarment purchase and remains one of the most versatile pieces in my kit.
By Tyler Allison
· Updated July 2025
- Current role
- General drysuit-diving undergarment
- Still in my kit
- Yes
The Short Version
The Arctic has kept me comfortable underwater from Lake Michigan to Yucatán cenotes and remains my general drysuit-diving undergarment. The limitation for me is surface comfort on hot days, when I prefer a lighter layer. The main garments have worked well, but I replaced the bulky gloves and poorly fitting booties with wool alternatives.
Would I buy it again? Yes. I might explore layering options sooner, but I’d still start with the Arctic if I had to do it over.
What Works
- Warm across a broad temperature range
- Works well as a standalone or base for layering
- Durable and easy to maintain
- Comfortable in Yucatán cenotes and Lake Michigan
What Doesn't
- Bulky in warmer weather
- Pricier than other fleece-style options
- Gloves are bulky, booties run small
Why I Chose the Arctic
This was my first drysuit undergarment, and I chose it for its balance of warmth, reliability, and compatibility with my Santi drysuit. It worked well across a range of water temperatures, from Lake Michigan to the cenotes of the Yucatán. I never had any thermal issues during the dive itself.
Over time, I found the Arctic to be too warm on hot summer days, especially during surface intervals. That’s what pushed me to pick up the Fourth Element Xerotherm as a lighter option. But the Arctic still remains my go-to for general drysuit diving.
Who It Makes Sense For
This item is best suited for:
- Divers needing a dependable, all-purpose drysuit undergarment
- Cold-water or temperate divers who want one set for varied conditions
- Those layering over a lighter base for added warmth
It may not be ideal for:
- Tropical drysuit divers or anyone diving in hot surface conditions
- Divers seeking low-cost undergarment alternatives
What It Is Like to Dive
- Temperature Range
- Suitable down to mid 40s °F in my experience, even in Lake Michigan. Too warm for surface wear in hot sun.
- Fit & Flexibility
- No binding or bulk complaints with the main garments. However, the Arctic gloves were extremely bulky, and the booties did not fit my feet well (too small).
- Layering
- Can be layered over a Xerotherm or similar base layer for extended thermal protection.
- Comfort
- The base garments are warm and comfortable. I now use plain wool socks and wool gloves with liners instead of the Arctic accessories.
Ownership and Value
The main garments have remained in great shape after a year of use and washing, and they do not interfere with my seals or valves. The accessories were less successful because of their bulk and fit. The Arctic costs more than simpler fleece alternatives, but its warmth and construction have justified that price for my use.