If you love getting in the water for any reason, a wet suit is a great investment. It might seem unnecessary if you live in a warmer climate, but there are hundreds of situations where wet suits improve your experience in warm water.

Those who live in colder climates typically can’t get in the water for most of the year. When you make the decision to buy a wet suit, you open up your options immensely.

Let’s take a look at 5 of the key reasons that you should invest in a wet suit this year.

1. Warmth

The top reason to get a wet suit, of course, is that it keeps you warm in water that would otherwise be too cold to stay safe in. Warmth opens you up to explore in almost any environment, granted it isn’t an arctic pond or brutally cold environment.

If that’s what you’re looking for, though, there are wetsuit options that can withstand extreme cold. You’ll just have to do a little research and preparation to ensure that you’re absolutely safe in those environments.

2. Protection from Hazards

If you’re scuba diving, surfing, or exploring rocky terrain, a wet suit can defend you against significant hazards. A thick suit will keep your skin safe from punctures, stings from many animals, and any wounds that come from rubbing against rocks.

Honestly, the cold is the most significant hazard that you’re going to face as well. So, while massive hazards won’t be blocked by a wetsuit, most of the physical issues you’re going to face will be protected by a thick suit.

3. Buoyancy

Scuba diving sometimes requires that you get back to the surface quickly. Whether there’s an issue with your gear or you’re having personal difficulties, it can be stressful to float back up.

A new wet suit offers a good deal of buoyancy and allows you to float back with less effort than you would otherwise. When your suite stops offering that buoyancy, it’s a good indication that it is time to search for a new one.

4. Ease of Swimming

A wet suit allows you to glide through the water with far less friction than you could in a swimsuit. Wet suits are created with neoprene and other materials that act in a sort of “non-stick” way in the water.

This is useful for scuba diving and other water sports, but it’s also enjoyable for those who want to exercise or go for a relaxing swim.

5. Kayaking, Canoeing, Fishing

Some activities require that you put yourself in jeopardy of falling in the water. Things like fishing and kayaking can be ruined if you slip and fall into the water, getting yourself and your clothes wet.

Throwing on a wet suit can keep you warm and prevent your personal belongings from getting soaked as well.