The Freedive Iceland Edge: Why Wetsuits Win at Silfra

When you think of diving into the 2–4°C (35–39°F) glacial waters of the Silfra Fissure, your first instinct might be to reach for the thickest drysuit possible. But at Freedive Iceland, we believe that to truly connect with this geological wonder, you need more than just warmth—you need total freedom. While drysuits are the “standard” for tourists, they often act like a bulky life jacket, keeping you pinned to the surface. To experience Silfra in 3D, our expert-led freediving tours prioritize specialized open-cell wetsuits.

The “Dry” Secret of Open-Cell Neoprene

A common myth is that choosing a wetsuit means spending your entire dive soaked in freezing water. However, the high-quality 7mm open-cell freediving suits we provide at Freedive Iceland work differently than standard scuba or surfing wetsuits.

The term “open-cell” refers to the interior of the suit, which lacks a fabric lining. Instead, the raw neoprene creates a suction-cup effect against your skin. When properly fitted with a specialized lubricant, this seal is so tight that water mostly does not get into the suit. By eliminating the “flush” of cold water that happens in cheaper suits, you stay remarkably warm while remaining unburdened by the trapped air of a drysuit.

Stay Longer, Explore Deeper

One of the most surprising benefits of our wetsuit approach is the duration of the experience. Many visitors find that in a drysuit, they become cold faster due to inactivity; because they are just floating on the surface, their circulation slows down.

At Freedive Iceland, we find that our guests often stay in the water longer with wetsuits than in drysuits. Because the specialized freediving gear allows for maximum mobility, you are constantly moving, swimming, and duck-diving into the “Silfra Cathedral”. This active movement generates body heat, which is then trapped by the open-cell neoprene. Instead of a 30-minute surface float, you can enjoy a full, immersive session exploring the 100-meter visibility from every angle.

Why Settle for Floating?

Silfra is one of the top dive sites in the world, situated in the heart of Þingvellir National Park. Its visibility is so legendary that it often feels like flying rather than swimming. When you wear a drysuit, that “flight” is limited to a bird’s-eye view from the top.

By choosing Freedive Iceland, you are choosing an adventure that lets you:

  • Glide between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates without the bulk of a “balloon” suit.
  • Dive deep to see the vibrant “troll hair” algae up close.
  • Move with the grace of a marine mammal, thanks to the superior flexibility of freediving-specific neoprene.

Whether you are an experienced freediver or a curious beginner, our private tours ensure a personal, safe, and exhilarating experience. Don’t just see Silfra—become a part of it. Experience the rift as it was meant to be seen: unrestricted, deep, and unforgettable.

Introducing this amazing city

A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine. I am so happy, my dear friend, so absorbed in the exquisite sense of mere tranquil existence, that I neglect my talents. I should be incapable of drawing a single stroke at the present moment; and yet I feel that I never was a greater artist than now. Read More “Introducing this amazing city”

Change your place and get the fresh air

A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine. I am so happy, my dear friend, so absorbed in the exquisite sense of mere tranquil existence, that I neglect my talents. I should be incapable of drawing a single stroke at the present moment; and yet I feel that I never was a greater artist than now. Read More “Change your place and get the fresh air”

Pityful a rethoric question ran

A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine. I am so happy, my dear friend, so absorbed in the exquisite sense of mere tranquil existence, that I neglect my talents. I should be incapable of drawing a single stroke at the present moment; and yet I feel that I never was a greater artist than now. Read More “Pityful a rethoric question ran”

How to travel with paper map

A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine. I am so happy, my dear friend, so absorbed in the exquisite sense of mere tranquil existence, that I neglect my talents. I should be incapable of drawing a single stroke at the present moment; and yet I feel that I never was a greater artist than now. Read More “How to travel with paper map”

Pack wisely before traveling

A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine. I am so happy, my dear friend, so absorbed in the exquisite sense of mere tranquil existence, that I neglect my talents. I should be incapable of drawing a single stroke at the present moment; and yet I feel that I never was a greater artist than now. Read More “Pack wisely before traveling”

Introducing this amazing city

A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine. I am so happy, my dear friend, so absorbed in the exquisite sense of mere tranquil existence, that I neglect my talents. I should be incapable of drawing a single stroke at the present moment; and yet I feel that I never was a greater artist than now. Read More “Introducing this amazing city”

Change your place and get the fresh air

A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine. I am so happy, my dear friend, so absorbed in the exquisite sense of mere tranquil existence, that I neglect my talents. I should be incapable of drawing a single stroke at the present moment; and yet I feel that I never was a greater artist than now. Read More “Change your place and get the fresh air”

Pityful a rethoric question ran

A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine. I am so happy, my dear friend, so absorbed in the exquisite sense of mere tranquil existence, that I neglect my talents. I should be incapable of drawing a single stroke at the present moment; and yet I feel that I never was a greater artist than now. Read More “Pityful a rethoric question ran”

Even the all-powerful Pointing

A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine. I am so happy, my dear friend, so absorbed in the exquisite sense of mere tranquil existence, that I neglect my talents. I should be incapable of drawing a single stroke at the present moment; and yet I feel that I never was a greater artist than now. Read More “Even the all-powerful Pointing”