Chillproof vs T2 vs Rapid Dry vs Thermal Flex: Which Sharkskin Wetsuit is Best?

When you need thermal protection for all your watersport activities-be it scuba diving, snorkelling, kayaking, or surf-ski paddling-Sharkskin has four standout solutions: Chillproof, T2 Chillproof, Rapid Dry, and Thermal Flex. Each offers distinct advantages, from blocking windchill to providing extra warmth via infrared FIR nano technology. Below, we’ll compare these four core ranges and then introduce two other specialised lines-Performance Wear and R-Series Compression-designed for specific performance needs.

Sharkskin Chillproof

Best for: Cool to cold waters, extended immersion, and versatile thermal coverage.

• 3-Layer Composite
  • Chillproof material is equivalent to a 3mm neoprene wetsuit underwater.
  • A breathable, windproof membrane protects against windchill on the surface.
• Neutrally Buoyant & Flexible
  • No excessive lift or compression at depth, ideal for scuba diving and other activities where comfort is key.
• Wet or Dry Comfort
  • The hollow-fibre fleece interior traps water when fully submerged, allowing your body heat to warm the suit. On the surface, it wicks away moisture to help you stay comfortable.

Why Choose Chillproof?
If you want a tried-and-true chillproof range garment for moderate to cold environments, Sharkskin Chillproof is a dependable option.

T2 Chillproof

Best for: Advanced thermal protection and health benefits with the latest tech.

• Infrared FIR Nano Technology
  • T2 Chillproof integrates titanium nano-particles into the 3-layer Chillproof composite for extra warmth-approximately 50% warmer than standard Chillproof and closer to a 5mm neoprene in performance.
• Health & Recovery
  • The FIR emission can boost circulation, aid muscle recovery, and enhance overall comfort in and out of the water.
• Equivalent to 5mm Neoprene
  • Enjoy superior thermal protection without the typical bulk or buoyancy of a thicker neoprene suit.

Why Choose T2 Chillproof?
If you dive or swim in very cold water or simply want the best in advanced heat retention, T2 Chillproof is a worthy upgrade over the original Chillproof.

Rapid Dry

Best for: Warmer climates, high-activity surface sports, and quick-drying convenience.

• Single-Layer & Water Repellent
  • The rapid-dry material sheds water and dries quickly, making it ideal for watersports with frequent in-and-out water transitions (e.g. kayaking, SUP, performance sailing, wind water sports including foiling and surfing).
• Lightweight & Breathable
  • Offers more warmth than standard rashies and provides excellent UV protection.
• Robust and Durable
  • Traditional rash shirts use lycra/spandex (rubber) in their fabric that deteriorates in chlorine and UV light. Rapid Dry does not use lycra/spandex and so resists chlorine and provides sun protection much longer than traditional rashies.
• Comfort on the Surface
  • Perfect when the water or air temperature isn’t cold enough to require thicker insulation but you still need sun protection and a water repellent garment.

Why Choose Rapid Dry?
Opt for Rapid Dry if you want a comfortable, lightweight, fast-drying layer with UPF50+ coverage for watersport activities in warmer conditions.

Thermal Flex

Best for: Mid-level warmth between Rapid Dry and Chillproof, plus the benefits of FIR technology.

• Moderate Insulation
  • Offers a step up in warmth from Rapid Dry without the heft of Chillproof, excellent for cooler conditions or transitional seasons.
• Infrared FIR Nano Technology
  • Similar to T2 Chillproof, Thermal Flex uses FIR tech for enhanced heat retention and circulation benefits.
• Flexibility & Comfort
  • Designed with comfort and movement in mind-ideal when you need added warmth but still want freedom to paddle, swim, or manoeuvre easily.
• Layering for extra warmth
  • Thermal Flex is perfect as an extra next-to-skin layer underneath your Sharkskin or wetsuit for a boost in warmth when the water gets too cold.

Why Choose Thermal Flex?
If Rapid Dry isn’t warm enough and sharkskin chillproof is too much, Thermal Flex provides an ideal middle ground for versatile water and watersport activities.

Other Sharkskin Ranges

Performance Wear

If you want an all-round, high-performance apparel solution that draws from multiple Sharkskin technologies (breathable membranes, stretch fabrics, water repellent finishes), Performance Wear is your go-to. It’s perfect for those who need ergonomic, moisture-managing garments across multiple activities, such as performance paddling and wind water sports as well as triathlon, endurance and high-tempo training sessions.

R-Series Compression

Made from a hi-tech compression material, R-Series Compression garments incorporate liquid titanium technology to provide FIR emission for muscle support, faster recovery, and improved circulation. Ideal for athletes seeking an extra performance edge-especially beneficial under a wetsuit or on its own for training and travel.

Which Sharkskin Range is Right for You?

• Maximum Warmth (Equivalent to ~5mm Neoprene): T2 Chillproof.
• Cold-Water Performance (Equivalent to ~3mm Neoprene): Chillproof.
• Lightweight Warmth & Quick-Drying: Rapid Dry.
• Mid-Level Warmth with FIR Tech: Thermal Flex.
• Performance-Focused Apparel: Performance Wear range.
• Enhanced Recovery & Circulation: R-Series Compression line.

No matter which you choose, Sharkskin garments are windchill proof, neutrally buoyant, and designed to keep you comfortable whether you’re fully submerged or on the surface.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between Sharkskin Chillproof and T2?

While both use chillproof material, T2 Chillproof adds titanium FIR nano technology to boost warmth by about 50% over standard Chillproof, making it similar to a 5mm neoprene suit. The FIR emission also provides potential health, performance, and recovery benefits.

2. Is Sharkskin waterproof?

Sharkskin garments are water repellent rather than fully waterproof like a drysuit. Their outer layer sheds water and helps prevent windchill, but you will still get wet during watersport activities. The key is the thermal protection: once wet, the body heats the trapped layer of water or air, keeping you warm both under and above the water.

Ready to Stay Warm in, on, and under the Water?

Sharkskin was founded in Newcastle, Australia, to help water enthusiasts stay warm without compromise.

• For ultimate warmth and cutting-edge FIR benefits, explore our T2 Chillproof Collection.
• Want a mid-range warming layer? Have a look at Thermal Flex.
• Need quick-drying versatility? Check out our Rapid Dry range.

Once you try Sharkskin, it’s hard to go back-our team is committed to helping you enjoy all your watersport activities safely and comfortably. Stay warm, stay active, and explore more with Sharkskin!

Disclaimer: Always consider your local water temperature, personal comfort, and activity level when choosing a Sharkskin product.