Having spent countless hours in various water conditions, we recently tested the BARE 7MM Reactive wetsuit, a standout option from BARE’s lineup. This full-body neoprene suit promises exceptional warmth for scuba diving enthusiasts, and we were eager to see if it lived up to its claims.
The Reactive wetsuit incorporates an innovative Graphene Omnired fabric that’s designed to capture your body heat and convert it to infrared energy. In theory, this should make it the warmest option in BARE’s collection. We appreciated the full-stretch neoprene that offers impressive flexibility during dives.
Getting in and out of wetsuits can be a struggle, but the extra-long back zipper with an easy-grip puller on the Reactive made the process much simpler. The additional ankle zippers on this 7MM version were also helpful. The hook and loop collar adjustment provided a secure, comfortable seal around the neck.
We did notice some durability concerns during our testing. While the Armor-flex knee pads are a thoughtful addition for high-wear areas, we found some issues with the glued connectors near the neck area beginning to separate after minimal use. This is concerning for a wetsuit at this price point.
Bottom Line
The BARE Reactive offers impressive warmth and flexibility for serious divers seeking thermal protection.
However, the potential durability issues give us pause about recommending it without reservation.
If maximum warmth is your priority and you’re willing to handle some possible maintenance, check out the BARE 7MM Reactive wetsuit for your next diving adventure.
Overview of the BARE 7MM Men’s Reactive Wetsuit
When it comes to cold-water diving, proper thermal protection is essential. We’ve spent considerable time testing the Reactive 7MM from BARE, and it truly stands out as the warmest option in their lineup. The combination of full-stretch neoprene with Graphene Omnired fabric technology creates an impressive system that captures your body heat and converts it to infrared energy, keeping you notably warmer during extended dives.
Getting in and out of this suit is surprisingly easy thanks to the extra-long back zipper with a well-designed puller grip. The 7MM version includes ankle zippers that make a significant difference when suiting up. We particularly appreciated the anatomically correct patterning around the shoulders and neck, providing excellent freedom of movement without the binding sensation common in thicker wetsuits.
Durability is enhanced with Armor-flex knee pads, though we noticed some issues with the neck area seams after extended use. While the glued connectors near the neck showed wear sooner than expected, the overall construction meets the standards we’ve come to expect from BARE’s 50 years of innovation experience.
Graphene Omnired Technology
The Reactive’s standout feature is its innovative Graphene Omnired technology. We found this unique fabric integration creates a remarkable difference in thermal efficiency. The material actively converts your body heat into infrared energy, providing noticeable warmth even in frigid diving conditions.
During our cold-water dives, the thermal properties were immediately apparent. Unlike standard neoprene, this technology creates an active warming system rather than just insulation. The graphene-infused fabric feels different against the skin – smoother and more responsive as your body temperature rises.
We noticed the heat retention was particularly effective in areas with high blood flow. The 7mm thickness combined with this reactive technology creates what might be the warmest wetsuit experience we’ve had without the bulk of a drysuit. However, the technology does add slightly to the overall price point.
For divers prioritizing warmth in challenging environments, this thermal innovation represents a significant advancement over conventional wetsuit designs.
Superior Fit and Freedom of Movement
The Reactive’s anatomical design truly stands out when you’re underwater. We found the full stretch neoprene delivers exceptional flexibility, particularly around the shoulders and arms where movement matters most. The wetsuit contours naturally to the body without the typical restriction often experienced in 7mm suits.
Getting in and out is surprisingly easy thanks to the extra-long back zipper with its large pull tab. For the 7mm version we tested, the additional ankle zippers are a thoughtful touch that eliminates the usual struggle at entry points.
The collar’s hook and loop adjustment creates a customizable seal that prevents water flush while maintaining comfort during long dives. We particularly appreciated how the suit allows for proper arm extension when reaching for equipment or during underwater photography.
Despite its thickness, the Reactive permits a full range of motion that enhances the diving experience rather than hindering it. This balance of warmth and flexibility is rare in cold-water wetsuits.
Ease of Use
Getting into this 7MM Reactive suit isn’t as straightforward as some other wetsuits we’ve tested. The thick neoprene offers excellent thermal protection, but it also means the suit requires a bit more effort to put on. We found that using a small amount of water or wetsuit lubricant helps slide it on more easily.
The back zipper operates smoothly, though it’s definitely a two-person job to get fully zipped up. The ankle and wrist seals are snug without being restrictive, creating a good balance between water protection and comfort during dives.
One drawback we noticed is the zipper area. After just a few dives, the material around the zipper end began showing signs of wear. This is concerning for a premium wetsuit at this price point, as durability should be a given. The neck seal is comfortable during extended dives, though the glued connectors here seem to be a potential weak point.
Durability and Design
After extensive testing of the Reactive wetsuit underwater, we’ve observed mixed results in terms of longevity. The Armor-flex knee pads are a thoughtful addition that does protect this high-wear area effectively during multiple dives. However, we noticed concerning issues with the neck area, where the glued connectors began separating after minimal use.
The full-length extra-long back zipper deserves praise for its practicality, making the suit much easier to don and doff independently. We appreciate the hook and loop collar adjustment with its booklet-style cover that prevents chafing while providing a secure seal.
Construction-wise, the anatomically correct patterning in the shoulders creates a comfortable three-dimensional fit that moves naturally with the body. The extra-long ankle zippers on this 7MM version are particularly helpful when wrestling with thicker neoprene. While the overall design shows thoughtful innovation, the durability concerns with seam integrity give us pause considering the premium price point.
Environmental Commendation
Using eco-conscious gear matters to us divers, and the BARE Reactive stands out in this regard. The wetsuit’s durability means less frequent replacements, reducing overall waste in the diving community. We appreciate how the Graphene Omnired technology improves thermal efficiency, potentially reducing the need for additional warming layers or equipment.
The longevity of the Reactive is particularly noteworthy. With its Armor-flex knee pads and robust construction, this suit withstands extensive use before needing replacement. This durability factor shouldn’t be underestimated when considering environmental impact.
While BARE doesn’t explicitly market the Reactive as an eco-friendly option, we’ve found that its energy-converting properties and long-lasting design align with sustainable practices. The suit’s ability to harness your own body heat means less energy consumption during cold water dives.
Pros and Cons
After several dives wearing the BARE 7MM Reactive wetsuit, we’ve gathered our thoughts on this premium diving gear. The Reactive line is positioned as BARE’s warmest option, and we’ve put it through its paces in various conditions to evaluate its performance. Here’s our honest assessment of what works well and where it falls short.
Pros
- Exceptional warmth retention – The Graphene Omnired technology genuinely converts body heat to infrared energy, keeping us noticeably warmer than standard wetsuits of similar thickness
- Superior stretch and flexibility – Full stretch neoprene allows for comfortable movement underwater without feeling restricted
- Anatomical fit – The thoughtfully designed shoulder and neck patterns create a three-dimensional fit that prevents water leakage and chafing
- User-friendly design – The extra-long back zipper with large puller makes getting in and out much easier than many competing models
- Ankle zippers – The addition of ankle zippers on the 7MM version significantly reduces struggle during removal
Cons
- Durability concerns – We noticed early signs of wear around the neck seams after minimal use
- Zipper vulnerability – The material at the end of the zipper began degrading much sooner than expected
- High price point – While the thermal technology is impressive, the premium cost is difficult to justify given the apparent durability issues
- Limited color options – The Reactive line offers fewer aesthetic choices compared to other BARE suits
- Weight – The 7MM thickness provides excellent insulation but adds noticeable weight and buoyancy considerations
Customer Reviews
When examining real-world feedback about the Reactive 7MM, we found mixed opinions that potential buyers should consider. With only two ratings averaging 2.5 stars, this wetsuit hasn’t garnered extensive customer feedback yet. The limited reviews express durability concerns, particularly around the neck area where some users reported glued connectors beginning to separate after just six dives. Another reviewer mentioned issues with the zipper overlay material deteriorating after approximately 30 dives.
We believe these durability concerns merit consideration, especially given the wetsuit’s premium price point. While we appreciate the warmth and comfort this suit offers during dives, the reported quality issues suggest potential longevity problems. When investing in high-end diving equipment, reliability is paramount. It’s worth noting that these reviews represent early experiences, and Bare may address these issues in newer production runs.
Conclusion
After extensive testing in various water conditions, we find the BARE 7MM Reactive has significant drawbacks despite its premium positioning. The wetsuit’s thermal properties with the Graphene Omnired technology initially impressed us, providing exceptional warmth during cold water dives. However, durability concerns cannot be overlooked. The neck seam degradation after minimal use and zipper overlay deterioration after just 30 dives indicate construction issues that shouldn’t exist at this price point.
While the full-stretch neoprene offers good mobility and comfort during dives, the quality control problems significantly diminish the overall value proposition. We cannot fully recommend the Reactive despite its superior thermal properties. For serious divers investing in premium gear, these durability issues might lead to premature replacement costs. Those considering this wetsuit should weigh its excellent warmth against potential longevity concerns.