First impressions: simplicity meets functionality
Although it immediately feels less premium than higher-end suits we’ve tested like the BARE X-Mission Evolution or Otter Britannic MK2, the Aqua-Trek 1 Tech still presents itself as a thoughtfully designed entry-level suit.
It doesn’t offer as much flexibility or ease of movement as something like the Hollis DX-300X, but it doesn’t pretend to. Instead, it focuses on the essentials, providing just enough to keep you comfortably dry and protected during standard recreational diving.
The minimalist approach, clear from the absence of external pockets and extra frills, reinforces that the Aqua-Trek 1 is all about uncomplicated diving without unnecessary additions.
In terms of travel, we found that the suit packs down easily and fits into a dive bag well. Whether shore diving from a dock or wading in along rocky shores, there’s little to differentiate between this suit and more expensive models. In terms of options like pockets and for general robustness, I’d opt for one of the suits mentioned above.
All in all, for an easy entry to drysuit diving, the BARE Aqua-Trek 1 is a great budget option for those just starting out or divers who only occasionally venture into cold waters.
Material and construction: balancing durability with weight savings
This suit is not intended for enclosed environments and I didn’t test it in anything except simple open-water conditions with temperatures that ranged from close to freezing to 60 F (16 C). The fabric on the suit is, I can confirm, waterproof.
The CORDURA Nylon Oxford 4-Layer fabric construction represents a careful balance between durability and portability. While not as robust as some technical-oriented drysuits, the material provides adequate protection for recreational diving when properly maintained.
The suit feels lighter and generates a sound similar to rain pants when walking as the fabric around my legs brushes against itself. It’s probably not going to be as durable against abrasions as a Hollis DX-300X or Fourth Element Argonaut, but the Aqua-Trek 1 costs significantly less too.
The lightweight construction makes it particularly appealing for traveling divers, though this comes with the caveat that extra care is needed to ensure longevity.
Seals and zipper system: practical simplicity
The combination of a Neo neck seal with “Smart Collar” and latex “Bottleneck” wrist seals offers reliable performance without complexity. While customization options are limited compared to higher-end suits, the sealing system is plenty effective for recreational diving needs.
The low-profile plastic zipper contributes to the suit’s lightweight nature while maintaining necessary waterproofing. I do prefer the plastic zippers that BARE uses across all their suits. There’s no additional zipper flap, unlike a lot of suits. But with good maintenance, I’m not concerned about dirt compromising the zipper.
BARE Aqua-Trek 1 valves
I’m not a big fan of the Si-Tech valves BARE usually uses, though they work just fine and I’ve never had one malfunction. I just find them bulky and, although they’re described as being low-profile, they really aren’t.
Valve operation is easy enough: tap on them to activate and they work. And although I find them a bit bulky as mentioned, I have many hours of diving with these types of valves without any issue.
Temperature management and layering
The included “Ultrawarmth” base layers add significant value, providing essential thermal protection for moderate water temperatures. Note that not every suit is sold with the base layers, so be aware when ordering.
The inclusion with the Aqua-Trek 1, though, is another reason this is a great suit for beginners, as it alleviates both the additional expense of separate undergarments and the decision on what type to buy. More extreme conditions might require additional thermal protection, but for most temperate-water diving, the Ultrawarmth layers will suit just fine.
Mobility and performance: recreational focus
The anatomical shaping and lightweight construction of the suit make for good mobility within recreational diving parameters.
While not designed for technical diving scenarios, the suit provides comfortable freedom of movement for standard recreational diving. The elastic back waist enhances fit and flexibility.
Sizing and ordering: off-the-rack simplicity
Available in standard off-the-rack sizes, the Aqua-Trek 1 Tech prioritizes simplicity over customization.
While this may require some compromise in fit for certain body types, the anatomical shaping helps achieve a reasonable fit for most divers. There are only seven available sizes, one reason for the more affordable price: Small, Medium, Medium/Large, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, and 3X-Large.
Price/Quality Ratio: entry-level value
At its price point, the Aqua-Trek 1 Tech offers compelling value for entry-level drysuit divers. The inclusion of Ultrawarmth Base Layers enhances the value proposition, though the lack of pockets and limited customization options reflect its positioning as an entry-level suit.
Do we recommend the BARE Aqua-Trek 1 tech drysuit?
For entry-level drysuit divers and those prioritizing travel-friendliness, the Aqua-Trek 1 Tech presents a solid choice. It’s not intended for technical diving and requires simple maintenance for longevity, and it successfully delivers on its promise of accessible, portable drysuit diving.
The simple design and included thermal layers make it particularly appealing for newbies to drysuit diving or warm-water divers occasionally venturing into cooler conditions.
It feels quite streamlined, actually, and will enable some cold-water diving without any problems or as big a hit to the bank account.
Specs & Features
| Material | CORDURA Nylon Oxford 4-Layer fabric |
|---|---|
| Neck seals | Neoprene seal with 2 mm nylon/smoothskin "Smart Collar" |
| Wrist seals | Latex bottleneck wrist seals |
| Weight | Lightweight (specific weight not provided by manufacturer) |
| Fit | Off-the-rack sizing with anatomically shaped torso, arms, and legs |
| Zip location | Front entry with lightweight, low-profile plastic dry zipper |
| Boots | BARE Tech Boots included |
| Pockets | None |
| Additional features | M-PADz knee protection, elastic back waist |
Take a moment to look at this.
