It is possible that this trend about to return, with a modern twist. Body Glove's latest creation - their 'Atlas' 5mm and 7mm suit - has a discretely hidden diagonal front zip.

The Atlas is a departure from Body Glove's usual suit design and I can't help but feel they have sought inspiration from the Swedish suit manufacturer 'Waterproof'. For the Atlas is made from several anatomical panels cut from low compression 'Evoflex' neoprene. You do get a better fitting suit that allows for a greater range of mobility if it has several panels, ie the leg benefits from articulated leg panelling.

Body Glove have liquid welded the microbead seams together (to help stop water ingress) with a black finish on the outside and a gold finish on the inside.

There are zips galore on this suit – the wrist and ankles all have zips and tags - to help with easy doffing and donning. Body Glove have stated this suit has an “interior floodgate barrier” and cuffs on the ankles and wrists to keep water flushing to a minimum.

The second 'Waterproof' echo is the large exterior pocket. This is located on the right hand hip and it has two storage compartments. The first, adjacent to the leg, is a large zipped cargo pocket. On the outside of this pocket is a flapped pocket that has daisy chain webbing stitched to the flap, giving you the option of clipping off an accessory.

* Available in 14 sizes (male) and 6 sizes (female)
* Available in 5mm and 7mm
* 'V' Neck Collar Design
* High Density Exterior Print (Nano-tritec seat)
* Extended Knee Pads
* Integrated spine pad