A surf suit that protects against shark attacks

Shark Deterrent Suit

Radiator - an Australian brand of wetsuits for surfing and diving - has developed a wetsuit called "Shark Deterrent" that deters sharks from approaching. Thanks to colours and patterns specially developed to disrupt sharks' vision, surfers can now indulge their passion in complete peace of mind.

Disturbing the shark's vision

To achieve this combination, the development team drew on the work of the University of Western Australia, which has been studying shark visions for several years and is considered a leading authority in this field. It turns out that sharks use several senses to locate their prey, but vision remains the predominant sense during an attack. Therefore, by disrupting a shark's visual perception, an attack can either be avoided or delayed to give the swimmer time to get out of the water.

Shark Deterrent diving suit for men or women: $528

Patterns and colors that confuse the shark

Radiator has therefore designed a wetsuit that mixes a combination of specific colours and patterns that are very difficult for the shark to perceive. There are two different designs, which have two different actions:

  • The first design allows the surfer to effectively blend in with the scenery, reproducing the colours of the bottom of the water. This makes it difficult for the shark to detect its "prey."
  • The second design makes the user highly visible, but dressed in disruptive colours, totally different from normal prey.

Stickers to be stuck on the surfboards can complete the range.

Surfboard Sticker : $80 to $115

Risk of attack reduced by 400%

Tests conducted at Mossel Bay in South Africa by the University of Western Australia determined that the risk of attack was reduced by 400%. However, the brand explains that you can never be 100% sure to avoid a shark attack, since sharks remain wild animals in their natural environment, even though tests have shown more than conclusive results.

Radiator is licensed by SAMS Technology, whose science is sound, even though testing is in its infancy.

Shark Deterrent surf suit for men and women: $528

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