Australian Scientists Tested a Shark-Repellent Wetsuit (3 photos + 1 video)
Scientists have created a wetsuit that protects against sharks, including great whites. It is made from strong and lightweight fibers used for sail ropes, as well as ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene. 
The protective material has already been tested on a great white shark. Surprisingly, it withstood the bites of this bloodthirsty predator.
Professor Charlie Huveniers noted: "These suits do not completely eliminate the risk of injury, including damage to internal organs. However, they can significantly reduce blood loss and the severity of injuries from serious lacerations and punctures, potentially saving lives. Our research will help professionals select bite-resistant wetsuit materials and empower the public to make informed decisions about their use."
Today, surfers have a wide range of wetsuits available, from standard neoprene to heavy chainmail models.
But until now, there was no option that combined comfort and protection from predators.
In their new study, experts tested the effectiveness of four new bite-resistant materials: Aqua Armor, Shark Stop, ActionTX–S, and Brewster. Each was evaluated for its ability to reduce injuries from great white and tiger sharks compared to standard neoprene.
The results showed that all four materials were effective in protecting against bites.
"While there were slight differences between the four materials tested, they all significantly reduced the incidence of serious and critical injuries that could result in severe bleeding and tissue or limb loss," noted Dr. Tom Clarke of Flinders University's College of Science and Engineering.
Swimming in the ocean may now be safer.
Data published last year showed an "alarming" increase in fatal shark attacks in 2023.
Researchers from the University of Florida found that fatal attacks have doubled. Ten attacks were recorded in 2023, five more than the previous year. Great white, tiger, and bull sharks killed most of the swimmers. However, scientists noted that the increase in fatalities is due to the increase in the number of vacationers.
