K01 Size Guide

K01 Size Guide

Hello divers and K01 enthusiasts,

We all know it: a hood that’s too tight means a guaranteed headache after 20 minutes. A hood that’s too loose becomes a highway for icy water rushing down your neck. In the technical diving world, one brand always comes up when talking about ultimate comfort: K01.

Handmade in Italy, their gear is often considered the "Rolls-Royce" of thermal protection. But be careful—Italian craftsmanship comes with its own sizing secrets!

Here’s our guide to finding your perfect size and never being cold again (or dealing with jaw pain).

1. The secret to comfort: Hayato neoprene

Before grabbing your measuring tape, you need to understand what makes K01 different. They use Japanese Hayato neoprene. Its key feature? It is ultra-stretchy and highly resistant to compression.

Unlike a standard hood that compresses and becomes paper-thin at 40 meters, K01 maintains its thickness and warmth.

2. Size Guide: K01 Hoods

For your hood, don’t guess. You need two precise measurements: your head circumference (above the eyebrows) and your neck circumference.

Expert tip: K01 tends to run small (typical Italian fit). If you're between sizes, or if you have long hair, always choose the size up. This will help you avoid jaw pain and that tight, choking sensation around the neck.

3. Size Guide: K01 Gloves

K01 gloves are designed to be worn like a "second skin". To choose the right size, measure your palm width (A) and your middle finger length (B).

Note: Gloves are also available in XXS and XS for smaller hands!

4. Size Guide: K01 Technical Garments

Like most technical garments, the goal is a close-to-body fit without any air pockets forming. Air pockets allow heat to escape instead of keeping it trapped between the fabric and your skin.

We recommend choosing your usual size.

5. The little details that make the difference

• Hair-friendly design: The interior is coated with silicone. Unlike raw neoprene, it slides on easily and won’t pull your hair. A real pleasure to put on!
• Zero bubbles: Small holes at the top of the head allow air to escape without letting water in. No more “bubble head” effect during decompression stops!
• The "Sausage Effect": When putting them on, 5mm gloves may feel tight on your fingers. Don’t worry—once in the water, the neoprene softens and you regain excellent dexterity.

6. Care tip (Don’t miss this!)

This is a common mistake: never turn your K01 hood inside out to dry it. The silicone inner lining and glued seams don’t handle reverse stretching well. Simply rinse with fresh water and let it dry flat in the shade.

Not sure about your body shape? If no standard size fits you (very large neck, very slim face), K01 offers a "Custom Made" service to create a perfectly fitted hood.

Ready to dive into ultimate comfort? Discover the full K01 range (5mm & 8mm hoods, gloves, and merino garments) in our shop and face the cold in style!