Fourth Element Diving Suit and Gear

About the Fourth Element Brand

Fourth Element was founded in 2001 in Cornwall, United Kingdom, by two friends, Paul Strike and Jim Buckley. The brand was established with the goal of creating high-quality, technically advanced apparel for scuba divers, focusing on thermal protection, comfort, and sustainable manufacturing practices.

Manufacturing and Sourcing

Fourth Element products are manufactured in several locations globally. While their technical thermal wear and base layers are often produced in specialist textile facilities, their high-end neoprene wetsuits and drysuits utilize materials sourced internationally. The company is particularly well-known for its OceanPositive range, which uses recycled materials like ghost fishing nets to create activewear and swimwear.

Ownership and Structure

In early 2024, Fourth Element was acquired by the Finnish-based Suunto Group (owned by Liesheng). However, as of late 2024 and heading into 2025, the brand remains a key player in the dive industry under the broader umbrella of outdoor and technical equipment groups. The acquisition aims to integrate Fourth Element's expertise in thermal protection with Suunto's leadership in dive computers and precision instruments.