Shark Stop’s bite-resistant wetsuits are not just another gimmick like some products in the ‘shark deterrent’ space, they’re the result of rigorous, science-backed testing to ensure they offer real-world protection.
Laboratory and Field Testing
Our patented fabric uses UHMWPE (Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene), a material stronger than steel in terms of strength-to-weight. But strength on paper isn’t enough. That’s why Shark Stop partnered with Flinders University, a global leader in shark research, to put our fabric to the ultimate test.
At the Neptune Islands in South Australia, great white sharks (Carcharodon carcharias) were presented with testing rigs covered in Shark Stop fabric. The researchers recorded bite force, tooth penetration depth, and overall damage.
The Results
Results showed that Shark Stop fabric dramatically reduced the depth of shark tooth penetration compared to standard neoprene wetsuits. More importantly, our material reduced the tearing action of shark bites, which is often what causes the most severe injuries.
In 2024, similar testing was conducted on tiger sharks (Galeocerdo cuvier) in Queensland, Australia. While the study is pending peer review, preliminary data shows that Shark Stop fabric prevented 100% of critical damage and reduced severe damage by up to 89%.
What This Means for You
While no suit can make you invincible, Shark Stop wetsuits give you a significant safety edge in shark-prone waters. By reducing bite severity, they buy critical time for first responders, potentially saving lives.
Backed by peer-reviewed science, Shark Stop’s wetsuits are more than protective gear, they’re a step toward peaceful human-shark coexistence, allowing people to enjoy the ocean while respecting its most iconic predators.