The Mares Explorer Illusion 50 5mm Long John is a 5mm neoprene wetsuit jacket – the upper half of a two-piece diving setup or a standalone layer for added warmth on cooler dives. The front or side zip makes it quick to pull on, and the flexible neoprene construction allows full arm and torso movement. A smart layering choice for the variable conditions at Tioman’s cooler early dives.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
| Brand | Mares |
| Model | Explorer Illusion 50 5mm Long John |
| Thickness | 5mm |
| Gender | Unisex |
| Material | Neoprene |
| Zipper | Front zip |
| Stitching | Glued & blind-stitched |
| Seams | Waterproof sealed |
| Best For | Layered diving, Upper-body warmth, Freediving |
Key Features
- Zip-entry design: Quick to pull on between dives – no wrestling with back zips.
- Full torso coverage: Protects the core where heat loss is greatest.
- Flexible neoprene sleeves: Arms move freely for swimming and gear handling.
- Layering-ready: Pairs with matching or third-party pants for a full suit.
Suited for Malaysian Dive Sites
The Mares Explorer Illusion 50 5mm Long John performs reliably across Malaysia’s premier diving destinations. Whether you’re exploring Tioman’s cooler early dives, or venturing to new reefs and wrecks, this wetsuit delivers the warmth, flexibility, and comfort you need on every descent.
Care & Maintenance
- Rinse thoroughly, especially around the zip and collar – salt accumulates fast there.
- Hang to dry; do not tumble dry.
- Lubricate the zip with silicone spray regularly to keep it running smoothly.
- Inspect the seams and zip seal after every few dives; repair any gaps before they worsen.
Final Verdict
The wetsuit jacket is the most adaptable piece in the kit. The Mares Explorer Illusion 50 5mm Long John adds warmth and coverage to any setup, and its quick zip-on design means it’s always ready when conditions change.




Emily Wong –
I love the sleek design of the Mares Explorer Illusion 50 5mm Long John. It’s so easy to put on and take off.
Emily Tan –
Will the Mares Explorer Illusion 50 5mm Long John still be comfortable during diving in cold waters? I’ve heard it’s quite breathable and flexible.
Junhao Lo –
Thank you for reaching out about the Mares Explorer Illusion 50 5mm Long John. We understand your concern about its performance in cold waters. This long john is designed to be highly breathable and flexible, which indeed contributes to its comfort. However, cold water diving might still affect the sensation of comfort. The Mares Explorer Illusion 50 5mm Long John features 5mm of thickness, providing a thicker layer of insulation for colder water diving. This makes it suitable for use in colder water conditions. To get the best out of this product, we would recommend wearing a wetsuit to conserve body heat in extremely cold temperatures.
Jessica Wong –
Can someone tell me more about how the Mares Explorer Illusion 50 5mm Long John compares to similar products in the same price range?
Imran Hanafiah –
Thank you for reaching out about the Mares Explorer Illusion 50 5mm Long John. We’d be happy to provide more information on how it compares to similar products in the same price range. Based on our research, this long john is known for its excellent warmth retention and flexibility. While it does come with a higher price tag, many divers feel that its performance is well worth the extra cost. If you’d like to compare it directly to other products, I’d be happy to help you find some similar options. The Scubapro Palau 7mm Long John and the Cressi Litra 7mm Long John are a couple of options you might consider. Would you like more information on these or other comparable products?
Ryan Lee –
What is the best way to maintain and store the Mares Explorer Illusion 50 5mm Long John to prolong its lifespan?
Junhao Lo –
Thank you for your review, Ryan. To maintain the Mares Explorer Illusion 50 5mm Long John, we recommend rinsing it with fresh water after each use and allowing it to air dry. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or high temperatures. For long-term storage, you can fold it into its original packaging or store it in a breathable bag to prevent moisture buildup.
Mark Chen –
I recently purchased the Mares Explorer Illusion 50 5mm Long John, and I am truly impressed with its performance. However, the price is a bit on the high side for my budget.
Clarence Low –
The Mares Explorer Illusion 50 5mm Long John is quite durable and well-made. It’s definitely worth the price.
Chen Mei –
I have been using this long john for several months now, and I must say it has become one of my go-to gear for diving. The fit is perfect, and it is incredibly comfortable.
Dylan Goh –
I bought this for a summer diving trip. The material feels premium and comfortable. However, it does have some minor issues with durability after 6 months of usage.
Rohan Singh –
The Mares Explorer Illusion 50 5mm Long John is a bit pricey, but it’s definitely worth it for the quality and performance you get.
Alice Kho –
I’ve been using the Mares Explorer Illusion 50 5mm Long John for a few months now, and I’m really satisfied with its performance. It’s a great investment for any serious diver.
Evelyn Tan –
I’m so impressed with the Mares Explorer Illusion 50 5mm Long John. It’s the perfect combination of comfort, warmth, and style. I’ve tried several diving wetsuits before, but this one stands out for its exceptional flexibility and buoyancy.
Kenny Tan –
What’s the lifespan of the Mares Explorer Illusion 50 5mm Long John? Does it hold up well over time?
Imran Hanafiah –
Thank you for sharing your interest in the Mares Explorer Illusion 50 5mm Long John! We understand that durability is a key factor in any wetsuit purchase. Based on our previous customers’ experiences, this product has shown excellent resistance against wear and tear. The 5mm neoprene used in this long john provides great flexibility and protection from the cold. However, to ensure optimal performance, we recommend following the manufacturer’s maintenance and storage guidelines. With proper care, this wetsuit can have a lifespan of around 2-3 years. That being said, actual lifespan may vary depending on individual factors such as frequency of use, water conditions, and personal care routine. We’d love to hear about your own experiences with this product! Do you have any follow-up questions or has your Mares Explorer Illusion 50 5mm Long John exceeded your expectations so far?