The suit is the piece of protective equipment a beekeeper uses most. Its purpose is not to prevent stings entirely but to let the beekeeper work calmly.

Someone who feels safe moves slowly and steadily, which in turn provokes the colony less.

Suit or jacket

• Full suit: The highest protection. For beginners, defensive colonies and risky work such as venom collection
• Jacket: Cooler and quicker to put on. Preferred by experienced beekeepers with calm colonies

If a jacket is used, the undergarment must close at the wrists and the trouser legs must be secured.

Fabric

• Cotton: Breathes, washable, cheap. Thin versions can let a sting through
• Ventilated three-layer: Makes working in heat markedly easier. Its thickness prevents the sting reaching the skin. More expensive, but the difference is large in hot regions

Colour

Light tones are preferred. Dark and furry surfaces increase the bees' defensive response.

Closure points

A bee finds the smallest gap. The critical points:

• Zip ends: Where the zip finishes is the most commonly missed opening; it should be covered
• The veil join: The neck connection must be bee-tight
• Wrists and ankles: Elasticated or tied
• Pockets: Should have flaps; bees get into pockets

Fit

The suit should be loose. Fabric pressed against the body allows a sting through.

A loose suit also gives freedom of movement and does not open up when bending.

Care

• Wash regularly. Alarm pheromone in the fabric provokes the colony at the next inspection
• Do not use fabric softener; it leaves a scent
• Repair tears at once
• Store dry; it goes mouldy in damp conditions
• Keep a spare

Footwear

This is the most commonly neglected point. Bees climb from below and enter at the trouser opening.

Wear boots that cover the ankle, tuck trousers into socks or secure them with elastic, and never enter an apiary in open shoes.