SHARK PROTECTION SUIT

Question
We are thinking the 'taylor' suit of mail that covers one's wet suit won't protect against a shark's bite causing fractures (of the arm, for example) since the force of their bite, even if they 'unbite' once they taste the metal is still awesome and may cause injury nonetheless.

Any instances where someone wearing such a suit suffered a fracture or compression injury from such a bite/unbite?

Thanks,

Paul Forel
Redondo Beach, CA
PADI since '72

Answer
Hi Paul

I have no knowledge of an instance where bone fractures occurred through the chain mail suit.  As I'm sure you're aware, the power is certainly there to do the job if the shark so intends.
I'll engage in a little speculation based on what I know of shark behavior.  Most pelagic sharks have teeth equipped for cutting meat (a notable exception being the whale shark).  They accomplish a "bite" by initially piercing the flesh and then using a sawing action to remove the bite.  The teeth work most efficiently in this way.  The pointed and serrated teeth of these sharks are not designed for crushing and would break off if they were used to crush prey.
Most humans have fairly fragile bones and, while it is certainly possible, I don't think it's something you'd have to worry about.
Just watch your fingers!!

Hope this helps!
Mike Giles
Mike's Dive Center
mikescuba.com