Sharkbusters: 6 Ways Humans Have Tried to Avoid Shark Attacks

Over time, people have tried an impressive range of tactics to repel sharks. But do they work? Not well enough ...

By Don Wallace

Photo: Cabe Paparone | Radiator wetsuits

YE OLDE STYLE

A 1980 patent for a suit of shark-proof armor was never produced, but it led to Neptunic’s chain mail, used by professional divers to ward off bites. Too heavy for hanging 10!

WATCH OUT!

Colorful wristbands send out magnetic waves that allegedly disturb sharks’ electromagnetic sensors. Said to work best if a whole group wears them.

sharkbanz.com/technology

GOOD VIBRATIONS

An electronic device attached to a surfboard and ankle via a surf leash, Shark Shield is used in Australia, where tests show great whites stop at nothing.

sharkshield.com/technology

STINKY SPRAY-ON

An aerosol of putrified shark tissues. Yeah, that would keep us away if we were a shark.

amazon.com

BLUE MAN SUIT

If sharks really are colorblind, surely they won’t see you in a blue bodysuit. No, really, you go first.

radiator.net

SSSSSNAKE

The venomous, striped sea snake strikes such fear in sharks that stripes will keep them at bay. That’s the theory, anyway.