Cold Water Wetsuits

DiveDame · 04-22-2007, 11:03 PM

I am a warm water diver who is going to the Galapagos in late May when temps are in the 60's and 70's. I am looking for advice on wetsuits: 2-piece or 1, thickness, zippers, material? I read that the type of neoprene is important but how do you judge the quality of neoprene? Also, are there any differences in the amount of extra weight needed and the type of material? (I hate having to put on a lot of weights.) I know I will have to make adjustments but is there a way to judge how much extra weight I will need for each piece of equipment. For example, a half pound for a 3mm hood and a half pound for 3mm booties. Any help anyone can provide will be appreciated.

**MgicTwnger** · 04-23-2007, 12:01 AM

If you're renting, no problem. If you're buying I would suggest at least a 5mm jumpsuit with hood and gloves. It's impossible to guess about the weight without knowing what you use now, what you weigh, etc. Your LDS might help you there, but the only sure way to know is to get wet.

**glynneco** · 04-23-2007, 02:11 AM

Warm water diver jumping into the 60's? I would rent a 7ml one piece for the trip. et one now and do a test dive to get your wgt right. Don't forget to mathch hood, gloves and boots. to the 7 ml suit. You'll need to adapt to working your equipment in thicker gloves. My advice? pack your 1/3 ml warm water suit to layer if you really get the chills. My sister gets very cold even in a 7ml in 60's when doing multiple dives.

Take pics and DO report back in. I live vicariously. Thanks and have great time.

diverepublic · 04-23-2007, 10:39 AM

I have a Pinnacle Polar 7/5mm semi which I use for that temperature range and it's excellent. Don't worry about the weight, just do a proper buoyancy check before your first dive.
And Galapagos? I think I may have to hate you for that...

DiveDame · 04-24-2007, 04:05 PM

Thanks everyone for the sage advice. I hadn't thought about renting. You would not believe how hard it is to find 6 or 7 mm in Miami. The shops only carry a few for fire-rescue and police divers. I will post how things worked out when I get back (May 6th).