This isn't exactly a "how much exposure protection should I wear?" question. As I know everyone is different, and I do know what works for me - however I'm looking at making a substitution, so it's more of a "will this be as good as or better" type question.
Previously in places like Bonaire or Belize I will generally wear a 3mm full, although it was slightly too large so it would let more flow than expected resulting in being a bit cold at the end of a long dive, especially at the end of a big week. When in a warm place like this I do make sure to do at least a couple dives in just shorts, and it's fine. I imagine based on my experience that if I had a 3mm full that fit properly I wouldn't get cold at all.
Now that the scene is set, here is the question: My wetsuit was actually stolen, so I need to replace it. I could just get a 3mm full that fits properly. That's one option. The other route I am considering going it getting either a 3mm, or even a 5MM shorty. I figure this would take up less room in the luggage, and as I understand it the key is really keeping the core warm, and then the extremities will follow. I just have a hard time 100% imagining that, without trying it.
I was wondering if anyone could share there thoughts on switching from a 3mm full to a 5mm shorty based on what I said about my temperature above. Will that likely be warm enough?
Thanks,
-Tom
Previously in places like Bonaire or Belize I will generally wear a 3mm full, although it was slightly too large so it would let more flow than expected resulting in being a bit cold at the end of a long dive, especially at the end of a big week. When in a warm place like this I do make sure to do at least a couple dives in just shorts, and it's fine. I imagine based on my experience that if I had a 3mm full that fit properly I wouldn't get cold at all.
Now that the scene is set, here is the question: My wetsuit was actually stolen, so I need to replace it. I could just get a 3mm full that fits properly. That's one option. The other route I am considering going it getting either a 3mm, or even a 5MM shorty. I figure this would take up less room in the luggage, and as I understand it the key is really keeping the core warm, and then the extremities will follow. I just have a hard time 100% imagining that, without trying it.
I was wondering if anyone could share there thoughts on switching from a 3mm full to a 5mm shorty based on what I said about my temperature above. Will that likely be warm enough?
Thanks,
-Tom
