coreypenrose:Are there ways to deal with the inherent problems of ONeill drysuits?
Sure. I put quite a few dives on my old suit and had many a rewarding dive with that setup. I know several guys who dive with those suits and have no problems.
I have, however, replaced that suit with a DUI Signature Series CLX 50/50 and, to put it simply, everything I hated about that ONeill suit was addressed with the DUI without exception.
Did the DUI cost more then the ONeill? Sure.
Is it worth every penny? You betcha.
To the original poster, IMO, you should spend some extra money and buy an up level suit. If youre buying a drysuit, you are probably serious about diving in cold, probably local, waters. If you can, spend some more money and buy the best suit you can afford. You wont regret it.
Either way, diving dry is great! Enjoy.
:59: Thanks to everybody for the good advise. I will be saving $ for the suit of choice. Now that could be a whole new debate! Opinions on best suit under $1,200?