AVALON THIS WEEKEND: 7mm around core enough?

[jephre]

Hi all-
Sorry to annoy you with a post like this, but the short version of my question is:
Do I need a full 10mm on my core, or can i get by with 7mm?

The LONG, geartweaker version is: My proear mask is incompatible with the hooded vest that i have worn until now under my 7mm wetsuit (merino/pinnacle).

my question: Are the waters in Avalon warm enough that I needn't run out tomorrow and buy a non-hooded vest to wear? Is this the right "safe" opportunity to test the Merino warming properties of my wetsuit?

I have the stupid proear hood, but it doesn't appear designed to be tucked into the wetsuit neck or anything-- it's pretty lame looking chin-down, i must say. i plan on wearing that too (laugh all you want, dr. bill) at least to give it a shot...

thanks for help-- just how cold is it in avalon?

j

 

[somewhereinla]

I did 4 dives this past week, 2 in Catalina and 2 in Redondo I use a 7mm and I was very warm. water temp was 55 (catalina)last weekend and water temp was 59 tonight in Redondo.

 

[60FT NDR]

Hi Jephre, The temps in Avalon are pretty much the same as LA to San Diego. You will have 61 degree pockets as well as the possible 50 or so degree pockets. It all depends on how cold you get. My husband and I each wear 7mm with a 5/3 hooded hyperstretch vest. We usually do 4 dives over there however, so the warmth is needed. We are going over there this Saturday to sink, re-weight and re-trim my new wetsuit (Pinnacle Arctic with Merino lining) and I can't fit a vest underneath. If you get cold easy, go out and get or rent a non hooded vest.
Hope the info helps and sorry for the ramble.
Ruth

 

[drbill]

Temps here have been fluctuating quite a bit. The day of the fire surface temp was 66, then yesterday it was 61 based on the same dive computer and instructor. We have had "upwellings" of cold water periodically.

I wear my 7mm hooded vest and 7mm full almost year-round, but given its age it's the equivalent of a 7mm or less by now.

 

[jephre]

Okay, thanks for all the replies guys-- knew I could count on this board to help inform me. Since I'm renting some gear tonight anyway, I'll pick up a vest to wear underneath.

60FT maybe we'll see you over there-- we're taking the 7am ferry to Avalon for a nice day of diving. Dr. Bill-- you planning on being "downtown" manana?

 

[60FT NDR]

Hey Jephre,
We are going over on the 6:15 from Long Beach. I will bee up against the building most likely close to the lockers. My hair will be in a pony tail and then braided (light brown hair). I will be donning a Pinnacle suit. My name is Ruth and almost anyone in our group knows who I am, just ask.
Look forward to meeting you.