BEM
Contributor
Still looking to buy drysuits after many years!!!! Seems like there may be a preference difference, between male and female divers regarding neoprene and shell (laminate).
SO far I've been told, read or heard:
neoprene (crushed) suits:
fit better "non-normal" bodies better;
crushed neoprene is a good compromise between shell and 7mm neoprene;
heavier than shell suits, when wet;
have fewer folds and wringles;
higher insulation value than shells;
shell suits:
require less weighting;
easier to get on and off;
travel lighter - dry faster;
more folds - less streamlined;
require different undergarments for different water temp;
easy to repair small holes;
I didn't add 7mm neoprene or vulcanized/rubber suits, and am sure I missed lots of facts. I'm leaning toward a Bare crushed neoprene and my wife - Bare HD Trilam.
SO far I've been told, read or heard:
neoprene (crushed) suits:
fit better "non-normal" bodies better;
crushed neoprene is a good compromise between shell and 7mm neoprene;
heavier than shell suits, when wet;
have fewer folds and wringles;
higher insulation value than shells;
shell suits:
require less weighting;
easier to get on and off;
travel lighter - dry faster;
more folds - less streamlined;
require different undergarments for different water temp;
easy to repair small holes;
I didn't add 7mm neoprene or vulcanized/rubber suits, and am sure I missed lots of facts. I'm leaning toward a Bare crushed neoprene and my wife - Bare HD Trilam.