Thanks. So I gather that the stealth is less rugged but prettier than the flex (Hybrid part).
Same exposure protection, comfort?
Not planning on squeezing through caves but also not guaranteeing I won't come in contact with rocks from time to time ...
In terms of exposure protection, with properly fitted seals, and uncompromised material of the suit, either one will keep you dry...it is your undergarments that will keep you comfortably warm.
For the Argonaut 2.0, Fourth Element offers 3 versions:
the "Flex"
the "Stealth"
and the "Hybrid"
The "Flex" is made from a material that is a laminate of cordura bonded with butyl rubber. This material is more robust than the stealth material...it is more abrasion, cut, and snag resistant, but is is also heavier.
The material the "Stealth" suits are made from has a more supple hand than the Flex material. it is designed to be lighter in weight, and have some "give" with body movement adding to the comfort of the wearer.
The Hybrid suit uses the Stealth material for the upper half and the Flex material for the lower half....I would recommend this model if you planned on doing a lot of surf entries or had to scurry over rocky terrain to get to the entry points for your dives, as in both of those scenarious you might find yourself on all fours where the tougher material might be a benefit.
For cave and wreck penetration or lots of rugged entry/exit scenarios where maximum durability is a concern then the full Flex suit would be the recommendation.
For general recreational diving from a boat, calm to light surf entries, quarry/lake diving where heavy surf is not usually an issue, then the lighter weight + more supple Stealth suit is what I would recommend.
Base your decision on
fit,
purpose, and
budget:
Fit - this is the most essential aspect to get right above anything else when it comes to exposure suits...if there is an area to compromise on, this is not it. A drysuit that does not fit properly is not comfortable to dive and is just a burden. When trying on suits, be sure to try them on with the type of undergarments you plan on wearing for warmth on your dives...then lie down on the floor and approximate diving body positions...,make sure the suit allows you as much range of motion as possible, with as little restriction as possible.
Fit should always be the first consideration when buying a drysuit.
Purpose - think about how you will use your suit. Buying an extra-robust suit for casual recreational diving might not be the best option, especially if you think you might be traveling with the suit where baggage weight can be factor. Weight usually increases with robustness. Conversely, and ultra-light weight suit designed for travel might not be the best suit for daily use as the lighter weight material is more prone to damage.
Budget - Whether this should be the last consideration or the 2nd consideration is debatable. There is nothing wrong with setting a budget, and one should note that there are custom (made-to-measure) options available in the drysuit market that cost as much or less than some off-the-rack brands/models. Visit some shops or do some online research about what features are generally available for drysuits...then decide on the features you want (e.g., front zip vs. back zip, latex/neoprene/silicone seals, integrated boots vs, dryfabric socks, metal vs plastic dry zipper closure, Pee valve, etc.), decide how much you want to spend and whether or not the features you want will fit into your budget. Shop around for the a suit that fits well, has the features you want/need based on your budget, and will meet the purpose of your diving.
Hope that helps.
-Z
.
.
