Hoods necessary at Dutch / NJ Boat Dives?

[ClassAction]

Thanks again for the advice. Why would the attached hood be any worse than the separate hood?

I think I'm still going to hold off on the dry suit -- maybe at the end of the summer if I can get the budget committee's approval (i.e. my wife). Incidentally, I tell everyone to buy all the toys you could ever want BEFORE you get married...

I guess I need to try the semi on and compare. But despite the drawbacks from the hood, I'm still leaning toward it. I think it would be more comfy than a farmer john (especially since the arms/legs are only 5mm) and just as warm.

 

[grouchyturtle]

Why would the attached hood be any worse than the separate hood?

I guess it's just the way they cut it. Or maybe not being attached the hood has a little more movement. All I know is I ripped that suit off in about a second, as soon as I got it on.

Incidentally, I tell everyone to buy all the toys you could ever want BEFORE you get married

Yup that my plan!

I guess I need to try the semi on and compare. But despite the drawbacks from the hood, I'm still leaning toward it. I think it would be more comfy than a farmer john (especially since the arms/legs are only 5mm) and just as warm.

Maybe, but why not just a full 7mm? I've heard the semi dry really isn't that much warmer, yet it's almost $100 more even at LP.

 

[ScottyK]

The main difference between a "semi dry" and a regular wetsuit are the seals at the wrists, ankles, and back zipper. You can get these suits with or without an attached hood. Seaquest makes a nice one, and the clingy fit of a Hyperstretch suit does the same thing as the seals.

For really cold water you can put a hooded vest beneath the suit, but I'm fine down into the 40's with a "good quality" fullsuit and seperate hood.

 

[IrishAngel]

ClassAction..

The short answer to your question is YES. You need a hood for NJ diving.. the water is cold on the bottom here year round.. You lose a lot of body heat through your head..

It is important that the hood fit properly.. try on a number of sizes and styles until you find one you find one that fits comfortable.

Henderson is excellent.. If you haven't bought your a suit yet.. check out Pinnacle.. or consider a dry suit.. you can get a good quality dry suit (new or used) for way less than $1200.. If you are going to dive NJ.. a dry suit will keep you warmer.. increase your bottom times.. decrease fatigue.. and increase the length of your season.

I dive a DUI dry suit (bought used 10 years ago) with an attached hood... Love it.. keeps my hair out of the way.. protects my neck seal & keeps me warm and comformable.