Is Thermoprene the new Hyperstretch?

[grouchyturtle]

I've got a Gold Core 3mm that I've been using for years, but I've been in FL long enough for my blood to start thinning. I ordered a 3mm Thermoprene vest, but it's too small, so much for Henderson's size chart or consistency between lines. Now I need something ASAP, because I have a trip next week. I was thinking of getting a Thermoprene 5mm, and as it turns out that happens to be the only suit I can find locally in my size...and at a great price. But I read a review that said it wasn't that warm. I used to have a 7mm Hyperstretch and honestly think the 3mm Gold Core is just as warm. So, will I have the same issue with the 5mm Thermoprene and it not being any warmer than my 3mm Gold Core?

 

[Instructor_Tom]

The question is where are you diving and what is the water temp.

I see that your comment is about Henderson suits, and I'm a henderson snob having owne 3 different suits at one time; so:

For winter dives in cool air temps with water below 70 degrees look at the thremoprene 8 mil with the integrated hood. Its a really warm suit, but it is extremely floaty. I have one and love it when I'm diving doubles wet in the winter time. Even out of the water on a cold day its still really warm. While the guys i dive with are instantly jumping around after a dive to get out of their suits because they are freezing. I take my time getting out as Steam rolls off my body. It really is that warm.

If we are talking about 70+ water temps then i would recommend the Aqua Lock 5 mil with the hood and boots. I help teach in the springs and my 5 mil will keep me warm all day while i watch the students teeth chatter and finger tips turn blue.

Lately i havent been able to do much wet diving and have opted to go dry as i am pulling dive times of 79 to 110 minutes in the springs doing some technical training which required secondary floatation.

Hope this help with you choice of suits.

T.


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[grouchyturtle]

So am I. This will be the 4th Henderson I've owned. Should be in the mid 70s, which is what it was here a few weeks ago, when for the first time my 3mm wasn't warm enough, and I bailed on the second dive. It was a little windy that day, though, which didn't help in between dives. The crazy thing is back in the summer, when it was in the mid 80s I was diving in just a bathing suit and rash guard. Unfortunately since the vest didn't fit I don't really have a choice due to time constraints and local availability. It's either going to be the Thermoprene 5mm...or whatever cheap vest I can find locally to get me through this trip until I order a new suit.

 

[Instructor_Tom]

I got both my suit through "http://www.leisurepro.com/c-982/wetsuits?Filter=brand%3dHenderson%3aflid_982_2%3d227"

If the size is wrong they will replace with the right size. Most retail stores dont carry henderson as the margin is not as good as other brands.

T.


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[grouchyturtle]

I found one of the few who does, and at a great price! I returned the vest to LP and got a 5mm Thermoprene full suit and an Evo 2mm front zip vest, both for less than the price of just the suit at LP.

 

[chillyinCanada]

Grouchy I see you like it do much thay you have your 3mm up for sale. Just curious, you dont envision ever using it again?

 

[CosFragger]

I had my 3mm Henderson thermoprene replaced with a 5mm. For some reason even though they were the same size, the 5mm was slighty bigger at the torso and slightly longer in the leg section.

 

[grouchyturtle]

Grouchy I see you like it do much thay you have your 3mm up for sale. Just curious, you dont envision ever using it again?

I don't see the point in having 2 suits that are so close in thickness, and you're better off being too warm than 2 cold. When I was up north all I had was the 3mm and my drysuit. As soon as it was too cold for the 3 I was diving dry. Down here in the summer I dive in just a bathing suit and a rash guard. If it's too cold for that I'd rather just wear the 5mm and be extra warm. Plus having the vest now gives me even more flexibility.