Medium Temp Wet Suit Recommendations

[PhilD]

With cooler weather and water fast approaching it is time to think about a wet suit for cooler water temps, most probably no lower than 65F, more likely around the 70F mark. I currently dive in a 3x2 and have no issues in 77F water and feel quite comfortable. But I don't like the cold and wondered what recommendations people have for a full suit for medium temp waters?

Thanks.

 

[DA Aquamaster]

The water temps (above 50-60') here in August/September are between 76 and 65 degrees. I am comfortable in a 7mm semi-dry and a vest with attached hood with these water temps for dives upwards of an hour and a half with the first 30 minutes or so in mid to upper 40 degree water.

Any 6mm or 7mm one piece semi dry or two piece farmer john would be adequate.

A two piece front zip farmer john offers a lot of flexibility as well as the advantage of letting you unzip if you get too warm. In warmer water you can wear the shorty only and your exosed legs will keep you cool. Alternatively you can leave the 7mm hood at home and use a 2 or 3mm hood or wear no hood at all and let your head do the cooling.

 

[Genesis]

I was in a 3 mil with a 3 mil hooded vest under it, in water that was 72F on the bottom, and was fine for two dives.

Much below this and I want my drysuit though.....

I suspect that for the temps you're talking about a 5 mil with a hood will be enough, provided the air is reasonably warm (or you have a heated cabin to get into when you egress from the water.)

The problem I have with thicker wetsuits in cooler water and weather is that when the AIR cools off they become GREAT evaporative coolers when you get out of the water - they're fine IN the water, but not out, especially if the boat has to be moved between dives (read: wind!)