Pinnacle Merino Question

[Jud1417]

Hello all !

I am considering the Merino lined suit 7mm for 50-55 degree water. I have heard the merino lining is quite warm. Should I perhaps be looking at the 5mm...

Thanks

 

[ohmdiver]

I dive my 5mm Merino in 50* water all the time.

I will suggest you see if your shop will let you dive them to make your choice....

 

[redacted]

I dive 50 F in my 5mm ME with a 5mm hooded vest. It's cold but survivable. I don't do it often, long, deep, or multiple dives in 1 day. It's only a couple dive each year. If it were any more often, I'd be looking for something warmer. I really like the 5mm because it is so comfortable in water in the low to mid 60s.

 

[ohmdiver]

Let me add, I dove my Merino from May thru October, in Lakes and rivers in Upstate NY and Dutch Springs in Pa. Approximately 30 dives. Multi Dive days and most normal conditions.

I loved the suit. But if I had to sit still and not move around much I would start to feel the cold. I tried a rash guard underneath on one dive and it actually made me colder. The wool has to be against your skin.

It would be worth it to try the suits first.

I also don't mind the cold and I was comfortable.

 

[Jupiter31]

I have the 5mm merino and suppliment it with the merino 3mm hooded vest - for me, in 72 degree water, its just OK for the 1st dive but I find I'm cold on the 2nd. I purchased it less than a year ago so I don't think "compression" is an issue.

I'm looking into the 7mm, or even the 8mm - I cannot envision being remotely comfortable in 50/55 degree water with my current set up.

 

[merxlin]

I got cold in a 7mil in 56* water, added a hooded vest. It all depends on your metabolism.

I also think it may have to do with what you are used to. Living in SoCal or Fla doesn't exactly get you acclimated to cold.