Semi-dry 7mm vs. Farmer John 7mm

[ndemeis]

I am currently moving and changing dive locations so i am in need of a new suit. I currently dive with a 5mm Farmer john and that keeps me warm until i hit the mid 50's then it gets a bit cold so i'm looking into getting anew suit. I was wondering which is warmer the 7mm farmer john (or 7mm suit with a vest) or a 7mm semi-dry suit? Would love a dry suit but don't have the money.

 

[thatguyoverthere]

Hi ndemeis

When you say a Farmer John, are talking about a farmer john and shorty or jacket? I would go with a semi dry jumpsuit, and if you need more warmth you can always add a vest or short sleeve shorty over it. I like the jumpsuit because it offers full body protection with total warmth. When you have a farmer john and jacket you always have to have booth pieces on to have full body protection. I dive with a suit by Wetwear and I love it. Check out their website or give them a call.
Welcome to Wetwear - Custom Wet Suits of Rubatex Neoprene for Scuba Diving and All Water Activities

 

[Pearldiver07]

I have the Henderson "semi-dry" and I agree that if you need a bit more you can always add a vest.

One other thing I really appreciate about it is the integrated hood. Water flow is so good that I have to pre-flood the suit because after about 10-15 feet down, even unzipped I can't get water to flow through it.

When I worked at the shop I put a woman into one because she said she NEVER felt warm in 55-65 water.

She came back and told me that she even had to get out earlier than she wanted because her husband was cold.

The only reason I don't wear mine more is that I went dry. But it is still a great suit.

 

[willgr1]

i have a 7mm farmer john, and a Mares Semi-dry (7mm)....the semi is by far a better investment. It's still 7mm, is one piece, doesn't feel nearly as thick or bulky, the wrist and neck seals help restrict water flow significantly. the only negative is I need someone to zip me up as it has a back zipper. I also dive with less weight with the semi...with my SS backplate I need no additional weight in freshwater...i'm perfectly neutral.

I have a drysuit now, but i'll still use the semi for mid 70's diving, as it's such a great suit.