I just put 8 dives on my Scubapro Nova Scotia 6.5mm Semi-Dry. Temp range 48-58 degrees. I found the suit very easy to get in and out of, but help is required to zip on/off. Water never penetrated beyond the elbows or knees, and the water that did penetrate was minimal. Arms, legs and torso were minimally damp from sweat. I was very comfortable during the SI's with the top pulled down to waist and adding a fleece jacket and knit cap in 55-65 degree surface temps with light winds. I did not take my Deep See 5mm boots off and my feet and ankles did begin to chill during the SI on the colder days. Once in the water, I had to burp the suit at the neck to release air pockets. I was able to get the hang of this after a few dives so that maximum air was released without water infiltration. Cool water did come in on the first few attempts, but warmed up immediately. I will be looking forward to letting a splash of water into the suit as the surface temps warm up. If you are prone to heating up, in surface temps above 65 degrees with sunshine, you'll want be be in the water as soon as possible after donning your hood, gloves and bcd. At depth, I was able to burp additional water from my wrist seal without water infiltration, but note that I have the Scubapro 5mm gloves overlap the inner wrist seal, then fold down the outer wrist flap over that. Under water, there were no issues with comfort or flexibility. I do have a complaint about the hood that comes with the suit. After the first 2 dives, 3 small 1/2" tears appeared around the jawline on the interior of the hood. My LDS will be addressing this issue with Scubapro this coming week.
I am 6'4" and 140lbs. I purchased the XL. Fits great.
For marketing purposes, "semi dry" sounds much cooler than "not as wet" which is the reality of this suit. And "not as wet" is greatly appreciated during the SI's.
I will be doing multiple deep water dives over the next few weeks. Temps in the mid 40's are expected. I am debating on whether I should test the warmth of this suit at these temps, or add something like a Lavacore Polytherm beneath the Scubapro? Has anyone added a layer beneath a semi dry, and how well did it work for you?
And if anyone ordered an XL and it just didn't work out for you, contact me if you want to sell it. I'm always looking for a deal. Who knows how long these suits will remain on the market? I might want a couple of spares!