Wetsuit for cold water diving

[sayang]

Is it completely crazy to attempt to dive in a wetsuit in cold(freezing) water. I can't afford a drysuit and I need to get in some dives a.s.a.p. to meet my divemaster requirements.

I don't mind being somewhat uncomfortable but I don't want to put myself in danger or anything...

Any advice is welcome.

 

[Pullmyfinger]

It probably depends on what type and thickness of wetsuit you currently have.
Here's an old post about one diver's experience with his Pinnacle Polar Semi-dry suit. It might give you a starting reference for what you might expect from a 7mm wetsuit.
Pinnacle Polar first impressions. [Archive] - ScubaBoard

I would imagine that no matter what...if you're diving in cold water wearing a wetsuit (any thickness) you'd want one of those Otter Bay 12mm hoods.

-Mitch

 

[Ulfhedinn]

How cold is the water?

 

[sayang]

That's a good start. Thank you. I don't have a thick enough wetsuit but $700-1000 for a good 7mm wetsuit is MUCH more manageable than twice that much for a drysuit (I'm short and curvy...so tack on a bunch for alterations too).

Does anyone have any comments on layering? Like a vest on top? Would that help?

The thick hood sounds like a good idea. Someone also mentioned layering gloves.

 

[sayang]

Freezing . Literally.

 

[gurnie]

It possible, try priming the suit with hot water just before entering the water. We use a thermos with hot wter to pour down the suit for guys ice diving wet.

 

[asha]

If you have $1000 to spend, don't waste it on a wetsuit. I had a "good" 7mm wetsuit, and my drysuit was <$1000 on Leisurepro and I've never looked back. There's also the option to shop for a used drysuit that could get you in that budget range.

 

[Kunundrum]

Yeah it's comon practice here for cold water diving. though with $1000 to spend you should be able to find a Drysuit. Look for the Bare Next-Gen or Scubapro Everdry4, they should be at or near the $1000 price mark and fairly available in MTL.

It possible, try priming the suit with hot water just before entering the water. We use a thermos with hot wter to pour down the suit for guys ice diving wet.

 

[sayang]

The Bare Next gen is available BUT the alterations will drive the cost up. From what I understand, the alterations for a wetsuit are cheaper? And I can get a 7mm for abut 500 on special.

I was looking for other options...but the general opinion does seem to favour the drysuit.

I've read up a bit now on 'priming'...thanks for the suggestion!!

 

[decidedlyodd]

A crappy, used drysuit is still warmer than a new, really nice wetsuit.