Wetsuit requirements for Ont diving?

[TorontoDive]

I'm new to diving and was wondering what the recommended wetsuit thickness is? Are there any suits that could be converted into something wearable in tropical climates? (perhaps something with like detachable arms/legs).

 

[TorontoDive]

Sorry, I have to clarify, I hope/plan to dive places in and around Toronto.

 

[sprange]

Sorry, I have to clarify, I hope/plan to dive places in and around Toronto.

I wouldn't try to find a solution that would work for both local and tropical locations. In the minimum a 7mm (that properly fits) wetsuit/gloves/hood/boots would give you plenty of diving locally. A drysuit would extend it to virtually all year round, although you'll probably want to hang your fins up when the lake freezes over. You can get 3mm fullsuits/shorties pretty cheap so it's not worth the compromise. Living in the Toronto area gives you access to many great diving sites, Kingston being noteworthy.

Sean

 

[Web Monkey]

I'm new to diving and was wondering what the recommended wetsuit thickness is? Are there any suits that could be converted into something wearable in tropical climates? (perhaps something with like detachable arms/legs).

I'd go with a drysuit for local dives and a 3mm for tropical.

You should be able to find a good used drysuit for a couple of hundred dollars. You'll need to take a drysuit class, but the upside is that you'll be nice and warm and should be able to easily dive locally from at least April though November, which will get you a *much* longer diving season.

Terry

 

[JAK]

They are right 7mm is a must or dry suit especially for Toby 3mm for tropical may still be too warm. Skin suit would also be fine. It comes to personal comfort...So when are we going diving?

Enjoy the season, looks promising

Safe Diving!

JAK "The Diver"

 

[Tom R]

If your looking for a high end wetsuit a Bare Artic is the one you need, full 1 piece 7mm and a farmer john to be stripped off for those Aug - Oct dives. I wouldn't recommend any combo that you can use in Ontario and down south except for a good Drysuit.

 

[TorontoDive]

Ah well, good advice all around. I guess I'll be buying a 7mm wetsuit and renting a skin suit when required - I wish it could be the other way around but somehow I have a feeling I'll be diving in cold water a lot more than warm water!!

 

[WannaLaguna]

Ah well, good advice all around. I guess I'll be buying a 7mm wetsuit and renting a skin suit when required - I wish it could be the other way around but somehow I have a feeling I'll be diving in cold water a lot more than warm water!!

Hey TorontoDive,

As far as diving up here, I just picked up a Bare 7mm Artic Full with a 7mm hooded vest, cold water boots and gloves. If you are still looking talk to Brian at Dive Source http://www.divesource.com He has a great selection and his prices are the best I've found in and around Ontario. He's in Oshawa but its worth the drive!

Good Luck and Safe Diving!

PS: If you are looking to dive around toronto PM me. A bunch of us will be getting together to dive Wednesday nights at Humber Bay Park...all are welcome!

 

[TorontoDive]

Thanks WannaLaguna, I checked out their website and I might be dropping by to check out their selection of wetsuits. Looks like they might be having a rental clearance going on!

 

[TorontoDive]

Well, I bought a wetsuit over the weekend! 7mm Farmer John. I haven't tried it in the water yet, but I can say it was really hot wearing that thing in the shop....2 minutes and I was sweating!! Can't wait to try it in OW and see how it protects (I'm a cold water wimp - LOL).