What is the Difference Between Various BARE Velocity-Branded Suits

[rakpix]

so, i've decided on a bare wetsuit over henderson/mares. probably going to go with a bare velocity 5/4 fullsuit in 2xl short. my problem is: which 5/4 velocity do i choose??? i have seen "bare velocity" sold by scubatoys/leisurepro/diversdirect at prices all the way from $90 - $290. the heck? yeah, i get that the most recent incarnation, the "2009 bare velocity" would be priced higher than older stock but:

what the the PHYSICAL, non-cosmetic difference between

a $90 "bare velocity"

a $190 "bare velocity progressive stretch" Bare 5/4 Velocity Progressive Stretch Full, Men's

a $290 "2009 bare velocityprogrssive stretch" Bare 2009 5/4 Velocity Full Suit, Men's

please, do tell. and ask any bare-wetsuit employees on the board. thanks!

 

[Brian Sharpe]

I'll take a shot at it. All 3 of my wetsuits are Bare - only th 2mm shorty is a velocity, my 7mm is an arctic and my 3mm is an elastek.

The model scubatoys is offering (great price!) is the oldest & is a closeout, they don't list 2xl short as an available size.

Similarly the LP offering is not showing your size as available in last year's model - I expect it's purely cosmetic differences between the 2 years.

I'm surprised that bare isn't listed in the manufacturer's section here but, if in doubt, send them an e-mail. I've found their customer service to be very responsive.

FWIW if I was looking at a 5mm or 7mm suit I'd probably go elastek for the modest difference in price.

 

[rakpix]

so, you're saying they're the same suits? just different years? or did bare change the cut/fit & features of this line between years?

 

[Brian Sharpe]

so, you're saying they're the same suits? just different years? or did bare change the cut/fit & features of this line between years?

between the 2 that LP is offering yes, cosmetic changes.

 

[rakpix]

hmm, more importantly is the difference between the cheaper scubatoys one (i could wear a 2xl), and the 2008 LP model.

 

[Mr. Sunday]

I have a Bare Velocity Progressive 4/5 and its the best suit I have ever owned. Highly recommended.

 

[rakpix]

kdiver, which year did you purchase the suit? and at what price? also curious how you clean it (woolite/sink the stink/etc)

 

[rakpix]

ended up buying a bare velocity 2mm shorty off of a scubaboard member. will go with a drysuit for water below 70. couldn't be happier!!!

 

[weaponeer]

I bought a BARE Velocity Progressive 5/4 full suit last month from Divers Direct, the latest model. It's a great fitting suit, zippered ankles, internal water seals on arms and legs and a good seal at the neck, and isn't a pain to get on or off. Paid a little over $200, and worth the price.