What suit for this time of year ?

[Bryan@Vintage Double Hose]

Headed to Key Largo for some diving over Christmas......I was thinking that my 3mm shorty would be enough. Am I being overly optimistic ? All advice is most appreciated.

 

[Walter]

Unless you get cold easily, that should be fine for the Keys in the winter.

 

[MikeR]

If you plan to do some deeper dives like the Spiegal Grove ect. I would bring at least a full 3. Did the spiegal awhile back and a 5mill was just right, but I've been down here to long and whine when its 70 outside

 

[Falconer]

I'd say "overly optimistic" it can get cool down there like anywhere else in the ocean down here, when the water temps
drop from the eighties into the seventies I think it's time for
more than the 3 mill, everyone is different of course but it may
get you through one dive but if you plan on two longer dives
your heat loss will be enough to make most a little chilly.
No need for a farmer john type of protection but a full
5 mill would probably be better, you'll need a little extra
weight but the extra warmth will be worth it.....

Kevin Falconer Fort Myers, FL

 

[KeyLargoBrent]

water temps in the low to mid seventies.

 

[fgray1]

I personaly would rather be comfortable than macho.
I wear a 3mm full suit when I go to the bahamas. It's easy to cool off, but if your cold it makes for a sucky dive. Besides a full suit makes go protection from the critters.
Fred

 

[GDI]

:doctor: Not knowing the water temp I would take the thicker suit. Time yourself getting ready on the surface and get into the water as soon as you can. Remember that you can not warm up underwater but you can cool down very easily by just popping the neck seal or even undoing the zipper depending on your suit design. Wear a hood as well You can take it off if required

 

[divegirlFL]

OK - I was diving in Cali in 59 degree water with a 6mm wetsuit & hood and I was perfect temperature wise underwater. 70s? 5mm suit? I'd be dying of the heat personally but I'm known for diving with my skin tied around my waist as I get too hot in it.

 

[Walter]

divegirlFL,

That's overkill for the Keys, but if one chills easily.................

 

[MikeJacobs]

divegirlFL once bubbled... OK - I was diving in Cali in 59 degree water with a 6mm wetsuit & hood and I was perfect temperature wise underwater. 70s? 5mm suit? I'd be dying of the heat personally but I'm known for diving with my skin tied around my waist as I get too hot in it.

lol you have to remember that there's nothing macho about diving ccccold. It's a nice, family activity where everybody should be comfortable and safe, so why bring ego into it?