Which to get now...opinions please

[JKSteger]

Okay I posted a while back about a semi-dry or 7mm hyperstretch and the general consensus was to get the semi-dry (cold water 40F - 50F). Well I've decided to get a drysuit to dive cool to cold water. I will get the drysuit in a few months from now.

I have currently:
1.5mm Xcel Xpedition (use for extreme warm water or light layering)
3/2 NeoSport (actually a pretty nice suit for the price)
5mm IST (okay but very stiff, prefer not to use)

I'm thinking about getting me a new wetsuit (Henderson Hyperstretch) and I'm thinking about getting the 5mm hyperstretch. My LDS (www.divers-supply.com) has them for $289.95. or a 3mm hyperstretch. I would rather let the IST hang in my closet and get a comfortable suit. If you've owned or currently own a hyperstretch is it worth the extra price?

Also what warmth quality should I see if I wear my 3/2 with the 5mm hyperstretch over it...assuming anyones actually done this before or getting a 3mm hyperstretch with the 3/2 over it. (This is just to get me by before I get my drysuit). I live in GA and during the warm weather season I will be diving Atlantic Coast (NC, SC, GA & FL)...Gulf coast, springs and local lakes. Don't know if I should retire the 5mm with hyperstretch or get a 3mm hyperstretch.

Thanks to all,
Jeremy

 

[The Kraken]

Hey, Jer, just watch out for constriction concerns. That's a lot of pressure, especially in the joints and around the neck. Keep in mind, too, that since they aren't made to specifically overlap, there may be some issues with breathing problems associated with the restrictions in the diaphragm area.
Perhaps the expandability of the Henderson may overcome this, but just be careful, buddy.
We don't want one of the Looney Birds to fly the coop.

The K

 

[JKSteger]

Thanks TK,

I think that I would really like a hyperstretch suit. I AM going to buy a drysuit (Lanier and such) within a few months. I don't want to buy a semi-dry or really thick suit to use for the period in between now and when I get the drysuit. I'm thinking that a 5mm might be "just right" for springs and such and when the water gets really hot I'll break out my Xcel.

Thanks for the advice about the constriction concerns. I may just rent a thick jacket to wear over the one piece until I get the dry suit.

Jeremy

 

[BlueDolphin]

I own two of the Hyperstretch. I paid just over $200 each on Ebay.

You have to be careful how/where you sit, as these pill/wear out quickly.

 

[snoozer]

I have a 5mm Henderson Hyperstretch. I have a 5mm regular Henderson w/ zippers at the ankles and wrists. Not much of a difference getting in and out. Go for the lower price. I also have a TYLOS 7mm semidry which I dove last weekend in 40 degree water. Unless you are a real heat producer, the drysuit is the way. Mine comes in next week. Good diving! Snoozer