I agree with Sam - but, and I can't speak for her, in general the tradeoff is power transmission for comfort. That, at least, is what my friends who use monofins pretty much universally say. There are exceptions of course, but the general rule is you trade time with the fin on for that clean transmission of force.
In winter here - when the water hovers at 2-3c - I use a 6 mil top, 5 mil bottoms and usually a 1.5 vest underneath. I like the vest because I can add it to my 3 mil, 5 mil or 6 mil. That said I've done lots of winter diving in just my 5 mil and had no problems as long as I did a few bursts of intense activity here and there. Thicker suits have bigger buoyancy changes with depth and are generally a little more awkward -though freediving suits in general are pretty comfy and easy to get around with.
On the monofin question - there is a definite learning curve - and it can be painful. Freediving fins (long blades) are very nice and really help conserve energy. If you get them, try and get some Omers - that way you'll know about the footpocket if you go with Leaderfins or Specialfins for a mono.
I really like the waterway Nemo - the pocket is not as comfortable for me as the Omer but just fine nonetheless and they are relatively inexpensive and VERY solidly put together.
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