Smoothskin in VS open cell in

[salibandy]

Hey folks, for those of you who have worn both smoothskin in and open cell in, how much of a difference is there in terms of warmth? I'm looking to buy a set of the reversible suits from Elios with smoothskin and nylon, so I'd like to hear some feedback.

 

[trux]

There is this related recent thread that may give you some answers: http://forums.deeperblue.com/wetsuits/80210-closed-cell-worth.html

 

[salibandy]

Hmmm, not really. I have seen the thread, and it doesn't anything about how much more or less warm a smoothskin in is compared to an open cell in. It talks about smoothskin out vs nylon out for spearing. Thanks though.

 

[Fondueset]

I've never used a smooth in suit - but I asked my friend Jon, who also does a lot of winter diving, and he says the difference is substantial - that is smooth in is much less warm.

 

[salibandy]

Thanks guys for the answers. I thought I read somewhere that smoothskin in would be only slightly less warm than the open cell. Maybe I saw wrong.

 

[trux]

I think it is about right. I believe that open cell is supposed to have better adhesion to the skin, thanks to the open neoprene cells each acting in suction, hence letting less water through and keeping you practically dry. That supposes perfect and tight fit, though. Personally, I am using a reversible suit either smoothskin out, lining inside for easier dressing and better glide (usually in pool), or opositely with smothskin inside for better warmth and/or protection against abrasion. Personally I cannot compare it with open cell though.

 

[Fondueset]

Worth mentioning that we dive in very cold water here - so differences really show up. I think above 10-12c it may not matter so much.

 

[drunkinbda]

oooh god on sunday i forgot the lube. put my wetsuit top (open cell) on in the water... that thing stuck to me like all hell.. no movement at all... i was roaaasting >.<

 

[DivingDane]

if you can get them to use Lycra rather than nylon it would be better.

much stretchier and way more comfortable particularly with arms up for mono.

here is mine