Wetsuits in Oz
Hi Nicky,
Real cold in winter huh ?
Geez, try diving in Southern NSW, or talk to the guys in VIC !
:duh
Anyway, talking wetuits:-
The 2 pce freediving suits, are WAY warmer then a steamer. Scuba wetsuits are warm but bit bulky and don't stretch well.
I've seen an add in the latest Aus - Freediving & Spearfishing mag that had Omer wetsuits - 2pce "titanium" (silver lined) for only $299.
Think it was a QLD store, but do mail order.
The local made Neptune camo suits with gold lining are very warm
but I don't like them because they don't have as good a stretch.
The best value for money suits I've seen are Top sub. Can get a 2pce silver lined 3mm for about $380. I have bought just the 3mm pants and use them with the picasso top when it's warmer. I have tried on the whole suit and found it very good. It's about as stretchy and warm as a picasso one.
I have a 5mm Picasso suit, really good but not cheap.
I recommend getting a wetsuit with the gold or silver lining, I definitely find it warmer, but also much easier to get into then one without the lining.
You should be able to get away with a 3mm suit where you are. If you really feel the cold try a 5mm top with 3mm pants. I find my legs don't get anywhere near as cold because I am moving them.
Then I need less weight compared to 5mm pants. Find this useful for deep diving, less weight makes it easier to kick off the bottom.
If you are really stuck for cash, wearing a 3mm hooded vest under a steamer makes a big difference. Most of your body heat is lost through your torso & head. Just a hood will make a difference too.
Hope that helps.
Cheers,
Wal