Thanks, Mike, good to know. I don't usually dive with a full wetsuit (either none or a 3mm shorty) in the ocean, so to prep. for the trip, I've done 2 dives at the local quarry (deep enough to have 2 thermoclines with a bottom temp. in the mid.-40's). With the built-in 'bioprene' I'm okay with a 5 mm full wetsuit, 7 mm hood, 5 mm gloves & 6 mm boots (once my face numbs up, and my hands do get cold).
This is how I plan to dive on the trip, Lord willing and providing. The new 2 XL OMS Slipstream fins fit with my SeaSoft Stealth 6 mm boots, but the upper tops of my feet get sore. With repetitive diving, that could be an issue. Since my size 15 feet are a bit bigger than the Stealth's ideally fit, they may be a tad snug, plus the Slipstream spring straps are pretty strong. I've got a pair of Neosport size 15 7 mm boots on order, and hope they work out better.
This trip offers conditions new to me, so I'm trying to get ready. The water's warmer than the coldest I dive, but we're talking repetitive diving (if all goes well). Really wish I could ditch the hood (even a 2 XL Henderson AquaLock pulls on my lower jaw), but I don't think that's going to happen. I'm also planning to bring a Spare Air 3 cf (yes, I know it's basically something to breathe on a CESA, not like a 'real' pony, but the afflicted dive shop doesn't rent ponies from what I'm told) in case I dive solo. Not sure how that'll work out.
I'm aiming for a 'fun, educational trip, trying something new' (new ocean, cold water, hopefully kelp & seals/sea lions). It is shaping up to be educational & cold; hope the rest falls into place!
Thanks again!
Richard.