It's okay.
Whoever can say whatever they want, and opinions are welcome....everyone has one.
My story is this:
I'm a size 18. My ideal size would be around a size 10-12, as I am about 5'-9". I'm not too bothered by what others feel "makes sense" to them in terms of my waiting to dive.
I am a practiced martial artist, I work out regularly, I have a clean bill of health, good BP and heart-rate and am an avid swimmer.
In all honesty to drop from an 18 to a 10 will take quite a while, and I just don't want to wait that long to get started. I may sell suits on EBay or just eat the cost - whatever. I'll worry about money, budget, logistics and what "makes sense" to me.
Thanks to the wonderful and constructive posts here, I have several leads on suits more in the $70-$170 range.
That being said - I DO need to lose weight, and I will do so, slowly, correctly and in a healthy manner.
Until then - I'll continue to do everything I love to do. Life is too short to wait until you're the perfect size.
BTW - Thanks, Cheddar.
Peace.
Certainly the best way to lose weight is slowly, you did not get it overnight and you will not lose it overnight. However understand that if you purchase a wetsuit that fits you now, you will have to purchase another one later. That being said you will probably find purchasing a new one later because you have met your goal quite rewarding. If you can't find a woman's to fit you, and since you are losing weight don't spend the money for a custom suit now, buy a man's suit. Quite sure a XL or XXL will fit. Good luck and keep up the work.