Hello and welcome. There is nothing like diving with your own gear. That being said, I wanted to tell you of an experience I am going through right now with Mares. I bought a new 7mm long wetsuit for diving in March, 2013. The wetsuit carries a two year warranty. Three months into using it, the arms started to separate at the seams, both sides. I contacted the store where I bought it, and was told they don´t honor Mares´warranty. I contacted Mares and they said the suit was under warranty and should be replaced, as they do not have repair facilities. Here I sit, almost a year later and I still have not had my wetsuit replaced under the warranty terms. I have sent countless emails that remain unanswered, made phone calls and left messages that have not been returned...basically the Mares representatives have given me the silent treatment. I am currently working with local business authorities to try and force Mares into honoring the warranty, but I don´t hold out much hope. I tell you, and everyone that is thinking about buying new gear, NOT to purchase any Mares equipment. If you do, just know that if it breaks down, you will have to replace it. They got your money, that´s all Mares cares about.