Tampa area divers wetsuit question

[eandiver]

During the winter, yes. They stay a constant 68 to 72 degrees depending on the spring. Right now the gulf is in the mid 60's and dipping.

 

[Upwelling]

thx eandiver....

not to beat this subject to death, but does anyone here use a 7mm in the Gulf? One of the dive shops recommended (on their website) to use a 7mm or drysuit during the winter months. Is this just for people who are extra-sensitive to cold?

 

[johnny_bravo]

thx eandiver...not to beat this subject to death, but does anyone here use a 7mm in the Gulf? One of the dive shops recommended (on their website) to use a 7mm or drysuit during the winter months. Is this just for people who are extra-sensitive to cold?

I personally don't think there's such a thing as too much wetsuit...you may overheat a little on the boat at times but in the water it's easily remedied.

I dive a 5/4 Bare full + 5/3 Henderson Hooded Vest in anything below 72F and down to 60F.

Cheers.

-J.-

 

[eandiver]

I agree with johnny. Anything at or below 60 or for bottom times longer than 1 hr at 72 or below I use the drysuit. It also depends how sensitive you are to the cold. Scott (aka Polar Bear) was diving the gulf with us in 72 degree water wearing just swim trunks.

 

[Upwelling]

thanks again! I think I will go for some type of 5mm. I don't care for 7mm -- too difficult to put on.

 

[diveman3]

i use a 3 in the winter and nothing in the summer..well besides a bathing suit...