What are the pros and cons of a two piece wetsuit?

Question

I am looking at an akona 6.55 mm two piece wetsuit that's on sale from 260.00 down to 105.00 would you take the deal? I have heard you need alot more weight to get down with them and you might overheat. Also when I'm just wearing the top as a john will it act as a parachute? I'll be diving in the great lakes.

Thanks alot,

Shane

Answer 1

At 6.55 mm, you've got 13.1 mm covering your most of your body.  If it fits well, it shouldn't "act as a parachute."

And yes, you will need more weight, as you have more rubber on you than a one piece.

As for over heating, unzip a little or break the seal on your wrists or neck to let some cool water in...although in the Great Lakes, you shouldn't have too much a problem with that.

If I were to need a wetsuit that thick, I'd definetly take the deal.  I've currently got an Akona 7 mm and a Mares 5/4/3 mm, which both work great in the water temperature around here, so I don't really can't justify getting another suit at this point , no matter how tempting drysuits are.

Answer 2

I'd personally prefer a one piece wetsuit.

Answer 3

Pro: More upper body insulation.  More flexibility, wear top only, bottom only, both.

Con: need more weight to balance added bouyancy.  More time to put on/take off.  Heavier when you get out of water.  cost more than similar coverage one piece.

Over heating and ballooning are easy to deal with.  You can open a zipper to let cool water in.  You make careful ascents and watch where you are in relation to other diver's bubbles.  You suit should seal enough to make balooning a rare event.

But if you do most of your diving in cold waters the pros are much more worth the cons.  Sounds like you are getting a fantastic deal.  Don't let it get away.