Posted by Jon D. on July 16, 2002 at 16:06:46:
In Reply to: Re: diving southern calif posted by robert on July 16, 2002 at 15:39:54:
BCD -- I switched to a backplate and wing about a year ago and I love it. Streamlined, durable and comfortable.
Wetsuit -- Spend the extra for a custom suit. (Aquaflite, JMJ, Kettenhoffen etc.) A custom fit will prevent large amounts of water from flowing and in and out and you'll be significantly warmer. It's not so critical now that the water is in the 60s and 70s, but you'll be glad when it gets down into the 50s in the winter.
Drysuit -- I have only used a DUI trilaminate and I love it. A drysuit makes a big difference if you're doing multiple dives on a boat, as it keeps you warmer when you're out of the water as well as in the water. I like shell suits because they dry fast and fold up small for traveling.
Good luck,
Jon