I am currently looking into purchasing my first drysuit and am greatly in need of advice as there are so many available, the first question that needs to be answered is Membrane or Neoprene? I was considering going with neoprene but I want to throw the question out there and get some opinions from all you drysuit divers, all other advice on this subject would be welcomed.

Nik

Both have their advantages and disadvantages, I dive a membrane suit which is tough as I am often scrambling over rocks or sneaking along rusting metal underwater. The down side is it does sometimes feel like being in a crisp packet, air has a habit of pooling in pockets a takes a bit of wriggle to vent. The same space means room for lots of under garments for very cold or long dives. Think about what type of diving you will be doing and look at the other divers to see what they are wearing. Ask lots of questions.

More than material I would say invest in one that fits well, take time trying them on and its the one piece of equipment I would tend tp avoid buying online as you really want to put it on and see how well you can get your arms up and behind your head etc.

I would also suggest doing a drysuit course, they can cause buoyant ascents, learning how to manage problems can be a real life saver, and practice practice practice.

Aaron