Wetsuit redux

I have read all your nice replies to Travis's question about wetsuits but I can't come close to finding a picasso for less than $200.  Any links out there fellas?

Pat,

Try this link... this is where Stewart ordered his from.

http://www.scubastore.com/product.asp?pais=UNITED%20STATES%20OF%20AMERICA&idioma=eng&id_familia=12&id_subfamilia=52&id_modelo=3353&id=52&desde=1&fromhbx=categoria

Thanks Brian.  They've discontinued that suit but they had some other great deals.  For just starting it is good to not have to spend too much.....y'know?

Pat,

Here is another online site from EMEA.  A  bit pricier though.
http://www.subprof.com/tienda/index.php?cPath=299

Although I've only used mine a few times, its hands down the most comfortable suit I've ever used.  Just be aware that you have to use a lube (hair conditioner and water) to slide into it.  I think they call these types "open cell"

Stuart

Thanks for that link too.  I guess I need a job that pays in euros......

I have everything on order except for the weight belt and weights.  I figure I can get those locally.........but I haven't found a stretchy belt locally.

Get a marselies belt, I'm addicted to mine.  Nylon friction buckle belts are a hassle that a new diver shouldn't have to worry about.  The marselies needs a greater tug to get it to pop free, but thats good IMO when you're climing in and out of a kayak with it on - it won't come off accidentally.

My dad got this suit: http://www.diveskin.net/shop/index.php?p=productsMore&iProduct=7

and it seems to be quite good for the price.  The integrated hood is a nice feature..

If you haven't dove before though, I reccomend renting gear and seeing if you like it enough to buy your own.  You can rent the whole freediving outfit for $50 or less depending on how much gear you already have.

I'll be making a few more runs up north this fall if you'd like a tour of fort ross or stillwater.

Thanks Josh,

Yep.  I rented the first time.

Cool.  Half an hour in the water teaches you more about fish, habitat and behavior than a decade of sitting topside. 

I would get a rubber belt, but avoid the traditional belt buckle.  Yes it springs open blah-blah-blah, but not as safe as others which is something to consider when you are just starting out.  If you get a rubber belt with a cam buckle you get all of the benefits of a rubber belt without any drawbacks, plus you'll only have to adjust it once, and then you just click it on and your done.  Make putting it on while on the yak a breeze.