another newbie

[tbrown]

I just took the drysuit class last week, from PADI. It can be done in 1 or 2 days. It has 1 confined water (pool) and 2 open water dives. If you are going to dive dry, it is a good idea to take the class. However, I think Jason's suggestion of a 7mm 2 pc with hood and gloves is a good way to start out. I have used this myself for quite awhile, and gotten alot of good out of it. I've used it in 42 degree water and been fine, although I was only down for 28 minutes. And it will cost about 1/4 of even an entry level drysuit. I only have the 2 open water dives in a drysuit, so my experience is limited, but I like a wetsuit better than a dry. Maybe if I had more dives in and got used to the drysuit, I would change my mind. But for the cost, ease of use, maintence and once again did I mention cost, it's hard to beat a 2 pc 7mm suit.