| I'm very pleased with my Otter membrane suit. The exact models change from time but Otter seem to be a good price / quality ratio. Mine is their de-luxe semi-stretchy material which is slightly nicer than the ordinary membrane, but not really by that much, so plain is perhaps better value. Undersuits - I still have the Otter one with the suit, which was quite a good deal as part of the package. I'm fine in it for my so far hour-long UK dives, though wear a medium fleecy vest underneath in the winter. I dare say Xerotherm or Weezles may be better but are more pricey. The underuit has a few minor features which aren't ideal such as knitted cuffs on the wrists which tend to soak the damp, but does the job OK. I think it was their "200" model
The suit is still pretty good after 5 years 120 dives, with only wrist and neck seals replaced so far, but may need a zip soon at least as a precaution. Regarding features, I would strongly recommend specifiying pockets on the sides not on the front of the legs. Mine are unfortunately on the front, which is a pain, though manageble. There's the DIR-ista extra drag argument, and to be fair there's something in this, but more importantly they are a nuisance when trying to climb up into a RIB as they catch, and also there's a considerable risk of breaking stuff whilst lifting heavy cylinders (twins). I've broken my spare masks this way; twice ! And two new mask costs more than the extra for side pockets. I had latex seals originally, but specified neoprene at replacement time and would not go back to latex. Apparently latex leak less on folk with scrawny necks and wrists, but my neoprene ones are Ok for me at least, and the neck in particular is much less uncomfortable to wear . A tight latex neck made me more prone to seasickness, though could just have been too tight.
So I can happily recommend an Otter stretchy membrane, medium-heavy neoprene boots, (preferably 2) side pockets with velcro flaps, and internal braces. Mine's got a shoulder (back) zip, and I've not felt the need for a front zip, but not used one.
I went up to Bradford to the shop, and they were extremly helpfull giving me (then a novice) all the time I needed to explain everything. I had to wait ages for my turn, but once I was seen, they didn't rush me and I probably had 100% attention for an hour. Well worht time and petrol from southern england.
I've not used anyone else's suits so can't compare directly, but the Otter does seem rather better made than some cheaper suits, and other than front-pockets (and sides can now be specified instead), am completely happy with the product, so have no desire for a pricier one if I bought again. Some of my gang have O-three or Body-glove compressed neoprene suits, and they too seem happy with theirs so Otter are not the only good make clearly.
I think the whole set was in the £500 to £600 range
No connection other than as a satisfied customer.  |