A question on wetsuits

Question
Hi Windlover,

As we move into fall I have noticed that the water temperature is going down a little bit each time I go to the lake.

So I figure it is time to see about getting a wetsuit so that I can continue to sail as much as I can (and also to be able to enjoy the better winds of fall and spring).

I've read over as much data as I can find about what to look for in a windsurfing wetsuit ( such as the good info here )

http://www.windsurfing-guide.com/windsurfing-wetsuit.html

However I really don't want to lay out a fortune on a wetsuit until my skill level is up and I can push further into the windy season with confidence (next year at best).

As a result I have been checking out Craigslist and eBay for used or afforable wetsuits.

I understand generally about what to look for ( like a 3/2 ), but what are your thoughts about a full suit vs a shorty with a farmer john?

I was thinking that might be a good combination for now as I could use the shorty until it got to the point where I needed to add the farmer john to it.

Also what should I be looking for in regards to boots/booties?

I have been sailing with beach shoes (they are lightweight, have nylon sides and decent rubber grips on the bottom), but they are very low profile and provide no thermal protection at all.

Finally any thoughts on protection for the hands?  Sailing gloves, wetsuit gloves or when it gets to that point is it just time to hang it up for the season?

As always your advice is appreciated!

Charles

Answer
Hey Charles,

Shorty suits are nice when you just need to keep your core warm. A farmer John over a shorty would work but if it is cold enough for leg coverage you probably will want arm coverage too. I would suggest a 3/2 with removable sleeves. Great for spring & fall and can add the arm coverage when needed. If you get to warm at any time, just drop into the water.

Booties tend to be a preference thing. I wear a low top until the water is really cold. Then I use an over the ankle 5mm boogie. I'm usually in my dry suit by then.

I always wear half finger gloves designed for sail use. Cold weather neoprene gloves are good but never worked for me. Drained too much strength from my hands gripping through the neoprene. The key for me is keeping the core warm and when it gets really cold I have a 2mm hood that I wear. With my head & core warm, my hands do ok without cold weather gloves. It really comes down to what works for you. Just be sure to wear something that will keep you warm. Hypothermia is nothing you want happening to you.

Hop this helps.
Keep on sailing,
Windlover