Would this wetsuit setup work?

[Zealex]

Hello,

I live in the up north on the east coast and while it is getting warm (today was ~83F), the water temperature is still around 48F !

I only have a 3/2 rip curl...here's a link for reference:
https://www.ripcurl.com/us/shop/wetsuit ... 2-wetsuit/

I was hoping to avoid buying a new suit to save $$$, and was wondering what if I pair my current 3/2 with 5mm boots and gloves and bought a wetsuit vest w/ a hood that I could wear underneath that would keep my core warmer with the extra 2mm padding? My legs and arms would be "exposed" ... but I was wondering if this would work or would I still be too cold? In the future for when I buy a thicker suit ... I imagine the vest could be applicable in those setups as well if its a cold day or whatever. I don't see a point in 3mm gloves and would my feet really suffer that much if I use the 5mm boots for a longer time instead "downgrading" to 3mm for when the water gets warmer but isnt warm enough to go barefoot?

thanks for reading!

[jddc7]

Hey Zealex,

How much is the different in price between the vest and a new suit?

You are right..I think you'd be too exposed with your arms and legs in a 3/2. All depends how much you feel the cold..I like to be warm and comfortable but others feel the cold differently

[OlegLupusov]

It could work for but beware that the wetsuit may stretch out and you won't be able to wear it the wetsuit without the vest.
I did so in my old wetsuit with holes all over the shoulders and the elbows. It's a sort of fine. I tried it without the vest and it turned to be too big and the paddling position on the board is looser than I would prefer. It should be better on a newer suit. But who knows to what extent. Also a shredded collar could have contributed to s looser position via leaking in water.

[billie_morini]

Zealex,
booties and a hood help a lot. I use them in cold(er) water. You didn't mention wearing anything under your wetsuit. In Winter's coldest days in NorCal, I wear booties, thin hood, and rash guard shirt (short or long sleeves) and shorts (under suit) with my 4/3 suit. In Winter's coldest days in SoCal, I wear booties, rash guard shirt (sleeveless) and shorts (under suit) with my 2/3 suit. These additional combinations may work for you!
billie

[OlegLupusov]

Do rashguards help with the cold? I don't feel any difference temperature wise. I wear it to avoid neck rubbing and/or sun exposure.

[billie_morini]

Hi Oleg,
the answer to your question is affirmative. This is a formal way to say, "yes."

[OlegLupusov]

Just for the avoidance of doubt, are you talking about regular rash guard made of spandex or similar material?
No offense intended, but I have never felt the difference although I have always had my rash guard on under the wetsuit. And I regularly forget to get put it on.
And, never felt any difference:)
And, forgetting my 1.5 mm vest is impossible not to notice:) happened a couple of times but I would try to avoid it at all costs

[billie_morini]

Hi Oleg,
Yes, am referring to rash guard made from spandex and nylon or polyester. It provides noticeable difference for me.
billie