Wetsuit

Like nearly everything on this forum, there rarely is a best for all option. 

Originally posted by Time Lord Whatever brand you buy, get one with a front zip!! It's so much easier to get into and out of. After all, why should we have rear zips which were designed for surfers who lie face down on the boards and need the rear zip to prevent water entry.

Depends on your preference and ability to plan ahead for 'comfort breaks' in my experience.  I went back to a rear zip 'steamer' a few winters ago and really like it.   The rear zip suits do let water in, but slowly, as long as their is a good size 'flap' inside the zip.  Reduces the shock when you get dumped in the briny stuff at this time of year - at least for me.  Mine has protected knees too, which is handy in the lighter stuff.

Recently I tried one of the 'neck entry' surfer suits (while surf kayaking) - it was so warm it was actually nice to get fully immersed every now and then!  If you get cold winter sailing I'd really recommend taking a look at these, they are really flexible and mega warm, but pricey.

For the 100 I find the rear zip no problem, I used the layering approach before that in various single and double handers and wear gill 3/4 hiking shorts most of the time it's warm enough - but without the pads in the 100 as you don't need them.

Whatever brand you buy, get one with a front zip!! It's so much easier to get into and out of.

After all, why should we have rear zips which were designed for surfers who lie face down on the boards and need the rear zip to prevent water entry.

If its a longjohn suit you want, then get a Ronstan skiff suit. Best all year long john wetsuit you can buy and they used to be about £80, so a bargain as well.

I will need to buy a new wetsuit soon. The Lennon Racewear Dry System sounds interesting , especially as it claims "year round" ability. Anybody have any experience/comments on it?