Whites Fusion Size Question

[SteveR]

I am considering a White's Fusion. I seem to fall above the LG/XL size but am under the 2XL/3XL size. My guess would be go with the larger size to allow me and the undergarments to all fit.

How much "slop" in the fit is too much? I have never dived dry so this is all new to me. I have read many of the Whites threads and I believe the larger size will be better for my large legs and pear shapped body. Just a bit concerned about the extra material.

Also, I am considering using some cheap canvas "Converse" type shoes (rocky shore entries) rather than the full rock boots as I don't really want to get larger fins. I assume this will be OK.

[Vlane]

I've done my fair share of reading on the Fusion, and I'm gonna take a stab at it and say go with the bigger size. The Fusion is meant to form fit so a smaller size might be too tight and cause you to lose some of the mobility. Other drysuits tend to have a lot of "slop", so I think if you have some you'll be ok. If skdvr, who owns a Fusion, doesn't chime in here you might send him a PM.

As for the Converse shoes, there's some divers that use them instead of rock boots because of the better ankle support. I plan on also going with the Converse.

[Dark Coffee]

I'm a XL and went for the XXL (up size) for flexability. After trying it on I can say that stretchy oversuit make the oversize a non issue. It sucks back any slack nicely.

The socks are not neoprene but are a nylon type shell material. Pick a high top style canvas shoe that lets you comfortably wear thick socks cause the fusion sock isn't going to take up much space other than the tuck/fold for any extra slack in the sock.

[Rogue]

As form fitting as the Fusion is you should be safe going up one size, granted I've only dove a Fusion one time. I have an older Whites and a DUI. If you can physically try one on with the undergarment all the better.

Do any of the LDS's in St George carry Whites you can try on? If not you may want to consider a trip to Las Vegas or SLC. There are a couple tech stores in LV and one LDS here in SLC that has Fusions in rental you could try on.

When I have students who can't fit rock boots into their fins I suggest Converse or Chucks. Take a pair of socks you plan to wear inside the suit and then add another pair to simulate the DS sock, then take those along with a fin to the store and try shoes on. You'll get funny looks but that's OK.

[SteveR]

Thanks for the replies.
I tried on a rental XXL/XXXL and had some issues with the crotch being way too tight. I talked with a guy at DiveRightIn (Mike) and he told me how to fix it. I will be back in the shop on Friday to make the adjustment and try it again.

Also, Whites has a Fusion boot that is designed to fit on the suit with velcro and has a lower profile than the EVO boots. It is not as rugged but would be fine for boat dives and smooth shore entries.

I am looking at getting the XXL/XXXL inner suit with a LG/XL Tech Ltd Edition outerskin. I like the look, added durability and the pockets. (yes I know they will droop but so do I)


Now to see of the LDS will deal or if I need to go on-line. The best local deal I have found is the Ltd. Tech with pockets, EVO boots and bag for $1940. My LDS is a bit higher. Will see......