Custom wetsuits?

[Scout]

I noticed that there's several sites that offer custom wetsuits. Has anyone had experience with these? Is there a significant benefit over off-the-shelf suits?

[CompuDude]

Generally the fit is better and they are warmer.

Off the rack suits use stretchy neoprene that is not as warm, because they have to stretch enough to accommodate a variety of sizes. Custom fit suits can use the same material throughout for superior warmth, and yet not hinder movement, since they are cut specifically for you. It's also possible to get them to use superior, more expensive and crush resistant neoprene, like Yamamoto and Rubitex which gives the warmest possible suits.

[wxboy911]

I looked into a custom fit suit until I saw the cost-some are not too bad. I got lucky and found a size chart that I fit into well. Every company is different so there may be one out there that will work for you. If not you may have to bite the bullet.

[Xspect]

I would only buy a custom suit if the vendor was local to me

[Darth Fishhead]

are custom suits generally much more expensive? My LDS does Henderson, and my wife was thinking of getting a custom suit. Anyone had experience pricing out a custom Hederson?

[CompuDude]

Originally Posted by Darth Fishhead

are custom suits generally much more expensive? My LDS does Henderson, and my wife was thinking of getting a custom suit. Anyone had experience pricing out a custom Hederson?

I don't know if Henderson does true custom work...I'd be inclined to doubt it. You could have a Henderson modified by a talented seamstress, perhaps, but there are special procedures for working with neoprene that she'd better know.

Most custom suit makers make the suits themselves from raw neoprene stock.

A good custom suit from a good custom shop won't cost much more (if at all) than a high end wetsuit from a major name (Henderson is an especially good comparison since they're pretty expensive... full custom suits would probably cost the same. they just wouldn't be Henderson suits, if all you care about is the name)

Check www.wetwear.com for the warmest custom suits you can buy (made with real Rubitex neoprene).