Is there really much difference...

[Bring the Payne]

between buying something like a 5-4-3 wetsuit or a 3mm with a 3mm shortie/core warmer? My 3mm is sufficient for most of my diving but I need something a little warmer for deeper dives. I just bought all new gear within the last two weeks so Im trying to be cost effective here and not spend another couple hundred on a good, thicker wetsuit if a core warmer would essentially do the same thing. Any advice???

[Aussie]

It comes down to how much warmer you want to be and the money you want to spend.

If you want to be a little bit warmer and dont want to spend much money I would go with a Titianium rashie or a Sharkskin rashie.
I have the long sleeve version and I think they are great. The sharkskin is a little more expensive but I use it all the time in warmer waters. Under a 3mm would provide the extra warmth you need and if the water gets really warm just wear the rashie with boardshorts.

I also like hoods even in tropics. You do get cold when doing long/deep dives. Maybe a 3mm hyperstretch hood is another option for you to look at. You loss 30% of your body heat through your head.

Aussie

[Bring the Payne]

Thanks again! You are full of advice for me tonight! I appreciate it.