There was a great thread that Mary started about wetsuits. A couple of things to consider (that I learned from that post).

- a shiny outer surface will not be as cold when you are wet but out of the water. The shiny surface will not let the water evaporate from within the wetsuit as quickly as a wetsuit with a rough outer layer. This is important because you will quickly be exposed to a lot of wind again if you do go in or get wet from splashing.

- Wearing a spray suit (or $20 Wal-Mart variety rain suit) will help keep you warm out of the water by keeping the wind from evapo-cooling the suit.

- I recommend trying on wetsuits at local stores but remembering brand and sizing - then look for deals on the net if you need to. It's tough to get the fit right especially the first time. You can even buy suits on THIS site or look for discontinued / discounted stuff at places like www.sierratradingpost.com.

- A 3mil shorty (5mil wouldn't be a bad idea) and a decent rain suit will get you through early spring in the Carolinas. A farmer John is a great choice too (and it gives you knee protection).