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Editors Pick -- June 2008
Pinnacle Merino-Elastiprene 7 mm
First Impressions: Wool underwater? Yup, Merino wool. The M-E 7 mm combines a specially woven Merino lining with high-stretch neoprene.
Key Features: Second-generation Elastiprene material is more flexible than the original and is lined throughout the suit with an equally flexible Merino lining. In back, the rear zip is outfitted with an ultra-thick 10 mm spine pad for cushioning tank weight and a smoothskin seal for keeping water at bay. Other water barriers consist of a roll-neck collar, gusseted ankle zippers with internal smoothskin seals and honeycomb O-ring seals at the wrists. Double-glued and blindstitched construction is ultra-durable and prevents water seepage at the seams, while flexible Kevlar knee pads cover pre-bent legs.
Diver Impressions: This is perhaps the most feature-rich suit in the group, and the payoff is obvious when it comes to diver warmth. There was little to no water exchange while swimming, and this suit could easily handle colder waters. However, like the other suits noted for their warmth, donning was a bit more labored with the M-E. In-water flexibility was good for a cold-water suit, but noticeably lower than some of the ultra high-stretch models in our group. Bottom line? If staying warm is your top priority, then the M-E should be high on your list.
MSRP $460
Contact pinnacleaquatics.com
