Quote:
Originally Posted by Slims
It is personal preference, but I would recommend getting neoprene booties and fins that fit over them. It will protect your feet, lets you dive in all temperatures, and is more comfortable. You usually need to make sure the booties fit snug in the store (for me about a half size smaller than my street shoes).
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Great advice. Turns out I totally did that when I went in to sign up for the class and bought the required gear. I told 'em I wanted stuff I wouldn't outgrow, stuff that would be versatile, and about my experience dunking outta the back of a CH47 into ~40 degree water (I didn't stop shivering for like 36 hours), so I ended up with these Oceanic "hiking" boots, half-size too small so that they're just right when I point my toes. They should keep my tootsies warm(er). Sadly, I'm a scrawny dude and my body is lousy in the cold, submerged or not. Gah, I was randomly shakin' at the gun class I took in February after dark. Other people seemed fine but I needed a jacket. I may need to invest in a hood or something if I'm going to be Mr. Popsicle in the training quarry.
I like the idea of being able to kick off my fins and have the shoe sole protecting my pads. Kinda makes me feel like an aquatic ninja.
Now, if I could just get my little helper off my damn fancy pants manual so I can finish reading it.
Once again, thanks for the tips and stories. I'll keep researching / learning and come back here for some of the dummy questions.