Here's an easy one (I think)

[chuck_northrup]

Just passing through and thought I would throw my .02 into the mix 

I deal with this question often with my students and I have a certain philosophy...there is a time and a place for wetsuits;  it is called the Caribbean  ;D  All the local diving (MN and WI) I do is in a drysuit.

While 7mm wet is the best you can get for the midwest, to get a "good" quality suit and especially if you are talking custom, the drysuit is a better way to go.  You will probably spend around $400 for a custom wetsuit and you can usually get an entry level drysuit for around $800.  I realize that this is twice the cost but the comfort you will gain and the extended dive season are a big, big plus  8)

I have seen all too often divers that spend money on a wetsuit, get very active, dive it for a season, and then buy a drysuit.  The wetsuit then sits in the closet dry-rotting  :-\

Talk to your LDS about the possibility of going dry...it may save you money in the long run 

CN3