: Goretex suits have at least two big problems that I am aware of. One is
: price. Another is that if you poke a hole in one, blow out a seam or
: zipper, then end up in the water it will fill up with water and will make
: swimming and or rescue difficult at best.

These arguments are typically WAY overblown. Yes, the possibility exists, but as a practical matter, the likelihood of such a problem occurring is near zero. The only problem I've actually seen happen with dry suits is a torn seal. This invariably happens when the seal is stretched while putting the suit on or taking it off, so it highly unlikely to occur on the water.

Personally, I'd quit paddling rather than wear a wetsuit. There are few things that I find more uncomfortable than being wrapped in rubber from head to toe for hours at a time. One of the only things that's worse is taking off a dry suit on a cold, windy winter day and exposing all that wet skin to a frigid breeze. No thanks.