If you have the money to purchase a drysuit then that is the route I would take also, but I paddle all winter long and I wear a Farmer john wet suit with a dry top and I dont have a problem. I am pretty sure the concensus will be to buy a drysuit. One other note to add, a wetsuit can be worn in the late spring when a drysuit would be pretty hot.

: Matt, Welcome to CT.
: I'd get the drysuit.
: In the event of an "out-of-boat-experience", exposure
: time to cold water can be much greater while sea kayaking.
: Much longer swim when out in open water a mile from shore than it
: is to the edge of a river.
: Drysuit is more comfortable than wet neoprene too. Get the relief
: zipper and socks.
: Many of the local kayak stores here have them in stock as well.
: Doug D.