I dont see how layers is particularly going to help - if they are all SFI 3.2/5 and made of Nomex they should all be of roughly the same thickness.
I wear an Impact Racing Racer suit (3.2/5 and I wear a layer of CarbonX underneath) which has pockets and has been comfortable for multiple long stints through various Lemons races. Their store is in LA as well so you can go try them on before you buy.
Impact! Racing Products
my understanding is not to worry about the layers, worry about the rating.
more layers does not equal more protection.
the rating of the suit is "5" showed after the "/" which means it will help protect you for 2x that long measured in seconds or 10 seconds for the rating you show.
dont worry about pockets, i have never used mine on my suit.
as far as impact racing, i would realy do you research. i was in the tech area getting a car its anual and i heard the tech guy reading a note to his helpers. it said there were some suits from impact racing that will no longer be passed by SCCA tech. i wouldnt believe it if i didnt ask him the repeat it. I dont know which models, but they were newer ones, and dont know the reason why.
saferacer(
SafeRacer - Auto Racing Safety Equipment, Auto Racing Gear, Auto Racing Helmets, Auto Racing Suits) has great deals on suits, and free shipping.
as far as sizing, i went by the sparco chart for sizing, and it was too small. i went one size larger, it fits well, and gives me room to grow.
you should be able to find a nice suit for ~$600. call up UPR and see what they have on clearance in stock. they are a good source as well.
i also agree with RichS , i have a black suit(3/4 of it is black) , and here in AZ it gets hot. the color has not been an issue for me.
I would go with simpson, or sparco, stay away from the g-force ones, they felt very cheap when i tried one on.
fireproof underwear will add ~ another 5 seconds to the rating, and a balaclava is, IMO, a must have.