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A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right Drysuit
Are you an avid diver or water enthusiast looking to invest in a quality drysuit? If so, you’ve probably found yourself pondering questions like, “Should I buy a front entry or back entry drysuit?” or “What are the benefits of a compressed neoprene suit?” Choosing the right drysuit can significantly impact your comfort and safety during water activities. In this guide, we’ll explore the key factors you should consider when selecting the perfect drysuit for your needs.
Finding the Perfect Fit
A properly fitting drysuit is crucial for your comfort and safety. When trying one on, pay close attention to the fit around your neck and wrists. The suit should be snug but not overly tight. Ensure there’s enough room for insulating layers underneath, especially if you plan to dive in cold water. It’s recommended to get professionally measured and fitted for your drysuit to ensure a precise fit.
Front Entry or Back Entry: Which One Suits You Best?
The first decision you’ll need to make is whether to go for a front entry or back entry drysuit. Front entry suits are easier to put on and take off, making them a popular choice for beginners. On the other hand, back entry suits often provide a more streamlined fit, which can enhance mobility and reduce drag underwater. Your choice here ultimately depends on your comfort level and the type of diving you plan to do.
Ease of Use: Putting On and Taking Off
Putting on and taking off a drysuit can be a bit tricky, especially if you’re new to it. Front entry suits are generally easier to don and doff. It’s essential to practice this process before heading into the water to avoid any complications during your dive. Familiarize yourself with the suit’s seals and zippers to ensure a watertight seal.
Trilaminate vs. Bilaminate vs. Neoprene: Material Matters
- Trilaminates are three-layer fabrics consisting of a waterproof butyl rubber membrane laminated in between an inner and outer layer. These fabrics are designed for a variety of uses, ranging from lightweight durability to extreme robustness.
- Bilaminates consist of two layers: a textured nylon base fabric on the inside and a waterproof polyurethane coating on the outside, providing both durability and excellent chemical protection.
- Neoprene is manufactured in buns that are baked in an oven and then sliced like bread horizontally to the desired thicknesses such as 6.5mm, 5.0mm, and 2.0. The slices are occasionally compressed to provide more dependable thermal and buoyancy properties and then laminated on one or both sides, depending on the intended use.
– In the unfortunate event of your suit flooding due to unexpected damage, neoprene stands out for its superior ability to maintain its insulating properties compared to both Bilaminate and Trilaminate materials.
The Advantages of Compressed Neoprene
If you’re considering a neoprene drysuit, you might come across the term “compressed neoprene.” This type of neoprene is denser and less buoyant than traditional neoprene, offering better control and minimizing air migration within the suit. This results in improved buoyancy control and less effort expended underwater, making it an excellent choice for divers seeking precision and performance.
Seals and Boots
When it comes to the neck seal on a drysuit, each diver has their own preferences. However, it is important to ensure that it fits correctly as it can feel tight around the neck. This step is crucial for a comfortable and secure diving experience. Drysuit seals are essential for keeping you dry underwater, and there are different types available, including latex, silicone, and neoprene.
Latex seals can both be cut and replaced but are prone to tearing. However, it’s important to note that some divers may have allergic reactions to latex, so it’s recommended to check before making a purchase. Additionally, it’s crucial to protect your latex seals from prolonged exposure to UV or ozone, as this can cause them to melt.
Silicone seals, one of the advantages is that you can cut them to your preferred size. However, it’s important to be cautious and certain before making any cuts. Silicone is ideal for use in warmer environments but can break in cold temperatures. Additionally, silicone seals are prone to tearing and ripping, particularly when putting on or removing your suit.
Neoprene seals tend to be bulky but provide better warmth and outlast any other seals. Neoprene seals are not replaceable since they are attached to the suit, while silicone and latex are modular with ring systems to allow seals to be replaced when torn in the field.
Regarding the neck seal, folks tend to have different preferences. But it’s important to get this right because a lot of people feel constricted around their neck when wearing a drysuit—and starting with a solid foundation is key!
Likewise, it’s important to make sure your neck isn’t constricted and that you can breathe. It’s easy to put up with some discomfort for a few minutes when trying it on, so be honest with yourself, and imagine how it would feel diving over the long term, in a variety of conditions.
When considering wrist seals, we’re considering the same factors, but also the types of movements and stresses that go with that part of your body. A big bonus for silicone and latex seals: you can use dry gloves with them.
Additionally, consider the type of boots you want with your drysuit. Some suits come with integrated boots, while others require attached neoprene socks with separate dive boots.
Understanding Drysuit Valves
Drysuits are equipped with inflation and exhaust valves, allowing you to control your buoyancy underwater. These valves work by adding or releasing air from the suit. Familiarize yourself with their operation before diving to ensure precise buoyancy control during your underwater adventures.
Drysuit Zippers
The drysuit zipper, a crucial component of the suit, requires regular maintenance to ensure its optimal performance. Prior to every dive, it is essential to lubricate the zipper by adhering to the instructions provided on the container of zipper lubricant that accompanies your suit. After applying the lubricant to the zipper chain, work the zipper by opening and closing it a few times. This action generates friction as the slider moves over the teeth, which, in turn, warms the lubricant and facilitates its smooth flow into the teeth.
In conclusion, choosing the right drysuit involves considering factors like entry type, material, fit, ease of use, seals, boots, and valve operation. Take your time to research and try on different suits to find the one that best suits your needs and preferences. Investing in the right drysuit can enhance your diving experience and keep you comfortable in various aquatic environments. Happy diving!
