Wet and Windy guide to Drysuits.

Drysuits are designed to keep the wearer dry, even in the event of a complete dunking. This is acheived by having seals on wrists, neck and at the ankles. (A choice is often available between ankle seal or a sock). These suits are therefore popular for sports where immersion is an option and freedom is still required such as dinghy sailing.

The seals are usually made of a latex rubber although neoprene seals are become more common. Latex seals do not react well to contact with petrochemicals or long term exposure to U.V. or heat. Therefore suit fitted with latex seals is best stored in a cool dry place to extend it's life. In terms of maintenance regular treatment with a product called Seal Save will extend the life of the seals and mean that they retain flexibility, when maintained properly, seals should last between 2 and 5 years.

Drysuits with neoprene seals are much more comfortable, and the neoprene does not suffer from U.V. exposure problems. However, these seals are harder to replace in the event of damage, and need to fit perfectly for a seal to be watertight.

All modern drysuits are made from a tri-laminate material. This results in a suit that is both water tight and fully breathable.

Entry into the suit is acheived by either front or back zip. Front zip means that you can be independant when getting in and out but it does mean that the suit has to be taller than the wearer to allow the head to get in. The alternative is a back zip suit, which we would recommend because it is a better fit, although it does often require the help of a friend (or a conveniantly placed door handle) to close the zip.

Obviously the more money you spend the more features will become evident in the suit. Seal protectors are often included as they prevent nicks and cuts to the seals as well as reducing the condensation. Other suits have pockets, zip covers or additional padding and protection.

Once the suit has been entered it is important in terms of safety for the air inside to be vented. This is acheived by crouching while holding open the neck seal. Once done it will leave you looking like you have been vacuum packed, but will mean that you will float the correct way up in the event of a dunking.

In the catalogue you also find a selection on Drysuits, Undergarments, Gloves and Socks manufactured for use with Drysuits.