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Brian Nystrom Brian Nystrom is offline
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First recorded activity by BoatBanter: Jul 2006
Posts: 235
Default Wet or dry suit, or just skin?

Wilko wrote:
Brian Nystrom wrote:

- For a wetsuit to function optimally, it must fit skin-tight and
allow as little water as possible to intrude (don't buy into the BS
that water in a wetsuit acts as insulation, it's a heatsink). Getting
the right fit can be difficult. Additionally, wetsuits are typically
designed for activities where one is standing or swimming, not
sitting, so the fit changes in a kayak. Custom wetsuits are available,
but they cost as much as a dry suit. The loose fit of a dry suit
eliminates these fit issues.


Kayaking wetsuits are designed to be used while sitting, so the fit is
right for a kayak. There are probably at least half a dozen
manufacturers that make those kayaking wetsuits, and usually they don't
cost more than 150 to 200 US$. Most people can't find a drysuit for that
price...


I have yet to see ANY wetsuit that's truly cut for sitting, but if you
say they exist, I'll take your word for it. It's not relevant for me as
I wouldn't buy one anyway since I hate wearing neoprene and it doesn't
offer any advantages for the type of paddling I do.