Drysuit Archives - Hazeadventure

Wetsuit vs Drysuit: What’s the difference between wetsuit and drysuit?

Ken Whiting — Mon, 09 Jan 2023 18:01:14 +0000

When paddling in cold conditions, some kind of technical getup will be necessary to keep you safe and comfortable. But choosing between a wetsuit vs drysuit can be a bit confusing, and also subjective. I wanted to share my personal thoughts, to help you get an idea of what might work best for you.

Don't put that kayak into storage! There are ways to have fun on the water, even when it's chilly. Cold water kayaking means choosing between wetsuit vs drysuit.

Wetsuit vs drysuit tip: wetsuits trap water between you and the suit keeping it (and you) warm

Wetsuits keep you warm

Wetsuits are tightly-fitting body coverings made of neoprene. They are designed to keep you warm while paddling, surfing, swimming, or scuba diving in cooler conditions. When the suit gets wet, it holds a thin layer of water between it and your skin. Your body will then heat this fluid, which creates a warm cocoon.

Snug fitted wetsuits insulate better

The catch is that the suit has to be tight, otherwise that layer of liquid insulation won't stay in place. A loose fitted wetsuit will be constantly flushed with fresh, cold water. Purchasing a wetsuit that fits tightly means that as we grow (i.e. either a child who is maturing or an adult who is…umm…expanding), wetsuits will have to be replaced with bigger sizes that fit.

Wetsuits enhance flotation

The big advantage to wetsuits is that they enhance flotation. Extra flotation without impeding too much range of motion, if you can tolerate a thinner design. This is a major reason why they're so popular amongst surfers. Wetsuits are also less expensive and can be repaired easier than drysuits.

What are the different types of wetsuits?

Wetsuit vs drysuit tip#2: there are different types of wetsuits like this wet suit without arms called a “Farmer John”

Wetsuits come in a variety of sizes/options/thicknesses. The style with long legs and shoulder straps is typically called a “Farmer John.” If you're in cooler waters, then you may also want to wear a wetsuit top with a long-sleeves. Wetsuit tops sometimes are worn in conjunction with a simple bathing suit bottom. There's also the classic “Shorty” wetsuit, which essentially connects a neoprene t-shirt and shorts in one continuous piece.

Drysuit vs Wetsuit

Wetsuit vs drysuit tip #3: I have used the same drysuit for over 15 years and don't own a wetsuit.

I've been primarily using the same drysuit for over 15 years. And to be perfectly honest, I no longer own a wetsuit. I've gotten soft over the years. Even though I've enjoyed some wild paddling adventures in places like the Arctic, and the Grand Canyon during Christmas, I've still developed a strong preference for staying dry.

Budget boater vs Comfort boater

When I was younger, I only used wetsuits. Wetsuits work perfectly fine as long as they're sized properly. The the main downside is that they have to be wet in order to keep you warm. I don't want to be wet anymore so I prefer the drysuit.

Maintenance of the drysuit is key

If your drysuit is in good condition (click here to learn about drysuit maintenance) then you should be able to step out of it after a solid paddling session without having a drop of water on your clothes. And if you opt for the built in foot covers (rather than ankle gaskets), then you can wear a pair of cozy socks, and keep your toes just as dry as the rest of your body.

Drysuits are easier to get into and out of vs wetsuits

Another advantage that drysuits have over wetsuits is that they're much easier to get in and out of. This means less of a struggle on the bookends of an otherwise fun paddling day, and also much less of a panic when Mother Nature calls (which tends to happen more often when it's cold out). Oh, and while we're on the subject, spend the extra dough and get a drysuit with a “relief zipper.” You won't regret it.

Maintenance of the zippers on a drysuit

A minor drawback to drysuits is that the heavy-duty zippers do need to be maintained and lubed up in order to function properly over time.

Drysuits cost more than wetsuits

The one major con of drysuits is how expensive they are. A good drysuit (and I do recommend you commit to something high-quality if you go down this road) will push you north of $1,000 (USD). However, if you treat it well, you'll get years and years and years of extended paddling seasons, and exciting cold-weather expeditions out of your purchase.

Drysuits are great for whitewater kayaking

Does a drysuit keep you warm?

On its own, a drysuit is designed to not only keep you dry (no surprise there) but also to have some insulating properties. But the real comfort comes from the layers you choose to wear underneath. Since a drysuit fits so much looser than a wetsuit, a full range of cold-weather apparel can be worn (or not worn) underneath. It all depends on the conditions, and how hot your personal furnace burns.

I hope that helps you make sense of this important paddler's crossroads. If you're still a young-pup, or more stoic than I am, then a wetsuit might be the way to go. But if you're like me, and just want to stay dry at all costs, then maybe the drysuit will be your preference too. Either way I hope this article helped you answer wetsuit vs drysuit.

NOTE: These are affiliate links where I’ll earn a small commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you, but it’s a great way to show your support. Thanks!

Dry Suits: NRS Axiom, Level Six Emperor
Kayaks: Jackson Kayak Rockstar, Jackson Kayak Antix
Paddles: Aqua Bound

In that case, you may want to check out my review of the NRS Axiom and Level Six Emperor drysuits. And as always, head on over to PaddleTV for a steady stream of fun and informative paddling content.

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Kayak Drysuit Maintenance: How to Care for your Dry Top

Ken Whiting — Tue, 18 Jan 2022 17:49:00 +0000

4 Tips for Maximizing Longevity and Performance

Dry tops and dry suits are two of the most expensive pieces of paddling gear you can buy. But, if you’re going to be paddling in cold weather and/or cold water, they are hands down the best gear for keeping you warm, comfortable and safe from the very real dangers associated with hypothermia.

Dry Tops vs Dry Suits

Dry tops are paddling tops that have latex gaskets at the neck and wrists that keep you dry as long as you stay in your kayak.

Drysuits are full body suits that will keep you dry even in the event of a swim. While they both do an incredible job at keeping out the cold and wet conditions, if one of your gaskets fails then your dry wear quickly becomes your wet wear.

Thankfully, there are some simple things that you can do to keep your gaskets intact. And so, in this article, I'm going to be giving you tips on how to care for the gaskets on your dry wear.

Types of Gaskets

Before we get started, it's important to differentiate the two basic categories of gaskets. You've got your latex gaskets and your neoprene gaskets. Latex is by far the dryest option. But because it's like having a fat elastic band around your neck, wrists or ankles, some people find it tight and uncomfortable. Neoprene gaskets, on the other hand, are much stretchier, but definitely don't do the same job of keeping the water out. In fact, dry wear that has neoprene gaskets is typically called semi-dry wear.

This article is primarily about latex gaskets, which are much more prone to damage.

Pro kayaking tip #1: take accessories off

Gaskets are most often busted when putting on or removing your dry wear. Sometimes this is simply because they're old, dry, and worn out from a slew of great adventures. But more commonly, they tear because of something you're wearing. In particular, watches kill gaskets. Any hard corner or edge can be the straw that breaks the camel's back. Even if it seems like a smooth watch, take it off before putting your dry wear on.

Be cognizant of rings and especially earrings – the culprits of so many torn gaskets. Finally, something that I discovered back in the day, when I was a long-haired paddling dude, was that hair elastics can be your downfall. I remember being excited to just get out on the water, pulling my dry top down over my head and hrriiipp!…feeling the gasket tear right open. It turns out my elastic had a bit of hard metal on it, and that was enough to cause a rupture.

So you can't be too careful with accessories. When you put on or take off your dry wear, remember to do a body scan first and remove anything on your head, neck, or extremities. You'll save yourself some headaches (and moolah).

Pro kayaking Tip #2: wash your gaskets

The next biggest latex gasket killers are things like sunscreen, bug spray, or any other chemicals you put on your body that can also rub off on the gasket. It's amazing how much of a nightmare that stuff can make of your gear over time. It's not going to deteriorate overnight, but if you leave those chemicals on, they'll slowly turn the latex into a gooey, sticky, useless mess. I personally find bug dope to be a pesky perpetrator. On a cool, spring day, when the bugs are just coming out, I certainly rely on it. I'm not saying to steer clear of these things completely.

But if you are going to be using sunscreen, insect repellant, etc., make sure you wash it off your gaskets at the end of the day. Give them a thorough rinse with soap and water, and then finish off with some 303 protectant.

How often should you use your 303 protectant? Well, it's hard to overdo it. It really depends on how much you're using your dry wear. Full disclosure: I may not be the best person when it comes to taking care of my gear. I tend to spray it on in the spring and then again in the fall, but there are people who use it much more regularly. It really is up to you. Again, you can't clean your gaskets too often. If you're paddling salt water then this is especially true. Make sure to give it a good rinsing with fresh water and then use the 303 to seal it up.

Pro kayaking tip #3: beware of the sun

The third big blower of gaskets is Mr. Sun. Prolonged exposure can damage just about any of your gear. The problem with gaskets, in particular, is they get dried right out. Ultimately, this makes them much more susceptible to cracks and tears. That's why premium dry wear typically has a protective collar around its gaskets. For instance, you'll sometimes see an outer neoprene collar shielding an inner, latex gasket. Note that 303 protectant can also protect against the UV impact. Nonetheless, whatever the circumstances, don't leave your dry wear out in the sun for extended periods of time. You will pay the price.

Those are my tips for maintaining the health of your dry wear. Now let's move on to breaking in your new gaskets, and replacing old ones.

Pro kayaking tip #4: Stretching out and replacing gaskets

When you get a new dry top or drysuit, something that's common is for the gaskets to feel very tight – especially around the neck. In fact, the dry top can feel like it's trying to pop your head like a pimple (oh…another throwback to the greasy-haired, paddling days of my youth). Fear not, that's normal for the first little bit because latex gaskets do stretch over time. Usually after a few full days of use, they'll relax and feel better. But that's not always the case. They do stretch, but sometimes not quite enough. A bit of pre-stretching can save you those first few days of misery, or help to alleviate that last bit of persistent strangulation. Pre-stretching involves putting the gasket over something that’s around the same diameter as your neck, and leaving it there for 24 to 48 hours.

If all else fails, you can actually trim your gaskets to fit better. Since they're shaped like a cone, lopping off a top section will increase the overall diameter. But before taking this drastic measure, beware of a couple things. First, trim in small amounts. Once you cut there's no going back, so just start with a little bit, test it, and then repeat. Secondly, keep in mind that your gasket will stretch with continued use. So don't perfectly tailor it all at once. Leave it a bit taut to allow for that inevitable stretching, which will help maintain an optimal seal. You want it to be a little too snug in the early days.

Next, please note, you have to be super careful when trimming your gasket. Any little nick or tear will become a weak point! Make sure to use very sharp scissors or a precision blade, like an exacto knife. Finally, recruit a friend to help you out. Get them to hold the gasket and apply a bit of tension. This will make it easier to cut. You won't accidentally fold the rubber, and instead you'll make a nice, smooth, straight cut.

Now, if you do try cutting your gaskets and totally botch it, or if your gaskets are just old and failed, don't worry – your dry wear isn't done for. You can get a gasket replaced. Or, you can buy spare gaskets and replace them yourself. In that case, you'll need some Aquaseal and you'll need a helpful, DIY video (there are lots on YouTube like this one). Alternatively, if you're not in a rush to get your dry wear back, you can send it to most manufacturers and they'll replace it for you (for a fee). But I would encourage you to do it yourself. It's not that complicated and it will save you a lot of money and time.

Final thoughts about dry top maintenance

So there you have it, 4 simple tips for prolonging the life and performance of your dry wear, as well as some helpful options for breaking in and repairing your gaskets. If you implement these measures, you'll stay dry and comfortable, and you'll save yourself a lot of hassle, while freeing up your budget for more gear. If you haven't already added some dry wear to your arsenal and you paddle in cold conditions, I highly recommend that you do. It's a huge asset not only on cold days, but in a host of other paddling conditions. It's not only a nice thing to have, it's the safe thing to have!

My favorite Dry Wear:

NRS Crux Drysuit: https://bit.ly/3noFmLA

NRS Flux Dry Top: https://bit.ly/3rcSQLv

Kokatat OM Dry Top: https://bit.ly/3Grh5vS

Kokatat Hydrus Drysuit: https://bit.ly/3nq3Dke

Disclaimer: This article includes affiliate links where Ken Whiting earns a small commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you, but it’s a great way to show your support. Thanks!

Other paddling gear I use and recommend

NOTE: These are affiliate links where I’ll earn a small commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you, but it’s a great way to show your support. Thanks!

Level Six Emperor Drysuit Review

Ken Whiting — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 17:06:20 +0000

What is a Drysuit?

“They’re waterproof suits that are designed to keep you completely dry.

If you’re not familiar with drysuits, here’s what you should know. Drysuits are the ultimate protection against cold water, cold weather, or a combination of the two. The idea behind drysuits is pretty simple. They’re waterproof suits that are designed to keep you completely dry. Theoretically, you should be able to get into a dry suit with your street clothes, and then hop out at the end of a long, wet day of paddling completely dry.

Drysuit or Wetsuit?

“While drysuits are considerably more expensive than wetsuits, their primary benefit is obvious – they keep you dry and arguably more comfortable.”

Both drysuits and wetsuits are good solutions for paddling in cold, or extreme cold, conditions. Wetsuits are designed to provide insulation and warmth when they’re wet. Drysuits keep you warm by keeping you dry. The benefit of wetsuits is that they’re more affordable than drysuits, and they fit like a glove on the body. While drysuits are considerably more expensive than wetsuits, their primary benefit is obvious – they keep you dry and arguably more comfortable. A drysuit also provides more versatility, because you can use as many (or few) layers as required underneath them to accommodate the conditions.

Who Are Drysuits For?

“Drysuits are a good option for people who get cold very easily and for people who want to extend their paddling season.”

Drysuits are a good option for people who get cold very easily and for people who want to extend their paddling season. When air temperatures or water temperatures approach freezing, drysuits aren’t just a matter of convenience and comfort, they’re a matter of absolute safety. Without an appropriate wet suit or dry suit, swimming from your kayak could quickly result in hypothermia, which can be a deadly condition.

The Level Six Emperor Drysuit

“The Emperor is a paddler’s drysuit that’s designed to withstand any weather that you can throw at it.”

Level Six's Emperor drysuit isn’t a new piece of gear, but it has been updated for 2021. The Emperor is a paddler’s drysuit that’s designed to withstand any weather that you can throw at it. It’s for whitewater kayakers, sea kayakers, canoeists, or even flatwater paddlers who want to continue paddling when the water or weather turns cold.

The Emperor dry suit retails for $1300 Canadian dollars. It has latex wrist and neck gaskets that are covered by neoprene gasket protectors. It has a rear entry zipper, as well as a relief zipper. The suit has cordura reinforced shoulders, elbows, knees, and seat, and features 3-ply, built-in socks.

The Level Six Emperor Dry Suit Gear Test

“In my opinion, the Emperor’s fit is very good, and the sizing is what I would expect.”

The only way to effectively test a dry suit is to take it for a swim, and so that’s what I did. In fact, I took it for two swims – the first on flat water, and the second through a significant rapid on the Ottawa River. Here’s what I can tell you from the testing I did…

I’m 6’2” (with long legs and arms) and 195 pounds and the dry suit I tested was an extra-large. I felt that it fit me pretty much perfectly. It felt too big and baggy when I initially put it on, but that’s natural for a drysuit designed for paddling. Not only do you need extra space in the suit to add additional layers for the really cold days, but you need the extra space to accommodate the sitting position you’ll assume in the kayak. If the suit feels perfectly fitted standing up, that often means you’ll get tightness in the feet, legs or back of the suit when sitting down. While paddling, the articulated elbows and back offered great range of motion. In my opinion, the Emperor’s fit is very good, and the sizing is what I would expect.

Is the Emporer Drysuit effective?

“Emperor drysuit did its job wonderfully”

An effective dry suit should keep you dry on the inside. After my whitewater swim, I wasn’t completely dry, but that’s due to user error. I made the rookie mistake of allowing a portion of my underlayer shirt sneak out under the wrist gasket. This shirt acted like a wick, allowing a little bit of water into the arm of the suit. That aside, the Emperor drysuit did its job wonderfully, as I was otherwise dry.

Is the Emperor Drysuit worth the price?

“I can confidently say that the Emperor does offer very good overall value.”$1300 Canadian dollars, which is about $1050 USD at the writing of this review, is a lot of money. But for a high-quality dry suit it is actually a very good deal. In fact, the Emperor is one of the less expensive dry suits in its class. Many comparable drysuits will cost $100 to $300 more. Furthermore, with its Cordura reinforced knees, elbows and seat, the Emperor has the feel of a drysuit that will last a very long time. Of course, only time will tell. Based on the dry suit’s performance and durability, I can confidently say that the Emperor does offer very good overall value.

To sum it all up, the Level Six Emperor Drysuit is a solidly built and high-performing dry suit and, in my opinion, worth the investment. But the bigger question might be whether or not any dry suit is worth the hefty price tag. The answer to that question is very simple. If you're going to be dealing with extreme cold conditions, then a wetsuit or drysuit isn’t just a luxury, it's a safety necessity. The question you have to answer is whether the additional comfort is worth the extra cost of a drysuit (rather than just sticking with a wetsuit). For me, it is. But that decision may not be the right one for everyone.

Watch PaddleTV

I hope you enjoyed this article. For more information, check out my gear reviews, tips, and adventures on PaddlingTV.

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