>> Does anybody own a 'KOKATAT'- Gore-Tex Front Entry Drysuit? This is KOKATAT's most popular Drysuit with the waterproof Optiseal Zipper 4.4Oz polyester 3-layer Gore-Tex laminate. My questions concern: (1) how convenient are the front (optional) crotch zipper works (for bladder relief-men & women)? (2) how reliable and comfortable is this suit and is overheating a problem on the Pacific Coast line? (3) Is the full Dry Suit better or equal to the 'Farmer John" combination with a Gore-Tex TecTour Anorak 2.1oz ripstop nylon 3-layer Gore-Tex laminate? (4)Now the full wet suit is waterproof to thirty feet (not that I intend to go diving) is there much or anyleakage with the farmer John combination? Does anyone own a high end Stolquist Gore-Tex Drysuit and can you offer any opinion and do they offer a front crotch zipper for bladder relief? Thanks, Philip >> ************************************************************************** * The relief zip is convenient when standing; I haven't tried it sitting. It is well worth having, in my opinion. Kokatat also can insert a drop seat, but I hear that it is uncomfortable to sit on; one woman recommended ordering the relief zip and using a funnel. The only problem that I have had is that the neck gasket tore after a couple of years and had to be replaced, but this will happen eventually to any latex gasket. The suit has never leaked. A minor problem is that the durable water repellant finish needs to be renewed every now and then for maximum breathability. Define "comfortable." I usually overheat on a warm day, but rotary cooling takes care of that. Otherwise, the dry suit is more comfortable than a wetsuit becuse you do stay drier. If you buy one, make sure it is large enough that it won't bind when you are paddling (I sat on the floor of the shop in one and made paddling and bracing motions). A length that seems too long when you are standing may be just right when you are standing. Also, if you buy one with latex or Neoprene booties attached, it is easier to put on and you can wear thick socks in winter. The wetsuit-GoreTex anorak combination would probably be a little cooler and more versatile than a full drysuit, but probably would not give as much protection in the water. When we paddle on cold water, we always feel more secure in our drysuits. Chuck Holst *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List Submissions: paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net Subscriptions: paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net Website: http://www.gasp-seakayak.net/paddlewise/ ***************************************************************************Received on Thu May 14 1998 - 08:08:12 PDT
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