Re: [Paddlewise] Wet suits/dry suits

For the sake of balance, I will add that dry suits are subject to total
failure from even a small puncture or tear. If they leak at all, they will
provide very little protection from cold water immersion. The tight latex
gaskets at the neck, wrists, and ankles also cause significant discomfort
for many people. In addition to the high initial cost of a dry suit (I seem
to recall prices starting at well over $500) , the wearer will need to have
or purchase layers of insulating undergarments.  The wearer is likely to
become uncomfortably warm while paddling and there is no way to "safely"
vent excess heat while on the water and still retain any protection from
immersion.

Wetsuits are (in my opinion) quite durable, more easily repaired, and small
tears will result in cold spots rather than total failure. The farmer john
style wetsuit previously mentioned would NOT be a reasonable choice in 50
degree (F) water. Full wetsuits of 6mm and more (and a hood) are a very
reasonable choice for cold water. They are also much less expensive
(Starting at less than $200) The only undergarment you might need is a lycra
"rash" shirt to prevent chafing at the armpits. If the wearer becomes
overheated, they can be unzipped to "safely" vent excess body heat and in
the case of unexpected immersion, zipped back up to retain heat.

For multi-day trips, they are certainly less convenient to put on than a
drysuit but as an alternative to Michael Dalys' torturous instructions to
his students, I would suggest putting the wetsuit in a dry bag, pouring hot
(not boiling) water into the bag to warm the wetsuit. Shake the bag and when
the water temperature inside the bag stabilizes at a point just slightly
warmer than feels comfortable, quickly strip down, take the wetsuit out of
the bag and put it on before it has a chance to cool.

Then rather than jumping around and barking like Michael suggests, simply
exhale, smile, and say aahhh.

Dave Martin

Noyo Pacific Outfitters
< www.noyopacific.com >
Canoe & Kayak Rentals & Sales
Noyo Harbor
Fort Bragg, CA
(707) 961-0559

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