Re: [Paddlewise] drysuits

In a message dated 1/10/00 11:06:54 PM Eastern Standard Time, 
paragrant_at_webtv.net writes:

> I am considering buying a drysuit top and neoprene/fleece pants as a
>  kayaking uniform for winter (or year  round) in the Puget  Sound.  My
>  objections to full drysuit are price and its too hard to get on and off.
>  Has anyone tried this combination and are you happy with it?  Also, does
>  a drysuit bib work with a nylon tunneled spray skirt?  Any preferences
>  in brands?  

paul:
i attended a cold-water workshop this weekend sponsored by a local paddling 
club--well organized, highly informative.  after hearing/learning about the 
number of deaths as a result of hypothermia, i wouldn't consider paddling in 
anything less than a drysuit with proper insulation, esp in puget sound in 
winter.  i agree, the expense and possible discomfort of a drysuit are 
considerable but when you consider the alternative . . .  

getting a drysuit on and off was also a concern of mine, but, it was my 
observation that with a little practice, they're not that hard to get on and 
off.

i am convinced a $400-$600+ drysuit is worth the investment and think you 
will find a lot of folks out there will agree. kokatat seems to be the 
drysuit of choice.  my guess is you could go through a lot of 
gear/combinations of gear ( and spend a lot of $$) only to find that nothing 
will be as effective as a drysuit--

a. mariani <~~~~a complete novice, but a fast learner 
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