Re: [Paddlewise] Drysuits

In a message dated 1/11/00 11:04:23 AM, cprstnc1_at_optonline.net writes:

<< <Don't try to compromise with a coated drysuit. It won't breathe, and
you'll be so uncomfortable that you won't use it.>

After several hours of paddling in my coated nylon Kokatat MultiSport
drysuit I am completely comfortable.  I do not even notice that my
polyester underwear is wet until I remove the drysuit.  As long as you
undress in a warm place, it is no problem. >>

I agree with Ken. I've done about 75 miles, 6 paddles of 6-8 hours inside my 
Zip-Loc bag and I'm very happy. I have heard all this stuff about the 
non-breathing of the coated fabric. My real complaint is the same one people 
in the $600+++ suits have of the noise of the fabric. I wear X layers of 
polipro and such so i'm not even tempted to open my suit except to take it 
off. We won't talk about getting our feet out of the laytex gaskets, but that 
is getting easier.
    I spent at least 20 minutes swimming and standing in 43 degree water this 
weekend and then I stood around out in the open with just the skirt and pfd 
on without getting chilled in the wind. In fact I had enough heat to warm my 
hands, which had about given in with the cold water.
    I hear coated is bad when out of the boat from wind chill on the suit 
that is over wet clothes. I haven't experienced much of that but I have seen 
people in GorTex huddled behind me in the wind. $310 for my suit is well 
worth it. I figure I've thrown away about $110 on gloves alone. I love my 
$310 coated, drysuit. I do plan to have it retrofitted with laytex booties 
after this season is over and I can be without it. I would go for the relief 
zipper but I still can't figure out how a relief zipper would do much good 
with 2 layers of men's long johns on <G>.

Joan Spinner
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