[Paddlewise] Relief zippers

I passed on the relief zipper when I bought my drysuit and haven't
regretted it.   Instead of having the zipper, I wear a thin nylon shell
over my fleece and under the drysuit.  Then -- when a couple of times a
season I need to pee -- I can open the main zipper, and get partly out
of the drysuit to do my business, without getting too chilled.  This, of
course, is done on land.

I have worn a lightweight two-piece nylon shell under also.  This lets
me completely remove the drysuit outdoors without getting too chilled,
even though my fleece is soaking wet.  I am not saying that this is
pleasant (the nylon does breathe), but it is better than standing in the
breeze in wet fleece.

As to relieving yourself at sea, I don't understand how a relief zipper
helps.  Opening the skirt,  taking off your gloves, unzipping, finding
your way through all the layers, all the while balancing the boat, is
highly problematic.  Then, you have the problem of not peeing all over
yourself.  Seems much easier to just get a $12 condom catheter and leg
bag.  Ladies can use an adult diaper.

Ken Cooperstein


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