Hello Folks, As a relatively new paddler, I'm still trying to figure out the best way to outfit my boat and myself. I recently purchased a Rapidstyle "Farmer John" and a Kokatat dry top. I like the stuff -- it's comfortable and I feel like it would provide at least some protection. My paddling partner needs a dry suit of some sort, and I'd like to have more than one (at least to let one dry out when paddling two or more days in a row). I paid nearly $200 for the Farmer John, and the same for the dry top. Today, I received a West Marine sale catalog, and I see a "ProWest" full dry suit for $99, and a short suit for $59. Does anyone know if these are any good? Sure is cheaper than my other gear, but I don't want it at any price if it isn't good quality stuff. Of course, the catalog doesn't tell you what the things are made of, never mind the thickness. Thanks in advance for any help. Mark Lane NY *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - All postings copyright the author and not to be reproduced outside PaddleWise without author's permission Submissions: paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net Subscriptions: paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
>> Today, I received a West Marine sale catalog, and I see a "ProWest" full dry suit for $99, and a short suit for $59. Does anyone know if these are any good? Sure is cheaper than my other gear, but I don't want it at any price if it isn't good quality stuff. Of course, the catalog doesn't tell you what the things are made of, never mind the thickness. Thanks in advance for any help. Mark Lane NY >> I haven't seen the sale catalog yet, but sailing dry suits are not designed for kayaking. Ones I've seen tend to lack protective cuffs and collars for the gaskets, and may not be cut well for sitting or paddling. Sea Kayaker had a review of dry suits in the last issue or two; I suggest you read it first before deciding. Those of us who wear dry suits a lot prefer Goretex, with Kokatat being the most popular brand. Chuck Holst *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - All postings copyright the author and not to be reproduced outside PaddleWise without author's permission Submissions: paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net Subscriptions: paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
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