I need to get a drysuit due to recent medical complications. Ankle edema rules out ankle gaskets, so I need to go custom. I'm also over 200#, but only 5'7", so really need a custom drysuit. I really don't see anything out there other that 3-ply Gortex as worthwhile. I wish to have all the bells and whistles for extreme winter paddling, including hood, etc. The only product I can see out there is the Kokatat Expedition. Has anyone bought one. Is it much different than the Meridian series (other than some extra options as standard?). Has anyone ever ordered custom sizing from Kokatat (like shorter inseam, etc). Any recommendations on the sock option (Goretex vs. neoprene, etc). Some of my questions are old ground for PW, but I need an infusion of information. This drysuit runs $1600.00 in Canada. Doug Lloyd (Thanks in advance) *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
----- Original Message ----- From: "Doug Lloyd" <dougl_at_islandnet.com> To: <PaddleWise_at_paddlewise.net> Sent: Monday, February 25, 2002 9:52 PM Subject: [Paddlewise] Ultimate Drysuit > Has anyone ever ordered custom sizing from Kokatat (like shorter inseam, > etc). Yeah, I ordered a longer inseam. Contact Kokatat with your dimensions; they should give you the exact ordering requirements for a suit sized to your dimensions. > Any recommendations on the sock option (Goretex vs. neoprene, etc). Definitely go with the Gore-tex socks; Your feet will thank you later. Craig *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
Doug said - "I need to get a drysuit due to recent medical complications." Hey Doug. I have a White^Òs non-breathable dry suit. http://www.whitespaddlesports.com/products/drysuit.php I expect that the breathable version is far superior but I picked this one up on sale for under $300 CDN. It has built in socks, therefore no ankle gaskets which only makes sense to me, two less expensive gaskets to replace and if you wear thick socks under and neoprene booties over the suit you always have warm dry feet. Always a good thing. The suit is comfortable in cooler temperatures and it is easy to dress for both paddling and for emersion. I wear 200 weight fleece pants and 100 and 200 weight sweaters depending on the conditions. I find this wicks well and is surprisingly comfortable considering that you are wearing the equivalent of a plastic bag. I wear a diving wet suit hood on my head that I can quickly pull up when I^Òm rolling or when conditions warrant. I find the main problem with the suit is in warmer weather where I find it too uncomfortable to dress for both the water and for paddling (unless you roll every couple of minutes). I imagine that is where the breathable suit would be a great advantage. Good luck, hope to see you out on the water soon. Steve Davis Victoria BC _________________________________________________________________ Send and receive Hotmail on your mobile device: http://mobile.msn.com *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
Steve said - "I expect that the breathable version is far superior but I picked this one up on sale for under $300 CDN" Where/when did you get this suit? Gordin Warner Victoria *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
Doug Lloyd wrote: >Is (the Kokatat Expedition) much different than the Meridian series > (other than some extra options as standard?). I think it's the same thing, but with the bells and whistles as standard. I basically ordered the same thing--Kokatat Meridian in mango, with reflective tape, shoulder pocket, Goretex socks, and relief zipper. I didn't think I needed the hood as I have a hood on my drytop, and never wear it now that I usually wear a neoprene skullcap. I ordered the Meridian as the "base model" for my additions rather than the Front Entry, since I like the Meridian's overskirt. >Has anyone ever ordered custom sizing from Kokatat (like shorter >inseam, etc). Longer torso (max=2"), longer arms - 3", longer legs - 3". It added quite a delay for the longer stuff. I doubt shorter would be a problem for them. >Any recommendations on the sock option (Goretex vs. >neoprene, etc). All I ever heard was GET THE GORETEX, GET THE GORETEX. So I did. I haven't received it yet... Shawn Watching the mailbox Yahoo! Sports - Coverage of the 2002 Olympic Games http://sports.yahoo.com *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
It's my understanding that they use a lighter straight zipper on the models with overskirts and are not considered fully waterproof. That said they do help a lot with keeping water from finding it's way down the tunnel of your skirt into the boat. JFF Shawn wrote: > >I ordered the Meridian as the "base model" for my additions rather than >the Front Entry, since I like the Meridian's overskirt. -- *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
----- Original Message ----- From: "Doug Lloyd" <dougl_at_islandnet.com> To: <PaddleWise_at_paddlewise.net> > Any recommendations on the sock option (Goretex vs. neoprene, etc). Doug, I have a fully tricked out Kokatat Goretex Meridian, with relief zipper, reflective tape, latex booties, and personalized monogram on the sleeve (top that everyone!). I like the latex booties because I have dinosaur-sized feet, and the snug fit of the latex is completely necessary for me to then get my foot into a neoprene sock or bootie. I also don't like the concept of having wrinkles in the goretex sock, which could cause a hot spot if you had to do any serious walking in the drysuit (has anyone with a goretex sock noticed this?). Under the latex, I wear a hi-tech smartwool style synthetic sock. That is very comfortable, and I've never had a problem with overheating. But then I always paddle freezing rivers.... Of course, the problem with latex is that it is mandatory to maintain the latex using 303 Protectant every 4-6 months. Or else it gets sticky and disintegrates. KW *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
Kevin Whilden wrote: > Doug, > I have a fully tricked out Kokatat Goretex Meridian, with relief zipper, > reflective tape, latex booties, and personalized monogram on the sleeve (top > that everyone!). Personalized monogram. Can you say, "I got connections man!" ? So what's the big deal anyway? It probably just says "KW" so folks know which boat tester you are for SK Magazine, when you are out testing. :-) > > I like the latex booties because I have dinosaur-sized feet, and the snug fit > of the latex is completely necessary for me to then get my foot into a > neoprene sock or bootie. I also don't like the concept of having wrinkles in > the goretex sock, which could cause a hot spot if you had to do any serious > walking in the drysuit (has anyone with a goretex sock noticed this?). Yeah, this is why I asked. The wrinkle thing was washing around in my mind as a source of irritation. I take it not too many folks order the neo booties sew on. I also heard from folks back channel that Kokatak it famous for making the Gore booties way too big. > Under the latex, I wear a hi-tech smartwool style synthetic sock. That is > very comfortable, and I've never had a problem with overheating. But then I > always paddle freezing rivers.... [Do the socks make your tootsies more highly cognitive? :-)] I take it Kev that you don't have problems with Athletes Foot. I get it bad at times, so worry about the restricted tightness of the latex. > Of course, the problem with latex is that it is mandatory to maintain the > latex using 303 Protectant every 4-6 months. Or else it gets sticky and > disintegrates. I take it the zippers need a bit of TLC. I guess I'm still of two minds on the Goretex vs non-Goretex. On the one hand, Goretex will provide a dryer end user, but at a horrendous price. It will also wear out quicker. Additionally, for a Canadian, a custom measured and fit suit isn't the easiest, non expensive way to go. I had a lot of back channel info on cheaper breathable alternatives from other countries. So, I need to make a decision. I've always been happy with a Farmer John and breathable paddling jacket combo for spring and summer, and once I heal up, I can go back to that. I still need to replace my Sympatex jacket that delaminated, so might go to the Bomber brand. Then for a drysuit, Whites make a new unit called the Propulsion with a great fabric called Quadraflex I believe. It is strictly for cold, heavy weather paddling, which is what I want. URL is: <http://www.whitespaddlesports.com/> Actual drysuit: http://www.whitespaddlesports.com/products/7.php No financial connection. I had a very custom wetsuit made to spec., so was happy with their service, and they are located just out of town. Decisions, decisions. Doug *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
From: "Doug Lloyd" <dougl_at_islandnet.com> > Kevin Whilden wrote: > > > I like the latex booties because I have dinosaur-sized feet, and the snug fit > > of the latex is completely necessary for me to then get my foot into a > > neoprene sock or bootie. [...] > > Yeah, this is why I asked. The wrinkle thing was washing around in my mind as a > source of irritation. I take it not too many folks order the neo booties sew on. > I also heard from folks back channel that Kokatak it famous for making the Gore > booties way too big. I find snug fitting latex booties to be a tad annoying - my Stolquist suit has the largest size and they are narrow. This seems to restrict circulation in my feet so the tootsies get cold easier. Something to consider. You really want it just right, but that's surprisingly difficult on a special order - you can't try it on half way and have them adjust the fit before finishing like a taylor-made suit - yet it costs twice what a good wool suit does!!! BTW - I always cover the outside of my latex booties with an extra-thin polypro sock. This makes it easier to slip into a reef boot or outer neoprene sock. Mike *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
Hey all, I also have the Kokatat Meridian (no monogram but mine's blue). I got mine before neo was an option for the booties so I have the latex. These are great but keep one thing in mind - you need big outer footwear. I also wear a Smartwool sock under the bootie, I then wear an XL neo bootie over the latex (hey, the latex has held up for five years now). When walking, I have a large pair of Teva's. Feels like the latex/sock combo adds about two sizes to footwear. I know there are people out there who just keep the latex exposed. Seems tempting after the hassle of squeezing neoprene over latex, but I'd rather not tempt the fates. I had my booties retrofitted on a stock drysuit and they seem pretty large. I have size 9(US) feet. Maybe Kokatat has started offering sizes now. When I got mine they had regular and large. -Patrick At Tuesday, 26 February 2002, Doug Lloyd <dougl_at_islandnet.com> wrote: >[Do the socks make your tootsies more highly cognitive? :-)] I take it Kev that >you don't have problems with Athletes Foot. I get it bad at times, so worry >about the restricted tightness of the latex. *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
At Wednesday, 27 February 2002, "Michael Daly" <michaeldaly_at_rogers. com> wrote: [SNIP] >BTW - I always cover the outside of my latex booties with an extra- thin >polypro sock. This makes it easier to slip into a reef boot or outer >neoprene sock. Hey, great idea. I always have a hell of a time getting the outer sock on and usually end up falling over or something else embarrasing and lacking the grace of the hardman kayaker. One other tip. I keep my paddling gear in a large Rubbermaid (pastic) bin. The lid doubles as a great changing platform in those rock-strewn parking lots protecting the valuable latex booties. Of course, does me no good now that I don't have a car and seem to change in fewer parking lots. -Patrick *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
>Steve said - "I expect that the breathable version is far superior but I >picked this one >up on sale for under $300 CDN" > >Gordin said - Where/when did you get this suit? I bought it from the Whites booth set up at the Ocean River Sale last spring. They were clearing out the old models. Mine has the older metal zipper with a flap over it as opposed to the newer flush zipper. I could check my receipts but I'm sure it was $280ish, just over $300 with tax. Not the ultimate but cheap.... Steve _________________________________________________________________ Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com/intl.asp. *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
A "not fully waterproof dry-suit" is a classic oxymoron, almost on par with the all time classic: "Army Intelligence". The zipper on the Meridian is a "metal-tooth optiseal waterproof zipper". Craig ----- Original Message ----- From: "Joe Federici" <fedo_at_hudsonet.com> To: "paddlewise" <PaddleWise_at_paddlewise.net> Sent: Wednesday, February 27, 2002 2:18 PM Subject: Re: [Paddlewise] Ultimate Drysuit > It's my understanding that they use a lighter straight zipper on the > models with overskirts and are not considered fully waterproof. snip *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
----- Original Message ----- From: "Doug Lloyd" <dougl_at_islandnet.com> > Personalized monogram. Can you say, "I got connections man!" ? So what's the > big deal anyway? It probably just says "KW" so folks know which boat tester you > are for SK Magazine, when you are out testing. :-) Who me? I used to test boats once upon a time when I lived in seattle. Now I live in Portland, and don't have much opportunity for it anymore. Actually the monogram just says "Kayak Academy" from when I used to teach for George Gronseth (but now I live in Portland... sigh). Incidently, there is probably no greater expert on drysuit details than George, because his students are using them constantly in his classes. Did you know he is the second largest dealer for Kokatat on the west coast? <snip> >Then for a drysuit, Whites make a new unit called the Propulsion > with a great fabric called Quadraflex I believe. It is strictly for cold, heavy > weather paddling, which is what I want. URL is: > > <http://www.whitespaddlesports.com/> > > Actual drysuit: > > http://www.whitespaddlesports.com/products/7.php > If Whites is local, you should probably just go for that. I still don't think anyone takes care of the little details as well as Kokatat, but the price sounds exhorbitant in your situation. ALso, breathable fabrics have worked very well for me. And if your drysuit gets too hot in nice weather, all you have to do is unzip and roll it down to your waist.... ;-) Note: the above last comment was thrown in for the benefit of Ralph Diaz, who hates to compromize the seal on his drysuit. He's right... it can be dangerous if you don't know what you're doing. *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
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