RE: [Paddlewise] Dry suit consumer research

From: Davis, Stephen G FOR:EX <Stephen.Davis_at_gems4.gov.bc.ca>
Date: Mon, 13 Jan 2003 11:00:35 -0800
"My club is considering making a mass purchase of Whites dry suits for the 
club members. If anyone has a Whites dry suit I'd like to hear from you."

Hi Gordin. I have a White's drysuit - non-breathable. I wear it religiously,
especially in "off season"... I maintain it by rinsing it after every use,
lubing the zipper with zipper wax and treating the seals. The seals are
starting to show some wear now after two years but are still sound. 

I had one leak in the suit initially, I took it back to Whites and they
fixed it on the spot, no charge. Good service I thought. I like the built in
booties - no more cold wet feet! I get condensation forming on the inside of
the suit but I remain dry under a few layers of polypro. When I take the
suit off the outer layers are damp to the touch. 

In the summer I find the suit too warm and only wear it when paddling in
extreme conditions or in exposed locations. It would be impossible to wear
enough layers for emersion and still be comfortable paddling. Rolling over
helps to keep you cool but you still get the sauna effect. Another drawback
is that the suit is noisy, but I guess you would get that even with a
paddling jacket. A relief zipper would be a good idea.

I am happy with the product and would buy another one - I'd like to try out
a breathable suit first though.

Steve Davis
Victoria, BC
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Received on Mon Jan 13 2003 - 11:00:56 PST

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