[Paddlewise] Drysuit/drytop Gaskets, Sunscren

Replacing gaskets isn't that bad.  I noticed that some were sewn in as well
as glued.
I first cut the stitching and then peeled the old gasket out,  cleaned the
surfaces,
and  installed the new one the same way by stitching it first.  Use a
mandrel without much taper, or the gasket will try to creep to the small
end.  If you'd rather avoid the frustration of learning a new skill,
Kokatat will replace gaskets at the factory if you call them for
instructions to ship.   NRS had some instructions on their site
www.nrsweb.com  at one time.

RE sunscreen:  I have used No-Ad spf 45 for years with no problems.  I put
it on in the morning when getting up, so it's dry by the time the drytop
goes on.   Gaskets seem to last 2-3 years in heavy use in  a high UV
environment.  I also put 303 on the inside/outside of gaskets after each
use, and avoid drying gear in the sun to avoid UV.   Backs of hands can get
pretty cooked on long trips,  because sunscreen washes off.  Light gloves
that cover the backs of the hands can work OK.

Personally, I think it is best to avoid  trimming gaskets.  Rather, try to
obtain a larger gasket.  I once  let Jim Stohlquist trim one that was rather
tight on a new top, and it blew in  about two weeks.   The  best alternative
IMHO is to stretch the gasket a bit with a bowl .

One thing that will split gaskets is earrings that have a point on the back
side, which can snag the gasket when pulled off.

Some drytops have appeared with  a kind of stretchy  coated lycra material
that is thought to work pretty well for summer paddling-haven't tried it.

Cheers,
Jay
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