Drysuits, what is your favorite and why?

Question

looking to purchase a drysuit. Would like your personal opinions if you are using one, what brand, price, etc. Thanks for the help

Answer 1

I own two. I own a Viking Hazmat for work. They're custom, you won't find a catelogue on them, they're for working in hazardous materials, like sewage ponds, etc. $4,000.00.

My recreational one is a Brooks Seal suit. $2,000.00. It's compressed neoprene, unlike the viking, that's rubber. The seal suit is a heck of a lot warmer, but is bulkier. I can ice dive in it using just track pants and a fleece shirt. That would be impossible in the Viking.

My seal suit has the optional p**s valve. Handy as h**l.

Both suits are rear entry, I'm not sure that I could transition to a front as I'm so used to it. The only drawback is needing someone there to zip you. Someone that doesn't like to play pranks, helps.

The solo method involves a nail in a tree if it's a shore dive.

Of all the manufacturers, my vote has to go to viking. Hands down, they build a good suit, but you pay dearly for it.

In any event, try NOT to buy second hand. Get one built for you. It'll fit perfectly and give you a reason to stay away from foods that will make ya fat. Sucks having a dry suit you can't fit into anymore. Additionally, try to have some input on the dump valve placement. Personally, I like mine closer to my cuff, but not close enough to hinder gear I put there. It makes doing a manual dump a little easier, I find as it's easier to get that part elevated. Having it close to the shoulder keeps the air in the arm trapped and leads to some acts of contortion to properly vent.

The neck seal: Latex is the way to go, but it's very delicate and easy to rip. Provides a superior seal that guards against accidental cracking open, when you have to cran your neck around to find you're buddy is outta sight. A neoprene seal will likely open up getting you wet. Same goes for the wrists. I personally don't dive them, but the O ring cuff for gloves, is a waste of money, according to someone I know that dives them. The O rings leak, they're a pain to put on and they're just as cold as wearing neoprene gloves. He doesn't dive that suit anymore.

Hood integration works well for most, but not all people. Some will leak, others won't. It depends on your face.

Pockets: You can't have enough pockets.

Knee pads, kevlar if you can get it as an option.