Dry Suit; is it waterproof?

[78LS2]

I just got this drysuit, and have a question.
http://www.overtons.com/modperl/prod...009&r=view

The lower portion of it is what seems to be a very thick wetsuit, and the ankle areas are regular wetsuit thick. Both areas are seemingly the same material as a wetsuit. My question is, is the lower portion waterproof? I know that the top half is, but I'm not so sure about the lower half. Anybody know?

Thanks!

[ClemsonDave]

RE: Dry Suit; is it waterproof?

I know a few people that have them. I think a couple of them have had issues with that suit. It is a great concept and very comfortable from what they tell me. Great for slalom. Honestly, I didn't pay much attention as to why they had to send them back. I'll ask tomorrow. I have a full baggy suit (OS Systems). It is completely dry, but too bulky and drags in the turns.

[wakecrashin]

RE: Dry Suit; is it waterproof?

Yes, otherwise it wouldnt be a "dry" suit.. just my guess. Its baggy fit up top for extra layering.

[78LS2]

RE: Dry Suit; is it waterproof?

I realize that it is baggy for extra layering... and the name implies that it is in fact "dry." However, I don't see how the bottom can be waterproof if at least part of it is the same material/design as a wetsuit?

I'm afriad of layeing up top, and then having those bulky clothes get wet if/when the bottom saturates and lets water up top.

[ClemsonDave]

RE: Dry Suit; is it waterproof?

All the guys I know using it have hardshells of some sort. Tucking the bottom in the boots creates the tight seal.

[78LS2]

RE: Dry Suit; is it waterproof?

I'm not sure I follow? The ankle seals are pretty tight, so I don't think that water will get in there. I think that the material the covers the ankles and calves will allow water through.

[Onevw2go]

RE: Dry Suit; is it waterproof?

I have that suit. and I have had No Problems. I wear t-shirts and sweatshirts underneath no probs with clothes getting wet. the suit also has velcro straps to cinch around the ancles and wrists for "extra' security. I don't use the straps, and still have not had any problems.

[todda]

RE: Dry Suit; is it waterproof?

I have a similar O'Neil Assault drysuit (baggy top/neoprene lower) and it is completely dry, no problems. Like many suits, you may get a spray shot up the leg cuff here or there, but I have found that to be rare. The neoprene should be a closed-cell neoprene if it is considered a drysuit, and shouldn't allow water to seep in. It should be really comfy and allow you to layer up top to keep warm.

Todd

[jeepn]

RE: Dry Suit; is it waterproof?

i have a full neoprene drysuit. it does keep you dry. i get a little seepage around the ankles and wrists, but i think that's just because mine are skinny. it heats up extremely fast when not in the water, and provides a fair amount of warmth in the water.

[pj]

RE: Dry Suit; is it waterproof?

Greg, neoprene is waterproof. a normal wetsuit only lets water in through the holes where your head, legs, and arms stick through. my buddy has a full WET suit with really good seals aroudn the arms and legs and zipper. if he doesn't get his head underwater. no water enter's the suit at all.

[WakeSlayer]

RE: Dry Suit; is it waterproof?

Exactly what PJ said. Neoprene is a waterproof material. I have the Assault and as my 3rd drysuit it is my favorite I have had. I always view drysuits as 98% dry anyway. This is at least that good. It you take a good digger you will get a little seepage, but....

[78LS2]

RE: Dry Suit; is it waterproof?

thanks for putting my mind at ease guys. Can't wait for the ice to melt!

[78LS2]

One last question: do I need to wear a life vest inside this thing? Never had a drysuit before.


thx

[BASC]

I wear my floation jacket outside my dry suit, it cuts down on the amount of suit that can be affected by wind etc.

[78LS2]

this suit has a baggy upper. so a vest on the outside would defeat the purpose. But do I have to wear one inside the suit? I've heard yes, and no. Which is it?

Thanks