Best Kayak Fishing Drysuit

[@stewartmainville303]

Great reviews! I purchased an L6 Odin this summer(I do several trips a year on Lake Superior). I think the quality is on par with the Emporer and the front entry was essential as I’m out solo lots. Test wore it this summer...it breathes fantastic(I wear winter running gear underneath); and yes, the first time I was so eager to test it I forgot to positive click the relief zipper closed. LOL.

[@Baddad36]

"Kokatat has a good reputation". Then promptly shares his experience! "Tat" where I come from isn't exactly a complement. Great video - thanks for the advice.

[@seeratlasdtyria4584]

appreciate your honesty on this subject.

[@WillN2Go1]

Great video. Finally a video about drysuits where 1. it's being worn and 2. the video is made by someone who regularly uses one. I have a Kokatak dry top I bought from NRS about 15 years ago. Within a year the seam tape started peeling off. (Seems like they haven't really solved this issue.) I saw another drysuit video about all the FAKE drysuits on Amazon. The seam tape of the fake was peeling like my Kokatak. (A lot of fakes on Amazon, Amazon does not care. Be warned. You're not getting a great deal, you're buying a fake. On trips I'd always lose my gloves, so I'd buy a pair of 'waterproof' gloves locally. Not once did I ever get gloves that were actually waterproof. ) And thanks for your experience with that back zipper. I'm trying to avoid getting one of those. A scuba diver who wears a drysuit was a bit worried that I wanted to get one for sailing across the Pacific. He pointed out that unless you purge the air and learned how to wear one you could end up bobbing upside down. We kayakers tend not to end up in the water, so we should make sure we've tested our drysuits off the beach where we won't find out our buoyancy is wrong. I've had dry pants and a dry top -effectively the same thing, but separated. I've never had a buoyancy issue. Might be different with the full suit.

[@WillN2Go1]

Thanks. My follow up: I ordered a $1200 Mustang (w/tax) from REI. It'll be delivered to a store location in a couple of days. I'll bring my basic base, fleece sweat pants, heavy capoline top, Sealskinz socks, Gill boots -- make sure it all fits before I take it home. I looked at the Kokatak top I have. I could spend a few hours painting seam sealer over almost all the failed seams... instead I threw it out. Mustang makes good gear, REI gives me the chance to try it on and immediately return it. (100% silicone sealer from Home Depot thinned in paint thinner is exactly the same as that expensive seam sealer (for nylon, etc) sold at REI. Used it for years. I'm going to be sailing across the north Pacific Japan to Canada in April and May. Air temps shouldn't be a problem for my gear, but having experienced hypothermia on an 80 degree day in 70 degree water off Southern California.... I think it's best to have better gear for the extreme case. Also a more experienced sailor said in that part of the world: definitely need an immersion suit. (This could be a $300 neoprene emergency suit or something I can work in while wearing.) What I learned from my hypothermia, I had a neoprene top but just a swim suit bottom. I've swum that water temp for over an hour in just a Speedo. But hanging on to my kayak waiting for the lifeguard boat? I got hypothermia. Tip: whenever you hit the water, start swimming. All of us have more than enough body fat to swim for hours. I was a bit over a mile off the coast. I could've easily swum that distance in those conditions, but maybe after I started getting cold I couldn't. I grew up in Michigan, I know cold, numb and hypothermia really really well -- it always starts sooner than you expect. What I've learned. I've been eating a keto diet. I never get hungry. 3-4 hour hard kayak paddle (I don't stop to fish) no breakfast, no problem. When I used to eat carbs, like everyone else, I'd always 'hit the wall' at 90 minutes. You know the feeling, "I need to eat something, I feel so weak, I don't know if I can make it." But we always do. This is because our bodies start burning fat but we're not used to it. We sort of shift down into a lower gear, but we keep going -- and feel like we're suffering. Sorry to go on.

[@Sachiel235]

I use a Gill drysuit for spring and sailing. It's not a paddling drysuit but it has neoprene wrist and neck seals. I've spent time in the water with it and have always been bone dry. No idea if it has the same durability since sailing I moved slightly less but I did use it 5-6 times a week for 3 months of the year for 4 years. Only "tear" was a tiny spot from abrasion on my lifejacket and it didn't go all the way through the waterproof layer. I sold it cause I needed the money but getting back into winter and spring sailing so I just bought another one that I have yet to use.

[@ram_bam]

I really appreciate your safety and gear related videos. Thank you for taking the time. Also, it looks like Level Six has a newer version called the Odin that is front entry.

[@bentrod4255]

Very helpful Tyler. I’ve been research over the last year and Kokatat was at the top, mainly due to being popular around the Seattle area and not seeing other options. Nice to see some reviews of other manufacturers. This definitley will have an impact on my decision. Thanks for the video! At $600-$1000 you’d think it would last more than a year or two.

[@robertmitchell6651]

I use the Mustang dry suit and it’s a top 5 choice IMO!

[@SLOROB55]

You are always on time and on target. Thanks.

[@eddielikesfishing]

If you can get past the ick factor, Depends adult diapers are the solution if you do not have a relief zipper on your dry suit. If you do use an adult diaper, then you don't have to take the dry suit off if you're on the water. Catastrophe avoided.

[@davidcrowson4745]

That last one you reviewed was my favorite

[@garychiang2568]

This is exactly what I was looking for! Thank you so much for making this video!

[@dmnguye69]

Just got my 2021 Emperor, total was 770, which wasn't bad at all. Thanks for the review.

[@Oldwiseguy-59]

Kokata has 2 zippers so imo, the best is the Mustang Hudson drysuit - 1 zipper, easy entry, knee pads, comfortable neck gaiter, reinforced knees/bum, foot.

[@spiltmilt]

Yup this is what I use now

[@jonlobello7151]

OK, now I have a good idea of what to look for in a drysuit.

[@Phrancis5]

I've been a sea kayaker in the pacific NW for almost 20 yrs, where a drysuit is a necessary investment. You might look at the Stolquist EZ dry suit for just under $500. It'll have the more comfortable neoprene neck seal, relief zipper, booties, and fairly tough and breathable material. It won't be as breathable as actually Gortex, but it's less than half the price.

[@spiltmilt]

Stolhquist in cancelling their dry suit line up

[@Phrancis5]

@@spiltmilt I know, but there's still inventory out there.

[@Taematoe]

I'm looking at the Kokatat, I just returned my Level6 the seam tape was coming off after only 6 uses.

[@spiltmilt]

That's terrible. I ended up going with the Mustang Hudson. I really like it. Its held up for 2 years now and no issues. www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=cl&merchant_id=c1629a4b-6c91-4893-b136-7ba0ca4a1ba5&website_id=3a38d1c4-2509-42da-84b4-03016c15049b&url=https%3A%2F%2Fmustangsurvival.com%2Fcollections%2Fmens-dry-suits%2Fproducts%2Fhudson-dry-suit-msd200

[@trishschofield7808]

New to kayaking and now looking into dry suits. Your video and info very helpful. Thank you 😊 & Happy New Year 🎆

[@MarkoAbo]

Great video Tyler! I bought a Stohlquist dry suit and have had excellent luck with it. The neck gasket was too tight when I bought it and they told me to just send it back to them and they installed a larger gasket. Great suit. I'd buy it again. Good luck out there Tyler and Happy new year! Mark A. in Portland

[@thedavidrussellking]

Off topic: If you had a shirt I would probably buy one. Greg Blanchard sells one that is very cool looking and made of good material.

[@milomarcille2488]

I second that!

[@kevinredden7833]

Good vid, don't know if I could live without a relief zip! I've got the Goretex version, this is my third season with it. The only issue so far is I broke both wrist gaskets a few weeks ago (about a week apart). Was simple and quick to fix them myself so no big deal. I was talking to the Kokatat rep when he came by the store (Outdoor Emporium) a couple months ago and asked him how much more breathable the Goretex version was, I was assuming 10-15% max, he told me it's actually 30%.

[@spiltmilt]

Yeah Goretex is a great material. Every time I make the mistake a buying a non-Goretex jacket I regret it.

[@dude999642]

1. Great video..... 2. .....as always!! Subscribed. 3. There is no way to fairly compare two similar items where the market value (price) of one product is about 50% more than the other. There's a REASON the one product is so much cheaper (usually).

[@Eric-gi9kg]

Tyler.. What are your thoughts on the NRS suits? My first (and only), is a NRS...don't remember which model off hand. But it's light weight, breathable, rubber type gaskets, thick booties, front entry, and a relief zipper with a T-handle. I've used it on the Puget Sound several times, and it's like a second skin...very comfortable. Though trimming the cuffs and neck for comfort is a must, but other than that, it's perfect. Unfortunately it's not big enough for the winter layering, and my "old man girth". Any thoughts on a suit for larger guys, eastern Washington winter fishing? The timing of this video is Dead On...Thanks for sharing

[@spiltmilt]

Yeah NRS makes a great product. I don't see too many kayak anglers using them though. The more athletic cut of the Kokatat supernova drysuits makes them more challenging for layer but I still manage. The Level 6 had ample space for layering which was expected given its whitewater heritage.

[@Eric-gi9kg]

@@spiltmilt Thanks for the response. I checked out the Level 6, and I love the fact that it goes up to XXL. And you were correct on that it's pricey, but it being as rugged as they are..worth it. Hope you had a great Thanksgiving

[@Loco-gm8te]

What about Hiko ? Search and rescue use it here in EU ...

[@jborselli15]

NRS dry suits are great

[@spiltmilt]

They don't seem very popular among kayak anglers. I love their boots though.

[@Chopbreaka]

That Ocean rodeo suit is the old Stohlquist shift drysuit

[@spiltmilt]

It’s not many key differences.

[@rogerperron6171]

Have you seen the Mustang Survival gear? Excellent reputation in Canada (BC) and seems like a very high quality product. I'm researching dry suits right now and your video was great (and timely). The company has been in the survival suit business for many many years and ticks off a lot of the boxes you brought up. Price seemed OK relative to the suits you reviewed (real competitive in US dollars!).

[@patrickgullia102]

I dont think mustang suits are drysuits though. They keep you afloat but if you go over board with them you will get wet.

[@rogerperron6171]

@@patrickgullia102 I ended up buying some Mustang apparel that was just flotation but they definitely sell a drysuit as well (Hudson Dry Suit is what it's called $1299.99 CDN on their website). I didn't realize how well known and established a survival gear company they were. I also got an inflatable PFD from them.

[@patrickgullia102]

@@rogerperron6171 oh that's news to me. Yah I love their gear but never knew they had drysuits. If it's as good as their other gear definitely be worth the buy. Thanks for letting me know.

[@KoukyouRyuu]

Mustang bought Ocean Rodeo's drywear division.

[@tharu-cc7ob]

Hi, I am also researching about dry suits for my university project. I am trying to think about a special relief zipper for women. What do you think about that? Do you have any idea? please

[@paulobainz1210]

Interesting video. Although, I recall watching another in your series where you extol the virtues of drysuits over waders claiming that you've never had any issues with them over the years.

[@spiltmilt]

I’ve only had delaminating issues with Kokatat dry suits and it was never at common wear points. My Level 6 and Mustang Hudson dry suits have 2+ years use with 30 to 40 days on the water each year with no issue. None of my waders lasted that long.

[@paulobainz1210]

@@spiltmilt Thanks for clarifying, I've not considered dry suits till now. I'll get a pair as a back up to my waders.

[@LouisianaSpey]

How about wadding, my waiters seems to leak after a single arason of use. I fishing winter months and leaking wadders sucks

[@spiltmilt]

All waders sucks

[@KainOutdoors]

Do you have any experience or opinion on the Stohlquist dry suits? The EZ is $500 and the Amp is around $600/$650. I really want to get one but that 5-600 range is really where I am looking.

[@spiltmilt]

I know they aren't very durable and I reached out to Stohlquist prior to making this video and they informed me they are discontinuing production of all their drywear in 2021.

[@Shinnen09]

That last suit looks like an exact copy of the stolhquist shift...curious

[@kayaktripping]

Just to add a positive note to the Level six Emperor I will be going in to my fifth year and its still going strong a great suit

[@spiltmilt]

That's awesome. People really seem to love their Emperor's.

[@asully70]

Who hit the thumbs down, haters! Great info. I bought the Kokatat Super Nova one that you’re wearing in the beginning of the video.

[@spiltmilt]

I love my haters. Nothing brings me more joy than knowing that every time I upload a video I am making that person's day just a little worse.

[@robgrubb420]

check out some NRS

[@Mars-77]

I wish someone would make an all black dry suit. I hate cruising around looking like a parakeet.

[@spiltmilt]

The Devil's Club from Immersion Research comes in all black and is a quality brand and product. immersionresearch.com/collections/dry-suits/products/devils-club-drysuit

[@Mars-77]

@@spiltmilt Thank you. I'm looking for one with a front entry zipper though.

[@sonicvolta]

I actually purchased a Level six Emperor end of last season, It actually had really poor quality and customer service has been really difficult, to the point where I’m going to repair myself. Only used 12-14 times with water immersion, it’s leaking in the feet, bum area and front area. I would not suggest the emperor as a sea- regular use suit - lever six actually suggest the suit be completely cleaned and dried inside and then outside every single use. I will not buy level six anymore, I need something more stable and safe. Mustang is close on my short list for next suit.

[@spiltmilt]

Your experience doesn't really resonate that of my own in terms of customer service that I and others have experienced. Additionally, all immersion gear is supposed to be dried and cleaned between uses. These breathable fabrics can degrade if stored or treated improperly and failure due to that isn't on the manufacturer. It's on you. The Emperor was built for whitewater kayaker which is far more demanding on drysuit craftsmanship than sea kayaking or kayak fishing would ever be. I hope you find a drysuit that works for you!

[@sonicvolta]

@@spiltmilt I couldn’t agree more. I agree that the suit has to be dried after every use. My issue is that the suit leaked after only 12 uses and I know all of my friends that wear kokatat have suit for 10 years and above and never wash the inside of their suits after every single use, if you were to wash a suit after every single use and turn the suit inside out it would actually hinder the material. Also, customer service played the “ over use of suit card” . So if 12 times using the suit in the ocean, or freshwater is indeed overuse this is not the suit for me or any other person that’s requires a suit for thermal protection or daily kayaking. Also after discussing this with other kayakers in the community some were surprised and others experienced quite the same with their suits. I have no ideal if other emperor suits are high quality, I’m simply saying mine was not, and after multiple emails , i really didn’t like the agenda of customer service. If it works for you that’s is great, however I base my opinion on customer service and interactions , the suit was bad ( but that can happen) customer service 👎 Take care

[@spiltmilt]

I've never had a Kokatat survive a winter of fishing without developing leaks. Their customer service sucks. I call them "Soakatat" now and my experiences mirrors many other anglers in the Northwest.

[@sonicvolta]

@@spiltmilt interesting , to my surprise apparently here level six are much the same, “leaky six” also known for terrible customer service. Most likely in the future I might try mustang. I’ll never buy anything level six again.

[@timmoore6055]

Considering that scuba divers wear wet suits, do you have any thoughts as to using them kayaking instead of the dry suit? I went out once out of Pacific City wearing a dry suit, but have generally been a "120 degree fisher" and would like to extend my fishing days, and am not planning any more ocean voyages.

[@spiltmilt]

I've don't have a ton of experience with wetsuits but I love being able to layer up in dry clothing underneath my drysuit and to easily use the restroom.

[@chrisgates2591]

Wetsuits can be subject to evaporative cooling when out of the water. They work well in water but not so well in wind.

[@bobbybass1944]

Appreciate the video ! I looked at the kokatat and it says medium , should I go large if I plan on wearing xtra clothes underneath the dry suit ?? I'm very new to kayaking fishing . Thanks again !

[@spiltmilt]

No need to size up. Plenty of space for layering

[@bobbybass1944]

Thank you !! Appreciate the help .

[@raychoi9495]

Is the kokotat SuperNova ok at 23 to 24 c temperature ? Will it be too hot?

[@spiltmilt]

No the Kokatats are very thin so you’ll stay cool in them

[@raychoi4994]

@@spiltmilt Thanks. Looks like i may get one to fish for late spring and late fall. One more questio, how tough is against fishing hook?

[@spiltmilt]

Not very. In fact I’ve found the Kokatats to wear very quickly and fall apart within 2 years. It’s why I no longer use them. I need a product that is built to last

[@fr.billbaker6319]

How would you rate the NRS drysuits. Am thinking if buying NRS but now I am wondering if the Level Six is a better deal and a comparable product.

[@spiltmilt]

I've never owned one and I don't know any serious kayak anglers who use them so I don't have an opinion on them.

[@bobgomavitz1330]

Tyler, can you comment about sizing please. I did not see a size chart on Level Six site. Maybe the size you bought, your stats and how the sizing compares to the other brand. Also, like you I am more on the short pant length so how about the length fitting. Thanks

[@spiltmilt]

Scroll down to the drysuit sizing here www.levelsix.com/pages/master-size-chart I was wearing a medium in the video and have a 30" inseam and it felt perfect for me.

[@bobgomavitz1330]

Thanks Tyler...good to hear as we are about the same

[@saltylue33]

what is the recommended temperature to use the kokatat dry suit? price seems good but want to see if its safe to use early spring or late fall, water temps are in the low 40s so wanted something for that period when the first migrating bass show up in NY waters

[@spiltmilt]

I use the 120 rule. If air temp + water temp are less than 120 I wear the dry suit. You can layer up appropriately under the drysuit for the conditions of the day.

[@saltylue33]

@@spiltmilt thanks for the advice bud, you got your self a new sub from me

[@mikearcher6239]

Hi Tyler, new sub as I found this and some other videos helpful. I am starting research on drysuits with intent to buy something in about a year. Do you still have the Level Six and if so, are you still happy with it?

[@spiltmilt]

I transitioned to the Mustang Hudson. kzbin.info/www/bejne/rZK1koKkpdqsoZI

[@alhammons7112]

Kokatat will always get the thumbs down for me. This is the way you treat your customers? Kokatat should be ashamed of themselves.

[@rja62b]

is wetsuit better?

[@spiltmilt]

Less expensive but not better

[@rja62b]

Bought new waders today and contemplated buying a drysuit and wade in those. Have you tried that out or strongly feel that waders are for wading and drysuits are for kayaking

[@RaftGuidePhil]

You’re comparing the top of the line Levelsix suit to the lowest level Kokatat suit. Not really a fair comparison. I’ve been in the white water industry for 20 years and Kokatat is king of the hill as far a durability is concerned. The Kokatat Icon, Idol or GMER would have been better suits in comparison to the Emperor. I’ve owned dry suits from Immersion Research, NRS, levelSix and Kokatat and in my experience Kokatat’s higher end suits are the best of the best, with IR a close second, Level Six third and NRS forth. I’m not saying level Six is junk but they tend to put style above build quality. My Level Six Emperor stayed dry one season before developing leaks and the zipper started to detach from the suit. The one thing I did like about my LS suit is that it was extremely comfortable. I really enjoyed the pockets and fit but the durability was it’s downfall. I’d like to see a long term use review of your Emperor.

[@spiltmilt]

I can't speak to Kokatat's higher end suits but I can speak to their customer service. As someone who has worked in the outdoor industry and in sales for the better part of a decade I can say with confidence that they need to do better.

[@spiltmilt]

Also this was not meant to be a "fair comparison" its a comparison of various brands, price points, features, and suits that other kayak anglers had recommended to me based on their experiences.

[@msstcoastie]

Sent in me and my wifes kokatats after a little over two years to have fishhook pinpricks repaired. They called and said “they were beyond repair@ and offered to keep them and give me a 25% discount on new drysuits. I wont buy from them again! #efkokatat

[@spiltmilt]

Exactly the experience I had

[@MartinMartin-yi9to]

I would not consider a Leaky Six drysuit a good investment as the seams tape comes apart after only 3 years. My L6 Emporer is good for trash after 3 years. Contrary to what you say L6 drysuits are NOT well built. They are made in China.