8 Tips for Choosing a Drysuit for Kayaking - Kayak Hipster

Cold temperatures are coming, and I've been recently asked to discuss tips on choosing a drysuit, as well as features. I believe in a lot of cases it comes down to preference, but here's 8 tips to think about when looking at options.
Please learn more about cold water paddling with this video:
• Kayaking Tips - Cold W...
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[@ckrandomness]

Great video, Luke. I suspect that you will find this quickly becoming one of your most viewed. The drysuit debate and decision is hard for everyone--at least the first time. The cost is daunting. Often as much or more than a person's first kayak. What appear to be minor differences seem to frequently come with major price differentials. Personal comfort options are unique to the individual. E.g., I find neoprene neck gaskets less comfortable than latex both physically and psychologically. Most people assume the neo will be more comfortable--and for many it is. /shrug. As you noted, the key to the overall decision for each individual will be understanding what their intended use cases will be. If you don't like rolling, stay in protected waters with competent people for rescue/aid, then you can opt for less dry, or less durable solutions if you choose. If you expect to be getting wet from waves or rolls, or doing rescue practices, think carefully about that choice. Protection from the water for temperature control is the primary thing of course, but I know enough folks--myself included--that have had failures of gear or process (in my case not fully securing the relief zip), that resulted in the rush in of cold water. The secondary risk there is not the cold, but that you now have shifted your flotation if you've taken in significant water. Die-hards out there can grab a friend or two and test out what a flooded drysuit feels like to float/swim/rescue. :)

[@KayakHipster]

Chris King thanks Chris, your answer insightful as always. I'll pin it to the video.

[@joeycmore]

Hi... if I may add to the discussion?; please be aware of "breathability" which was mentioned in the video. Let me emphasize that cheaper dry suits may not allow your body heat to vent which can cause over-heating but also will allow you to get soaked via your own perspiration. This can become an issue once you stop paddling and allow a chill to set in very quickly. Just so you know...

[@shoutatthesky]

Such an on point video. Clear and concise, with zero waffling on about stuff we really don't need to know. Thanks so much!

[@mrfelix2510]

What a great video, thanks for all the information, very well covered.

[@caplinrollin]

I'm a frequent dry suit paddler in cold water and weather. This video is the best guide/info session on dry suits, much better than what most retail sales clerk will be able to provide you. Take Luke's advice about wearing insulating layers under your dry suit seriously. A paddling dry suit, as opposed to diver's neoprene dry suit, is one very thin layer, you need insulation under it. Finally, if you're going to wear a dry suit, wear or carry neoprene paddling mitts and a neoprene hood or cap...you'll need them if you capsize.

[@KayakHipster]

Pat D thanks for the comment, much appreciated! And great advice as well.

[@vivrose6873]

Excellent advice. Thanks for taking the time to make this..

[@jeromyashcraft4571]

Amazing overview. Thank you.

[@GooshawnXD]

Great info, much appreciated!!

[@pedroarias2515]

Amazing!! Really helpful and detailed! Thank you very much :)

[@paulbouchard9521]

Great info. So much info presented so efficiently. Thanks.

[@anthonyleone811]

Thank you for a very informative video. I was researching for a dry suit or a wetsuit. This video helps a lot. Thank you

[@Corcioch]

Great Video as usual. Thank You.

[@scottsaulsbury4887]

We learned something new last weekend re: "dry" vs. "semi-dry" suits, and I realize that your mileage may vary, but... I have a Stohlquist full dry suit (the "Amp"), which my wife tried, but didn't like at all because of the initial feel of the neck gasket. She opted for the "EZ" because she thought it was more comfortable and was assured that it would keep her dry in the case of an occasional dunking. We set out last weekend in a full-on deluge. It was warm(ish), and calm, but the rain never let up. I had a grand time, but after about 90 minutes or so, my wife started talking about feeling wet and cold. We cut the paddle short and headed back. As I was sorting gear out at home, I found that her "dry" suit was pretty thoroughly soaked around the neck because of the permeability of the neoprene. She hadn't gone into the water... she'd just been exposed to constant rainfall. It's winter in the Pacific Northwest, and rain is just what happens. It kind of sucks to find that a "dry" suit isn't up to ongoing rainfall.

[@KayakHipster]

Scott Saulsbury that's very interesting input. That's a lot for sharing. I'll have to test it out as well, last time my wife and I got caught in the rain she was ok with the semi drysuit - but she was wearing a waterproof hat with a large brim all around. Do you think maybe that made the difference?

[@scottsaulsbury4887]

I'm pretty sure that a broad-brimmed hat would make a difference. For some reason she opted for just a beanie that day!

[@scottsaulsbury4887]

Nice video, Luke! Your suggestion at the end to test in actual cold conditions is very important. I took an opportunity this spring to test my suit in water that was hovering around 38-40F, but the air temp was in the high 70s. I jumped in without gloves on and, regardless of how overdressed I was with the suit and base layers, the cold on my hands was enough to chill my whole body, to the point of having "brain freeze" (ice-cream headache). I got out my neoprene gloves and made sure that the cuffs were smoothly over the gaskets and tried again... it made a world of difference. Don't forget about your hands in very cold water, even if the air temp is warm!

[@KayakHipster]

Scott Saulsbury thanks! That's a great point. Absolutely, in my other cold water paddling video I try to make sure to mention how important keeping your hands, feet, and head warm is while submerged. And, your hands' dexterity is crucial in being able to get yourself out of the water or calling for help. You're 100% spot on.

[@fayleya3865]

Fantastic run down. Many thanks.

[@CookingandFishing]

I'm just a kayak-fishing hack, riding a hobie surf board...but this is invaluable information for anyone paddling/pedaling cold water. Excellent video!

[@Bhamlunker]

Thanks Luke! This is perfect timing...I am considering getting a dry suit from santa...just circling the wagons...I also do a fair amount of fitness paddling on a surf ski in addition to touring...and I have opted to start off with neoprene wetuits for fall and early winter here in the south east US, but by mid to late December, I know I will want a dry suit if I am to keep paddling even in my relatively protected waters....the dry suit will allow me to take on some kayak camping trips when air/water temps really make things crazy. One thing that keeps me scared of camping in fall/winter/spring is the thread of relatively low temps AND rain....a dry suit would make staying dry and warm exceedingly easier while you setup camp. I do not yet get opportunities for lengthy touring...and am in-land so no waves much, so I may try and find a good bargain suit as a starter...

[@Kwood10]

Great informative video 👍🏻answered allot of questions for myself

[@ianham]

Thanks for the comprehensive list of considerations. We bought our first SUP last year (a touring model that didn't have great initial stability), so we were spending a fair bit of time in the water in Seattle. That was cold in June, OK in July, fine in August but by September we had to be done. Just bought SUP #2 in mid April and just had to take it out. Stayed close to shore. Great stability until a boat wake hit me broadside and I took a swim in 49 degree water with no protection. Lake Washington and the Puget Sound are amazing paddling opportunities. But, they are super cold much of the year. So, it seems like something will be needed--either a wetsuit or dry suit. As I looked at dry suits, I saw all these knobs on them. Took me a few videos to figure out that there are diving dry suits and like "surface" drysuits. The diving ones get air blown into them so they don't compress at depth and lose their thermal protection if I understood correctly. Whole new world. It needs an infographic. One more note--being a big guy entering into these sports is a tough gig. If anyone else is in that position, I'm finding Kokatat has a L King size that will accommodate larger paddlers. Thanks again for the video. Great stuff.

[@obsidianzarok2361]

Thanks for the great advice and tips very helpful 👍👍

[@trishschofield7808]

New paddler here. Thank you 😊 for this information video 😘

[@heatherjones1807]

Thank you for the excellent advice. Hoping to get out on some calm lakes in northern ontario canada this spring.

[@PeteLovesPixels]

Thanks for the great advice once again. I am currently preparing for my second season of kayaking. I took the plunge last week and purchased a drysuit and upgraded to a high end pfd. One thing that I have found over the years is that when purchasing expensive gear, no one really regrets buying quality. I have researched the living daylights out of drysuits. The cheap stuff is just not worth it. I agree that close outs and sales are the way to go. Great discounts can be had on discontinued/noncurrent and previous year leftovers. I have found in other activities that when buying budget gear that eventually you upgrade to the good stuff and in doing so waste money on the initial product that was purchased with the intent to replace in time. I've replaced enough entry level stuff over the years to know that I'm better off just to bite the bullet and buy the good stuff in the first place or worst case the best stuff I could afford at the time if there was an immediate need. If I can't afford something right away, I'll take the money for the entry level item and bank it. Then save until I can get what I want rather than use the credit card. It can take a little longer to get some things but the satisfaction with the product is always worth it. This is especially true for me when it comes to anything to do with safety. When riding motorcycles I subscribe to the idea that you can't spend too much money on safety gear. I'm learning that following that idea for kayaking is a good one. Thanks again for all the great advice and videos. Keep up the good work. My sole purpose for getting into kayaking was to get to better locations for photography. I'd love to return the favor in sharing knowledge so if you ever need photography advice feel free to drop me a line.

[@dante_pilman]

REALY cool! Thank's!

[@susankruger7890]

Very helpful! Thank you.

[@explorermike19]

This is another really informative and excellent video. A dry suit is such a big investment. It is good to have a well informed video like this. By the way, I really like your T-Shirt "Say No to Wet Exits" Ha! Great.

[@KayakHipster]

Explorer Mike thanks so much! Absolutely. I researched so much before I bought my first one, I hope it'll make things a bit easier for others in that same place. Cheers!

[@EricOuellet2]

Great! Thanks!

[@joetaylor486]

Seems like great advice to me

[@cilami]

Very instructive video. I am in Puerto Rico and practice kayak fishing. I installed a sail in my kayak to get to relatively distant fishing spots, and usually spend 4-6 hours (wet) during each fishing trip. My question is... what is the best way to keep me dry and do not suffocate in this tropical climate? TIA for any comments and advice. Miguel.

[@labrujamafalda]

Simplemente genial!!

[@truenorth365]

Good video Luke! I think this is very helpful for alot of people trying expand their kayaking-season. Getting a suit of my own was an important and a hard decision I must admit, very happy with it! (latex gaskets, back/shoulder zipper, pissing hatch). Got a lot of tips from more experienced kayakers. You know what you are talking about and thanks for sharing. Thumbs up from Sweden!

[@KayakHipster]

Magnus Persson thanks, appreciated as always. What made you go for the back zipper vs the front one?

[@truenorth365]

Intresting question Luke, tried out both front and rear zipper drysuits. IMO the rear zipper allows for more freedom of movement when paddling for us kayakers. The downside, maybe is it is more difficult to close by yourself but I must say with a bit of practice. No sweat. Another thing with front zippers is that you dont wear your PFD over that zipper, that may create some discomfort/pressure. This was one of the hard decisions that I mentioned in my previous comment. For me, no doubt very happy with mine and it keeps me bone dry!

[@ckrandomness]

I agree with Magnus 100% on the back zip. I don't think the back entry or zipping is harder than front though. I see more folks struggling with front zips (especially brass ones) but then again, there are a lot more front zips out there currently, so the stats are no doubt skewed.

[@KayakHipster]

Chris King right. I've never tried one, but always wondered. I've never found the front zipper to get in the way or bother me, so I haven't cared enough to go out and try a different configuration.

[@truenorth365]

I think its like going to a shoe shop and try out diffrent shoes. Its just a question of preference. Three questions that are important, are you dry? and are you comfortable? and the most important...do you look cool?

[@Lance0410E]

Love the T shirt :)

[@KayakHipster]

Lance Smith haha, thanks!

[@aerozg]

Most paddlers don’t really need a $1300 Kokatat or Helly Hansen arctic expedition type survival dry suit. There are far more affordable options like Palm, Typhoon, Gul or Nookie at €500 range here in Europe, with all the bells and whistles, some of them even come with a full body neoprene thermal underlayer included in the package. I have the Palm Atom and it’s brilliant, i paid €582 for it, brand new over at wetsuitoutlet shop. It’s perfect. What are your thoughs on drysuit vs wetsuit, could you do a video on that? Great video, subscribed and following! Greetings from Croatia.

[@kevinjamiesonbelou]

Ibanez roadstar 2 , nice!

[@pa_maj.MARTINI-van-MAN]

I like the idea of a front zipper, if getting off a kayak for a nosey around an island or a break from sitting in the kayak, the front zip can be opened and the top part pulled over the head to the back, the sleeves can be tied together at the front to cool off and just get some air. I think this would work better than the back zipper.

[@JosephMullin]

If they have plastic zippers you still have to maintain them with cleaner and lube. I used the NRS Expedition drysuit. 4 layers, latex seals, hood, cuffs and neck protectors, Knee pads, relief zipper. I got it on a closeout through NRS

[@bernarddugas5251]

Always great reviews, I just bought a dry top, brand new, a Level 6 Mack(there form my home town), for 100$, the person just never used it, 2 years old. never been used, so yes you can get some good deals.

[@KayakHipster]

Bernard Dugas thanks! Nice, I have one of those and love it.

[@donnaspencer4040]

I just purchased a kokotat drysuit. I was debating between the semi-dry and the dry. I know i experience cold shock pretty bad so thought I best go with the full dry. We won't have any water up here in southern British Columbia for a good couple of months yet but i'm eargerly waiting to try it out.

[@KayakHipster]

Donna Spencer fantastic. Remember to layer appropriately underneath. The drysuit keeps you dry, but not warm. Layers below will keep you warm.

[@cyndidaves5313]

Hi, I just got into kayaking and I bought an Angler kayak. I am wondering if there are specific dry suits for anglers? Since I will be handling hooks that will damage a dry suit. Thanks for the video.

[@TheKayakCrew]

Great video. Do you have any views on a full suit vs a separate jacket and trousers? I have a small waist and thin legs but am quite broad across the shoulders with longish arms. In essence, I am a size Medium on the upper half and a size Small on my lower half. I think I’d therefore have to probably get a Medium suit and put up with it being very baggy around my legs and waist or by a small trousers and medium jacket. From what I gather, a jacket/trousers combo will start to gradually seep water at the waist if immersed, even if they are both ‘double waisted’.

[@behrensf84]

I would also add that you should see how comfortable is it to paddle in the suit. Some are better than others, and can give you more mobility, or don’t chafe as much..

[@bullylove4]

Nice video, Luke. For a woman, as you mentioned, if you want a relief zip you can go with a front or a drop-seat. When I started looking I wasn't particularly drawn to the drop-seat and I'd heard from someone that did have one that using it was logistically a pain. So some considerations for women might be: where you think you're going to be using this, will there be cover? Or will you need something a little more discreet when you might only be able to turn your back. Do you want to be able to use it while still in the kayak? How's your stability in a squat? Personally, one of my hips is a mess and my stability in a squat isn't great so squatting seemed like it might be at best an actual pain and at worse a bit of a mess. I went with a front zip because I thought it was more discrete, versatile and a better fit for my own physical limitations. I did find a decent review of FUDs for women that explains pros and cons of different styles as well as some usage tips as there is a bit of a learning curve (I recommend practicing at home first!) www.backpacker.com/gear/the-complete-guide-to-female-urination-devices Hope this helps. -Shannon

[@KayakHipster]

bullylove4 thank you so much for your detailed response. It's a bit of a tough topic to discuss, but we'd certainly benefit from more info being out there for sure. I have a couple of female paddler friends that agree with your approach.

[@inkmothstudios]

thanks, this was helpful! Trying to find chick specific info is time consuming =)

[@alexanderfdj]

Nice video ;)

[@KayakHipster]

Alexander f Deejay thanks! 👍

[@dianenash1304]

Tell me about wet suits and dry suits - when should I chose which? For paddle boarding beginner - thanks

[@jemalyn4052]

Hi Luke what brand of dry suit you are using? And type?

[@Redzircon]

I carry a $10 infrared thermometer to measure river temp. In winter I was amazed to find our local river gets done to 5C (41F). Is there a chart showing recommended number of layers for each temperature range wearing a drysuit?

[@MrKushinator420]

add the ambient and water temp . if it's less than 120, you probably need a dry suit. Layers underneath are your own discretion, but wear something that breathes so you don't get soaked with sweat.

[@waynefatguyinakayak7408]

I have a question about drysuit sizing. Drysuits that would fit me in the chest and waist tend to be made for people much taller than me. Is bunching up on the arms and legs because they're too long going to cause an issue?

[@charanvantijn541]

Nice video, though I don't agree with the latex versus neoprene information. There are diving suits with neoprene seals. I'm sure these diving suits are fully waterproof. It seems that the 'neoprene is not fully waterproof' is hearsay and people keep repeating it. Have you tried yourself? I have. I'm on my third drysuit. My latest had neoprene seals and keeps me completely dry, just like the ones with latex seals. Except that the latex seals tear after a while. The neoprene seals do not tear.

[@garywood8449]

What is your opinion on wearing a wetsuit under a dry suit?

[@hapymushroom]

@Kayak Hipster. Great info, I kayak on a tight budget, i was looking at an online kayak manufacturing company in China, I watched their video seems lejit'. with sea kayaks for only £350. Is £350. Too Good too be true?

[@quantummath]

Boots vs. Booty's ... that is the question. - Billiam Schexpeer.

[@guskayak5655]

How about some tips of how to keep one's feet warm while wearing a dry-suit?

[@Kwood10]

Gus Kayak neoprene dive socks with neoprene boots . Works for me .

[@superyamagucci]

Get one with dry booties. Wear woollen socks and neoprene socks or booties over the top. Or if you already have one without booties, see reply above

[@jeffg3563]

Drysuits with neoprene gaskets are useless. It should be illegal to call them DRYsuits. You should always dress for the water temperature, and if the water temp starts getting around or below 14-15'C(~57'F) you definitely don't want it inside your suit. At that temperature it's surprising how quickly you lose body heat and you can start to panic. Even if you are skilled at rolling and self rescue eventually there will be a time when you are in the water longer than you want to be, and suits with neoprene gaskets will start leaking right away under water. Save your money for a couple more months and buy a real drysuit with latex gaskets if you plan to use it on a regular basis. The only price gap I would consider is whether you want Gore-Tex or not.

[@KayakHipster]

Jeff G I'm going to respectfully disagree. Here's the thing - the neck gasket is not the 1 spot that's going to mean being safe or not. Let's say a paddler always paddles with a capable group, in a calm location, only if weather is favorable. They can easily wear a semi drysuit, because there's so many other levels of safety in that scenario. I know several paddlers that will never venture out in rough conditions, or alone, so even if a trickle of cold water were to slip in if they capsized, they're close to home with a strong group that can support them. If the latex gasket is the only thing that keeps them from paddling in cold conditions, as long as there's many other strong safety levels around them, I don't think a neoprene neck gasket puts them in danger.

[@KayakHipster]

Jeff G now, for all around winter paddling, where conditions might get tougher, and there is a bigger chance of capsize, or paddling alone, then I completely agree that a latex gasket should be the only way to go.

[@jeffg3563]

Being in a group does not guarantee you a fast rescue, and it only takes a couple minutes in near freezing water, before you start to feel the effects of hypothermia. Each to their own, but I suspect that if you toss someone in some

[@KayakHipster]

Jeff G I understand your view. I've always been a firm believer in latex gaskets, and will only paddle with them. But for example, my wife. She hated her first drysuit with a latex gasket with a passion. So much that she never wanted to paddle with me if the water dictated a drysuit was needed. We've since moved on to a semi drysuit, and now she's comfortable enough to paddle with me all day. Now, she'll only extend the season slightly for the early fall and late spring, but it makes enough of a difference to get more days on the water before water is actually cold enough to be a risk. The example you're talking about, nearly freezing water, that's a time where being wet needs to be considered very highly, so I would at that point think only those that have latex gaskets and correct layering will be paddling out on the water. But you gotta remember that there are paddlers out there simply looking to extend their seasons a bit when water temperatures are still not so harsh. I have many paddlers in my group that do that, and they highly enjoy their neoprene gaskets when conditions ask for drysuits, but the semi dry aspect doesn't pose a risk. Do you see my point?

[@andytanner9077]

Jeff G o

[@leatherindian]

I chose a drysuit with a zipper across the shoulders as I was told one with a zipper across the chest would get tiresome bunching up under the PFD. Comments anyone? Is this true?

[@whollyman]

Question - are wet suits not an option?

[@sharpuslf]

I'm a wet suit user, and it makes cold water paddling possible, but not for as long as a dry suit. Wetsuits are very restrictive to your stroke, and fatigue sets in much quicker. With a wetsuit, you are constantly wet, and even tho the water around becomes warm, it is still water and sucking the heat from you. With no protection cold water, is instantly painful and life threatening....with a wetsuit it is very cold for about two minutes, and then becomes painfull cold. I want a dry suit, to extend my paddle season, but there are no vendors in my area.

[@jeffg3563]

Curious if anyone's ever bought a drysuit off of AliExpress? They have drysuits with latex gaskets for

[@GooshawnXD]

I wish I had a kayak shop around me but I do not :( I'm going to have to buy online...with the cold temp dry suits do they take in account the fact that you will layer underneath when it comes to sizing? I have a heated winter jacket I plan on wearing underneath but it is a bit bulky... not sure if I should up it to the medium to accommodate this?

[@dragonspirit1185]

I've never seen those oar type of kayak paddles what are they

[@KayakHipster]

dragonspirit1185 they are Greenland paddles, different styles from different parts of the world where they originated. You can find out more about how they compare to euro blades on this video I made a couple of years ago - kzbin.info/www/bejne/fqmxaaykgsSLhLc

[@dragonspirit1185]

Kayak Hipster they seem to be so expensive that sucks. I'm on disability and my income is limited. I'm usually out on the water for a while cleaning up all the trash so my arms get pretty tired. It looks like this style of paddle would really be helpful

[@KayakHipster]

dragonspirit1185 not to worry, they don't have to be expensive. If you or anyone you know can work with wood, it is very easy to carve one yourself. The carbon ones might be expensive, but wooden ones are fantastic. I can send you some instructions from qajaqusa.org if you want to find out more.

[@dragonspirit1185]

Kayak Hipster Kayak Hipster yeah I don't know anybody that does Woodworking and stuff. I've done a little bit of would work whenever I was younger but I don't have all the tools. with my autism I find it hard to follow instructions or diagrams.

[@KayakHipster]

dragonspirit1185 ah, ok. Well, you don't need a lot of tools for it, if you know anyone that's handy with wood at all they might be able to carve one for you.

[@JosephMullin]

Also you need to burp the drysuit to get the air out!!!

[@1guillote]

Hello ,why do you have an Argentine flag on the board?

[@KayakHipster]

1guillote hi, I was born and raised in Argentina.

[@1guillote]

Greats, I live in Buenos Aires, seria de mucha utilidad subtitular en castellano, ya que mi ingles (Y el de muchos)es muy limitado y mucha info se me escapa. Muy bueno el canal !!!!!

[@KayakHipster]

1guillote ok bárbaro. Voy a ver cómo se puede hacer eso. No sé si Google tiene una forma de hacer la traducción. Voy a averiguar. Gracias, un abrazo!

[@gunnarsandberg7088]

Shorts while packing

[@nicoe570]

Pee in your suit and you've got years of regret on your conscious! I dislocated my shoulder mid river, no way could I have gotten out myself in a back zip. Hell from highwater.

[@steppe21]

Hi, I like your Videos very much, but please think about, not every You Tube user speaks perfect english. For me you speak to fast, it's hard to follow you. PLEASE slow down a littlebit next time, would be nice. cheers Steppe

[@KayakHipster]

thanks for letting me know. I often speed when I talk thinking I need to get as much content as I can in the least amount of time, otherwise people won't watch it. I will think about slowing down next time. Question for you - does using the transcript and subtitles help?

[@steppe21]

Kayak Hipster, yes subtitles will help.

[@KayakHipster]

Steppe Kajak & Outdoor subtitles should be available on most of my videos now. On a browser you'll see the CC button on the bottom right if the video, on mobile you'll see it under the video options/settings. Let me know if it works. It's not perfect, but it might help!

[@steppe21]

Thanks Luke, ja is ok

[@mattchowbeach]

In my personal opinion, l like the fact that he speaks quickly in order to deliver as much information as possible for the time like he says. One thing that one can do is to slow down the video. Just click the three dots at the upper right corner and you'll see the option for that. By the way I'm French speaking and I don't understand English too well either but personally I watch at the video two times and maybe will add more. Hope that help. Cheers