Drysuit Parts

Drysuits are designed for people who are going to be in or around water that is too cold for a wetsuit. They are designed to keep the body dry and usually allow for layers of clothing to be worn underneath, to keep the body warm. Drysuits trap air inside them, which is then warmed by the body. Because drysuits are also responsible for buoyancy, they are more difficult to use than wetsuits. They are also more expensive than wetsuits.

  1. Shell

    • The main part of a drysuit is the shell. The material of the shell will determine the characteristics of the suit. Most are made of either neoprene, crushed neoprene or a thin type of membrane material. Neoprene suits are the most affordable and provide extra insulation due to the nature of the material, but they break down more quickly than others and are not as good for very cold water. Crushed neoprene is tough, flexible and very thin, which is good for wreck and professional divers, but must be completely dry to repair. Neoprene suits can be difficult to put on and remove.

      Membrane suits are made of materials such as laminated nylon and vulcanized or butyl rubber. They don't stretch and are usually baggy to allow for motion, which makes them comfortable to wear for a long time. They are the easiest suits to put on and remove. These suits offer little buoyancy or insulation.

    Neck and Wrist Seals

    • Neck and wrist seals prevent water from getting in to the suit. Seals are made from latex or foam neoprene. Latex seals are the most common and have more stretch than neoprene, making them more comfortable and less tight. Tightness can restrict blood flow. The seals come cone-shaped and usually need to be trimmed to fit properly. Latex seals are easier to repair, but they are more easily damaged and must be replaced every two years or so. Foam neoprene seals should not be cut, but stretched before use. Stretch neck seals over a standard SCUBA cylinder overnight and wrist seals over a soda can for 12 hours. Neoprene seals last longer, but they are stiffer and allow more water to enter.

    Zippers

    • Drysuit zippers are water-proof and pressure-proof. The teeth are made from bronze, with rubber between each tooth for sealing. Larger zippers are more durable, but they are more difficult to close and usually make the suit more difficult to maneuver in. For this reason, zipper openings are usually quite small, making it difficult to get in and out of the suit. It is common to find the zipper across the back or on a diagonal angle down the front. Zipper repair is costly because of the zipper price and because it must be repaired by a qualified technician.