Drysuit Recommendations

yarnellboat · Post by **yarnellboat** » Fri Nov 06, 2009 10:32 pm

I have a breathable Stohlquist suit that I like. The sizing chart did not work for me, too tight in the legs (though I can't fit my thighs into C-1s either), and I can't try a suit with untrimmed gaskets on, but Stohlquist provided great service.

I have the relif zipper, but I don't fear as strongly about the need for built-in booties.

I hear good things about the Kokatat suits too, but I won't/can't pay $1000, so I look for deals. I got my Stohlquist suit when REI was clearing the model out for $300.

You can't go wrong with any of the name brands. But if you can't try one on, make sure they'll be OK with an exchange (even after you trim gaskets).

Pat.

2opnboat1 · Post by **2opnboat1** » Sat Nov 07, 2009 2:22 am

Kokatat kokatat

Larry Horne · Post by **Larry Horne** » Sat Nov 07, 2009 2:36 am

Kokatat goretex meridian is the only way to go. I would never even consider another brand. High quality. Great design. Great customer service. Made in a small shop in arcata california.
If your getting a new suit, spend a few extra bucks up front and you'll save in the long run. I guarantee it. If your looking for a used suit, get whatever you can find, because you probably won't find a used kokatat.
Everyone i know that has bought other suits is either returning them within a month or replacing them after a season or two. or they're just suffering wet. One friend had to hike out from an early spring middle fork feather (3 day class five wilderness) run because of a palm drysuit failure. To me. it's just not worth it.

i'm 6'1" 180 and a large fits perfect

golder · Post by **golder** » Sat Nov 07, 2009 2:59 am

hey ya'll,

thanks for the feedback...

i think i've tracked down a used kokotat goretex suit. i'm stoked to hear the rave reviews on it. gonna be picking it up next week!

philcanoe · Post by **philcanoe** » Sat Nov 07, 2009 1:49 pm

While Kokatat drysuits are (really) nice, they are WTF overpriced... I have been through two of these already, and they'll wear out just like the two other brands did. Yes Gore-Tex is good, I own a bunch of it... several jackets, pants, sleeping bag, etc. However when it comes to a drysuit, IMO the other breathable fabrics do really well. Unlike a jacket, once the suit is zipped shut... there's more than enough pressure gradient to pass moisture through the material. Unlike a loose hanging jacket, where only the most optimal breathable fabric really works. My Stohlquist suit lasted as long, kept me as dry, and was even a little more comfortable. I've just ordered a NRS suit for the money, and if it last a year or two less... it'll still be worth it. Maybe I'll not like it, maybe not, haven't seen it yet. I just can't see paying a grand for a Gore-tex jumpsuit suit with gaskets.

And yes - a relief zipper is a must. It will double the life of your zipper, as the main one will get used approximately half as much. (if you're a guy). And booties.... you'll never truly appreciate them, until experiencing how dry feet feel in icy cold water.

Larry Horne · Post by **Larry Horne** » Sat Nov 07, 2009 4:46 pm

hmm...i don't see where kokatat costs that much more than nrs..couple hundred more for the top of the line. http://www.nrsweb.com/shop/product_list.asp?deptid=1174

Considering;
NRS=made in Vietnam where wages supposedly average 35-45 per month
Kokatat=made in USA where wages are probably 25 per hour

It's easy to see where Kokatat costs more, but the question is.. where is all the money going for the NRS suit?

Like I said, for me it's about the long run. I'm on my third kokatat suit in seventeen years. The first one was entry level and they bought it back when it delaminated after five years! the second was eight years old before i decided to upgrade to socks and a zipper. Their product lasts a long time, they stand behind it 100% and I really like their company values.

nrs is a great resorce, but whenever i can, I will always support the CTAMTOS (company that actually makes their own sheet) over the company that farms their stuff out to an overseas sweatshop.

yarnellboat · Post by **yarnellboat** » Thu Nov 12, 2009 6:47 pm

The below trip report from BC creekin' kayakers includes 14 votes for Kokatat:

http://www.fraservalleywhitewater.com/l ... unk-creek/

Pat.

Craig Smerda · Post by **Craig Smerda** » Thu Nov 12, 2009 7:46 pm

if you fart... don't be pullin' on the neck gasket

how's that for a recommendation?

i've learned this from experience

Larry Horne · Post by **Larry Horne** » Fri Nov 13, 2009 12:53 am

ha! best recommendation of the bunch.