Wetsuits and drysuits are worn by scuba divers as well as avid outdoors man. Sea kayaking requires a drysuit in the winter months as the water in the Atlantic Ocean rarely rises above 50 degrees F. The key difference lies in the technology of the suit . The wetsuit keeps you warm by trapping a small amount of water against your skin. The seal of the drysuit keeps your body completely free of moisture.
Function
The wetsuit and drysuit both serve the function of keeping your body at a comfortable temperature. According to the Appalachian Mountain Club, choosing the right drysuit or wetsuit will allow you to remain warm and relaxed despite the weather and water temperature of your next outdoor adventure. The insulation of the wetsuit heats the water that has been trapped against your body. The drysuit is completely waterproof and does not allow the frigid water to come into contact with your skin.
Features
The wetsuit features an inner layer consists of a neoprene material. A properly fitting wetsuit should feature a snug fit that does not impede your movement. The drysuit features a loose fit that allows you to comfortably fit layers of clothing underneath. The seal of the drysuit is located around the neck, ankles and wrists. Drysuits often feature dry socks that can be fastened around the ankle opening. The dry socks enable you to wear thick cloth or woolen socks underneath the suit.
Types
The full-body suit remains a popular type of the wetsuit and drysuit. The full-body suit covers your entire body and stretches to your wrists and ankles. Specialized models of the full-body wetsuit and drysuit feature a hood that fits tightly to trap in the warmth of your head. Another common type of wetsuit and drysuit consists of the suit separated into a top and bottom. For warmer climates, the short wetsuit stops at your knees. Wetsuits may also have a sleeveless top for activities such as warm water surfing and scuba diving.
Considerations
You should always consider the temperature before determining if the wetsuit or drysuit is necessary for your outdoor activity. The Appalachian Mountain Club states that wetsuits with a thickness of 0.5 to 2 mm can keep you warm in water temperatures of around 60 degrees F. A wetsuit that has a thickness of 2 to 3 mm will keep you warm in water temperatures ranging from 50 degrees F and slightly cooler.
Prevention/Solution
Wearing a wetsuit or drysuit can prevent your body from lowering its body temperature to a dangerous level. Wetsuits and drysuits can protect you against hypothermia. A drysuit will keep you safe in the event that you were to fall out of your kayak or canoe and into an icy body of water. Drysuits can also prevent cuts and scrapes as they feature durable pads that can protect against sharp rocks or rapids found in a river.
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