Dry-suits share certain similarities to wetsuits yet has one significant difference. Dry-suits have the ability to keep your body completely free of moisture as you partake in various outdoors activities. Wetsuits, commonly utilized by scuba divers and windsurfers, allow water to seep through the fabric of the suit. Both non-breathable and breathable dry-suits are used in the extreme sport of whitewater kayaking. While breathable dry-suits offer added comfort, non-breathable dry suits have a lower price.
Identification
Breathable and non-breathable dry suits may both look the same. The key difference lies in the fabrics used in the production of the suits. The fabric of the breathable dry-suit, known as Gore-Tex, allows the outside air to absorb the perspiration that you dispel inside of the suit. TyThough waterproof, the non-breathable dry-suit, causes your perspiration to accumulate in the suit, leaving you with a slightly damp feeling while the breathable dry-suit enables you to maintain a balanced body temperature.
Function
Many extreme water sports may require you to become completely submerged for short or extended amounts of time. Water kayaking, for example, often involves riding off of small waterfalls. Even basic paddling maneuvers may cause you to get wet. The breathable dry-suit will help to decrease your production of perspiration. When boating or scuba diving in an extremely cold body of water, a non-breathable dry-suit will help to raise your body temperature.
Features
Non-breathable dry suits are often produced with a material known as coated nylon. The coated nylon fabric prevents air from making contact with your skin. The knees and rear of the dry-suit often have reinforced patches of material. Dry-suits also feature "release zippers" to allow you to relieve yourself without having to take off the entire suit. Optional dry-suit hoods help to lock in your warmth while in cold environments.
Types
The one piece dry suit remains a popular type. A waterproof zipper allows you to slide into the full body suit. Two-piece dry suits often have a skirt like piece of fabric that allows you to connect the top of bottom sections. Two-piece dry suits, if improperly sealed, may cause water to come into contact with your skin. Certain types of dry-suits feature dry socks that have been fastened to the bottoms of the legs.
Price
As of 2010, the average cost of a breathable dry-suit is around $500. Top of the line breathable dry-suits that feature the Gore-Tex material may cost upwards of $700. Customized breathable dry-suit that have dry socks often cost around $900. One of the few benefits of the non-breathable dry-suits lies in the price. Non-breathable suits may cost as little as $300.
Member Comments