drysuit recommendations

Thank you for all the responses so far.  I now have some good leads to follow in my drysuit research.  Definitely want to spend the time looking at the pros and cons of each before dropping the $$ on these things!

Although the cold+wet day at GSX was the tipping point for me to include a drysuit in my arsenal, I'd already been thinking about it for a while.  I get tired of pedaling a Hobie while wearing a farmer john of a wetsuit.  Puts pressure on my knees and I develop a rash after pedaling for long distances.  That could be because my farmer john is an old, thick 7mm beast.  But the thought of just sliding into a drysuit, zipping up, and being impervious to the elements (with the proper layering) is too tempting to pass up.

The back of knee chafing is what drove me to buy a drysuit. The chafing was really putting a damper on my mood while I was out trolling....

And I really like being able to go about the rest of my day without NEEDING a shower right away. After a long day of sweating (and pissing) in a wetsuit I was in no shape to show myself in public...


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I recommend going to a kayak shop to try one on first to get the proper fitting. I think the rule of thumb was to go a size higher to compensate for layering and pedaling as well.  I was lucky enough a Kokatat rep was in the shop when I bought mine and he steered me in the right direction.

One good thing about the Supernova Angler is that it is codura reinforced in areas that a kayak fisherman is likely to wear holes such as the knees, elbows, seat, and lap.

I like the names condura, hydrus and all that mumbo jumbo but it's funny when you see the tag it says nylon lol. It does the job well and glad I have one as an option.

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I use a Tempest jacket and pants and couldn't be happier.

Two pieces is more versatile IMO.

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I have heard great things about kokatat and they are local, on the other hand this new one from stohlquist looks great and has many different options. I am leaning towards this when it is time to get a new one. It cost more but looks versatile.

www.stohlquist.com/apparel/drysuits/shift.html

Kokatat has one of best customer service. They'll service your suit even after the warranty, replace the cuffs, seals, repairs, etc.

Chris, see if you can try out the suit to get the correct size. I bought an XL,  I thought it was too long and too big. But after trying on Mel's Large suit, my legs were tight around the thighs. Good thing I bought an XL.

Btw, I'm 5'10", 210lbs with big thighs from being track sprinter in HS. LOL.

Just my $.02.

Thanks for the responses guys.  Lots of options out there!  I'll see if I can find a place nearby that'll allow me to try them on.  Maybe Reno or Chico?