[greenscales]

Once again Jim provides us w/great information for the kayak community. However you need to be aware of the extreme variety of features in all of the kayak "dry" gear.

Bottom half - Breathable vs. Neoprene waders, Farmer John wetsuits, and paddle pants. The first 3 are pretty common, the paddle pants are similar to breathable waders, but have open feet w/various ankle seals, and sometimes fit over cuffs. They are used with various neoprene booties that should create a decent seal w/the legs. They are shorter in the waist and work better with a top that has a double tunnel seal. I like these for spring conditions and create more freedom of movement. Easier on and off, allowing you to launch in the AM then slip off as it warms up. It also allows you take care of business if needed for long days on the water - that or get breathable waders with the zip down front - awesome if made well. On the waders, look for reinforced seats/fore legs, to get greater life -- see the darker material on Jim's waders in the video.

The tops - the extreme dry tops can be too much when it comes to heating up while paddling. They usually have too much of a seal in the neck that doesn't open up enough to breathe and can bother the skin or heavier beards - however they have better seals in the wrists. I hate water running down into the arms, creating a soggy shirt sleeves under the top. The splash tops often have seals that are too weak if you launch through heavy surf or on cold/windy days. Semi-Drys are usually a good happy medium. The thing to consider is the double tunnel, an inner sleeve at the waist that usually tightens with a draw string that goes inside the waders/bottoms. Then the outer sleeve is heavier with draw strings or Velcro strap closures around the abdomen. However the inner sleeve does not work well with chest waders that are too high or if you use the suspenders.

The double tunnel was originally designed to fit over sit-inside kayaks cockpit gaskets. I have used them in winter conditions on windy lakes and really appreciate how it kept the water/weather out and made me feel more connected to the kayak. A great option for Lobster fishing and in fog/rain are Hoodie splash jackets. I just bough an Extrasport model that has a modified (shortened) double tunnel w/a waterproof front zipper, adjustable hood w/bill, and side access zippers that can be used to vent while paddling or putting your hands in to keep warm. Only weakness are wrist gaskets that do not seal out enough water.

I hope the information proves to be helpful. Invest in better products, if you go cheap, the lack of durability will cost more in multiple replacements. Consider your most extreme conditions, not your average day.

Tight Lines,
Greenscales