Tom183 wrote:Done a lot of reading on this, but still some unanswered questions:
4) any drysuit users using impact vests / chest harnesses? Wondering if that is a problem with the zipper - or if it can cause problems with the zip.
5) how hard to get into a drysuit? Any special tricks there?
6) just how tight does the neck seal have to be?
Tom,
4) No problem with most manufacturer's impact vests. If you are concerned I would post a question on
our company's forum as we have a very helpful Crew of riders there who almost all are on Pyros and would likely be able to give you specific brands of impact vests they ride with.
5) Donning and Doffing the drysuit is simple. The new Pyro Surf requires a bit more finess than the other Pyros but is still far easier than a wet and sticky wetsuit. The zipper on both the
Pyro Pro and the
Pyro Surf are on the front which makes self entry a snap. The
Pyro Lite and the
Pyro Classic have their zippers on the back and do require the help of a friend to close, or the ability to hook the zipper pull on a rope or roof rack to roll your back to close it...
6) All of the seals should be "snap" tight. That is, they should never be so tight as to be uncomfortable or in any way limit your circulation. There are other threads that deal with this question too. Specifically though I address that very question
here and make mention of how important it is that the seals are laid flat against your skin for fit, comfort and adequate protection from leaks. You can also click
here and
here for other threads that relate to this question.
Tom183 wrote:I'm looking at a new suit for mainly 40-55F windchills and 45-55F water temps, with possible rides in 30-40F windchills and water temps closer to 40F... better wind protection and the fact that you can keep a thermal layer on when putting on the suit.
Drysuit. Drysuit. Drysuit.
Sorry to hammer that home but you need to be in a drysuit if you are considering riding in those conditions.
1) Longer sessions
2) Warmer feet and hands due to better core body warmth
3) Warm donning and doffing of the suit
4) Second sessions never suck, no wet and cold suit to put on
...
KiteSurfingKen wrote:I am now the proud owner of a OR Pyro Pro
Stoked Ken!
Welcome to the Crew!
KiteSurfingKen wrote:How many layers do people wear under their drysuit and what weights for 35 degree water and 35 degree air?
This question is kind of open. If you are a novice to intermediate rider and will be spending a lot of time in the water you should layer up accordingly. However, if you are an intermediate to advanced rider and spend most of your time on the water actually riding you should wear just enough underlayers to prevent you from getting a chill as you rig and get on the water. Once moving you will generate your own heat and will be loving life.
My advice would be to start out with slightly more than you think you will need and adjust accordingly until you dial in what works best for you in each situation. Because you stay dry your body core will keep you warm longer and you will find you won't need as many underlayers.
Hope this helps!
John Z - OR