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The warm neck, simple or standard, option is fantastic for short bibs. Tuck the bib into it (outside the neck seal) and it makes the water exchange against your neck almost zero. That in combination with the silicone neck is fantastic for cold water.
I also curious about the rockboots. I don't know what size I need to order I wear 42-42 1/2 normal shoesDrysuit qualified and finally gearing up to purchase my first drysuit !! Have proudly completed the mammoth read of this thread, but still debating some questions and features......
- P-Valve - My main cause for concern. Split between Trigon or Light Monkey “Tinkle”. Leaning towards and happy to pay the extra for the LM “Tinkle”, but why is it so much more expensive?
Seen lots of people voicing support for both. Is one of them best for beginners / people new to P-Valves / people inexperienced in equipment maintenance? What are the main distinctions between them?
Does the Tinkle come with a Quick Disconnect? What exactly does that enable?
One of my concerns about having a P-Valve is: how do you pee when you’re on land and already hooked up? Is it possible? Easy enough? Does the Quick Disconnect play a role in that?
Anyone wish they’d got a convenience zip instead? Or in addition to the P-Valve.
I’ve never used a P-Valve and know nothing about them, so forgive my lack of knowledge, it’s kind of intimidating to think of getting one. I think I’ll definitely be needing one though - I can just about (barely) hold it in until doffing gear, but the struggle isn't worth it and poses a risk underwater imho, if not at least a load of stress and anxiety which impairs the whole diving experience. Reading through here and other threads I’ve been rather confused and overwhelmed by all the related information and parts. If there’s a P-Valve 101 video or something people could recommend to a complete P-Newb that would be great.
- Change Zip to Left - I haven’t seen many people choose this option. Is it recommended? Any reason not to? I saw it suggested to potentially help reduce stiffness around the left shoulder due to the dump valve being there. I’m left-handed, so imagine I'd benefit from it.
- PU Padding Reinforcements - I am set on getting the Kevlar Knees (No Logo). Originally considered the other PU Padding, but now not so much…I have seen multiple suggestions that getting the PU is a risky choice due to the danger of leakage around the seams, especially for the Crotch area. That, as well as stiffness and difficulty for repairs. I’ve also seen suggestions that there’s not necessarily a need for it, as stated by Seaskin themselves.
I don’t dive BP/W or Twin Set yet and don’t know when / if I will start - would the reinforcements be a necessity if I eventually do?
- Boots/Socks - Having originally considered getting tech boots, I’m now set on getting socks ‘n rocks. I’ve only ever used integrated boots before, so I am curious and hope it will help with my floaty feet struggle. The rock boots also look pretty cool.
Does anyone who got integrated boots wish they’d got socks? Or any who got socks wish they’d got integrated boots?
- Rock Boots - for those who got these (or other rock boots), did you order them in your regular size? Or did you size up to accommodate socks? Haven’t seen if Seaskin has any official recommendation on this.
- Neck Ring and Seal, and Warm Neck - For now I’m set on the SiFlex Quick Neck, Warm Neck (Simple) and Silicon Neck Seals. Though I like what people have said about the Waterproof Neoprene Neck (compatible with the Quick Neck). If I go with what I’m leaning towards for now, would it be a simple enough procedure to swap out for the WP Neo Neck at a later date if I wanted? Is it still possible to have the WP Neo Neck with the Warm Neck?
Also, what do people think of Simple vs Standard Warm Neck?
- Neck/Wrist Seals - I really like the look of the blue silicon seals against the black suit, but I read here that the blue seals are rumoured to be less durable than the black seals…is this true? Has anyone had trouble with the blues?
- Hoods - any recommendations? I don’t like what I’ve seen about the SS Hood so far, so I’m open to getting something else. Something compatible with my Neck system / Warm Neck and warm enough for UK diving. Bib / Non-Bib?
- Undergarments - Think I’ll get the Base Layers. Considering 150 + 250 for variety and choice depending on season and comfort. Is it worth me getting these through SS? I do like that they’d be MTM, but I’ve seen people complain about the size and fit - either too tight and easily liable to rip, or too large with silly amounts of excess material. Should I instead look into 4thE and maybe Weezle Extreme, too? I am getting the extra thick allowance. New to all of this so really have no idea on what’s best for me and UK diving. Happy to splash out and get all these through SS initially before finding what might work better though.
- Dryglove System - Getting the Kubis but fairly clueless about drygloves and the system; I've only used them once. I understand I need to measure my hands and fit, and that I’ll be wearing liners underneath the gloves (?). Why is there glove equalisation and what do you need to do for it?
- Miflex LP Hose - what’s the benefit of this?
- SiTech VEGA Inflation Valve - I’m not getting this but just curious if anyone else did.
- Extras - can somebody confirm what extras I should expect to automatically receive in the order? Talc, Zip Grease Tube (for YKK zip), SiFlex Ring Tool, Manuals … anything else? Valve tool? P-Valve stuff?
- Trilobyte - do people recommend getting one? Which position is favoured? Are there any cons of having one?
- Glow Patches - ......anyone?
- Reflective Tapes - are people glad they got them? Does anyone wish they hadn’t? Or wish they had? Originally thought I’d get them but not so sure I'm keen on them now (at least aesthetically).
- Badge - has anyone managed to get a picture badge sewn onto their suit without a name and flag? I want my Name and Picture on my Bag, and only the Picture on the Suit, but don’t know if there’s a procedure to request this.
Any cons or chance of leakage from getting a badge?
Thanks
As per Trigon vs LM. I have used both, both work as inteneded. LM on my current suit because why not try somethiong new.Drysuit qualified and finally gearing up to purchase my first drysuit !! Have proudly completed the mammoth read of this thread, but still debating some questions and features......
- P-Valve - My main cause for concern. Split between Trigon or Light Monkey “Tinkle”. Leaning towards and happy to pay the extra for the LM “Tinkle”, but why is it so much more expensive?
Seen lots of people voicing support for both. Is one of them best for beginners / people new to P-Valves / people inexperienced in equipment maintenance? What are the main distinctions between them?
Does the Tinkle come with a Quick Disconnect? What exactly does that enable?
One of my concerns about having a P-Valve is: how do you pee when you’re on land and already hooked up? Is it possible? Easy enough? Does the Quick Disconnect play a role in that?
Anyone wish they’d got a convenience zip instead? Or in addition to the P-Valve.
I’ve never used a P-Valve and know nothing about them, so forgive my lack of knowledge, it’s kind of intimidating to think of getting one. I think I’ll definitely be needing one though - I can just about (barely) hold it in until doffing gear, but the struggle isn't worth it and poses a risk underwater imho, if not at least a load of stress and anxiety which impairs the whole diving experience. Reading through here and other threads I’ve been rather confused and overwhelmed by all the related information and parts. If there’s a P-Valve 101 video or something people could recommend to a complete P-Newb that would be great.
- Change Zip to Left - I haven’t seen many people choose this option. Is it recommended? Any reason not to? I saw it suggested to potentially help reduce stiffness around the left shoulder due to the dump valve being there. I’m left-handed, so imagine I'd benefit from it.
- PU Padding Reinforcements - I am set on getting the Kevlar Knees (No Logo). Originally considered the other PU Padding, but now not so much…I have seen multiple suggestions that getting the PU is a risky choice due to the danger of leakage around the seams, especially for the Crotch area. That, as well as stiffness and difficulty for repairs. I’ve also seen suggestions that there’s not necessarily a need for it, as stated by Seaskin themselves.
I don’t dive BP/W or Twin Set yet and don’t know when / if I will start - would the reinforcements be a necessity if I eventually do?
- Boots/Socks - Having originally considered getting tech boots, I’m now set on getting socks ‘n rocks. I’ve only ever used integrated boots before, so I am curious and hope it will help with my floaty feet struggle. The rock boots also look pretty cool.
Does anyone who got integrated boots wish they’d got socks? Or any who got socks wish they’d got integrated boots?
- Rock Boots - for those who got these (or other rock boots), did you order them in your regular size? Or did you size up to accommodate socks? Haven’t seen if Seaskin has any official recommendation on this.
- Neck Ring and Seal, and Warm Neck - For now I’m set on the SiFlex Quick Neck, Warm Neck (Simple) and Silicon Neck Seals. Though I like what people have said about the Waterproof Neoprene Neck (compatible with the Quick Neck). If I go with what I’m leaning towards for now, would it be a simple enough procedure to swap out for the WP Neo Neck at a later date if I wanted? Is it still possible to have the WP Neo Neck with the Warm Neck?
Also, what do people think of Simple vs Standard Warm Neck?
- Neck/Wrist Seals - I really like the look of the blue silicon seals against the black suit, but I read here that the blue seals are rumoured to be less durable than the black seals…is this true? Has anyone had trouble with the blues?
- Hoods - any recommendations? I don’t like what I’ve seen about the SS Hood so far, so I’m open to getting something else. Something compatible with my Neck system / Warm Neck and warm enough for UK diving. Bib / Non-Bib?
- Undergarments - Think I’ll get the Base Layers. Considering 150 + 250 for variety and choice depending on season and comfort. Is it worth me getting these through SS? I do like that they’d be MTM, but I’ve seen people complain about the size and fit - either too tight and easily liable to rip, or too large with silly amounts of excess material. Should I instead look into 4thE and maybe Weezle Extreme, too? I am getting the extra thick allowance. New to all of this so really have no idea on what’s best for me and UK diving. Happy to splash out and get all these through SS initially before finding what might work better though.
- Dryglove System - Getting the Kubis but fairly clueless about drygloves and the system; I've only used them once. I understand I need to measure my hands and fit, and that I’ll be wearing liners underneath the gloves (?). Why is there glove equalisation and what do you need to do for it?
- Miflex LP Hose - what’s the benefit of this?
- SiTech VEGA Inflation Valve - I’m not getting this but just curious if anyone else did.
- Extras - can somebody confirm what extras I should expect to automatically receive in the order? Talc, Zip Grease Tube (for YKK zip), SiFlex Ring Tool, Manuals … anything else? Valve tool? P-Valve stuff?
- Trilobyte - do people recommend getting one? Which position is favoured? Are there any cons of having one?
- Glow Patches - ......anyone?
- Reflective Tapes - are people glad they got them? Does anyone wish they hadn’t? Or wish they had? Originally thought I’d get them but not so sure I'm keen on them now (at least aesthetically).
- Badge - has anyone managed to get a picture badge sewn onto their suit without a name and flag? I want my Name and Picture on my Bag, and only the Picture on the Suit, but don’t know if there’s a procedure to request this.
Any cons or chance of leakage from getting a badge?
Thanks
I have the trigon pee valve, zero issues, never had a leak or anything, can't comment on the LM. The QD is super nice for putting the condom cath on at home, with the QD, then when you get to the site gear up and "click in". I have done this when diving in groups, just find a quiet area, and real quick you are done. Wouldn't add a convenience zip, zippers are the most expensive failure point, and I wouldn't think you will use it nearly as much as you think. Even in the super cold with lots of layers its not that hard to unzip and pull things down. I also wouldn't be sure I could fish things through as thick of layers as I wear in the winter here in Michigan. Left vs Right zip I haven't seen anyone do, I suppose it would be personal preference, but never had any issues with stiffness once geared up, never noticed it. I did PU padding on the shoulders, elbows, and kevlar knee pads. However with what I do in my suit you may be literally crawling on the bottom so extra durability was a must, so far no leaks or damage. I have the neoprene socks, won't ever switch back, allow for a ton of variety of layers. As for the rock boots themselves, I use the cheap knock off converse shoes, rip out the insides until its just rubber and canvas, those have worked great and for $15 a pair can be replaced easily. The standard warm neck is kind of annoying, but it seems to work fine once its on. I haven't used the simple, but I do like being able to un-velcro the sides when donning/doffing. I use blue seals, only ever ripped one and I hadn't cut my finger nails in a while, ended up going right through when pulling the seal back with the other hand. I use a waterproof brand sandwich style hood, for use with FFM. Works great. If you are gonna get the warm necks, then get a bibbed hood since they can be tucked in for a great deal more warmth. No comment on SS undergarments, have a 4th element Halo AR, works decent enough, but I don't think I would pay full price, just try some normal outdoors base layers and thicker fleeces, that will help you get a feel for what you actually need to buy for your conditions. I use USMC surplus waffle tops and bottoms into the 60s and have dove just those to 45 degrees on accident and was OK for about 20 minutes. I use those and 4th element halo ar to 35-45 degrees for an hour and am not cold at all. No comment on kubis, I use rolock. The equalization is since you have a wrist seal still, you are effectively trapping air in the hands, much like the dry suit if you don't add air you get a squeeze, so these tubes allow air to flow so that you can equalize the squeeze. No real benefit to Miflex as far as I can tell, I like mine cause I think it looks cooler and I use Miflex for everything else. Your suit may already come with Miflex hose though, I didn't pay extra and got one. I don't recall what extras I got. I have a trilobite on my left pocket, works OK, up to you if you need it on drysuit or gear. I wear my suit without gear on occasion and its nice to always have a quick access cutting tool. Have glow patches, work good for lower vis and night time, teammates have said they helped me be seen, also have the reflective kit. Badges are easy, email them and or call them and they can accommodate whatever, they can also do whatever custom things you can think of, but it might cost you. I had them add a shears pocket on my front right thigh and it has worked pretty good so far, just had to email them.Drysuit qualified and finally gearing up to purchase my first drysuit !! Have proudly completed the mammoth read of this thread, but still debating some questions and features......
- P-Valve - My main cause for concern. Split between Trigon or Light Monkey “Tinkle”. Leaning towards and happy to pay the extra for the LM “Tinkle”, but why is it so much more expensive?
Seen lots of people voicing support for both. Is one of them best for beginners / people new to P-Valves / people inexperienced in equipment maintenance? What are the main distinctions between them?
Does the Tinkle come with a Quick Disconnect? What exactly does that enable?
One of my concerns about having a P-Valve is: how do you pee when you’re on land and already hooked up? Is it possible? Easy enough? Does the Quick Disconnect play a role in that?
Anyone wish they’d got a convenience zip instead? Or in addition to the P-Valve.
I’ve never used a P-Valve and know nothing about them, so forgive my lack of knowledge, it’s kind of intimidating to think of getting one. I think I’ll definitely be needing one though - I can just about (barely) hold it in until doffing gear, but the struggle isn't worth it and poses a risk underwater imho, if not at least a load of stress and anxiety which impairs the whole diving experience. Reading through here and other threads I’ve been rather confused and overwhelmed by all the related information and parts. If there’s a P-Valve 101 video or something people could recommend to a complete P-Newb that would be great.
- Change Zip to Left - I haven’t seen many people choose this option. Is it recommended? Any reason not to? I saw it suggested to potentially help reduce stiffness around the left shoulder due to the dump valve being there. I’m left-handed, so imagine I'd benefit from it.
- PU Padding Reinforcements - I am set on getting the Kevlar Knees (No Logo). Originally considered the other PU Padding, but now not so much…I have seen multiple suggestions that getting the PU is a risky choice due to the danger of leakage around the seams, especially for the Crotch area. That, as well as stiffness and difficulty for repairs. I’ve also seen suggestions that there’s not necessarily a need for it, as stated by Seaskin themselves.
I don’t dive BP/W or Twin Set yet and don’t know when / if I will start - would the reinforcements be a necessity if I eventually do?
- Boots/Socks - Having originally considered getting tech boots, I’m now set on getting socks ‘n rocks. I’ve only ever used integrated boots before, so I am curious and hope it will help with my floaty feet struggle. The rock boots also look pretty cool.
Does anyone who got integrated boots wish they’d got socks? Or any who got socks wish they’d got integrated boots?
- Rock Boots - for those who got these (or other rock boots), did you order them in your regular size? Or did you size up to accommodate socks? Haven’t seen if Seaskin has any official recommendation on this.
- Neck Ring and Seal, and Warm Neck - For now I’m set on the SiFlex Quick Neck, Warm Neck (Simple) and Silicon Neck Seals. Though I like what people have said about the Waterproof Neoprene Neck (compatible with the Quick Neck). If I go with what I’m leaning towards for now, would it be a simple enough procedure to swap out for the WP Neo Neck at a later date if I wanted? Is it still possible to have the WP Neo Neck with the Warm Neck?
Also, what do people think of Simple vs Standard Warm Neck?
- Neck/Wrist Seals - I really like the look of the blue silicon seals against the black suit, but I read here that the blue seals are rumoured to be less durable than the black seals…is this true? Has anyone had trouble with the blues?
- Hoods - any recommendations? I don’t like what I’ve seen about the SS Hood so far, so I’m open to getting something else. Something compatible with my Neck system / Warm Neck and warm enough for UK diving. Bib / Non-Bib?
- Undergarments - Think I’ll get the Base Layers. Considering 150 + 250 for variety and choice depending on season and comfort. Is it worth me getting these through SS? I do like that they’d be MTM, but I’ve seen people complain about the size and fit - either too tight and easily liable to rip, or too large with silly amounts of excess material. Should I instead look into 4thE and maybe Weezle Extreme, too? I am getting the extra thick allowance. New to all of this so really have no idea on what’s best for me and UK diving. Happy to splash out and get all these through SS initially before finding what might work better though.
- Dryglove System - Getting the Kubis but fairly clueless about drygloves and the system; I've only used them once. I understand I need to measure my hands and fit, and that I’ll be wearing liners underneath the gloves (?). Why is there glove equalisation and what do you need to do for it?
- Miflex LP Hose - what’s the benefit of this?
- SiTech VEGA Inflation Valve - I’m not getting this but just curious if anyone else did.
- Extras - can somebody confirm what extras I should expect to automatically receive in the order? Talc, Zip Grease Tube (for YKK zip), SiFlex Ring Tool, Manuals … anything else? Valve tool? P-Valve stuff?
- Trilobyte - do people recommend getting one? Which position is favoured? Are there any cons of having one?
- Glow Patches - ......anyone?
- Reflective Tapes - are people glad they got them? Does anyone wish they hadn’t? Or wish they had? Originally thought I’d get them but not so sure I'm keen on them now (at least aesthetically).
- Badge - has anyone managed to get a picture badge sewn onto their suit without a name and flag? I want my Name and Picture on my Bag, and only the Picture on the Suit, but don’t know if there’s a procedure to request this.
Any cons or chance of leakage from getting a badge?
Thanks
