A couple questions on ordering first drysuit

[Rukkian]

I am finally looking to take the plunge to drysuit. Pretty sure on seaskin nova, but have a few questions. I have never used a drysuit at all (plan to get training once I receive it). I have no dive shops within several hours that have drysuits, so can't really try anything first.

1. metal vs ykk plastic zip - I have seen both, any personal experiences I should know?
2. Warm neck option useful?
3. I am thinking siflex seals for the kubi?
4. I am planning on ordering the kubi ring, and I know you also have to order the glove side separately. Since I am in the us, is there a better place to order just the glove side, instead of having it shipped, since I am assuming it is universal. I check dris, but they only seem to sell the whole thing (including the part to install in the suit.
5. Any reason to move any of the valves? I see lots of options, but having never used a dry suit, I am not sure.
6. Sitech valves vs the standard apeks?
7. I already have rock boots from deep6, are the compressed neoprene socks the best option?
8. I know they say the extra protection (Bum, elbow, crutch, shoulder) is not really needed, wondering if it would be a good investment, or just a waste and add extra weight. Thinking the knee for sure, but not sure on the rest.
9. Pockets - Thinking the standard bellows on both sides, but open to opinions.

I know this is asking a lot, and I greatly appreciate any help. Just a bit overwhelmed with all the options.

 

[divezonescuba]

Get the Rolock 90 dry glove system with oval sitech replaceable cuffs.

 

[formernuke]

Do you have a shop close that will order you one?

It may be worth a long trip as fit is very important.

I personally didn't like the kubi's if your going that style the ultima is better. I'll report on the rolock system in a few weeks when my new one arrives.

 

[Marie13]

Silicone seals not latex are my preference. Get better knee pads if offered.

 

[Rukkian]

Get the Rolock 90 dry glove system with oval sitech replaceable cuffs.

Why this over kubi?

 

[Rukkian]

Do you have a shop close that will order you one?

It may be worth a long trip as fit is very important.

I personally didn't like the kubi's if your going that style the ultima is better. I'll report on the rolock system in a few weeks when my new one arrives.

If you are talking about a drysuit - I am ordering from Seaskin (at least that is the plan). That would be a long drive. I have no shops that even sell drysuits within several hours, and the shops I could go to would charge at least 1500 more (at least) for the same thing Seaskin offers. Not against getting something else, but really don't want to spend $3k on my first drysuit.

 

[formernuke]

If you are talking about a drysuit - I am ordering from Seaskin (at least that is the plan). That would be a long drive. I have no shops that even sell drysuits within several hours, and the shops I could go to would charge at least 1500 more (at least) for the same thing Seaskin offers. Not against getting something else, but really don't want to spend $3k on my first drysuit.

Ok, have someone measure you exactly as they need..... as for cost we will not discuss how much the one I just ordered was.

 

[Searcaigh]

Talk with some drysuit owners in person and see what they are using, ask them about pros and cons.

I would add to your list ;

User changeable seals that are more or less universal e.g. SiTek silicone seals.
External protection if you plan to be diving wrecks or caves, so thicker material on knees, elbows and shoulders.
A pee valve!

Happy shopping

 

[Rukkian]

Talk with some drysuit owners in person and see what they are using, ask them about pros and cons.

I would add to your list ;

User changeable seals that are more or less universal e.g. SiTek silicone seals.
External protection if you plan to be diving wrecks or caves, so thicker material on knees, elbows and shoulders.
A pee valve!

Happy shopping

Thanks. As to asking owners, that is what I am trying to do here

 

[Kohanbash]

1. Dive Rite In Scuba had a video where they said early plastic zippers had problems, but now they are good.
2. I am not sure how much it helps thermally. But it does help protect the neck seal a bit.
3. Having user replaceable silicon seals is nice. Just make sure to order the seals in advance of actually needing them.
4. Since you are new to dry suits you can get just the Kubi ring, and get the gloves later if you decide you need them. The kubi ring with silicon seals is nice (see #3 above).
9. Velcro bellows pockets are easy to open and can hold a good amount of stuff.