I have an Aqualung Fusion AirCore (Tec version) and am very happy with it so far. Aqualung bought Whites diving which developed and sold the original version.
It is an unusual drysuit in that it has an inner and outer part:
- The inner part is the "core" and is the waterproof bag to keep you dry. It has SiTech replaceable silicone neck and wrist seals. You can replace the seals in a matter of minutes, so, as long as you have a spare, you won't lose a trip due to a torn seal. Mine is the newer AirCore version and uses waterproof, breathable fabric that is easier to get in and out of. (Warning, there was a batch of AirCores that were made in Mexico and I got one which was replaced under warranty with a Canada-built one. My suggestion is to make sure that any AirCore is a made in Canada version.) The older version is the DryCore.
- the outer part is the "skin" which is deliberately stretchy to help the suit keep snug over whatever undergarments you wear and not let the generously cut core blow up with excess air. Skins for the older DryCore and newer AirCores are not properly interchangeable as the AirCore versions attach at the chest with zippers and the DryCores with velcro. There are 4 skin versions going from lightest and most flexible to heavier and more durable, there are Sport, Tech, Bullet, and KV1 (KV1 is from Aqualung's Apeks tech-oriented division and has Kevlar for enhanced wear resistance.) All have thigh pockets except the Sport.
They seem to be a love it or hate it thing. I like that it stays more fitted from rashguard to heavy arctic undergarments.
On thing of note, the SiTech oval wrist seal system seems to have the most variety of Dry-glove system options. In addition to the Fusions, many drysuits have them as an option. I use Waterproof Ultima rings and Showa 720 gloves and have been very happy. A newer Rolock90 system is out and seems to be reviewed as even better.
There are several hjghly-detailed threads discussing the compatible ring systems and gloves.
It is an unusual drysuit in that it has an inner and outer part:
- The inner part is the "core" and is the waterproof bag to keep you dry. It has SiTech replaceable silicone neck and wrist seals. You can replace the seals in a matter of minutes, so, as long as you have a spare, you won't lose a trip due to a torn seal. Mine is the newer AirCore version and uses waterproof, breathable fabric that is easier to get in and out of. (Warning, there was a batch of AirCores that were made in Mexico and I got one which was replaced under warranty with a Canada-built one. My suggestion is to make sure that any AirCore is a made in Canada version.) The older version is the DryCore.
- the outer part is the "skin" which is deliberately stretchy to help the suit keep snug over whatever undergarments you wear and not let the generously cut core blow up with excess air. Skins for the older DryCore and newer AirCores are not properly interchangeable as the AirCore versions attach at the chest with zippers and the DryCores with velcro. There are 4 skin versions going from lightest and most flexible to heavier and more durable, there are Sport, Tech, Bullet, and KV1 (KV1 is from Aqualung's Apeks tech-oriented division and has Kevlar for enhanced wear resistance.) All have thigh pockets except the Sport.
They seem to be a love it or hate it thing. I like that it stays more fitted from rashguard to heavy arctic undergarments.
On thing of note, the SiTech oval wrist seal system seems to have the most variety of Dry-glove system options. In addition to the Fusions, many drysuits have them as an option. I use Waterproof Ultima rings and Showa 720 gloves and have been very happy. A newer Rolock90 system is out and seems to be reviewed as even better.
There are several hjghly-detailed threads discussing the compatible ring systems and gloves.
