Review NEO Hood

[Chris H]

I just returned from a week in MX cave diving. The last time I did this trip, I developed jaw issues, and I was in the hunt for something that would help me complete the week of diving without having to force my jaw open after a dive.
Because the description specifically mentioned less jaw fatigue, I purchased a 5mm NEO hood from the Fathom CCR people, and it is awesome! This hood is softer and flexible than any hood I’ve ever used. I was in the water 19hr and 42 minutes last week and I didn’t have any jaw issues the entire week. I have previously used Bare, Waterproof, Otter Bay and probably a few others. I’m very fond of my 8mm K01, but I will probably order an 11mm NEO for cold water. Yeah, they are more expensive than other hoods, but I assure you they cost much less than the appointments with the jaw specialist and the mouthpiece I wear daily.
I also switched to a comfobite mouth piece and added an OmniSwivel to my long hose. Those things may have also helped with jaw fatigue. I’m also thrilled with my Seaskin Nova drysuit, but that is a different thread.

 

[Ulfhedinn]

I concur hole heartedly. Just a got a 5... XL for my big noggin and I love it.... and I hate hoods because of the jaw fatigue. Let us know how the 11 fits. Wanna have something for ice diving next year.

 

[RobPNW]

Do you think the cold water version would be full face mask friendly?

 

[grantctobin]

Do you think the cold water version would be full face mask friendly?

I’m not sure why you have any interest in using an FFM for cold water diving (outside of communications for working/salvage/rescue dives), but you’ll most likely have to trim the hood considerably.

Second Chris opinion; the NEO hoods beat out waterproof, otter bay, definitely Santi, etc. I adore my 11mm.

 

[Ulfhedinn]

I agree with @grantctobin. Would probably require some trimming. @grantctobin do you have the 5mm also and if so does it fit the same? I'm just worried I'm gonna get the 11m and its going to be snug again on my jaw.

 

[grantctobin]

I agree with @grantctobin. Would probably require some trimming. @grantctobin do you have the 5mm also and if so does it fit the same? I'm just worried I'm gonna get the 11m and its going to be snug again on my jaw.

Only the 11 I’m afraid

 

[Chris H]

Only the 11 I’m afraid

The 11 wasn’t as jaw friendly as the 5, but I was also on CCR, not OC. I have only used the 11mm on one dive. I may be in Lake Michigan this weekend to give it another try. I actually considered 2 fives, because they are soooo flexible.

 

[flymolo]

I love my neo hood. no jaw fatigue like i had with the k01s (which i also loved)

 

[Lorenzoid]

I don't experience jaw fatigue with my K01, but the K01 does seem too tight in the face and neck, giving me the "chipmunk cheeks" and pressing against my windpipe. Any idea if the Neo would help alleviate this?

 

[Chris H]

I don't experience jaw fatigue with my K01, but the K01 does seem too tight in the face and neck, giving me the "chipmunk cheeks" and pressing against my windpipe. Any idea if the Neo would help alleviate this?

I have a big head. I ordered my 8mm K01 in XXL, and my 11mm NEO in XL. The KO1 is probably a little big on me. Sometimes I get jaw pain and sometimes I don't with the KO1. Usually I dive CCR with the thick hoods. The BOV and loop hoses are likely contributing to my issues. I don't know that the NEO has a bigger neck on it. I think KO1 offers custom hoods?