So what is the best way to store a Dry Suit? I've read several different ideas from folding and keeping in the bag to hanging upside down. So what has everyone found to be best? And do you leave outer zipper open or closed?
Storing a Dry Suit
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CalgaryDF
Contributor
The best way to be sure is to check with the manufacturer's instructions as it seems that different suits are different. I've been told to store it loosely rolled in an airtight bag (once dry) to help keep the latex safe from any chemicals in the air. Store it somewhere room temperature away from furnaces, or water heaters (ozone is bad for the suit).
As for the zipper, I think that depends a lot on the manufacturer.
As for the zipper, I think that depends a lot on the manufacturer.
elan
Contributor
Once mine is dry I roll it up and store in a bag. I have the outer zipper closed to have the main zipper aligned and remove any potential stress that could be applied otherwise. The functionality of the outer zipper is not deteriorated whether it's closed or open so I rather have it closed. the main zipper is always open except when I dive
skdvr
Contributor
I leave mine hanging. They are draped over a closet rod with the zippers open...
Phil
Phil
Based on expense and fragility, the zipper is probably the most important consideration in how to store your drysuit.
The New Zipper Company, Ltd (who makes BDM drysuit zippers) has recommendations for care and storage.
sealed zipper care
They recommend storing with the zipper OPEN and, if rolled up, with the zipper on the OUTside of the roll.
Otherwise, drysuit latex seals are probably the next most expensive and fragile component. Reducing the latex seals' exposure to ozone will probably help extend their life. One easy way is to store the suit in a plastic bag.
Also, washing them with soap and water before storage is very helpful, followed by dusting with unscented talc (caveat: note my conflict of interest....).
I usually store my rolled up drysuit in a nylon gym bag, but in the winter, when there might be a few weeks between dives, I put it in a plastic bag. I just roll it face down, starting with the feet, so the zipper ends up on the outside of the roll.
Hanging the suit draped over a closet rod is fine. One thing I'd avoid is hanging it on shoulder hangers which might create stress points on the shoulder seams. At least that's the rumor I've heard....
Dave C
The New Zipper Company, Ltd (who makes BDM drysuit zippers) has recommendations for care and storage.
sealed zipper care
They recommend storing with the zipper OPEN and, if rolled up, with the zipper on the OUTside of the roll.
Otherwise, drysuit latex seals are probably the next most expensive and fragile component. Reducing the latex seals' exposure to ozone will probably help extend their life. One easy way is to store the suit in a plastic bag.
Also, washing them with soap and water before storage is very helpful, followed by dusting with unscented talc (caveat: note my conflict of interest....).
I usually store my rolled up drysuit in a nylon gym bag, but in the winter, when there might be a few weeks between dives, I put it in a plastic bag. I just roll it face down, starting with the feet, so the zipper ends up on the outside of the roll.
Hanging the suit draped over a closet rod is fine. One thing I'd avoid is hanging it on shoulder hangers which might create stress points on the shoulder seams. At least that's the rumor I've heard....
Dave C
Last edited:
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