What is the easiest way to get on a Mares Isotherm Semidry?

[bjbfl]

I just got a Mares isotherm semidry suit. I've never used anything but a basic wetsuit before. It is really easy to get in and out of the legs and armsof the semidry..and pretty easy to get my head through the neck seal when I put the suit on...but it sure seems hard to get my head back out taking off the suit! Any clues? Thanks!

 

[Sonofasailor]

lemme guess...it feels like its ripping your face off when you take off the neck seal? I just got one a couple weeks ago, haven't figured out any trick to it other than holding it open with both hands and making sure I get my nose through first. I guess its something I can live with since its a really warm suit. Let us know how you like it, what kind of temps do you normally dive?

 

[crpntr133]

Since there are a couple of version of Mares Semi's I will assume that you have the one with the dry zip across the shoulders. With mine I just grab the zipper, duck my head and pull the zipper over. All in one motion with no problems.

 

[bjbfl]

Thanks. I will give that a try.

 

[bjbfl]

Yes, that was the feeling.
To answer your question about temps diving...I am planning to use this suit to dive in the Gulf during the winter. We go out of Clearwater/Tarpon Springs.

 

[RAD Diver]

My wife & I both have the older style Mares semi-dry suit, I have no problem pulling off over head, I have pretty short hair & do a quick pull off. My wife had longer hair & was always fighting it. She cut her hair & it is easier for her.
I have dove mine in 42 degree water, but now that I have a drysuit it doesn't see those temps anymore.

 

[crpntr133]

A braid works great for longer hair. Never had that problem but have seen it done.

 

[CODMAN]

I have absolutely no idea if this would work, but it might be worth considering. When doning my wetsuits, I use a plastic shopping bag over my feet and lower calves which makes slipping the wetsuit on a sinch! Could this be used with the semi-dry over your head? I believe the colar isn't the same material as a wetsuit (it's rubber isn't it?), but could it work? Obviously, If you try it, please do it carefully and with somebody to supervise/ assist in case you get stuck, so you don't suffocate.

This might be lowsy advice (take it for what it's worth), but I am just trying to help out with a trick that works for another circumstance (wetsuits).

Good luck!