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WARNING
Buoyancy control in a drysuit is more complex than in a wetsuit and is a
vital skill to be learned during the instruction in the use of a drysuit.
Loss of thermal insulation at depth
Drysuits in general provide thermal insulation by creating an air space between the
diver and the cold water.
Neoprene: in a neoprene suit, the neoprene material becomes thinner under
pressure and loses not only buoyancy at depth, but also some insulation value.
Divers planning to spend time at greater depths must account for the diminished
thermal protection at depth by wearing added undersuit protection.
Fitting the suit
Proper fit in a drysuit is very important. Too loose a fit will allow such hazards as
too much air moving around in the suit, difficult buoyancy control and if the legs
are too long, the boots can slip off the divers' feet. Seals that are too loose will
leak. Too tight a fit can result in restriction of blood flow causing loss of feeling
in the extremities, or lack of oxygen to the brain. Seals that are too tight will also
restrict blood flow.
Inflation gases
We recommend using air for inflation. Properly trained divers can use argon. Do
not use gas mixes with elevated oxygen levels, or with helium (Tri-Mix, etc.).
Helium is an excellent heat conductor, and will significantly reduce the thermal
efficiency of the suit, risking hypothermia.
Correct maintenance
A drysuit is a complex piece of equipment designed to keep a diver comfortable
in extreme conditions. Treat it with respect, maintain it correctly, and inspect it for
wear and damage BEFORE & AFTER each dive. Failure to take these precautions
may be hazardous.
Allergies
In addition to the possible allergic reaction to latex used in the neck and wrist
seals, a small percentage of people are known to experience allergic reaction to
neoprene. Although this is less of a problem with drysuits than with wetsuits, as
the diver normally wears an undersuit to separate the drysuit from his or her body
Some exposure can still result. Be sure to determine you are free from neoprene
allergy before purchasing any neoprene product.
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Contact Northern Diver
| +44 (0) 1257 25 44 44 | info@ndiver.com | www.ndiver.com
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