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Maintenance/How To Adjust: Drysuit Seals
Latex / Neoprene Neck & Wrist Seals
Some models of Northern Diver drysuits are fitted with flexible latex neck and wrist
seals for watertight integrity.
If you are in any doubt regarding your ability to trim the seal correctly, call into
Northern Diver or return your suit with instructions of how many rings you require
to be removed. This work will be carried out free of charge, but may be subject to
postage/courier charges.
WARNING
Do not trim too much, or the seals become too loose and may leak. Make
sure you cut the seals cleanly and leave no nicks that can develop into
a tear. Blood flow can be restricted by seals that are too tight, which can
ultimately lead to injury or death. Do not wear the seals too tight.
Storage & maintenance
Store the drysuit so the seals are dry, cool (below 25°C) and out of direct sunlight.
Ultraviolet light will degrade the latex over time. If the seals have been exposed
to cold temperatures, they will become stiff and lose their flexibility. This condition
is not permanent and can be resolved by a brief immersion in warm water. Before
storing the suit for any length of time, dust the seals inside and out with pure talc
(supplied in the maintenance kit) as a preservative. Do not use perfumed cosmetic
talc, as it contains oils, which can damage the latex. Do not use oils or lotion on
the seals. Avoid contact with copper.
Possible allergy risk
A small percentage of people have an allergic reaction to natural latex, the material
from which the neck and wrist seals of some models are manufactured. This
allergy can range from mild to severe skin rash and itching. It is the responsibility
of the user to pre-determine if he or she has a latex allergy, or to recognise it
during use, and discontinue use of the suit until the problem can be rectified.
This usually means removing the latex seals, and installing new seals made of
alternative materials.
NDiver Drysuit Manual | East Quarry, Appley Lane North, Appley Bridge, Wigan, WN6 9AE, UK
Trimming latex seals to fit
Latex seals have concentric raised ridges
functioning as cutting guides to assist you
to accurately trim the seals to fit. The seals
are slightly tapered so they get larger when
trimmed. Using a sharp pair of scissors,
trim one ring off at a time until the seal is
comfortable but still snug on your neck and
wrists. Use care and precision with sharp
scissors when trimming ridges. Leave a
smooth surface, as ragged edges can allow
tears to form, which will require replacement
of the seal.
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