What Is a Drysuit and Why Is It Essential for Cold Water Adventures?
So, you’ve been bitten by the watersports bug. You love the thrill of the whitewater rapids, the open seawater or the serenity of a flat-water lake, but as the seasons change, the water temperature drops and the desire to get wet starts to wane. Here at NorthShore Watersports, we say don’t let winter deter you from getting out on the water or from your newly found passion!
You may have heard seasoned paddlers talk about “drysuits,” but you aren’t quite sure if you need one, how they differ from wetsuits, or why they cost what they do.
Simply put, a drysuit is a specialised waterproof garment that seals off your entire body (except your head and hands) to keep you completely dry while in the water. In this guide, we will break down exactly how drysuits work, the high-tech materials they use, how to use them, how to get the perfect fit, and answer the most common questions we get here at NorthShore Watersports so that you can extend your paddling season right through winter.
Key Takeaways
- Drysuits keep you dry, not warm: They act as a waterproof shell, relying on the layers you wear underneath to trap heat and insulate your body.
- Material matters for your activity: Whitewater paddlers generally need robust 4-layer fabrics with latex seals, while SUP and touring fans benefit from lighter 2.5-layer fabrics with comfortable neoprene necks.
- Fit is critical for safety: A drysuit should feel loose to accommodate thermal layers, but the neck and wrist seals must be tight to prevent water ingress.
Jump to:
- What is a drysuit?
- How do drysuits work, and what are drysuits made of?
- Drysuit water and cold protection
- What are drysuits used for?: Your FAQs answered
- Find the right fit with your drysuit
What is a drysuit?
Unlike a wetsuit, which traps a thin layer of water against your skin to be warmed by your body heat, a drysuit is designed to keep all water out. It is essentially a loose-fitting, heavy-duty waterproof shell.
Because the suit itself offers very little insulation, its primary job is to create a sealed environment. This design allows you to wear thermal clothing underneath, which is where the actual warmth comes from. This “air gap” insulation is far more effective in freezing conditions than the “wet” insulation of a wetsuit.
Read more about the differences between a wetsuit and a drysuit in our comparison guide: “Wetsuit vs. Drysuit: Which Winter Armour is Better for Cold Water Adventure?“
How do drysuits work, and what are drysuits made of?
In simple terms, drysuits work by combining waterproof fabrics with watertight seals (gaskets) at the neck, wrists, and ankles.
The fabric and layering system
It’s important to note that not all drysuits are built the same, and manufacturers will use different weights, layering systems and features depending on the intended use, for example:
- 2.5-Layer fabric: This membrane is typically lighter and more flexible. We recommend these for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), sailing or recreational touring, where weight reduction, ease of movement, and low cost are your priorities.
- 4-Layer fabric: This is the heavy-duty option. If you are hitting the whitewater, you need a 4-layer suit. These drysuits are thicker and more durable to withstand the abrasion of rocks and high-pressure water.
Waterproof clothing can trap sweat. But, it’s good to know that all the drysuits we stock at NorthShore Watersports feature breathable panels to let sweat escape. However, if you’re looking for a fully breathable Gore-Tex drysuit, they do exist; however, they are significantly more expensive. We focus on stocking high-quality alternatives that offer excellent performance without the extreme price tag.
The Seals (Neck & Wrists)
The neck seal is often the biggest point of confusion for beginners, so here is all the information you need:
- Latex seals: These are very tight and offer the ultimate waterproof seal. They are standard for whitewater suits where rolling and submersion are guaranteed. Note: Latex can be uncomfortable and degrade more quickly when used frequently in salt water.
- Neoprene seals: Found on most sea kayaking and entry-level suits (like the Typhoon range). Neoprene is softer, more comfortable for long days, and handles saltwater better than latex, though it isn’t quite as bone-dry as latex during a chaotic capsize.
For specific recommendations for the perfect drysuit for your watersport, read our guide: “The Best Drysuit for Your Water Sport: Your Ultimate Guide.“
Drysuit water and cold protection
Here is everything you need to know about drysuits and their water and cold-proofing protection.
Are drysuits waterproof, and do drysuits keep you dry?
Yes. If the seals are intact and the zippers are closed correctly, a drysuit is 100% waterproof.
Do drysuits keep you warm?
Technically, no. A drysuit keeps you dry. The warmth comes from the thermal layers you wear underneath. Think of the drysuit as a wind- and rainproof jacket; it keeps the elements out, but you still need a fleece underneath to stay warm.
What are drysuits used for?: Your FAQs answered
Here are the questions we get asked most often in the shop, regarding how to use a drysuit.
Do I need a drysuit for kayaking?
In the height of summer? Probably not. But if you plan to paddle year-round in the UK, absolutely! A drysuit is a safety essential for winter paddling or cold water environments to prevent cold shock and hypothermia.
Can you surf or swim in a drysuit?
Generally, no. Drysuits are baggy and create drag, making swimming for exercise or surfing difficult. They are designed for surface watersports like kayaking, canoeing, and SUP, where you are mostly on the water rather than in it. If you partake in coldwater swimming or winter surfing, we recommend wearing wetsuits.
What do you wear under a drysuit, and can you wear a wetsuit under a drysuit?
Firstly, there is no need to wear a wetsuit under your drysuit. A wetsuit needs to be wet to work; inside a drysuit, it will just be heavy and sweaty, causing chafing. You need not worry about getting your clothes wet, as a drysuit is 100% waterproof.
Instead, wear moisture-wicking thermals (base layers) and fleece “onesies” or separates underneath. Avoid cotton, as it stays cold when damp from sweat. Browse our range of thermal tops, bottoms or bodysuits to stay warm throughout your winter watersports.
How does a drysuit pee valve/relief zip work?
When you’re layered up in a drysuit, going to the loo is a challenge; however, the best drysuit manufacturers have accounted for this.
- Relief Zips: Found on men’s suits (usually over £500), these are small waterproof zippers at the front allowing for easy relief.
- Drop Seats: The equivalent for ladies, typically a curved zipper at the back hips.
The Hinged System: Brands like Typhoon introduced a clever “hinge” entry system at the waist. This design makes the suit easier to put on and doubles as a relief opening, keeping costs down by avoiding extra expensive zippers.
Find the right fit with your drysuit
Follow these recommendations to find the perfect drysuit fit.
How should a drysuit fit?
When deciding on your drysuit sizing, be aware that it should feel baggy! You aren’t looking for a fashion statement; you are looking for freedom of movement. You need enough room to wear thick thermal layers underneath without restricting your paddle stroke. When you squat down, the suit shouldn’t pull tight at the back.
How tight should a drysuit neck seal be?
Make sure that the neck seal is snug, but not choking.
- Latex neck seals: Often come with rings to trim them to size. It should be tight enough to stop water, but if your face turns red or you feel lightheaded, it is too tight!
- Neoprene neck seals: Should sit flush against the skin without gaps.
Summary
Understanding drysuits isn’t just about gear—it’s about unlocking adventure. When you have the right drysuit, you stop worrying about the cold water and start focusing on your technique and the scenery. It transforms paddling from a summer hobby into a year-round passion.
At NorthShore Watersports, we pride ourselves on offering the best range of drysuits from top brands such as Typhoon, Palm, and Peak. Whether you need a rugged whitewater suit or a comfortable touring suit with a neoprene neck, we have the expertise to help you choose.
A drysuit is an investment in your safety and your enjoyment. It is the barrier between you and the freezing elements, allowing you to paddle whitewater or explore the coast in comfort.
Shop drysuits at NorthShore Watersports
Ready to find your perfect fit? Browse our extensive range of Drysuits, or pop into our store at the Tees Barrage to chat with our experts and see the difference between latex and neoprene seals for yourself.
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