A dry suit keeps you dry by providing a watertight barrier between your body and the surrounding water. This is achieved through a combination of waterproof materials and seals at the neck and wrists.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
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Waterproof Material: Dry suits are constructed from waterproof fabrics like neoprene, rubber-coated fabric, or trilaminate materials. These materials prevent water from penetrating the suit.
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Watertight Seals: The most crucial aspect of a dry suit's dryness is its seals. These seals are typically made of latex or silicone and are located at the neck and wrists. They create a snug, watertight fit around these openings, preventing water from entering.
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Watertight Zipper: Dry suits usually have a special waterproof zipper to allow entry and exit. These zippers are designed to be completely watertight when closed. Maintaining the zipper correctly is important.
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Proper Fit: A dry suit needs to fit correctly to ensure the seals work effectively. If the neck or wrist seals are too loose, water can leak in.
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Air Inflation (Optional): Some dry suits allow you to inflate a layer of air between your body and the suit. This provides additional insulation and can help to manage buoyancy. It is important that the seals are working to keep this air in, and water out.
In essence, a dry suit uses waterproof materials and seals to create a closed, dry environment around your body, preventing water from making contact with your skin. This is essential for staying warm and comfortable in cold water environments.
