Best_Kayak_Drysuits

When seasons change and both air and water temperatures drop, kayaking can become very uncomfortable without additional equipment to keep you warm and dry. If you wish to be active on the water year-round, getting a drysuit is the best decision that you can make.

As you probably know, drysuits are specialized clothing designed to keep water out. However, not all of them are equally efficient in doing this and providing you with the comfort you need while paddling. So, to help you find the right one, we’ll take a close look at the best drysuit for kayaking on the market and discuss all the important features to consider when choosing.

1

OUR TOP PICK

NRS Pivot

NRS Pivot


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Summary

Lightweight, breathable, and completely waterproof, the NRS Pivot kayak drysuit offers the perfect mix of comfort and protection. In addition to its impressive performance, it also features attached dry socks and a neoprene overskirt which makes it the best drysuit for kayaking that you can get. 

Construction and Design

Made from 4-layer Eclipse fabric with an addition of spandex, the NRS Pivot offers unparalleled flexibility and freedom of movement. While efficiently keeping water out, the fabric simultaneously allows moisture to escape so you won’t feel sweaty. By design, this is a rear-entry suit and comes with a high-quality MasterSeal zipper that won’t let a drop inside.

Features and Performance

As we’ve pointed out, the Pivot kayaking dry suit comes with booties which means that your feet will be protected too. The cuffs are made from neoprene that creates a nice seal and prevents leaks. Last but not least, the entire surface of the suit is treated with DWR to repel water and further boost performance.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Breathable and waterproof four-layer Eclipse fabric
  • Coated with Nanosphere DWR for additional protection
  • MasterSeal zipper on the back keeps you completely dry
  • Built-in dry socks with reinforcements in toe and heel area
  • Neoprene skirt for securing to a sit-inside kayak
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: All-Around Kayaking
Entry: Rear
Material: 4-Layer Eclipse
Neck/Cuffs: Latex, Neoprene
Socks: Yes

2

EDITORS CHOICE

Kokatat Hydrus 3L Meridian

Kokatat Hydrus 3L Meridian


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Summary

Thanks to its large chest zipper, the Kokatat Hydrus 3L Meridian is probably the best drysuit for kayaking when it comes to easily getting the suit on and off. In addition, it’s also brightly-colored and features reflective straps so it’s an excellent option for kayaking in low-visibility conditions.

Construction and Design

The Hydrus 3L Meridian is made from three layers of extra-tough nylon. Not only does it keep you dry inside, but also resists tears, punctures, and abrasion. On the other hand, the interior is lined with polyester that feels incredibly soft on the skin and allows you to wear the suit for long periods.

Features and Performance

In addition to the front zipper and reflective straps, this suit comes with several other great features that include a zippered self-draining chest pocket, an easy-access relief zipper, and reinforced knees and seat for added durability. All things considered, it’s an excellent suit for extreme weather on the water.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Bright orange top makes the suit easily visible
  • Triple-layer nylon shell with additional DWR coating
  • Waterproof Hydrus 3.0 socks keep your feet protected
  • Lined with polyester for all-day wearing comfort
  • Compact pocket on the chest for small items and valuables
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Low-Light Visibility
Entry: Front
Material: 3-Layer Nylon
Neck/Cuffs: Latex
Socks: Yes

3

BEST VALUE

O’Neill Men’s Fluid

O'Neill Men's Fluid


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Summary

If you’re on a slightly tighter budget and want the best value for money, check out the O’Neill Men’s Fluid kayak suit. It has smooth seals, feels incredibly comfortable, and comes with a loose fit that allows layering. Despite being among the most affordable models in our kayak drysuit reviews, the performance it offers is really impressive.

Construction and Design

The O’Neill Fluid drysuit is made from 3-millimeter UltraFlex neoprene that not only keeps you dry and protected inside, but also provides excellent freedom of movement when paddling. While the pants of this suit have a fairly snug fit, the top is very comfy and allows wearing any type of undergarments.

Features and Performance

One of the things that we really like about this model is its fluid seam welding that combines silicone-based urethane and blind-stitched interior to ensure not a drop of water can find its way inside. Finally, this cheap kayak drysuit comes with an extra-long pull tab for easy zipping and unzipping.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Fluid seam welding with triple-glued interior
  • Smooth Skin watertight seals on cuffs and neck
  • Loose top for easily layering undergarments
  • UltraFlex neoprene guarantees freedom of movement
  • Cheap drysuits for kayaking with top-level quality
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Free Movement
Entry: Rear
Material: UltraFlex Neoprene
Neck/Cuffs: Smooth Skin
Socks: No

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4

O’Neill Men’s Boost

O'Neill Men's Boost


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Summary

The O’Neill Men’s Boost has plenty of room inside for extra insulation which makes it an excellent choice during very cold weather. In addition, it’s available in five different sizes (XS to XL) so every kayaker will be able to find the perfect fit.

Construction and Design

The secret of this top rated kayak dry suit is in its construction. Made from 300g Trilaminate nylon, the rugged shell ensures that the water stays out while allowing a very decent level of breathability. The cuffs on the wrists and ankles are made from latex, while the neck is made from neoprene.

Features and Performance

A detail we particularly like about the Boost drysuit is that it comes with integrated suspenders inside. This helps keep the suit in place and even allows you to drop the top when the weather is warm. As you can see, it’s a versatile model that can do everything on the water.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Tough 300g trilaminate construction provides durability
  • Comfortable shell with a high degree of breathability
  • Neoprene neck seal prevents the water from leaking
  • Thick latex on the ankle and wrist cuffs for comfort
  • Built-in suspenders inside allow you to drop the top part
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Layering and Warmth
Entry: Rear
Material: 300g Trilaminate Nylon
Neck: Smoothskin
Cuffs: Latex
Socks: No

View More By O'Neill Wetsuits »
5

Stohlquist Amp

Stohlquist Amp


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Summary

When talking strictly about ease of use, the Stohlquist Amp is perhaps the best drysuit for kayaking that you’ll come across. It’s a comfy front-access suit that you can have on and off very quickly. On top of this, the material is equally impressive and has an exceptional 25,000mm waterproof rating.

Construction and Design

The material in question is the sophisticated 4-layer Twin Sensor fabric that consists of a DWR-coated nylon shell, microporous, a PU mid-layer, a hydrophilic laminated membrane, and a soft nylon tricot lining inside. The suit has exceptional breathability too, with a rating that ranges between 6,000 and 12,000 g/m2/24h.

Features and Performance

Owing to its adjustable neoprene overcuffs and universal-fit dry socks, the Stohlquist Amp is an excellent drysuit for kayak fishing. As a bonus, it also features reflective panels, a convenient zippered arm pocket, a relief zipper, and reinforcements in the seat and knee areas made from Cordura fabric.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Neoprene-coated gaskets keep you dry inside
  • Built-in tunnel easily connects to a kayak skirt
  • Integrated dry socks with a universal fit
  • Cordura reinforcements in the seat and knee areas
  • Reflective panels make you easily visible in the dark
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Quick and Easy Donning
Entry: Front
Material: 4-Layer Twin Sensor (Nylon)
Neck/Cuffs: Neoprene-Coated Duraseal Latex
Socks: Yes

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6

Kokatat Gore-Tex Front Entry

Kokatat Gore-Tex Front Entry


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Summary

If you’re a whitewater enthusiast and need a suit that can stand up to the challenge, the Kokatat Gore-Tex might be the best drysuit for kayaking to get. It’s incredibly comfortable to wear, but at the same time provides a level of splash protection that only a handful of other suits can match.

Construction and Design

The fabric of the Kokatat Gore-Tex whitewater drysuit features three different layers – rugged nylon on the outside, watertight and breathable Gore-Tex in the middle, and soft lining inside. As for the seals, they are made from high-quality neoprene.

Features and Performance

The front-entry design of this suit makes it incredibly convenient to put on and take off. Both the main and the relief openings use the Optiseal metal zippers that are very reliable and secure when closed. Furthermore, unlike most other whitewater drysuits, this model comes with a drawcord at the waist to adjust the fit.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Diagonal front-entry design with a waterproof Optiseal closure
  • Convenient relief zipper makes the job easy when nature calls
  • Bungee drawcord at the waist for easily adjusting the fit
  • Taped seams make it an excellent whitewater dry suit
  • High-quality latex gaskets with adjustable hook-and-loop closure
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Whitewater Kayaking
Entry: Front
Material: Nylon, Gore-Tex
Neck/Cuffs: Latex
Socks: Yes

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7

NRS Crux Women’s

NRS Crux Women's


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Summary

The NRS Crux Women’s sea kayak drysuit is specifically tailored for female kayakers. The cut follows the female body contour incredibly well which results in better protection and a greater range of movement. The beautiful purple suit is available in five different sizes so finding the right one shouldn’t be a problem.

Construction and Design

Thanks to its 4-layer Eclipse fabric, the NRS Crux womens drysuit for kayaking offers both the strength and flexibility that you would expect from a good drysuit. The inside is lined with polyester fleece that feels incredibly soft, while the latex cuffs come with hook-and-loop closure for extra protection.

Features and Performance

As you’ve maybe noticed, the NRS Crux women's drysuits for kayaking come with Eclipse dry socks to keep your feet protected too. Other interesting features include high-quality MasterSeal zippers on every opening, as well as a neoprene overskirt that connects to any kayak skirt.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Only female-specific model in our kayak drysuit review
  • Strong TIZIP MasterSeal zippers easily keep the water out
  • Comfortable microfiber lining wicks away sweat
  • Integrated overskirt fits well on almost any kayak
  • Neoprene neck reinforcement prevents leaks
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Female Kayakers
Entry: Front
Material: 4-Layer Eclipse
Neck/Cuffs: Latex, Neoprene
Socks: Yes

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8

NRS Crux Men’s

NRS Crux Men's


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Summary

The thing we like most about the men’s NRS Crux is the strength and durability it offers. Its rugged Eclipse shell is reinforced in the seat and lower leg area which is why it’s very popular as a kayak fishing dry suit. Furthermore, it’s excellent for drysuit paddling and allows a good range of movement.

Construction and Design

The mentioned Eclipse fabric features four different layers that blend together to bring you top-level comfort and water protection. Furthermore, it also features an addition of Lycra that makes it very elastic and prevents it from restricting you.

Features and Performance

For foot protection, the NRS Crux comes with universally-sized booties that are made from the same fabric as the rest of the suit. The entry zipper is located on the front, so you’ll have an easy time when donning and doffing. On top of this, the suit also features an easy-access relief zipper, as well as latex cuffs with hook-and-loop closure.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Breathable Eclipse fabric makes it very comfortable to wear
  • Reinforcements in the lower leg and seat areas for wear-resistance
  • Easy-access front relief zipper makes using the toilet convenient
  • Hook-and-loop latex cuffs for a combination of comfort and protection
  • Integrated neoprene overskirt is compatible with any sit-in kayak
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Rough Use (Durability)
Entry: Front
Material: 4-Layer Eclipse
Neck/Cuffs: Latex, Neoprene
Socks: Yes

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9

Stohlquist Ez

Stohlquist Ez


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Summary

Simple, rugged, and lightweight, the Stohlquist Ez is perhaps the best drysuit for kayaking when it comes to paddling comfort. The suit won’t limit your movement in any way, so you’ll be able to paddle as if you had nothing on you. In addition, the Ez model comes with a relief zipper so using the toilet won’t be an issue.

Construction and Design

The 4-layer Twin Sensor material features a DWR-coated nylon shell that prevents any water from getting inside. On the other hand, it also comes with a soft tricot lining inside for all-day comfort. Furthermore, the cuffs are made from comfy and UV-resistant Duraseal.

Features and Performance

For additional resistance to tears, the suit features Cordura seat and knee reinforcements. As you can see, it also comes with universal fabric booties. Last but not least, you’ll get convenient pockets on the arms and thighs for stashing small items.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Four-layer Twin Sensor material provides ultimate protection
  • Nylon tricot lining ensures all-day paddling comfort
  • MasterSeal zippers prevent even a drop of water from getting in
  • Universal fabric dry socks fit almost all standard foot sizes
  • High-quality Duraseal wrist gaskets with UV-resistance
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Comfortable Paddling
Entry: Front
Material: 4-Layer Twin Sensor (Nylon)
Neck/Cuffs: Neoprene
Socks: Yes

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10

Crewsaver Atacama Sport

Crewsaver Atacama Sport


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Summary

Owing to its articulated arms and legs, the Crewsaver Atacama Sport offers impressive freedom of movement while you’re in the kayak. The suit also features reinforcements in high-abrasion areas as well as elastic cuffs for additional comfort while wearing. 

Construction and Design

Much like all other well-made paddling drysuits, the Atacama uses a triple-layer fabric that provides water-protection, breathability, and a soft feeling on the skin. The suit is available in five different sizes so every kayaker will be able to find a good fit.

Features and Performance

A thing that we particularly like about the Crewsaver Atacama is that it comes with internal braces. Thanks to this, you can drop the kayak dry top if you’re too warm and the pants will stay in place. Finally, the pants come with a convenient side pocket with a D-ring for attaching gear.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Articulated arms and legs make movements easier
  • Removable internal braces help keep the suit in place
  • YKK Aquaseal flexible zipper for easy donning and doffing
  • Available in five different sizes (excellent for large kayakers)
  • Exceptional price relative to the overall suit quality
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Large Kayakers
Entry: Front
Material: 3-Layer Nylon
Neck/Cuffs: Glideskin Neoprene
Socks: Yes

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How To Choose The Best Kayak Drysuit – Buying Guide

How_to_Choose_Best_Kayak_Drysuits

Material

The best drysuits for kayaking are made either using Gore-Tex fabric or special nylon, both of which are highly waterproof. Even though Gore-Tex is more expensive, it is very breathable and allows excess moisture to escape from your body. This, in turn, increases comfort while wearing the drysuit.

Nylon, on the other hand, is also very efficient at keeping water out, but it isn’t as breathable. However, it’s also a lot cheaper than Gore-Tex which is why many kayakers choose this option.

Fit

Regardless of the model, a paddling drysuit should fit comfortably when you put it on. This is because they are meant to keep you dry and not warm – which means that for the warmth you will have to wear other clothing underneath.

The best drysuits for kayaking come in different sizes for men and women, and we advise that you buy one that is the same size as your regular clothing. However, always check the size charts and compare the measurements.

Entry

Because this is not your typical piece of clothing, the entry points are strategically placed to add to the overall efficiency of the drysuit. Most often, the entry points will be either in the front across the chest or through the back.

If your drysuit has a front entry, you can zip it up by yourself when you put it on. However, if it has a rear entry, you may need another person to help you close it.

Seals and Zippers

In addition to the fabric, seals are the most important thing for the paddling drysuit to function properly. Your suit will have gaskets around your neck, wrists, and sometimes ankles. The best drysuits for kayaking have gaskets made from latex which is very efficient in keeping the water out.

However, some people feel discomfort from latex gaskets around their necks. An alternative is a neoprene gasket which is comfier but not as efficient. Whichever type you buy, you have to take care of them because if they get damaged the suit gets compromised.

Zippers functioning properly is another vital part of keeping the water out. In most cases, they are either made from metal or tough plastic. If you have metal zippers, you’ll often need to lubricate them to make sure they don’t get stuck.

Relief Zippers

Since taking the drysuit off isn’t an easy task, many models include relief zippers. Its main benefit is that it allows you to relieve yourself without taking the whole suit off. Many kayakers agree it is incredibly useful, especially if you plan on long hours in your suit. Relief zippers can be located on the front or installed as a drop seat in the back (more practical for women).

Reflectivity and Color

While this isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when shopping, it can be very useful in the water. Bright colored suits can be more visible in every situation, making you safer and easier to locate. As a bonus, reflective straps will make you noticeable in low light and bad weather conditions.

Design and Booties

Most suits come in one piece because this type of design is best for keeping the water out. However, some kayak drysuits come in two pieces. The connection between them is leak-proof, but they can also be used separately when needed.

A very useful design feature is the built-in socks (booties). Usually made from latex or fabric, they allow your feet to stay dry too. If the suit comes with booties, it’s recommended to wear some type of kayaking shoes that will protect them from damage.

Additional features

While not completely necessary, extra features can significantly increase the functionality and durability of a drysuit. To give an example, one of the things we particularly like are cuffs over the latex gaskets. Because gaskets can get damaged by sun or cuts, a neoprene cuff over them will greatly increase their durability.

Similarly to cuffs, the zippers on your suit are also exposed and susceptible to damage. So, it’s always good if the zipper comes with a cover. Furthermore, some kayak drysuits have tunnels that allow you to tuck the kayak skirt underneath and prevent leaks in the kayak. 

Last but not least, some suits have hoods that will help keep your head dry if there is a lot of splashing. The hoods are permanently attached on some models, while others allow you to take them off when you don’t need them.

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FAQs

What_to_wear_under_a_kayak_drysuit

Q: What To Wear Under A Drysuit?

A: 

If you wish to stay warm in a drysuit, we advise that you wear clothing that gives you good insulation even when wet (suit might leak or you might get sweaty). Because of this, we would advise against cotton and suggest you wear undergarments made from fleece or similar materials.

Q: What Is The Difference Between A Wetsuit And A Drysuit?

A: 

The difference is that a drysuit is designed to keep you dry, while a wetsuit is designed to keep you warm. A drysuit fits loosely except in the gasket area, and the design completely prevents the water from coming in. For warmth, you will have to wear a clothing layer underneath.

Wetsuits, on the other hand, don’t prevent the water from getting to your body but instead use a thin layer of water as insulation that keeps you warm.

Q: How Do You Clean A Drysuit?

A: 

When talking about washing, it should be performed like it’s indicated on the label. Generally speaking, kayak drysuits are usually washed on a gentle cycle with a mild detergent. Afterward, hang your suit to dry – don’t put it in a dryer.

Make sure to take special care of the zippers, remove any dirt, and lubricate them if needed. Finally, gaskets can get damaged from salt and sunscreen so be sure to wipe them off after use.

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To sum things up, buying one of the best drysuits for kayaking can greatly improve your experience on the water. With it, you will no longer be limited to warm weather – instead, you’ll be able to exercise your favorite activity year-round. 

All the products presented in our kayaking drysuit reviews are thoroughly tested, so we’re sure that you can find a model that will feel comfortable and protect you regardless of the conditions.

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