Drysuit VS Wetsuit System From October To May
Choosing between a drysuit and a winter wetsuit for dinghy sailing is a classic debate. From autumn through late spring, the water temperature is often at its most dangerous, while air temperatures can swing wildly.
The "winner" usually depends on how active your boat is (e.g., a high-performance skiff vs. a stable cruiser) and your personal tolerance for the "cold-shock" of a capsize.
At a Glance: Pros & Cons
| Feature | Drysuit | Winter Wetsuit System |
|---|---|---|
| Warmth | Superior. You stay 100% dry; warmth is adjustable via under-layers. | Good. Uses body heat to warm a thin layer of water. |
| Comfort | Best for "chilling" or waiting between races. Dry when you take it off. | Can feel damp/cold on shore; "evaporative cooling" is a risk in wind. |
| Mobility | Can be bulky/loose; "ballooning" effect if air isn't purged. | Superior. Tight fit allows for high-performance movement. |
| Durability | Vulnerable to punctures/tears. A hole makes it useless (and heavy). | Very rugged; can take scrapes on the deck without failing. |
| Cost | Significant investment (£300–£700+). High maintenance. | More affordable. Easier to replace or upgrade parts of the system. |
1. The Drysuit: The "Shield" Approach
A drysuit acts as a waterproof shell. It doesn't provide warmth itself; that comes from the "woolly bear" (fleece) or thermal layers you wear underneath.
Pros
- The "Dry" Exit: There is nothing better than peeling off a drysuit after a freezing session and being completely dry and warm underneath.
- Adaptability: On a bitter February day, you can wear thick thermals. In late April, you can switch to a light base layer.
- Safety in Immersion: In the event of a capsize, you avoid "cold water shock" because your skin never touches the water.
Cons
- Maintenance: You must lubricate the zips and protect the neck/wrist seals (usually latex or neoprene) from UV and salt. If a seal rips, you can't sail.
- The "Drowning Bag" Risk: If you get a major tear or a seal fails during a capsize, the suit can fill with water, making it extremely heavy and difficult to climb back into the boat.
- Bulk: The loose fabric can snag on the boom, shrouds, or fittings during fast manoeuvres.
2. Winter Wetsuit System: The "Active" Approach
A modern winter system usually consists of a 5/4mm steamer or a Long John (3-5mm) + layering. Many sailors prefer a "skiff suit" (long john) paired with a thermal top and a spray cag.
Pros
- Freedom of Movement: For "athletic" sailing (constant hiking, moving across the boat), a wetsuit moves with you. There is no excess fabric to catch on the tiller or cleats.
- Ruggedness: Neoprene is tough. You can scramble over the gunwales or kneel on a non-slip deck without worrying about a pinprick ruinous to your day.
- No "Ballooning": Drysuits trap air that can rush to the feet during a capsize, making you float upside down. Wetsuits don't have this buoyancy instability.
Cons
- Evaporative Cooling: Once the outside of the wetsuit is wet, wind blowing over it can make you feel freezing. You must wear a windproof spray top over it.
- The "Damp" Factor: Changing out of a wet, cold wetsuit in a windy parking lot in November is a test of character.
- Limited Range: On the coldest days (Jan/Feb), even a 5mm suit can feel "thin" if you aren't moving enough to generate body heat.
Which should you choose?
Choose a Drysuit if:
- You sail a boat where you spend time sitting (e.g., Wayfarer, Enterprise, or a cruising dinghy).
- You are a coach or official who spends a lot of time stationary.
- You absolutely hate being wet and want to go from the boat to the car in minutes.
Choose a Wetsuit System if:
- You sail a "busy" boat (e.g., Laser/ILCA, RS Aero, 29er) where you are constantly moving and hiking.
- You are on a budget—a high-quality 5/4mm wetsuit and a good spray top are often cheaper than a mid-range drysuit.
- You sail in a fleet where capsizing is frequent; the wetsuit is more reliable for "recovery and go" sailing.
