Your First Drysuit Dives: A Cautious Approach with Siebe Gorman

Siebe Gorman has a long history of pioneering diving technology, and while modern drysuits have evolved significantly, the core principle of keeping the diver warm and dry remains paramount. Drysuits provide superior thermal protection compared to wetsuits, making them ideal for colder waters or extended dives. This allows divers to explore more diverse environments and enjoy longer bottom times comfortably. The sealed nature of a drysuit means your body stays isolated from the water, preventing heat loss through conduction.

However, this enhanced thermal protection comes with unique operational characteristics. Unlike a wetsuit that compresses with depth, a drysuit maintains an air layer. Managing this internal air volume is crucial for buoyancy control and comfort. Before you even consider entering the water, understanding the theory behind drysuit operation, from donning and doffing procedures to valve management, is essential. Your training will cover these fundamentals in detail.

Your journey into drysuit diving must begin with a recognized training course from a reputable diving agency. This is non-negotiable. These courses are specifically designed to teach you the distinct skills required, such as proper weighting, buoyancy control, emergency procedures, and maintenance. Your instructor will guide you through confined water sessions before progressing to open water, ensuring you build confidence and competence gradually. Listen attentively to their advice and ask questions.

Familiarize yourself thoroughly with your drysuit and its components. Understand how your inflation and exhaust valves operate, the fit of your seals, and the care requirements for the zipper. Ensure your drysuit fits correctly; a suit that is too tight can restrict movement and circulation, while one that is too loose can create excessive air migration, leading to buoyancy challenges. Pay particular attention to the undergarment system, as this is your primary thermal insulation layer.

When undertaking your first open water drysuit dives, proceed with caution and patience. Your buoyancy control will feel different compared to wetsuit diving. Expect to adjust your weighting and practice maintaining neutral buoyancy frequently. Ascents and descents require careful management of the air in your drysuit – inflating to prevent squeeze on descent and deflating to control ascent speed and avoid a runaway ascent. Always maintain a slow, controlled ascent rate.

Buddy checks are more critical than ever; ensure your buddy understands your drysuit setup and vice versa. Communicate any discomfort or issues promptly. Focus on simple, shallow dives initially, allowing yourself to adapt to the new sensations and master the fundamental skills before attempting more complex profiles. Remember, drysuit diving is a rewarding experience that extends your diving season and range, but it demands respect for its unique characteristics and adherence to trained procedures.

Proper post-dive care is vital for the longevity of your drysuit and its continued performance. Rinse your drysuit thoroughly with fresh water after every dive, both inside and out, paying particular attention to zippers and seals. Allow it to dry completely, preferably inside out first, and then right-side out, away from direct sunlight. Lubricate zippers regularly with the manufacturer-recommended product. Inspect seals for any damage or wear. Proper storage, typically hung on a wide hanger, will prevent creasing and extend the life of the material.

Regular servicing by an authorized technician is also recommended to ensure all components, especially valves and seals, are functioning correctly and to address any potential leaks. Adhering to these maintenance practices will safeguard your investment and ensure your drysuit is always ready for your next adventure with the reliability Siebe Gorman divers have come to expect over generations.