Does anyone have any experience with with the Palm Aleutian Drysuit? I was looking at getting one of these guys but, before i do, I would really like some advice on what types of materials make up good drysuits and which one would be the best to keep the water out yet still be able to breathe.

Does any one own this suit, or have any gripes about it?

Sea Voyager - sorry I don't have any feedback on the Palm Aleutian drysuit. Hopefully another forum member will be able to come to your aid.

I did check our last "Reader's Choice" results and it did receive a few votes but well behind the leaders.
Michael

which company lead the way in the "readers choice"?

It seems to me that the front entrance suits would be a little restricting as far as movement goes. The reason I like the Palm Aleutian Drysuit so much is because of the rear zipper design. I could see how this could be a problem for getting in and out of the suit but hey, what are friends for anyways.


I found this interesting review on the suit, if anyone wants to check it out.
http://solentseakayaking.co.uk/2009/12/review-palm-aleutian-drysuit/

don't know about Reader's Choice, mike can answer that, but:

at all symposia and other major kayak events I attend (a fair number) in cold water environments Kokatat is by far the most prevalent brand of those who wear drysuits. I would say at least 90% of instructors and students are wearing them.

At many of these events Kokatat also offers free loaner drysuits. I spoke to one rep (first name Suzanneh, she reps for NE USA) She told me she offers drysuits that are years old, in some cases ten years, w. no hesitation because of the quality and constructions... Kokatat *wants* people to see how well these suits hold up.

Back in my home state (MI) I know at least 30 ACA/BCU instructors who have to stand in cold water to teach rolling, conduct rescue sessions, etc. Kokatat Goretex is the choice of at least 90%

In Michigan We need drysuits to paddle from, generally, late November thru mid April - and on the Great Lakes Michigan, Huron and Erie later in the spring than that. On Lake Superior paddlers use them year 'round - but rarely this summer, an exceptionally off the charts warm one for the Upper Peninsula of Michigan (air and water temps).



As for the back zip, I vote thumbs down. If you have a problem with it, you can't see how to unsnag it and until you do, you ain't getting out of it. Best be sure you have a pee zip ')

I don't choose gear that I can't take on and off myself.
I have friends ') It's more about being able to take care of yourself.

edited for content and typos

SO, Palm...Used to have one and my wife had one. Both leaked right off the shelves. Since they are made in China there was no real way to get replacement and the companies that do repair, while local for me, are backed up with other Palm drysuits.

These are expensive garments and they are perhaps one of your most important pieces of safety equipment so I recommend the best, Kokatat. They are made in the USA, made of Gore-Tex not one of the copy cat fabrics and comes with all that the Gore-Tex warranty implies. Also their customer service is unbeatable.

So, you can do what I did, buy Palm and then buy Kokatat or you can save the money and buy Kokatat. It's worth it.

Regarding the front entry zipper; it's easier to deal with than the rear entry and does not restrict movement.

With regards to the Reader's Choice Award - Kokatat has won both times in the Drysuit category.

Kokatat life time warranty except gaskets which are cheap to redo. I have one but didn't use it yet. Quality to the top as I can see. I did demo one before I purchased.