I'm looking to get a dry suit

[kdkilbo]

I'm looking to buy a dry suit I'm 5"6 190 lbs what size would I need to buy

[Yak Fish]

I'm looking to buy a dry suit I'm 5"6 190 lbs what size would I need to buy

You're probably in the XL range, but you need to take your measurements and compare it to this chart: http://www.kayakacademy.com/pages/me...katat-products

Also for what it's worth, I can't comment on the Hydrus material, but the Gore Tex is pretty awesome. It does come at a premium, but I've been wearing it on really warm days while the water is cold and I don't sweat in it because it breaths so well.

[kdkilbo]

Thanks bro

[Raptor]

I'm looking to buy a dry suit I'm 5"6 190 lbs what size would I need to buy

Kdkilbo,

I always recommend the Kokatat semi-dry suits. They are very good. I look at it as a piece of "safety equipment" and not a "nice to have." You usually want the best you can get when it comes to your safety. You can get their fishing one pieces on sale (@ around $500.00) from time to time if you troll the internet. Outdoor play ofter has them on sale. BTW - do not forget to get the relief zipper, it is essential.

T.

[Cowpokey]

Size is by weight and/or height. Go with the size that covers both, for your height, it will be "long" to cover your weight. I'm thin (170lbs), but had to get an XL to cover my height (6'3").

[whenican]

I echo what Raptor said. I love mine.

[On the fly]

Raptor recommended mine also, first year with it and has been great!

[Pc4sun]

I agree on the Kokatat. I love mine. I'm 5'4, 155 lb and I got a medium and it is roomy. The large was wayyyyy too big in height and body.
They have a great sizing chart and will fit you for your size. Returns are free and they will send you a different size for free.

[JAR]

I have a Kokatat too, 5'10 & 185 lbs. Medium is a perfect fit with room to layer underneath. +1 on the Goretex if you can spring for it.

[Knot Working]

Moved out of the MD area last year, but decided to check the site to see how the rockfish season is looking.

Coincidentally, I'm in WA state now. I agree with Yak Fish; check that Kayak Academy chart for sizing. George Gronseth at KA knows his dry suits (and all about paddling in exposed conditions in general). Give KA a call and they'll get you sorted out on sizing. They're a small operation with lots of experience, and typically very responsive. It sounds like you may be in the range of getting a L or XL and shortening up the sleeves and legs. From what I understand, George customizes dry suits all the time, and will warrantee them and repair (for a fee) if you ever bust it up on a barnacled piling or otherwise abuse it. Plus he's got loaners for use during repair time.

I've got one of the Kokatat Hydrus suits and wear it for most of the year since the (salt) water temp stays pretty chilly all the time here in spite of the air temp, and it breathes really well in my experience. Maybe not as well as Gore-Tex rain gear I own, but I've never had a Gore-Tex dry suit and this one does just fine for me. I have a dry suit with neck and wrist gaskets since I'm used to them from whitewater and sea kayak surfing and I like the peace of mind. Semi-dry suits are fine and probably more comfortable if you don't plan on getting a thorough dunking. Your choice on that front, just know that the semi-dry suit will eventually allow water in the neck and sleeves on you if you're actually IN the water.

I'm 5'9" 155#, and went with a size L so I can layer up under it, but probably could've went with a medium. Good luck, hope this helps.

[silasvirus82]

I have a Stohlquist EZ suit and it seems to work just fine. I've tested it out and zero leaks, haven't had it long though to attest to the durability. It seems well made and has nice features like padded knees and relief zipper. I'm 5'8 155 and a M fits me plenty loose for extra clothing. They have excellent reviews. http://www.paddleshack.com/news_Stoh...%20Drysuit.htm

[bunnielab]

Size is by weight and/or height. Go with the size that covers both, for your height, it will be "long" to cover your weight. I'm thin (170lbs), but had to get an XL to cover my height (6'3").

I am fat (~220-210lbs) and short (5'10"-11") and I had to get an XL as well. The legs and and arms are absurdly long and I suspect I will either get this one tailored (as the guy I talked to at Kokatat said they could) or switch to a separate top+bottom next year.

kdkilbo, if you want to try an XL on let me know and I would be happy to meet somewhere.

[zditmars]

I picked up the Hydrus 3L Meridian earlier this year. I'm 6'1", 215lbs, size 11 shoe and the xl fits great. I've worn it on 10 occasions so far and am pretty pleased so with it so far. Started to sweat inside a bit the last couple times out, but honestly didn't realize it until i took it off, it definitely breathes.

[Salty Dog]

I have the Meridian Hydrus 3L in xl, I am 6'2 190 and its a bit big, but when layering underneath it just right. What ever you get, a relief zipper is a must.