This autumn Typhoon are launching a new drysuit called the Equator. It is still a 4 layer breathable material but it is a much lighter weight and spec than their Multisport 4 drysuit.
The suit features latex neck and wrist seals along with latex socks. There are no over-cuff protectors which means extra care will need to taken when bush-whacking. It also features a unique, above waist positioned, hinge zip which can take a while to get your head around at first. Braces are also fitted as standard which are pretty essential to donning the suit with ease.
Entry is gained through the back of the suit, legs first and then flipping the top part on and doing up the zip. There is no denying it feels odd at first and it can bunch under the PFD when first put on but once on the water, I didn’t notice it at all.
On the water the suit was comfortable and well cut with plenty of freedom of movement which it being excessively baggy. The zip is certainly less restrictive and obvious than either chest or back zippers and can easily be open/closed on your own without being a yoga master. I can see this suit appealing to two main user types: 1) It will make a great whitewater racing suit due to it’s lightweight material and freedom of movement and, 2) It will be good for beginners on a budget. It will not be as durable as the likes of the Multisport 4 and for prolonged immersion use (SRT/RSR courses) I would still go for the Multisport 4 with it’s metal zipper and gasket covers, but this is a deliberately a lightweight suit, at a budget price and it would be unfair to compare the two directly.
I wasn’t convinced by the “urban” styling (grey/yellow colour) when I first saw the suit on a hanger but it looks surprisingly good when worn.
Two points I would make are the lack of a relief zipper (you might be able to use the entry zipper if you are very creative with a shewee and a length of hose!) and the entry zipper causing a “cold” spot across the back (may not be an issue when using heavier fleeces in winter).
Hi sir, thanks for your review of the equatorsuit. Could you please giveme mor 7nformtion about the "multisport 4" -suit you mentioned. You said that 4 would be much more durable and since i abuse my material often by swimming for instance, and are well known for my stunt Modus, i wondr if the multisport would be the better choice for me in the end. Sure its mor bucks in the begining, but when i buy the eqator and afterwards the 4, that costs me mor quids. Thank you for your honest answer in advance. Wolfgang from germany
ReplyDelete