The Complete Guide to Dry Suits: Types, Features, and When to Wear Them

When it comes to staying dry, warm, and protected in extreme conditions, dry suits are your ultimate gear. These waterproof outer garments lock out water and shield you from harsh weather, making them essential for paddlers, sailors, rescue professionals, and adventurers in cold-water environments. One of the key benefits of dry suits is environmental protection—they help shield wearers from environmental hazards such as contaminated or cold water, ensuring safety during water-related activities.

But finding the right dry suit for your needs can feel daunting. That’s why we’ve compiled this complete guide to help you understand dry suits, their features, and when you need them most.

Table of Contents:

• What is a Dry Suit?
• Dry Suit vs. Wetsuit
• Dry Suit Material Explained
• Key Features to Consider
• Use Cases: Paddling, Sailing, Rescue
• Why Choose Mustang Survival?
• DRY SUITS IN ACTION
• How to Layer Under a Dry Suit
• How to Get Into and Out of a Dry Suit
• How to Trim a Neck and Wrist Seal on a Mustang Survival Dry Suit
• How to Repair a Dry Suit
• Maintenance and Storage
• Conclusion

What is a Dry Suit?

Dry suits are designed to keep you completely dry in cold or wet conditions, using breathable, waterproof materials that prevent overheating while protecting against the elements. As a type of exposure suit, dry suits are specifically engineered for thermal and environmental protection, maintaining body warmth and shielding skin from sun exposure in various water temperatures. Unlike wetsuits, which trap a thin layer of water for insulation, dry suits seal out water entirely, making them ideal for paddling, or professional surface use in cold environments.

Mustang Survival’s dry suits use MarineSpec BP fabric for durability and comfort, with neck and wrist seals to prevent leaks and optional purge valves for added protection. They’re meant to be worn with thermal layers like the Kazan Dry Suit Liners (available for both men and women), offering a versatile system for warmth and mobility. The loose fit of dry suits provides extra space inside, allowing you to layer thicker thermal garments underneath for enhanced insulation and comfort.

Professional models are tailored for specific jobs—from rescue operations to aircrew use—with features like high visibility and flame resistance. For recreational users, the Hudson offers all-around performance, while new women-specific designs like the Helix CCS and Quadra provide better fit and comfort.

With that all being said, understanding what a dry suit is, and what it isn’t, lays the foundation for making an informed choice. From here, we’ll dive into how dry suits compare to wetsuits, explore the materials and features that matter most, and help you choose the right option for your specific activity and environment.

Dry Suit vs. Wetsuit

Wetsuits and dry suits are both types of exposure suits essential for thermal protection in cold water, but they function differently and are suited to distinct conditions and activities. 

The main difference between these exposure suits is that wetsuits allow a thin layer of water to enter and be warmed by the body, making them ideal for moderate water temperatures, while dry suits keep the wearer completely dry and are better suited for colder environments. Here’s a quick comparison of a wetsuit vs a dry suit:

Thermal Protection

• Wetsuits: Constructed from closed-cell foam neoprene, wetsuits trap a thin layer of water between the suit and the skin. This water is warmed by the wearer's body heat, providing thermal insulation. The neoprene material contains gas bubbles trapped within it, which further insulate by creating a layer of trapped air that helps retain body heat. The inner layer of the wetsuit helps trap both water and body heat, enhancing thermal protection during water activities. While effective in moderately cold conditions, they may not offer sufficient protection in extremely cold waters.

• Dry suits: Made from waterproof and breathable materials, dry suits keep the wearer completely dry. They incorporate seals at the neck, wrists, and ankles to prevent water ingress. This design allows for the use of insulating layers underneath to reduce heat transfer, offering superior thermal protection in cold water environments.

Construction and Durability

• Wetsuits: Generally lighter and more flexible, wetsuits are suitable for activities requiring agility. However, they are often made from less durable materials and may have a shorter lifespan compared to dry suits.

• Dry suits: Built for durability, dry suits are designed to withstand harsh conditions. Our dry suits, such as the Hudson and Helix models, are constructed with abrasion-resistant fabrics and are rigorously tested for leak-proof performance. Some dry suits are made from materials like crushed neoprene, which provide enhanced waterproofing and insulation.

Activity Suitability

• Wetsuits: Ideal for activities like surfing, snorkeling, and recreational diving in temperate waters. Wetsuits are popular for a variety of water sports, providing flexibility and comfort for short to moderate durations in the water.

• Dry suits: Essential for cold-water activities such as paddling, sailing, and professional rescue operations. Surface dry suits are specifically designed for surface activities like paddling, fishing, and rescue operations, offering waterproofing, thermal protection, and comfort during extended periods on the water's surface. 

Dry Suit Material Explained

Our Marine Spec technology represents the pinnacle of performance-driven design for dry suits and outerwear. Drawing from over 55 years of experience in crafting gear for military, Coast Guard, and public safety professionals, we’ve developed dry suit materials that prioritize durability, breathability, and waterproofness to ensure optimal protection in demanding marine environments. These advanced materials offer more protection against cold and environmental hazards compared to standard options.

Marine Spec BP & SP Fabrics

Mustang Survival utilizes Marine Spec BP and SP fabrics in our outer layers. These materials are engineered to provide:

• Water and Wind Resistance: Effectively shields the wearer from the elements, ensuring warmth and comfort.

• Breathability: Allowing moisture to escape, reducing the risk of overheating during physical exertion.

The combination of these fabrics ensures that Mustang Survival's gear performs reliably in cold and stormy weather, as well as during activities involving submersion.

How do you ensure the quality of materials in dry suits?

Our commitment to quality can be found in our extensive testing procedures, which include:

• Martindale Test: Fabric endurance is tested with continuous rubbing using wool or sandpaper. 

• Cold Flex Test: Materials are stretched and squashed in extreme temperatures. 

• Rain Room: Garments are tested for waterproofing in simulated rain conditions. 

• Storm Cube: Tests products against high-force winds up to 50 mph. 

• Instron Test: Ensures fabrics can withstand stretching and tearing. 

• Comfort Test: Balances laboratory measurement with user feedback to ensure optimal comfort. 

These rigorous tests ensure that our drysuits meet the highest standards for waterproofing and durability, providing users with reliable protection in challenging marine environments.

Key Features to Consider in a Dry Suit

Not all dry suits are created equal. When selecting the right one, consider these key features:

• Seals: Choose between Closed Comfort System (CCS) for comfort or Latex Seals for a tighter, professional-grade fit.

• Entry Zippers: Decide between front-entry (easier self-donning) or back-entry suits (ideal for specialized fits).

• Adjustment Systems: Waistbands, suspenders, and other adjustment options ensure comfort and freedom of movement. Some dry suits are specifically designed to maximize range of motion, which is especially important for rescue workers or active users.

• Reinforcements & Pockets: Look for reinforced knees, seats, and storage pockets for added durability and convenience.

• Suit Styles: Full-length dry suits provide complete coverage of the arms and legs, offering maximum protection in cold conditions.

How do I know whether to choose Closed Comfort System (CCS) seals or Latex seals? 

CCS seals offer greater comfort and flexibility, making them ideal for recreational users who prioritize ease of movement and longer wear. Latex seals provide a tighter, more watertight fit favored by professionals and those in demanding conditions, but they can feel less comfortable initially and may require trimming for a perfect fit.

What are the advantages of front-entry versus back-entry dry suits? 

Front-entry dry suits are generally easier to put on and take off by yourself, making them popular among recreational users. Back-entry suits typically offer a more customized fit and increased durability but usually require assistance to zip and unzip, making them preferred by professional and commercial users.

Use Cases: Paddling, Sailing, Rescue

Mustang Survival dry suits are engineered to meet the demanding needs of various marine activities, each requiring specific features to ensure safety, comfort, and performance. Dry suits are especially important for maintaining warmth in cooler water temperatures, where heat loss is a concern and proper thermal protection is essential.

Paddling

For paddlers who spend extended time on the water, dry suits provide essential protection against cold and wet conditions. Whether you’re kayaking, canoeing, or stand-up paddleboarding, Mustang’s versatile dry suits offer durable waterproofing and freedom of movement, making them ideal for general paddling use. 

Explore options like the Helix & Hudson CCS Dry Suits or the Quadra Dry Suits for reliable performance tailored to paddlers’ needs.

Sailing

While dry suits are often the go-to for cold water protection, they aren’t always the best fit for every sailor. For those seeking lighter protection from rain and wind without the bulk of a dry suit, our Meris and EP 6.5 Ocean Collection offer high-quality, breathable jackets that excel as the best rain jackets for marine conditions. These collections combine waterproof technology with comfort and mobility, making them perfect for sailors facing variable weather conditions.

Rescue

In critical rescue operations, reliability and durability are paramount. Our Sentinel Dry Suits are designed to withstand the most challenging environments, providing first responders with dependable waterproof protection and enhanced safety features. The Sentinel series embodies the ultimate in performance gear, ensuring that rescue professionals are equipped for success when every second counts.

Looking at how dry suits perform across different activities, it becomes clear that thoughtful design and reliability make a real difference; that’s where Mustang Survival stands out.

Can I use the same Mustang dry suit for multiple activities like paddling and rescue, or should I get different suits?

While some Mustang dry suits, such as the Hudson or Helix CCS, are versatile enough for general paddling and recreational use, rescue operations demand specialized suits like the Sentinel series that prioritize durability, safety features, and professional-grade performance. It’s best to choose a dry suit that matches the specific demands of your primary activity.

Why Choose Mustang Survival?

Craftsmanship. Tested. Trusted.

At Mustang Survival, every dry suit is more than just gear; it’s a culmination of decades of expertise, precision engineering, and a commitment to protecting those who rely on it, whether on the job or on the water for fun. 

Here's what sets us apart:

Craftsmanship: Built with Intention

At the heart of every Mustang Survival dry suit is a philosophy rooted in precision, patience, and purpose. The construction process prioritizes meticulous detail, from the placement of seams to the selection of durable, high-performance fabrics. This craftsmanship isn’t just about aesthetics; it directly impacts how the suit performs and how long it lasts.

For the end-user, that means dry suits that hold up season after season, even in the harshest environments. The design process considers real-world use—mobility, wear zones, and climate challenges—ensuring each dry suit is purpose-built for performance and longevity.

It’s the kind of attention to detail you can feel every time you zip up.

Tested: Proven Under Pressure

Mustang Survival’s dry suits aren’t just designed for harsh conditions, they’re tested in them. Every suit undergoes rigorous leak-proof testing before it leaves the factory. That includes full pressure testing, seam integrity checks, and functional evaluations to ensure nothing gets missed.

Beyond the lab, suits are worn and evaluated in real-world environments by military teams, rescue professionals, and offshore experts. From freezing temperatures to pounding surf, the suits are put through extremes to make sure they’ll hold up when you need them most.

Trusted: Built on Experience

Professionals who operate in life-or-death situations, from Coast Guard units to rescue crews, trust Mustang Survival. That trust is earned through a legacy of innovation and an uncompromising focus on safety and reliability.

For recreational users, this same level of protection and trust translates into peace of mind. Whether you're out paddling remote coastlines or racing into rough weather, you're backed by decades of research, design evolution, and field-proven performance. 

Want to know more about the standards that shape every Mustang dry suit? Take a deeper look behind the seams here: Sentinel Series Drysuits: Craftsmanship. Tested. Trusted.

Dry Suits in Action

Want to see our dry suits in action? From cold-water paddlers to offshore sailors, our global community shares real experiences with Mustang gear.

Check out the stories and photos shared under #MustangSurvival on Instagram or visit our social gallery.

 

Follow @mustangsurvival

 

How to Layer Under a Dry Suit

Layering properly under a dry suit is key to staying warm, dry, and comfortable, especially during long periods on the water or in cold, unpredictable conditions. Even in summer, water temperatures can be low enough to require proper thermal protection with a dry suit to prevent hypothermia and ensure safety. While your dry suit keeps external water out, what you wear underneath helps regulate body temperature and manage moisture from the inside.

Why Liners Matter

The most effective dry suit systems pair a waterproof outer shell with high-performance base and mid-layers. That’s where Mustang Survival’s Kazan Drysuit Liners come in. Specifically engineered for marine environments, these liners offer moisture-wicking, quick-drying insulation that keeps you warm without adding bulk or limiting mobility. With consistent 5-star reviews, they’re trusted by pros and recreational users alike.

• For women, the Women's Kazan Drysuit Liner – MSL550 is designed to fit comfortably under a dry suit without bunching or shifting.

• For all-purpose use, the Kazan Drysuit Liner – MSL500 offers the same technical performance in a unisex design.

Smart Layering Tips

Wondering how to layer for marine activities? The goal is to maintain warmth without overheating or trapping sweat. Here’s a general layering approach:

1. Base Layer  (like the Kazan liners): A lightweight, moisture-wicking layer to pull sweat away from your skin.

2. Mid Layer (like the Torrens crew): Insulating layers that trap warmth while allowing vapor to escape.

3. Outer Layer (Dry Suit): A waterproof shell that seals out external moisture and wind.

Always avoid cotton, which holds moisture and can leave you feeling clammy and cold. Instead, opt for synthetic or wool base layers that offer better performance in wet, cold environments.

Proper layering can mean the difference between a successful day on the water and a cold, uncomfortable one. With the right system—starting with the Kazan Dry Suit Liner—you’ll be prepared for whatever conditions come your way.

How can I adjust my layering system under a dry suit to prevent overheating or chilling during variable weather conditions?

The key is to build a flexible layering system. Start with an insulating base-layer like the Kazan Dry Suit Liner that traps warmth but allows vapor to escape. Then if you need a mid-layer you could wear fleece pants and a Torrens or a fleece top as well.

If you feel warm, you can remove or switch to a lighter base layer or opt not to wear a mid layer. Conversely, in colder conditions, add additional insulating layers underneath.

Monitoring your activity level and adjusting layers accordingly helps maintain optimal comfort without sweating excessively inside the suit.

Can I use regular outdoor clothing as mid-layers under a dry suit, or do I need specialized gear?

While some outdoor synthetic or wool layers can work, liners like the Kazan are specifically engineered for marine environments—they’re thin, quick-drying, and designed to prevent bunching inside a dry suit. Regular clothing may retain moisture, bulk up, or restrict movement, making specialized liners a better choice for consistent warmth and comfort on the water.

How to Get Into and Out of a Dry Suit

Whether you’re new to dry suits or just need a refresher, properly donning (putting on) and doffing (taking off) your suit is essential for performance, comfort, and longevity. Below, we’ll outline a thorough, tested process, paired here with a few helpful extras to make it even smoother. When adjusting the fit, remember that a looser fitting dry suit allows for more comfortable layering and greater freedom of movement.

Getting Into Your Dry Suit

1. Start Clean: Lay down a towel, mat, or tarp to protect your dry suit socks from dirt and debris.

2. Remove Accessories: Take off jewelry, watches, glasses, and shoes to avoid snags or damage.

3. Layer Up: Put on your dry suit liner or moisture-wicking base and mid-layers like the Kazan Dry Suit Liner or Women’s Kazan.

4. Prep the Suit: Loosen knee tabs and waist adjusters, unfasten wrist covers, unzip the entry zipper, pull suspenders from the legs, and loosen the CCS neck seal toggle if applicable.

5. Step In: Insert your feet fully into the suit socks, one at a time.

6. Attach Suspenders: Pull the suspenders over your shoulders and adjust for comfort. Untwist if needed.

Pro tip: To make wrist seals easier to pull on, apply talc-free powder inside the seals or wrap your hand in a plastic bag before inserting.

1. Right Arm First: Slide your right arm into the sleeve with fingers pointed and thumb tucked. Avoid making a fist. Pull only on the cuff—not the seal.

2. Secure the Wrist: Roll back the Velcro wrist cover and fasten it snugly.

3. Repeat for the Left Arm.

4. Neck Seal:

Latex: Reach inside the seal and gently stretch it out and down as you push your head through. Flatten out any folds.

CCS (Closed Comfort System): Adjust the drawcord so it’s snug enough to prevent leaks, then secure with Velcro tabs. Leave it loose only if there's no risk of immersion.

Neck and wrist seals should feel snug—this is critical for keeping water out.

1. Zip Up: With your right hand, reach over your left shoulder and grab the zipper toggle. While holding the top of the zipper with your left hand, pull steadily and evenly to close. Ensure the zipper is fully docked and not forced—misaligned teeth can damage the seal.

2. Adjust Fit: Tighten the waist adjusters and knee tabs.

3. Deflate (or burp) the Suit: Cross your arms, insert fingers between your neck and the seal, squat, and gently push out excess air.

Watch the donning process: How to Don Your Dry Suit – Mustang Survival

Why is it important to avoid pulling on the neck and wrist seals when donning the dry suit?

Pulling directly on the latex or neoprene seals can cause tears or damage, compromising the waterproof integrity of the suit. Instead, carefully pull on the suit fabric or cuff areas while keeping your fingers pointed and thumb tucked to gently guide your hands through without stressing the seals.

What’s the best way to ensure the zipper closes smoothly without damaging it during donning?

Always hold the zipper slider firmly with one hand and keep the zipper chain aligned and parallel while pulling. Avoid forcing or yanking the zipper, as this can misalign the teeth and damage the waterproof seal. Slow, steady pressure ensures a secure closure without harm.

How does removing excess air from inside the suit before entering the water improve safety and comfort?

Removing trapped air prevents buoyancy imbalance and reduces drag, making it easier to move and control your body in the water. Gently pushing excess air out through the neck seal before immersion ensures a better fit, improved mobility, and lowers the risk of air pockets that can cause discomfort or instability.

Getting Out of Your Dry Suit

1. Remove Gear: Take off your PFD or any gear worn over the suit.

2. Rinse the Suit: Use fresh water to wash dirt and salt off the exterior, especially around the seals and zipper.

3. Loosen Everything: Undo waist adjusters and knee tabs.

4. Fully Unzip: Carefully open the zipper all the way to prevent damage while exiting.

5. Neck Seal First: Insert your fingers between the seal and your neck, stretch outward and upward, and gently pull the seal over your head.

6. Free Your Hands: Hold the cuff, keep fingers pointed and thumb tucked, and slide your hand through the wrist seal. Don’t pull on the seal directly or make a fist—this can cause tearing.

7. Invert Seals: Once both hands are out, flip the wrist seals outward so they don’t stay compressed.

8. Step Out: Remove suspenders, pull the suit down past your hips, and slide your legs out. No need to unthread the suspenders.

9. Clean and Dry: Follow Mustang’s care guide to rinse, dry, and store your suit properly.

See the doffing technique: How to Doff Your Dry Suit – Mustang Survival

By following these exact steps, you’ll extend the life of your suit, prevent damage to critical seals and zippers, and make donning and doffing smoother every time. For complete instructions and care tips, check out our full guide here: How to Don and Doff Your Dry Suit.

Why is it important to fully unzip the dry suit before removing it, and what risks come from only partially unzipping?

Fully unzipping prevents stress and potential damage to the waterproof zipper. Partially unzipped zippers can get caught or forced during removal or break teeth, causing tears in the suit or compromising the seal, which leads to leaks.

What is the safest technique for removing your hands from the wrist seals without damaging them?

Keep your fingers pointed and thumb tucked while holding the cuff, then slowly slide your hand out. Avoid pulling directly on the seal or making a fist inside the seal, as this can cause stretching or tearing of the delicate material.

Why should wrist seals be inverted outward after removing your hands, and how does this help maintain suit integrity?

Inverting wrist seals outward prevents them from staying compressed or folded inside the sleeves, which can cause premature wear or damage. Properly flipping the seals helps them maintain their shape and elasticity, extending the life of the seals.

How to Trim a Neck and Wrist Seal on a Mustang Survival Dry Suit

Neck and wrist seals are molded to fit the smallest target dimensions and often fit too snugly at first. Trimming lets you customize the seal for comfort without compromising waterproof integrity. Always proceed carefully; you can trim more later, but you can’t restore what’s been cut.

Latex Neck & Wrist Seals

1. Inspect the concentric trim rings inside the inverted seal.

2. Cut only one ring at a time, using sharp scissors (or a razor on a firm surface like a can).

3. Test the fit after each trim, don the suit, and check that it seals snugly without being uncomfortable.

Key tips:

• Trim just 1/8" per cut, up to 1" maximum.

• Make smooth, even cuts without nicking the material. Any rough cuts or nicks can lead to leaks and require seal replacement

Neoprene Wrist Seals

1. Mark a trim line about 1/8" from the existing seal edge using a ruler and marker.

2. Make a precise cut, then test the fit wearing the suit.

3. Repeat in 1/8" increments until the seal fits comfortably yet tightly.

Important: Inspect the trimmed edge closely—smooth out any nicks to prevent tears during use. Small burrs are fine, but any rough edges should be trimmed off.

Final Trimming Tips

• Trim gradually—start small and test often.

• Use sharp tools and clean cuts to protect seal integrity.

• Always test the fit after each trim while wearing the suit, ensuring it remains comfortable and watertight.

Completed properly, trimming customizes your suit for better comfort without sacrificing performance, so you can get on the water with confidence

How much can I safely trim from the neck and wrist seals without risking leaks or damage?

For latex seals, trim only about 1/8" at a time, with a maximum of 1" overall. For neoprene wrist seals, trim in small 1/8" increments, testing fit after each cut. Cutting too much or making rough edges can compromise the waterproof seal and may require seal replacement.

What precautions should I take to avoid damaging the seals while trimming?

Use sharp scissors or a razor on a firm surface and make smooth, even cuts to prevent nicks or tears. Inspect trimmed edges carefully and smooth out any rough spots. Always test the seal fit while wearing the suit before trimming further to ensure it remains snug but comfortable.

How to Repair a Dry Suit

While Mustang Survival dry suits are built for long-term durability, exposure to the elements over time can lead to wear and tear, particularly around high-stress areas like neck, wrist, and sock seals. Some suits are designed with repair-friendly collars and cuffs that can facilitate maintenance.

In most cases, if your dry suit requires inspection or professional repair, contact Mustang Survival directly or reach out to your authorized Mustang dealer. They offer expert servicing and warranty-backed repairs to ensure your suit continues to meet waterproofing and safety standards.

Learn more here: Mustang Survival Warranty & Repair.

While professional servicing is recommended for most users, some trained professionals may have access to Rapid Repair Kits for on-site maintenance. These include tools such as:

• Seal-specific jigs for precise placement

• Hand irons for heat bonding

• Non-stick paper to avoid adhesion during setup

• Replacement latex or neoprene seals for neck, wrist, or sock applications
  

For best results and continued warranty coverage, users should not attempt major seal replacements without proper training or authorization. Always inspect your suit regularly, especially before high-exposure outings, and rely on certified service centers for any critical repairs.

Why This Matters

• Stay mission-ready: Quick repairs prevent downtime during field work.

• Control costs: On-site fixes with Rapid Repair kits are less expensive and faster than full-service.

• Extend life: Addressing minor wear promptly enhances longevity and safety.

What types of repairs can be done in the field using Rapid Repair Technology™?

You can replace neck seals, wrist seals, and socks, or patch small shell leaks directly in the field. The kits include seal-specific jigs, a hand iron, Gore-Tex patches, and non-stick materials, allowing you to complete fast, reliable fixes without needing to ship the suit out.

Note: Field repairs using these kits are only compatible with the Sentinel Suit. Other dry suits must be shipped out for servicing.

How long does it take to replace a seal using the Sentinel Rapid Repair system?

With the right tools and workspace, seal replacement can be completed in under an hour. Just follow the seal-specific drill process: prep the site, position the seal, apply heat with the hand iron, and check for proper tension and alignment.

How do I know when it’s safe to return to the water after a repair?

After patching or sealing, allow the repair to fully cool and cure, then inspect for smooth bonding, proper seal alignment, and no gaps or wrinkles. If you're unsure, conduct a leak test on land before heading out.

Maintenance and Storage

Proper care is key to extending the life of your waterproof apparel. Routine maintenance is not just practical—it’s more sustainable and helps your gear perform at its best over time.

Step-by-Step Waterproof Gear Care:

1. Zip Up and Secure 

Before washing, fully zip up your jackets and fasten all loose straps, flaps, and closures. This protects the garment and prevents snags.

2. Spot Clean First

Check the gear for visible dirt or stains and spot clean with a damp cloth where needed before putting it in the wash.

3. Machine Wash Gently

Use a gentle cycle with water temperatures no hotter than 104°F (40°C). Add only a small amount of mild detergent without additives like stain removers or bleach.

4. Dry with Care

Tumble dry on a low or warm gentle cycle. Avoid fabric softeners, ironing, or dry cleaning—these can degrade the waterproof materials.

5. Restore Water Repellency if Needed

If your gear stops beading water after cleaning, reapply a non-silicone-based DWR (durable water repellent) spray to maintain its hydrophobic performance.

With the right care, your Mustang Survival waterproof gear can stay in top shape and keep you dry for many seasons to come.

Want to See the Full Process in Action?

Watch SailGP Team USA’s Cooper and Alex walk you through the step-by-step care routine for your Mustang Survival waterproof gear. From prep to wash to reproofing, get the exact tips the pros use to keep their gear performing at its best.

Watch the Full Video Here

Can I use waterproofing sprays after every wash?

You don’t need to reapply DWR after every wash. Reapply only when you notice water no longer beading on the surface. Always use a non-silicone-based DWR spray, as silicone-based products can interfere with the garment's breathability and performance.

Can I use regular detergent or fabric softener on Mustang waterproof gear?

No. Use only a mild, additive-free detergent. Fabric softeners, bleach, and stain removers can clog the fabric membrane and reduce waterproof performance. When in doubt, choose a detergent specifically made for technical outerwear.

What should I do if my zippers start to feel sticky or hard to close?

Rinse the zippers with fresh water and apply a zipper lubricant designed for waterproof gear. This helps preserve the integrity of waterproof zippers and prevents damage caused by grit, salt, or wear.

Choosing Your Dry Suit with Confidence

A dry suit is more than gear; it’s your lifeline in challenging environments. At Mustang Survival, we craft each suit with precision, ensuring durability, reliability, and unmatched performance. Whether you’re a paddler, sailor, or professional, we have a dry suit for whatever comes your way.

Not sure where to start? Explore our full Dry Suit Collection for men and women.