Dry Suits: How to trim Neck and Wrist Seals

When you first try on one of our dry suits, you will notice that our latex (wrist and neck) and neoprene (wrist) seals are tight - this is on purpose. It is extremely important because these seals prevent water ingress. In other words, their snug fit is integral to keeping you dry! (see below for instructional video)

Our neck and wrist seals are designed to fit the smallest target dimensions; therefore, trimming may be required. They should keep direct contact with your skin through all normal movements and only be trimmed if they are restricting blood flow. Latex seals tend to adjust to the wearer over time, so we recommend giving them a wear or two (if possible) before trimming.

Always trim seals with extreme caution. Creating a smooth trim line is essential. Excessive or careless trimming could result in loose seals that leak and necessitate replacement. Avoid nicking seal material, as this could result in tearing the seals when donning and doffing and could result in skin irritation. Trim only one ring at a time. You can always trim more, but you can’t replace what you have cut off. 

 

Latex Neck and Wrist Seals 

Latex seals have concentric rings on the inside that can be referenced if trimming is required.

If seal resizing is required, proceed as follows:

1. If neck seal trimming is necessary, turn the neck seal inside out so you can see the rings running parallel down the gasket around the circumference of the neck seal.

2. Trimming only one ring at a time, carefully cut between the rings with a very sharp pair of scissors.

a) An alternative method is to place the neck seal inside out over a metal can. Using the visible trimming rings, carefully cut between them using a very sharp razor blade (box cutter or utility knife style).

3. Check for fit and, if necessary, repeat steps 1 and 2 until there is a proper fit.

4. Trim wrist seals in the same manner as neck seals, using very sharp scissors.

a) See previous step 2a for an alternative method.

5. After trimming seals, have the user don the suit to determine seal restriction and water-sealing characteristics. Make any additional adjustments to the seal.

Trimming Neoprene Wrist Seals

If seal trimming is required, proceed as follows:

Trim only 1/8 of an inch at a time. You can always trim more, but you can’t replace what you have cut off.

Required materials:

• Ruler
• Sharp scissors
• White china marker or silver pen

1. Trim only 1/8 of an inch at a time to a maximum of 1”. Using a ruler, mark a circular line around the seal that is offset from the edge of the cuff end by 1/8 of an inch.

2. Using sharp scissors, carefully cut the cuff end at the marked line. Evaluate the fit and repeat steps 1 and 2 until you have a proper fit.

3. After trimming the seals, don the suit to determine seal restriction and water-sealing characteristics. Make any additional adjustments to the seal.

When you are done trimming your seals, visually inspect the trimmed edge for nicks. If the cut is not smooth and straight, carefully trim out any nicks. Nicks could cause a tear during donning and doffing. You may have burrs along with your trimmed edge - a raised edge or small uneven nubs - while unsightly, these are fine to leave. 

Once you are all done, you are ready to hit the water with confidence and comfort!