Whether it is to keep you diving through the winter, protect you during cave explorations, or even to prevent heat loss during long dives, a drysuit is a valuable tool. A properly fitting and functioning drysuit can mean the difference between a comfortable dive and a cold, miserable one; there is no exception when diving in your X-Mission drysuit. However, preparing your X-Mission for its first dive goes way beyond buying the right size.
X-MISSION DRYSUIT FIT:
Before the dive with your , the most important thing is to secure a proper fit. Ensure that it fits your body properly and that all of the seals (wrist and neck) are trimmed specifically to you. With 16 different sizing options for the X-Mission, it is easy to get a custom fit without paying custom-made prices. Your local BARE Retailer can measure you properly.
When trying on the X-Mission, make sure you are wearing the thickest possible undergarments you may ever wear. With these undergarments on, don the drysuit and put yourself through a series of range-of-motion tests to make sure your movements in the X-Mission are not restricted. If you feel restricted, move up a size. Once you’ve found the correct size, have a BARE trained sales associate assist you in cutting your neck and wrist seals to the proper fit. All seals should feel snug but not too tight.
X-MISSION DRYSUIT ZIPPERS:
Now that your is fitted specifically to you, it is time to think about the zipper. Caring for your zipper is probably the single most important thing you can do to extend the life of your X-Mission. A well-maintained zipper ensures a dry dive every time. Luckily, with the new X-Mission, BARE has changed the game in zipper care and technology with a lightweight, low profile, plastic zipper. This plastic zipper is a high-strength, fabric-coated thermoplastic polyurethane, and the Slider is a metal compound that is non-skin irritating and saltwater resistant.
However, the lightweight, low profile plastic zippers do need to be lubricated on the docking end from time to time…especially the first few dives to get the zipper operating efficiently. Apply the zipper lubricant that comes with the X-Mission over the docking end surfaces on front, back and inside where they connect to the zipper chain. Repeat this process before long-term storage leaving the slider closed.
X-MISSION DRYSUIT CARE TIPS:
- Keep out of direct sunlight and excessive heat.
- Rinse the drysuit with fresh water after every dive and hang dry.
- DO NOT use zipper wax, aerosol or petroleum-based lubricants on your zipper, as it will adversely affect the zipper and suit materials. These products will trap dirt and sand in the zipper making it difficult to use.
- Scrub your zipper, gently, with a soft toothbrush using mild soapy water when necessary.
- For long-term storage, make sure it is clean and completely dry. Once dry, roll the drysuit back into its drysuit bag and store in a dry, cool area.
- Keep zipper lubricant available and lubricate zippers after periods of inactivity. Zip Tech by McNett is also an acceptable lubricant for the plastic zippers.
If you treat your well, it will do the same for you. A perfectly fitting X-Mission, with its durable materials, excellent mobility, functional pockets, and slim-cut cave design will provide years of excellent exposure protection for all diving types.
