Hey there! Whether you’re new to the game or a seasoned pro, choosing the right neck seal for your drysuit is one of those decisions that can make or break your dive experience. You might not have given it much thought at first—it’s just a neck seal, right? But trust me, the difference between neoprene and silicone can be like night and day.
If you’re diving into the world of drysuits and want a comprehensive overview of all things drysuit-related, check out our Ultimate Drysuit Guide. It covers everything you need to know about finding the perfect drysuit for you
Now, I know this might not be the most glamorous part of your diving kit, but It can make a big impact on your dives. So, let’s dive in (pun totally intended) and figure out which type of neck seal is going to keep you warm, dry, and comfortable on all of your dives.
Why Neck Seals Matter
You might be thinking, “Why should I care so much about the neck seal?” Well, here’s why:
- Comfort: A poorly fitting neck seal can turn a great dive into a neck-chafing nightmare.
- Durability: The right seal can withstand wear and tear, giving you peace of mind for those longer dives.
- Waterproofing: It’s all about keeping water out, and the neck seal is one of the main barriers.
- Maintenance: Some seals are easier to replace and maintain than others—something you’ll appreciate when you need a quick fix.
Neoprene Neck Seals: Pros and Cons
Let’s start with neoprene, the tried-and-true staple of the diving world. Neoprene neck seals have been around for ages, and there’s a good reason for that—they work! But like anything, they’ve got their ups and downs.
Pros:
- Warmth: Neoprene is naturally insulating, which means it helps keep your neck warm in colder waters. That’s a big win if you’re diving in chilly conditions. Looking for more tips on diving in cold waters? Check out our guide on the Top Tips for Scuba Diving in Chilly Temperatures.
- Durability: These seals are tough. Neoprene can handle a bit of rough treatment, which is great if you’re a diver who’s a bit hard on their gear.
- Comfort: After some use, neoprene seals become remarkably comfortable, moulding nicely to your neck, providing a snug and secure fit. They also tend to be more accommodating for a range of neck sizes.
Cons:
- Thickness: That same warmth can be a downside, as the thickness of neoprene might feel bulky or restrictive for some divers.
- Breaking in: Speaking of breaking in, neoprene seals need a bit of time to get comfortable. They can be a bit stiff and tight right out of the box.
- Maintenance: Replacing and repairing neoprene seals can be a hassle, often requiring professional help or special tools, making it both time-consuming and potentially costly.
Silicone Neck Seals: Pros and Cons
Now, let’s look at the newer choice on the market—silicone. Silicone neck seals have been gaining popularity for a while now, and they’ve got some pretty compelling reasons to back up the hype.
Pros:
- Flexibility: Silicone seals are super stretchy and soft, making them incredibly comfortable from the get-go. No breaking-in period required!
- Allergy-Friendly: If you’ve got sensitive skin or a latex allergy, silicone is a great alternative. It’s hypoallergenic, so you won’t have to worry about any nasty reactions.
- Easy to Replace: One of the big selling points of silicone is that it’s usually easier to replace. Many drysuits are designed with quick-change silicone seals, so you can swap them out in no time. Curious about how quick-change systems work? Check out our blog on the Si-Tech Quick Change System for a detailed look at the pros and cons.
Cons:
- Less Durable: While silicone is great for comfort, it doesn’t hold up to wear and tear as well as neoprene. You might find yourself replacing them more often.
- Less Insulating: Silicone doesn’t provide the same level of insulation as neoprene, so if you’re diving in very cold waters, you might miss that extra warmth.
- Fit Issues: Because silicone is so stretchy, it needs to fit just right to create a good seal. If it’s not sized properly, you might end up with leaks.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Neck Seal
Alright, so now you know the pros and cons of each. But how do you actually choose between them? Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Water Temperature: If you’re diving in colder waters, neoprene might be your go-to for added warmth. However, silicone seals can still work well in cold water—I’ve found them to be perfectly fine. Plus, you can easily layer a neoprene hood over a silicone seal for extra insulation. For warmer waters, silicone is often preferred for its comfort and flexibility.
- Skin Sensitivity: If you have any skin sensitivities or allergies, silicone is the safer bet. It’s hypoallergenic and less likely to cause irritation.
- Diving Frequency: If you’re a frequent diver, consider how often you want to replace your neck seal. Silicone might need more frequent replacements, while neoprene is built to last.
- Comfort: At the end of the day, comfort is king. Try both and see which one feels better around your neck. This is a personal choice and can vary from diver to diver.
How to Find the Right Neck Seal
Finding the right neck seal isn’t rocket science, but it does take a bit of trial and error. Here’s a simple guide to help you make the right choice:
- Assess Your Diving Needs: Start by considering where and how often you dive. Cold waters? Warm waters? This will guide your material choice. Also, think about travel—silicone seals are great for divers on the go since you can easily pack a spare and swap it out with minimal downtime. On the other hand, if you’re travelling with a neoprene neck seal and it gets damaged beyond a simple patch, finding a replacement or repair might be more challenging, potentially leading to longer downtime and missed dives.
- Try Them On: If possible, try both neoprene and silicone seals. You’ll get a feel for which one is more comfortable for you.
- Consult with a Pro: Don’t be afraid to ask for advice from fellow divers or a professional at your local dive shop. They can offer insights based on experience.
- Consider Ease of Maintenance: Think about how much time you’re willing to spend on upkeep and replacements. This might sway your decision one way or the other.
- Test It in the Water: Before committing, test your seal in water. Comfort and performance can feel different in action than on dry land.
Recommendations for Choosing a Neck Seal
If you’re still on the fence, here are some quick recommendations based on common diving scenarios:
- For Cold-Water Divers: Neoprene is great for added warmth, but don’t overlook silicone—many divers find it works well in cold water, especially if you add a neoprene hood for extra insulation.
- For Warm-Water Divers: Silicone is often preferred for its comfort and flexibility.
- If You Have Sensitive Skin: Silicone is a good choice as it’s less likely to cause irritation.
- If You Dive in Rough Conditions: Neoprene’s durability makes it a solid option for handling tough environments. It stands up well in situations like wreck diving, where sharp objects and debris are common, or cave diving, where the rugged terrain can be tough on gear.
- For Frequent Travellers: Silicone seals are convenient to carry as spares and easy to replace with minimal downtime. Plus, their convenience is especially valuable in remote locations where finding replacements or repairs might be more challenging.
- If You Dive in Varied Conditions: A combination of silicone and neoprene (such as a silicone seal with a neoprene hood) offers flexibility across different water temperatures.
Conclusion
So, there you have it—neoprene and silicone neck seals both have their strengths, and the best choice really comes down to your personal needs and preferences. Remember, the right neck seal will keep you dry, comfortable, and ready to enjoy your dive without any nagging worries.
Happy diving!
Share Your Thoughts!
What kind of neck seal do you prefer? Share your experiences in the comments below! If you’re still undecided, check out our other blog posts on Drysuit Maintenance and Care to help you make the best choice for your diving gear.