Drysuit Neck seals - an idea ?

[daz]

Bear with me on this,  I have seen a number of latex neck seals split,  this normally occurs at the edge and tears all the way to the suit.

Is there any reason why the edge could not be glued and folded back inside half an inch.  This would give a double layer at the edge and be more resistant to tearing.  I realise this would make it a bit more tight to get over the head, but would it make that much difference. ?

I could see this working especially well if a seal has been trimmed as it sometimes leaves edges that are more prone to rip.

Just my idle observation, interested in other peoples thoughts.  

Darren.

[Dominic]

Onlt thing that leaps to mind is that it might stop it sealing properly..
Why isn't there a ring system for neck seals like there is for cuffs?

[Dr Stevil]

could try replacing it wit a neoprene seal, much more sturdy

[Richie]

Dominic,
The old Navy Pattern suits were like that -  I had one. Sheer purgatory unless you were really into latex, clamps etc

[Kev Martin]

Richie

I remember well doing my Ship's Diver course at Horsea Island.

Some fun was had climbing through the neck (I kid not!!!) to get into and back out of the suit.

Daz, it remains up to you to research the neck seal issue and report back on its effectiveness (or not!!).

By the way, thank you for a great Sunday dive at Stoney.  I really enjoyed meeting up with everyone.

Kev

[John Gulliver]

Daz, I think it would work. I can't see any reason why it shouldn't seal properly. I always fold my neck seal in about an inch. That way, any air migrating upwards collects at the top of the seal and forms a sort of ring-shaped balloon, thereby improving the seal. Fancy doing some research? My neck seal is fairly new, otherwise I would try your suggestion.

[daz]

Oh dear what a can of worms,  I guess I have stitched myself up with this.  The problem is my neck seal works fine and I am a firm believer in the "If it ain't broke, don't fix it philosophy".  

I might try to get hold of a couple of old knackered neck seals from my local shop to experiment with and dry run so to speak....

Will report back...

Darren

(Alternatively I could just post a message on handbag.net to say it is a complete success and is the best thing since sliced bread to see if I could lure someone else into trying it)

Just kidding ;)