Storage and stowage
KITTED-UP
Lubricating a drysuit zip
Check dump valves for grit
If your drysuit, or more probably wetsuit, is giving off a funky smell after a season’ s sustained use, then a propitiatory cleaner is recommended. Dry off your wetsuit insideout and there’ s no reason why the inner of a drysuit can’ t also be cleaned.
While a membrane suit is more flexible, a neoprene suit can also be turned inside-out to some degree and rolled-up newspapers will do the trick for the hard-to-get-to boots. Check boots or socks for wear. Allow to dry where there’ s a flow of air and hang upside-down to assist.
A good, purpose-made hanger will support a drysuit without causing damage, or alternatively gently roll it up if space is at a premium. Neck and wrist seals should be given close examination for small nicks or deterioration of the material. Apply silicone spray or unscented talcum powder for latex and neoprene seals respectively. If in doubt, send it off for a manufacturer service prior to the new season.
Inflation and dump valves can also be unscrewed and checked for any sand, salt or other debris before replacing. Zipppers
should be inspected carefully for all the above, plus any distorted teeth and general wear. Take particular notice of where the zip opens and closes, then lubricate.
You will find checking your BCD for leaks just as easy as fixing a puncture in a bicycle wheel. Inflate fully and check the auto dump mechanism kicks in. Make sure that the inflate / deflate control and corrugated hose are functioning, undamaged and the pull-deflate is in order. Leave the BC for 30 minutes and if it
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Oil your knives and cutters
Unwind and rewind your reels
Storage and stowage
Masks, knives, reels and SMBs should all be included in your winterising task list. Look over your mask for damage to the skirt and strap, clean and oil that knife before replacing in its scabbard. Check your SMB for wear and tear. It’ s also worth unwinding and re-winding your reel or spool’ s line for optimum deployment.
Don’ t fall into the trap of bunging your entire kit in a corner of the garage or shed, where it may be exposed to dampness and extreme cold. Try and find a more suitable spot where there are less extremes of temperature. A utility room, cupboard or spare bedroom is ideal but if you are short of space and the garage is the only option, then use an inexpensive plastic storage box. Place the more robust and heaviest items at the bottom and keep wet and drysuits lightly-rolled.