NRS Extreme SAR Drysuit
Reviewed by
schifferj
+1,183
April 15, 2012
It is what it says it is — an EXTREME search and rescue drysuit!
Pros
- Durability
- Visibility
- Warmth
Cons
- Difficult to get feet into neoprene overboots
I work on a Fire Department Swift Water Rescue Team. Because of my familiarity with drysuits from my Dive Rescue experience the chief asked me to choose a drysuit for the team.
I chose this one for a number of reasons foremost amongst those was the welded seams. Most kayaking drysuit come with taped seams and I just didn't feel that would stand up to the demanding use of our rescue team.
Other features are the glow-in-the-dark sleeve patches, the durable cordura construction, and the team size concept. There are 21 personnel on the team and each has his own suit.
These suits are subjected to a lot of abuse as we search the banks of our river on shore as much as we search in the water. There have been very few leaks due to thorn punctures and what have you and those have been easily repaired. There has been only one gasket seal and that was because the idiot trimming the seal was not familiar with how to cut a neck seal. There has been one boot failure and again the guy was in a hurry to get his foot out and tore the boot.
Other than that these suits have seen a lot of hard use and we expect a lot more use before they need to be replaced. We do treat the seals regularly with 303 and replenish the DWR from time to time but this is a great suit. I own my own private one for my recreational kayaking and can't think of a better suit.
Source: bought it new
Reviewed by
Dave Matics
+21
March 30, 2016
I have been teaching swift water rescue and swift water boat operations since 1985. I have used this suit now for the last 7 years and it is always dry. Very rugged and dependable.
There is not another drysuit that will compare if you REALLY use it in rugged environments and use it often.
Buy smart the first time, folks!
Source: bought it new
Reviewed by
John Delguidice
+12
April 25, 2019
Very durable dry suit for long duration use. I have used this suit for swift water and ice water training for many years and highly recommend this product
Pros
- Very durable and comfortable
Cons
- Limited fit for multi-person use as in the fire service
- Must be aware of the convenience zipper when exiting on the ice shelve or rocks
As stated above, I have used this suit for many years teaching swift water and ice water rescue. Also use it for SUP paddling in all conditions year round. In my opinion this is the best rescue suit made.
Background
Use it for ice water rescue and swifter rescue training. Have used it for many years.
Source: department use
