Drysuit Zips

[Chris]

I have a new Henri Lloyd Drysuit and was wondering whether I should be applying any sort of lubricant to the zip? is it something you should do from new or just when it starts to get stiff?

[two stroke mick]

If the suit is anything to a diving dry suit the only thing that should be placed on the zip is wax. If there is a diving shop near you they should sell it. Only rub the wax on the zip when it is closed. The zip should get a light waxing after every use (diving dry suits)

[ashbypower]

Hi Chris, We use a block of Beeswax and rub this on the zip after every use. You can also by a silicone liquid with a brush (rather like a car touch up pot). I find this a messy so stuck to the Beeswax.

See HERE

[whiteminiman]

The liquid stuff with an applicator brush (I used McNett ZipCare) is very messy, but seems to work ok... I've not had any problems, but then I've not used my suit an awful lot.

McNett is a very good brand of drysuit care kit, all their stuff that I've used has been spot on.

But lots of people swear by Beeswax.

I'd recommend these guys - http://stores.ebay.co.uk/Blue-Water-Sports-and-Diving

(no connection, just satisfied customer).

WMM

[DJL]

I find the liquid with applicator brush to be more effective. Don't forget to give the zip a good washing with fresh water too.

[jyasaki]

Originally Posted by whiteminiman

The liquid stuff with an applicator brush (I used McNett ZipCare) is very messy, but seems to work ok...

Look at the label. I believe McNett uses silicone as the lubricant (I think). If so, make sure you limit the travel of the stuff to the area with the teeth, and where the slider runs. If you get the stuff on and into the suit fabric, you'll have trouble sealing a new zipper in after its been stitched.

Personally, I stick with wax. McNett has a little orange stick of hard wax that works pretty well. Lasts quite a while, too (long enough that I usually lose it before wearing it down.)

jky

[ashbypower]

Originally Posted by jyasaki

Lasts quite a while, too (long enough that I usually lose it before wearing it down.)

jky

Ahh I'm not alone then

[Hightower]

Yep, Bees Wax! Look though the missus sewing box, that's where I found mine

[Ian M]

Yes, beeswax is the stuff. Not too much mind, just a quick rub over he zip after each use; too much can actually jam the zip.
Living out in the sticks as I do, we sometimes have farmer's markets, a great place to get cheap sticks of beeswax - much cheaper than diving ships etc

[Ian M]

Oops, get my diving stuff from shops, not sunken wrecks

[SeaSkills]

yep, I'm with the beeswax supporters (it's what the RNLI use too, and I reckon thats always a good sign).

[matt h]

I heard that Chris is very good at applying Lubricant!!!!