Sharkskin foe warmth?

markamcclure · Since 20 May 2011 171 Posts Portland, OR Stoked

I am on a scuba diving trip in Galapagos now. It’s been challenging for me due to the cold water, since I often get colder before everyone else.

Anyone have any experience with sharkskin thermal layers (esp. long sleeve top or vests)? I am looking to add a layer, but I want something that packs small.

Also, it would be nice to use this for an extra layer during spring season for kiting/winging.

TIA, Mark

Nak · Fri Nov 15, 24 11:20 pm

Sharkskin is not bad, but damn if it doesn't take forever to dry. Like days longer than neoprene.

Kmun · Since 05 Jul 2009 258 Posts Obsessed

Wind chill: A smooth skin neoprene is by far better. Years ago many were not tough enough & would easily fail. Neil Pryde, NP, NPX made suits with an exterior that was almost entirely "rubber" with a toughened exterior that they call "mesh".
I've been a fan of this outer textured "rubber" material as it does not wet out & has incredibly low evaporative cooling compared to outer layer of nylon-2 laminate.
Their distribution appears almost non-existent & they no longer show a full line of these constructions.
https://www.neilpryde.com/collections/mens-wetsuits-2024

In the water:
Google "smooth skin closed cell wetsuits"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-yoW-151mVI

scottnorby · Thu Dec 19, 24 7:00 pm

I agree the Armor Skin by NP was amazing.
I had the 5/3 Armor skin fullsuit and i was warm all winter kiting in 45 degree windy conditions
Sadly they dont make them anymore.
And my suit did have some seam durability issues.

Feral hooded 5/4 for me now
And an outer layer to break the wind

OG · Since 07 Jun 2011 591 Posts Addicted

a suit with a skin down the back/back of legs seems like it would be ideal for kiting since the wind is often coming fr behind you on a typical tack.