Tight situation

[Rio28621]

I only get out on about one dive trip per year, always in warm water. So my hubby got me an Akona full quantum stretch 3m. I like it, but the wrist and ankle openings are a challenge to get my feet and hands through, and I'm very small framed (5 1/2 inch wrist, size 6 shoes). He suggests I get it altered and have zippers installed; I'm curious as to the best options. Thanks

[RoyN]

I usually just keep it the way it is because it keeps the water from moving out of the suit. I have the same wetsuit as you do also. Another option is a skinsuit which isn't that expensive that I use to get in and out of my 7mm wetsuit, Akona also.

[DOWNDEEP73]

I have a 7mm Akona full superstretch titanium wetsuit and it fits absolutly
wonderful, but it is like yours hard to get on/off of wrists and ankles.
Let us know if you have zippers added.

[badfrog88]

Are the wrist and ankles raw neoprene (sp?)? If so, I had heard that using a talcum or baby powder helps with putting them on. I'm sure someone will correct me if I'm wrong. I hope so anyway.

Kent

[DOWNDEEP73]

Mine has "Glide-skin neck, wrist and ankle seals minimize water entry and flushing of the suit" which is fine when on but still tight to put on and off....But I am not complaining.....at least the rest of the suit goes on/off pretty easy compared to my old IST.

[maggs_the]

and then there's me that absolutely hates to wear a wetsuit because it's tight on the ankles, wrists, neck, throat, belly, thighs, legs, gut, butt...

they will never be loose enough for me unless they are too big.

but if you have trouble getting them on and dont do the zippers, another suggestion along with the skin and powder,... a solution of 1/3 hair conditioner (any kind.. the cheaper the better for my wallet) and 2/3 water in a squirt bottle. just a little squirt makes you a little slimy so the suit glides on over those tough spots. but it doesnt take much and if you get it on your hands, good luck holding onto your suit to pull it up

[awap]

I use 50/50 baby shampoo & water in a squirt bottle.

[Charles R]

Another option is using the plastic shopping bags from like the grocery store place over hands and feet and they will slide right on.

[scubasamurai]

Originally Posted by Charles R

Another option is using the plastic shopping bags from like the grocery store place over hands and feet and they will slide right on.

actually saw a guy do this and it worked like a charm! it is a neat trick, and he told me because of his "advanced age" it didn't hurt his hips pulling and struggling to get it on. give it a try .

[DollFin]

Originally Posted by scubasamurai

actually saw a guy do this and it worked like a charm! it is a neat trick, and he told me because of his "advanced age" it didn't hurt his hips pulling and struggling to get it on. give it a try .

I have a 5mil that has very small leg openings - I usually wear a skin under it so getting it on isn't a problem, but getting it off over my ankles is a pretty darn funny sight to behold. I talked to my LDS about putting leg zippers in and they said it would cost $45. Trying to decide if I want to pay it or not, but I probnably will.