5 reasons why a Semi-Drytop is the perfect summer Top - Stohlquist FreeRYDE Drytop Review

I have been paddling with the Stohlquist FreeRYDE for the past 3 months and I have to say I'm loving it. It is the ideal summer top, perfect for those days when you're not too sure whether to go skin to win but you also don't want a heavy drytop or drysuit.The top is perfect for sunny creeks, or long freestyle sessions.

When faced with cold glacial melt and roasting hot weather it can be difficult to pick the right gear for the water/weather. I found the FreeRyde provides the perfect balance for summer boating because of its neoprene neck seal and material. The 4-Layer Twin Sensor™ waterproof/breathable fabric is very reliable, being able to withstand long hours of big splashes and keeping you warm from the elements and the neoprene neck seal letting in the perfect amount of water to keep you cool at the same time.

I was always thrown off of the idea of getting a semi-drytop because I never saw the point in it. After purchasing the FreeRyde I have definitely been converted because there are some serious advantages in having a semi-dry.

And here are the reasons why:
  1. It keeps you at a perfect goldie locks temperature (not too hot, not too cold).
  2. Its warmer, gives more protection than a shortie top and you're not constantly emptying your boat.
  3. Its perfect for salt water boating as you don't have to worry about those horrible neck rashes.
  4. Great for those hungover days when you don't want anything too tight around your neck.
  5. And best of all you don't have to worry about replacing your neck gasket ever again.

Adding to the above the top has a very good cut to it, it give you a lot of manoeuvrability. The skirt tunnel has sticky gripe that helps stop your skirt from slipping down which makes it great for freestyle boating.

My only criticism is that although it is advertised as a drytop, this isn't the case. The shell of the jacket is 100% waterproof and the material is solid but the neoprene neck gasket will let a small bit of water in. I'm not criticising the top itself as I see this as an advantage for the top but for someone in the market exclusively looking for a completely dry drytop be aware that you will get a bit wet wearing this top (but not soaked). Stohlquist have a fully drytop called the Freeplay if that's what your looking for.

All in all this makes a great drytop, for purpose, build, cut and fashion, I would highly recommend and encourage people to hop on the neoprene neck seal train.

Thanks to Tegan Owens for the photos, check her out here teganowens.com