Ronstan Sailing Gear Review

August 2011

Dave Berntsen takes time to review the Ronstan kit he used in the Double Dammed race. The Colombia River Gorge is known for being a cold, windy, hostile environment and only the best gear is up to it.

After mucking around in boats in San Francisco Bay you realize the importance of functional sailing clothes to your overall experience.  Think about it, when you dress up for sailing you want to stay warm but not overheat, maintain mobility, maybe have some impact protection (padding) and ultimately, if you find yourself floating in the bay for an extended period (emergency conditions) you can stay warm enough to survive. 

I have sailed for years in a traditional 3mm/2mm surfing wetsuit, and this works well for cold conditions.   After trying the Ronstan wetsuit package, I switched to the Ronstan “layering” method as it is warm, flexible and you have options for different conditions.

The Ronstan wetsuit package consists of three items;  Skiff Suit, Skin Top and Smock Top

•        The Skiff Suit is a 3mm/2mm neoprene suit that covers legs and torso.  There’s 3mm over your torso and lighter 2mm over legs – this layout provides warmth but allows full flexibility.
•        The Skin top is .5mm neoprene and when worn with the Skiff Suit delivers max warmth and full flexibility.
•        The Smock Top goes over your wetsuit (and lifejacket) and is a waterproof, breathable shell and streamlines your body the wind.  I use the waterproof chest pocket for an emergency knife or energy bar.

I usually sail with the three layered system and have never been cold or uncomfortable.  If I’m sailing in warmer climates, say San Diego I sail without the Skin Top and am complete comfortable.  With the layer system you have the option to add or remove a layer (while sailing) so you can adapt to changing condition on the water.   The wear resistant padding on the knees and bottom of the skiff suit grip well to the Weta trampolines and when hiking on the ama, keep you in place in rough conditions.  Ronstan utilize a non-petroleum based neoprene so environmental impact on your suit choice is minimal.

The Weta US distributors are offering a free Ronstan wetsuit package for all new boat sales through the fall of 2011.  This is a good opportunity to get the ultimate on the water gear package at no extra cost!

You can win a full Ronstan kit by entering the Catch the Weta Competition Sponsored by Ronstan!

For more information on Ronstan please contact your local Weta dealer or visit Ronstan