Stuart A
Hi LP, What size do I need? My calf size is 16 inches...
cheers
Stuart
MARK F
They run a bit small so you should be looking at a size large
CHRIS W
Hello Stuart,
My calf is 15 inches and purchased the "large" gaitor system. This worked fine with my heavier and thicker crushed neoprene drysuit, but I now use a lighter and thinner fabric suit (trilaminate material). The large still works fine, but I'm not sure if the medium would be a little tighter when adjusted. I think in your case the large would be fine. This is the sizes I used as a guide - Small (12-inch calf size), Medium (14-inch calf sizes) or Large (16-inch calf sizes). As you can see I'm in between a medium and large. I hope this helps. I like the system. It helps to reduce air in my boots as well as providing more lower leg and knee protection.
MARK B
I just measured my calf relaxed and bare, at 14".
I originally ordered the "Medium", but returned them for the "Small". These work great for me and still have enough adjustment to slide my leg through while putting them on, then cinching them up.
These are easiest to put on the suit first, then sliding your legs into the suit with them in place. Same for taking them off due to their stiff construction.
I am diving a DUI CF200 (compressed neoprene) that is pretty form fitting and undergarment never heavier than a medium fleece. I am also diving a DUI RS1050 vulcanized rubber commercial suit with similar undergarments.
Besides protecting the dry suit from abrasions, they pretty much eliminate the dreaded "up-side-down-Macy's-parade-float" syndrome". These SHOULD come standard on most suits in my humble opinion since they make the whole dry suit experience much more enjoyable and easier.
I know they seem expensive for what they are and do, but "Buy once, cry once" for quality.
ALAN K
Stuart,
The BARE Drysuit Gaitor System is GREAT! I love mine ,and would recommend them. God Bless, AK
PS- as to size, contact BARE Tech. for help there.
MICHAEL D
Large is best since they are adjustable and will cover a larger area when Velcro'd in place. Also, your calf circumference will very with what you wear underneath.
STEPHEN C
My calves measure 17". With an undergarment and a dry suit the large size is fine for me. I put them on then get into the water, loosen then re-tighten the upper velcro. If you trap air in the bottom (foot) they wont help you. Gators have completely stopped me from getting air into the feet of the suit if I am head-down under water.