Introduction to immersion suits
Immersion suits are a crucial safety tool for survival in cold water, designed to protect the wearer by minimizing body heat loss. These suits are available in two types, offering either one-hour or six-hour insulation, which helps to prevent hypothermia in freezing waters.
Made from waterproof materials, immersion suits cover the entire body, except for the face, ensuring full protection. They are also crafted from non-flammable fabrics to withstand a brief two-second fire flash and are typically bright in color for high visibility, making it easier for rescuers to spot the wearer.
In emergency situations, speed is essential, which is why immersion suits are designed to be easily put on without assistance, allowing the wearer to unpack and don the suit within two minutes. This combination of features makes immersion suits an essential part of cold-water survival gear.
Neoprene immersion suits
Neoprene immersion suits are designed for maximum comfort and protection in cold-water survival situations. Made from a single-layer neoprene fabric, these suits integrate insulation directly into the material, offering excellent thermal protection while ensuring flexibility and ease of movement. The snug fit, available in universal and oversize options, helps reduce water ingress, while an extended zip to the cheek ensures minimal exposure to cold water. The suit features easy-don zippers, wide anti-slip soles for better grip, and loose gloves for quick donning.
For added convenience, neoprene immersion suits come with airtight packaging and an exchange program. They are approved by SOLAS/MED, MESMER, and TC, ensuring compliance with international safety standards. These suits typically offer a service life of 3 years, with more frequent checks recommended after 10 years.
PU coated nylon immersion suits, a durable upgrade
PU-coated nylon immersion suits offer an advanced solution for cold-water survival, combining durability, versatility, and thermal protection. These suits are constructed with a multi-layer system, featuring a durable outer PU-coated nylon fabric and a separate insulating liner system. This two-layer design not only ensures superior insulation and long-lasting performance while allowing the liner to be replaced or upgraded to suit different needs. This customizable lining option, combined with the robust outer fabric, makes PU-coated nylon suits a more resilient and versatile choice compared to neoprene.
These suits are available in universal and oversize sizes, with the "oversized" design providing easy donning and a comfortable fit. Key design features include an extended zip to the cheek to minimize water ingress, integrated suspender adjustment systems for a secure fit, and wide anti-slip soles for better traction. The loose gloves make it easier to put on the suit, while the airtight packing ensures long-term storage safety.
The suits are approved by SOLAS/MED, MESMER, and TC, ensuring compliance with key safety standards. With a typical service life of 3 years, more frequent checks are recommended after 10 years to maintain optimal performance. Additionally, PU-coated nylon immersion suits are supported by an exchange program for added convenience.
Neoprene immersion suits vs PU coated nylon immersion suits
| Single layer system | Multi-layer systems |
| Compact fit | Loose fit |
| Compliance driven | Performance |
| Few additional features | Several added and optional features |
| Fabrics are glued | Stitched and seam sealed |
| 10+ years of VIKING experience | 25+ years of VIKING experience |
