: I'm beginning to look at new dry suits. The one I have is a two piece that
: does not breath well. I tend to like exertional paddling and often dump a
: few quarts of fluid when I take off my suit--hence the term "dry
: suit" is a bit of a misnomer. Needless to say, when you are out for a
: week in remote areas, the base layers are a little rank within a few days.
: I often pass on an after dinner paddle because I don't want to craw back
: into a wet, slimy base layer.

: Criteria would be (1) breathability (2) durability (3) relief zipper (4)
: comfort.

: Suggestions? Thanks . . .

I have used Kokatat Gore-Tex for many years commercially and they stand up great. I have also used Palm Stikine recently and it does well too. The comparable Palm suits are a bit less expensive for the same qualities and features than the Kokatat and even their entry level suits are breathable.
Check some of the kayak club classifieds around the country in colder water climates, there are sometimes good used suits for sale.
We had several Kokatat top of the line suits go for $400-550 in good condition this summer.
Just talked to a woman today who bought a breathable dry suit with drop seat zipper for $480 from REI this week.
Breathable drysuit is the way to go.
Randy