Gill Verso Drysuit Review

ByMathew F Updated on

I recently had the opportunity to try out the Gill Verso Drysuit, and can confidently say it excels at providing ultimate protection during watersports like sailing, kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding.

My Review of the Gill Verso Drysuit

The Gill Verso Drysuit is suitable for anyone seeking protection, comfort, and functionality during their time on or in the water.

The XPLORE+ fabric works in tandem with the XPEL plant-based treatment to achieve exceptional protection from water ingress while maintaining breathability.

I found this to be incredibly useful during long hours of sailing, as it helped prevent any buildup of sweat and kept us comfortable throughout the day.

Though the Verso Drysuit boasts some excellent waterproofing capabilities, it’s essential to note that no fabric is perfect, and prolonged exposure to harsh conditions might potentially lead to some dampness.

However, based on our experience with this drysuit performed admirably.

This innovative feature not only offers exceptional waterproofing but also significantly boosts the breathability of the fabric. Moreover, the laser-cut face ventilation ensures that you stay comfortable even during long sessions on the water.

While I loved the drysuit’s protection and breathability, we did find a few minor drawbacks.

Adjusting the overskirt took a bit of practice, and the stowable grown-on hood with 2-way adjustment could feel bulky for some.

However, these issues aren’t a deal breaker, and the added value of the PFD-friendly sleeve pocket is a nice touch

One of the standout features of the Gill Verso Drysuit is its rear-entry and relief zip design.

I had no trouble getting in and out of this drysuit, thanks to the well-placed zippers. The convenience of this design element can’t be overstated.

I’ve tried numerous watersports suits in the past, but none have offered the same level of ease when it comes to putting them on and taking them off.

In addition to the rear-entry aspect, the relief zip proved to be a game-changer. It provides a much-appreciated break from the need to completely undress when nature calls, incredibly practical during sailing and paddling adventures.

Though these features might seem small, they have a massive impact on overall user experience.

You’ll quickly come to appreciate the utility of the grown-on hood with 2-way adjustment.

This feature significantly adds to the overall comfort and versatility of the suit. You can easily stow it out of the way when not in use.

The 2-way adjustment provides the perfect fit, offering full coverage in wet and windy conditions. The exceptionally designed hood significantly enhances the drysuit’s overall appeal.

However, it’s important to note that, in extremely sunny conditions, the hood can get a bit warm, so some may find it uncomfortable during longer sessions.

I was particularly impressed by the PFD-friendly sleeve pocket. This feature proved to be incredibly useful for storing essential accessories.

The pocket is designed in such a way that it easily accommodates personal flotation devices without hindering usability or causing discomfort.

Adding to its practicality, the pocket is secured with a reliable YKK AquaGuard zip, ensuring valuables, keys, whistles, or small tools remain safe and dry even during the most intense water-based activities.

It’s clear that this feature was designed with active watersport enthusiasts in mind, providing a functional and secure solution for carrying essential items.

Pros and Cons

As water sports enthusiasts ourselves, we know the importance of having reliable foul-weather gear.

With that in mind, I’m excited to share what I liked, and what I didn’t like about the Verso Drysuit.

Fully Taped & Waterproof: Its fully taped seams and waterproof material ensure that you won’t feel a drop of water when you’re out on the water.

Versatility: This drysuit is perfect for various watersports, such as dinghy sailing, kayaking, canoeing, SUP, and paddleboarding.

Comfort: Gill has managed to create a comfortable drysuit that doesn’t feel bulky or restrictive. The adjustable neoprene waist and cuffs allow for a customizable fit, ensuring that you can move freely while staying dry.

Breathability: The fabric used allows moisture to escape, which means that you won’t feel too hot or sweaty during your activities.

Durability: Its reinforced knees and seat add an extra layer of protection against wear and tear.

Price: The primary downside to the Gill Verso Drysuit would be its price. It’s relatively expensive, which may not be suitable for everyone’s budget.

Size Availability: Some may find that the sizing options for this drysuit are limited. You may need to try on different sizes to find the perfect fit for your body type.

Color Options: For those particular about color choices, the Verso Drysuit only comes in one color option. This lack of variety may not cater to everyone’s personal preferences.

Bottom Line

I can confidently say that it’s an excellent choice for anyone involved in watersports like dinghy sailing, kayaking, canoeing, SUP, and paddleboarding.

Its fully taped and waterproof features ensure that we stay dry and comfortable during our aquatic adventures.

While there’s a lot to love about this drysuit, it’s important to consider some minor setbacks as well. We noticed that the sizing chart may not be accurate for everyone, so make sure to double-check your measurements before making a purchase.

Overall, the Gill Verso Drysuit offers great value for its price, guaranteeing comfort. If you’re in the market for a quality drysuit, I highly recommend giving the Gill Verso a try.

Written by:

Mathew F

I’m the founder and chief editor here at Sailing Savvy. I spent a decade working as a professional mariner and currently, I mix those experiences with digital publishing. Welcome, and I hope that we can be the hub you need for safe passage.