7 Best NRS Dry Suits for Kayaking in Canada: Compare Features, Fit & Performance

When it comes to paddling in cold or unpredictable water conditions, having the right gear can make or break your adventure. One essential piece of equipment is a dry suit, and NRS (Northwest River Supplies) has become a top name in the paddling world for delivering reliable, high-performance dry suits. With a variety of models designed for different paddling styles, weather conditions, and budgets, there's an NRS drysuit for every type of paddler.

If you're looking for the best dry suits for kayaking or sea kayaking dry suits available in Canada, this guide will help you navigate the options and choose the right fit for your paddling lifestyle.

In this guide, we'll break down seven popular NRS drysuits - Jakl, Axiom, Navigator, Nomad, Crux, Pivot, and Foray - compare their features, and help you decide which one best suits your needs. We'll also highlight the women's versions where available and how they differ.

1. NRS Jakl Drysuit

The NRS Jakl Drysuit is built for the harshest environments. Designed with top-tier GORE-TEX Pro fabric, this drysuit offers unparalleled waterproofing and breathability. Its back-entry zipper reduces interference with your PFD and enhances comfort. Latex gaskets at the neck and wrists ensure a watertight seal, while reinforced Cordura panels in high-wear areas add ruggedness, making it ideal for expeditions in extreme cold-water conditions.

Key Features:

• Back-entry zipper for reduced interference and enhanced comfort
• GORE-TEX Pro fabric for superior waterproofing and breathability
• Latex gaskets at neck and wrists with neoprene overcuffs
• Reinforced Cordura panels at knees and elbows
• Integrated GORE-TEX Pro socks

Pros:

• Exceptional durability for extreme condition
• High-end materials for top-tier performance

Cons:

• Higher price point
• Back-entry design may require assistance to zip

Best For: Hardcore paddlers facing freezing temperatures, challenging environments, or extended expeditions.

2. NRS Axiom Drysuit

The NRS Axiom Drysuit delivers high performance with GORE-TEX Pro fabric for men and women, just like the Jakl, but with a more streamlined design for versatility. The Axiom balances flexibility, breathability, and rugged protection, making it ideal for multi-season use. Its front-entry zipper and relief zipper (drop-seat for women, relief zipper for men) enhance comfort and convenience.

Key Features:

• Front-entry design with YKK Aquaseal zipper
• GORE-TEX Pro fabric
• Articulated fit for enhanced mobility
• Reinforced knees and seat for durability
• Integrated GORE-TEX Pro socks

Pros:

• High-end materials at a more moderate price than Jakl
• Ergonomic design for mobility

Cons:

• Slightly less rugged than Jakl for extreme cold

Best For: Paddlers seeking versatility across conditions with the benefits of GORE-TEX Pro.

Women’s Version: Tailored for fit with a drop-seat relief zipper for convenience.

 

3. NRS Navigator Drysuit

For paddlers seeking a lightweight and flexible drysuit for moderate cold-water conditions, the NRS Navigator is a top choice for men and women. Crafted from GORE-TEX Pro, it delivers excellent waterproof protection with enhanced comfort for spring and fall paddling. Its streamlined fit minimizes bulk while maximizing movement.

Key Features:

• GORE-TEX Pro fabric
• Front-entry zipper
• Lightweight, comfortable design
• Integrated GORE-TEX Pro socks

Pros:

• Comfortable and breathable for active use
• Great for shoulder seasons (spring/fall)

Cons:

• Less suitable for extreme cold or rugged use

Best For: Recreational paddlers needing a balance between protection and comfort in moderate conditions.

Women’s Version: Features a women-specific fit and drop-seat relief zipper.

4. NRS Nomad Drysuit

The NRS Nomad Drysuit is crafted for intense paddling action for men and women. With an articulated fit, it offers excellent freedom of movement. The durable yet breathable GORE-TEX Pro fabric and high-performance features make it suitable for extended time in the water. This suit is ideal for paddlers who prioritize mobility and comfort without compromising waterproof protection.

Key Features:

• GORE-TEX Pro fabric
• Ergonomic fit for mobility
• Front-entry zipper and reinforced areas
• Integrated GORE-TEX Pro socks

Pros:

• Excellent for high-performance activities
• Balanced protection and breathability

Cons:

• May not provide as much warmth as the Jakl in extreme cold
• Higher price point than the Axiom and Navigator

Best For: Active paddlers, kayakers, and rafters engaging in intense physical activity.

Women’s Version: Women-specific fit with a drop-seat zipper.

5. NRS Crux Drysuit

The NRS Crux Drysuit is designed for paddlers tackling demanding environments who want a mix of performance and durability. Made with NRS Eclipse 4-layer fabric, it provides solid waterproofing and breathability. The front-entry zipper and reinforced knees/seat add functionality, while fabric socks keep your feet dry.

Key Features:

• NRS Eclipse 4-layer fabric
• Front-entry zipper
• Reinforced high-wear areas
• Integrated fabric socks

Pros:

• Durable and reliable
• Affordable compared to GORE-TEX suits

Cons:

• Heavier and stiffer than GORE-TEX models

Best For: Paddlers needing a tough drysuit at a lower price.

Women’s Version: Available with a drop-seat zipper and tailored fit.

6. NRS Pivot Drysuit

For those who value freedom of movement, the NRS Pivot Drysuit features a unique back-entry TIZIP MasterSeal zipper. This allows for a streamlined front, ideal for kayakers. The Eclipse 4-layer fabric provides a balance of breathability and waterproof protection, and the suit includes an overskirt for spray deck integration.

Key Features:

• Eclipse 4-layer fabric
• Back-entry design
• Integrated overskirt
• Integrated fabric socks

Pros:

• Unrestricted front mobility
• Great for kayaking

Cons:

• Back zipper can be harder to manage alone

Best For: Paddlers wanting comfort and mobility, especially kayakers.

Women’s Version: Features a drop-seat zipper and back-entry design.

7. NRS Foray Drysuit

The NRS Foray Drysuit offers a budget-friendly option with essential features for recreational paddlers. Built with Eclipse 4-layer fabric, it includes a front-entry zipper, fabric socks, and adjustable overskirt, delivering solid protection without breaking the bank.

Key Features:

• Eclipse 4-layer fabric
• Front-entry zipper
• Adjustable overskirt
• Integrated fabric socks

Pros:

• Affordable and reliable
• Lightweight and comfortable

Cons:

• Lacks advanced features of premium models

Best For: Casual paddlers seeking essential drysuit features at a great price.

Women’s Version: Not available at the time of writing.

Comparing the NRS Drysuits: Key Differences

Model	Fabric	Entry Design	Intended Use	Price Tier
Jakl	GORE-TEX Pro	Back	Extreme conditions/expeditions	$$$$
Axiom	GORE-TEX Pro	Front	Versatile/multi-season	$$$
Navigator	GORE-TEX Pro	Front	Moderate cold, comfort	$$$
Nomad	GORE-TEX Pro	Front	High-performance activity	$$$
Crux	Eclipse 4-layer	Front	Demanding conditions	$$
Pivot	Eclipse 4-layer	Back	Kayaking, mobility-focused	$$
Foray	Eclipse 4-layer	Front	Recreational/general use	$

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right NRS drysuit depends on your paddling goals, climate, and budget. For extreme cold-water paddling, the Jakl is unbeatable in durability and performance. For versatility and value, the Axiom (Men/Women) offers high-end materials at a lower price. The Navigator (Men/Women) excels in comfort, while the Nomad (Men/Women) suits intense paddling sessions. Looking for a balance of performance and affordability? The Crux and Pivot deliver. For newcomers or casual paddlers, the Foray offers solid features at an attractive price.

No matter your choice, NRS drysuits Canada are designed with quality, comfort, and safety in mind

For more details on dry suits in Canada and to explore the best dry suits for kayaking, visit our selection of dry suits.

 

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