Is the P-valve really worth it?

emttim · Mar 5, 2011

Alright, so I'm aware of all the benefits with the P-valve, since they're pretty obvious, but the obvious negatives are making me hesitate. Getting a dry suit on is enough of a PITA without one extra step. The possibility of the system failing and me getting urine all over the inside of the suit (and me) isn't appealing either. On the other hand, the obvious freedom to drink lots of water and stay hydrated would be pretty nice.

For those guys who have dry suits, with or without P-valves, what are your thoughts on having one or not having one?

I originally didn't get one with my suit, but I'm contemplating it after hearing about the undeserved hit my divemaster in Hawaii told me about, that he got, which sounded like dehydration was a contributing factor to.

Mark Michaud SELAUSAR · Mar 5, 2011

http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/exposure-suits/367839-peeing-dry-suit.html

Being dehydrated is causal to getting bent, so undeserved it was not. A P-Valve is a small price for a big benefit.

tbone1004 · Mar 5, 2011

YES!!
I don't use mine unless I'm doing dives over an hour, but I wouldn't buy a suit without one, and certainly take full advantage of it if I'm doing any deco, or longer dives. Other option is a relief zipper, but I'm not a fan...

Anti-Hero · Mar 5, 2011

A pee valve is a luxury you'll come to love. With one exception: removing the caths.

Peter_C · Mar 5, 2011

I can't imagine not having a pee-valve. I currently use an "H" valve that I am happy with, but would use this Light Monkey one if I needed a new one. Very similar to the "H" brand. I have used unbalanced super simple bolt style with success, but like the flow of the "H" brand better.

Country Diver · Mar 5, 2011

Being well hydrated and comfortable on any dive is the best way to dive. I consider the p-valve a god sent and almost always hook up for a dive. My back up suit doesn't have a p-valve and I find that it makes properly hydrating hard. What goes in must come out. As far as an accident occurring, this will happen at some point and it is not a big deal other than a little teasing from the buddy. It happens to everyone eventually...it is what it is. The more hydrated you are, the less concentrated it will be... As long as you keep the valve clean, there really isn't too long of a list of cons.

kathydee · Mar 5, 2011

Yes it's well worth the effort, even for gals

. So nice not to be forced to time hydration or take drysuit on/off on SI's. Especially on boats.

Chuck Tribolet · Mar 5, 2011

No P valve, but all of my suits have had a relief zipper.

BabyDuck · Mar 5, 2011

worth it. get one, and don't look back.

CAVDVR93538 · Mar 5, 2011

When you hook up the plumbing, start the process before you get to depth. It's good to have a little liquid in the tube to make sure that things are flowing and not kinked, blocked, etc..

Is the P-valve really worth it?

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emttim

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