Updated: 13 November 2000
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Alterations to dry suit hoods.

Introduction.
We are aware that some of you have been struggling with the mask clearing drills because of the snugness of fit of your drysuit hoods - one particular style of neoprene hood (with a sewn edge to the face opening) seems to be giving particular problems. Under normal use (ie when you're NOT forever being asked to flood and clear your mask as part of a drill) the size of the face opening in these hoods is perfectly adequate - in fact the close fit will help to keep your face warm. However, if (like me) you find the opening just a bit too constricting, here's how to alter your hood:
Step 1.
Collect together everything that you'll need: your hood (completely dry), some strong thread and a sewing needle, a pair of sharp scissors and some neoprene repair liquid (eg Aquasure).

Step 1: Everything you need to mod your hood.

Step 2.
Start by strengthening the seams inside the line where you're going to cut by sewing across the seam. Although the seams are glued, this extra stitching should help to stop the seam from coming undone.

Step 2: Strengthen seams by stitching

Step 3.
Once you've finished the stitching on the three seams you're ready to mark out where you're going to cut - I'd strongly suggest that you try removing just 5 mm or so to start with (ie just the edge stitching); when you're happy, start cutting.

Step 3: Cutting off the edge.

Check that the hood now fits properly - if not, cut away another 5 mm and try again.

Step 3: Cutting completed.

Step 4.
To finish off the job, use Aquasure to seal over the stitching that you applied in Step 2.

Step 4: Ready to apply the Aquasure

Apply a small drop of Aquasure to the stitching using a matchstick; work the liquid into the texture of the neoprene and the stitching as neatly as you can (beware: Aquasure is very 'sticky' - don't get any on your clothes). Remember to seal both inside and outside the hood. Allow the Aquasure to dry overnight.

Step 4: Applying Aquasure using matchstick.

Step 5.
Job done !

Step 5: Job done ! (one of the finished inside seams is shown here).

Note:
Any leftover Aquasure will keep for ages if you make sure that you expel any air from the tube before you put the cap back on; it keeps best if you store it inside a plastic bag in a cold place (ie the fridge or even the freezer).
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