The Spark of an Idea

In Spring 2010 our team paddlers, testing the prototype Palm Fuse jacket came back to tell us it was going well, really well…. but that it could be better….. How we asked? By adding a pair of pants and making it into a suit they explained.

But that’s not a proper dry suit came our response. Nope, they countered, and some would say the Fuse isn’t a proper dry cag, but we are plenty dry enough and we want freedom and comfort, because that’s how we are paddling.

So we  went ahead and made what they asked and created something a bit new – The Spark suit.

“New ways of thinking demand new methods. The Spark suit breaks from the past to meet the needs of today’s paddlers.” – Barney Caulfield, Designer.

” In the Spark freeride suit, I can go for a quick run or charge all day; light weight, flexible cut and easy to wear, looks great too.” – Simon Westgarth, Gene 17 coach and Spark suit idea generator.

” I can coach all day, be in and out of the water and still be dry and warm’ Tom Parker, BCU level 5 coach

“After 4 months of winter, and paddling in almost every condition, count me as an advocate! This thing has far over achieved in every category that a drysuit should.” Andrew Holcombe, Racer, coach and River ambassador

” Crazy good.” – Dave Carroll, Freerider

What’s the difference?

4D cut – articulation
Developed for our premium jacket range this has now extended into the pants and really raises the bar, not only in the way it allows extended articulation in all ranges of movement, but importantly how it keeps construction simple and durable – less seams and fewer seams crossing equals better performance.

Advanced Glideskin neck
Can it be an immersion suit with a neoprene neck? We think so. Smoother, more comfortable and arguably more durable this system has been around for long enough to be proven, its simply that no-one dared adding it to a suit. The ankle system used is also, perfect for warmer conditions and suited for use in other water sports like SUP, kite surf and sailing.

XP 3 layer fabric
Our microporous membrane 3 layer material is highly waterproof, durable yet light and flexible, perfect for garments that require significant articulation, yet rugged enough for all weathers.

TI-Zip® Masterseal zippers
A dry zip that changed what’s possible in immersion suits. The low profile and flexible nature of the Masterseal allows the zip to be attached across curves perfect for a better fit around the back and shoulders. It also requires less maintenance, a bonus for wet paddlers!

Size matters
Along with other suits in our range we have quite literally broadened the size range available. The Spark comes in six sizes, including a new Medium Broad size, allowing paddlers to get optimum fit from a suit that provides optimum flexibility.

Check the full spec here and get to your dealer to try-one yourself.