Kokatat Meridian or Odyssey for Sea Kayaking? Some reflections after time in both

I wrote this a few years ago to help sea kayakers choose between these two suits. Since then, Kokatat has evolved and they now offer custom drysuits in their updated Hydrus material, a decision to help navigate a PFAS Free DWR. However, many of these observations remain just as relevant today. I hope this guide helps you decide whether a whitewater or sea kayak specific drysuit is the right tool for your next adventure.

Kokatat Meridian or Odyssey for Sea Kayaking? Some reflections after time in both.

I’ve spent a lot of hours on the water in both the Kokatat Meridian and Odyssey drysuits. Over the years, they’ve taken me through tide races, long crossings, rescues, rough landings and the calm glassy days in between. Both are excellent suits reliable, breathable and built to take a beating but they’ve got different personalities and those differences start to matter the more time you spend in them.

The Meridian was my first real drysuit and it’s still one I trust completely. It’s clean and simple Gore-Tex Pro throughout, latex gaskets, integrated socks, neoprene over-cuffs and an adjustable overskirt that seals well with the deck. It’s a snug, athletic fit that moves easily when you’re paddling hard or climbing over rocks. I’ve worn it for surf landings, whitewater coaching and big tidal days off the coast. If you’re switching between disciplines or just want one suit that covers a lot of ground, the Meridian nails it.

The Odyssey builds on that same solid base but adds features that are clearly aimed at sea kayakers. You’ve got the removable hood, which is brilliant when you’re sat in wind, rain or spray for hours. The fleece-lined collar adds warmth on cold starts. There are extra pockets for snacks, tools and whatever else ends up stuffed in there on a trip. It also comes with internal suspenders, which I thought were a bit of a gimmick at first – until I wore it all day and realised how much more comfortable it makes things when the zip is down off the water.

One small detail that stood out straight away – the Odyssey fits a little roomier than the Meridian in the same size. That’s great if you’re layering up for cold conditions or just want a bit more freedom to move. As a result of the extra features and material the Odyssey feels a little heavier than the Meridian.

One thing that sets both suits apart from a lot of others is the ability to go custom. Colour might seem like a cosmetic choice, but in colder conditions I’ve found black feels noticeably warmer – especially on windy beach days or shaded launch spots. It soaks up just a little more warmth and dries off fast between sessions. It also happens to look sharp, which never hurts.

The Meridian can also be ordered with internal suspenders and I’d recommend it. They make a surprising difference on longer days. Being able to unzip the top half and keep it sitting comfortably at the waist is a small luxury when you’re grabbing lunch on a headland or sorting out kit on the beach. It’s not something I thought I’d care about but once you’ve had it, you’ll miss it if it’s not there.

So which one’s best? Honestly, it depends.

If you want a do-it-all suit that handles whitewater as well as sea kayaking, the Meridian is a brilliant choice. It’s streamlined, reliable and built to last. For dynamic environments, I love the slim neck and hoodless design of the Meridian. It ensures my field of view remains totally unobstructed, which is vital when you’re constantly scanning the water for features or checking on your group.

If you’re spending long days in a sea kayak, especially in exposed or changing conditions, the Odyssey feels like it was made for the job. Those added comfort features make a difference when you’re out there for hours and you’ll be glad of the storage, reinforcements and hood when the weather turns.

For me, I still use both. The Meridian’s perfect when I’m running courses that blend sea and surf, or if I’m hopping between environments. When I’m heading out for a big day on the coast – or a few days  the Odyssey is the one I zip up.

They’re both serious pieces of kit. It just comes down to how and where you paddle.

Kokatat Website

One of a few UK Suppliers – Pete at Whitewater The Canoe Center