Hemming .5mm Neoprene Pants (for Canyons, Rivers)

[Phong D]

So I picked up some NRS Hydroskin .5mm neoprene pants for some Canyon trips I am doing next year.  Also, I want to do some more kayak camping.  The problem is, I’m fat.

So I had to buy XLARGE despite having short legs.  I notice that the pants are hemmed with a single fold and that extra wide stitch that both seals the edge stitches the fabrics together.  I don’t know what that stitch is called, but I understand most common machines can’t do it.  I would have to either fold it twice to hide the cut, or maybe…I heard something about glue?  Can I glue and then just stitch with a regular stitch or even an x stitch?  Should I bring it to a pro?  I dont want to be charged up the wazzu for such a thin neoprene.  Do you think a regular taylor might try to take it on?

[Diane “Piper” Soini]

I may be wrong but I don’t think neoprene will fray. If it doesn’t, you can fold over once and sew it with a straight stitch. If it does fray, fold it over twice. If you don’t have a sewing machine you can hem your pants with a needle and thread. As a short person I have spent many hours hemming pants with needle and thread.

[Phong D]

You are right, something I didn’t know.  Thanks!

[Jerry Adams]

if it doesn’t fray then you don’t need to do anything?

I assume you’re shortening the legs?  Just cut it off a little long and see what happens.  If it frays unacceptably, then hem it

[Bob B]

liquid neoprene cement is available for wetsuit repair. I surf, so i’ve used it to patch gloves and wetsuits. it works ok – pretty stretchy and durable. could be helpful here, not sure. I agree that the neoprene shouldn’t fray, but you might still need something at the seam.

[Author]

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