Gear News
Mares Hybrid Pro Tec BCD
A giant step in the evolution of back mounted BCDs
- Made with Alutex, sturdy and durable
- Modular integrated weight system
- 10 metal d-rings, 3 of which customizable
The first thing you will notice when donning Hybrid Pro Tec is the perfect fit. This new level of comfort is achieved via special shoulder pads which are longer, pre-shaped and reinforced, and which work in perfect unison with the lumbar suspension system. Hybrid Pro Tec features 10 metal D-rings, 3 of which can be slid up and down along the shoulder pads, to accommodate any configuration needs. Made of very tough Alutex material, it will endure any exposure you submit it to and hold up to the test of time. Furthermore, Hybrid Pro Tec is a modular BCD: the detacheable vest comprising the MRS plus system is removable, leaving a lean-and-mean travel BCD. This configuration can be expanded by adding the optional lumbar trim weight system and/or the Cruise Add-on pocket.
BC-FEATURES |
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BACKMOUNTED: Air-cell separated from the harness, resulting in unrestricted freedom of movement. | |
ERGO INFLATOR: The standard inflation and deflation control device used in SSI, PADI (etc.) training programs. Intuitive use and secure grip. | |
FOLDABLE BACKPACK: Ideal for travelling thanks to its reduced dimensions when packed and its marked weight reduction compared to a traditional backpack. Integrated rubber pads provide secure grip of the tank and carrying comfort. | |
SUSPENSION SYSTEM: Inspired by the design of modern hiking backpacks, the system avoids direct contact between body and tank support. |
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Hybrid Pro Tec
Translated, the Latin term Hybrida means something “bundled” or “of two different origins”. A name that aptly describes the Hybrid Pro Tec, as it really combines two BCs into one new model. Read on to learn how it works and what the benefits are…
By completely separating the carrying system and buoyancy bag, Hybrid Pro Tec adjusts to the body like a second skin. The anatomical characteristics are emphasized by longer, contoured, and specially reinforced shoulder straps. They carry the weight in coordination with the support system in the lumbar region and ensure a perfect fit – even when hauling a “heavy load”. And still, the Hybrid Pro Tec is very well equipped: With durable Alutex material and a total of 10 metal D-rings (height-adjustable at the shoulder), bottles can not only be mounted on the back, but also easily attached to both sides.
Fans of “side mount” or “monkey diving”, listen up! You will get your money’s worth, and so will travel enthusiasts! Due to its hybrid (modular) build, Hybrid Pro Tec is not only ideally suited for extreme applications. The vest with integrated weight and trim weight system can be completely separated from the carrier and buoyancy unit in a few simple steps. The result is an ultra-light, back-mounted travel BC that can be reduced to a pack size of 45 x 30 x 30 thanks to its foldable carrying frame. If you want to upgrade your Hybrid Pro Tec, you have several options: You can choose a second separate trim weight system and/or the belt bag Cruise Add-On. Speaking of trim weight: The integrated system is arranged in a way that it doesn’t tend to produce the well known turning effect. The true greatness of the Hybrid Pro Tec is found in its many interesting details. For example, the streamlined build of the 25 litre bladder, which is kept in its dimensions by bungee straps, should be noted. Two easily accessible fold-out pockets below the MRS Plus trim system are also a very nice enhancement. Lamp and buoy are not only where they belong, but are also close at hand in any situation. The name says it all: Hybrid Pro Tec is strong and sturdy, but lightweight and convertible. It is well suited for daily use and travel. It offers fun and tech in one.
Technical Characteristics
Type of BC | Hybrid system with modular build |
Special feature | Vest and buoyancy bag can be separated |
Concept | Buoyancy bag for back and side mount |
Target audience | Advanced divers, diving instructors |
Inflator | Ergo inflator, integrated emergency air dump |
Quick air dump | Ultra-flat, one each at the top and bottom right |
Welding | High-frequency |
Material | Cordura® 420, Cordura® 1000, and Alutex |
Backpack | Foldable backpack |
Waist strap | Adjustable cummerbund system |
Chest strap | To optimally secure the shoulder straps, length adjustable on both sides and height triple-adjustable |
Dual tank capability | yes (max. vol. 2 x 10 l) |
Weight (size M/ L) complete | 4.4 kg |
Weight (size M/ L) without vest | 2.9 kg |
Buoyancy Hybrid | 25 l (in all sizes) |
Lead integrated MRS Plus | 2 x 6 kg (+ trim weight) |
Shoulder straps | Anatomically contoured, elongated, with shoulder pads |
D-rings | 10 (steel) |
Pockets | 2 zippered roll-out pockets, 2 slide-in pockets,1 knife retainer |
Sizes | 3 sizes XS/S, M/L & XL |
Colour | bk |
code: 417348
For more information about Mares products visit www.mares.com.
Gear News
May the 4th be with you!
Oyster Diving have recently been given exclusive access to offer scuba diving courses and fun dives at Mercers Lake, a beautiful lake near M25/Gatwick in the UK.
Oyster have just launched their own dive boat ‘The Blue Pear’ to explore various parts of the lake. Divers can glide around the underwater woodland, see lots of fish and decent visibility. Out of the water divers set up in the purpose built kitting up area, unwind in a warm shower, and off-gas in the café & licensed bar.
To celebrate the start of the summer season, AquaSports and Oyster Diving have teamed up to host a Star Wars-themed open day on the 4th May.
Guests will be able to enjoy discounted tasters of various watersports including Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP), Canoeing and Sailing. Oyster Diving will be joined by Apeks and possibly other dive manufacturers to display their latest products. Demo gear will be available for qualified divers and Oyster’s sales support team will be on hand for customers with any questions.
Divers wishing to get in the water will need to book in via Oyster Diving’s website where you can also choose to hire any equipment. Non-divers and well behaved dogs are very welcome!
As well as the watersports there will also be music, food and a licensed bar. The fun starts at 10am and finishes around 4.30pm.
Please come along, wear your finest Stormtrooper or Princess Leia outfit and enjoy the fun!
For more details contact: mark@oysterdiving.com
Gear News
Gear Showcase: The Nomad Ray Sidemount System from Dive Rite
Dive Rite was founded in 1984 by technical divers and cave explorers with the goal to make the very best scuba diving equipment available. Gear that can be trusted on the most extreme dives and exceed expectations in any environment: reef, wreck, cave, or quarry.
The Nomad Ray is the product of years of design, development, field testing, and feedback from some of the world’s leading sidemount divers and instructors.
The Nomad Ray is available in black, blue, OD green, pink, or red. If you happen to find yourself in a tight spot, the Ray’s abrasion-resistant “skid plate” will have your back: providing wear protection exactly where it’s needed the most. SuperFabric® is a fast drying, highly durable, and slash-resistant material. The Nomad Ray Sidemount System is ready to perform in the toughest diving environments.
The Nomad Ray can be easily adjusted to comfortably fit all body types. The independently adjustable harness design can be quickly set up for any diver. Shoulder and waist webbing can be replaced independently if damaged or trimmed too short. The Nomad Ray uses a fast, tool-free bungee length adjustment system. Simply pull to the desired length, tie a single overhand knot, and tuck the excess into the integrated sleeve. A quick-adjust belly band with a custom moulded bungee hook keeps the wing wrapped snugly around the diver’s body.
A zipper on the inside of the Nomad Ray wing allows for access to three integrated weight pockets capable of holding up to five pounds of each of hard or soft weight.
To find out more go to https://www.diverite.com/products/nomad-sidemount/nomad-ray-sidemount-system/.
Sea & Sea is the home of Dive Rite and other leading diving brands in the UK.
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