Question Apeks WTX D30 vs Mares XR wing - are they the same?

[kdlv]

Talking only about the donut here...

I noticed that my Mares XR looks very similar and even identical to Apeks WTX D30.
Form, components, stitching positions, holes and cutouts.

Is it really the same wing just made of more sturdy materials?
Noticed the double stitching of the external shell and got myself wondering if I should build another wing bottom up rather than starting from a ready package and replacing components that I don't like... which has always been the case with my scuba equipment.

So... is the WTX D wing durable?
I read reports of Mares XR wings with torn seams, does it happen to the WTX as well under normal and careful use?

I really like diving with the Mares XR wing, the shape of the bladder is perfect for me.

If anyone has a D30 lying around will be more than happy to buy it.
Don't need harness, backplate or any accessories, just the wing

 

[runsongas]

both are based on the oxycheq mach V design is why they look so similar

the apeks is sturdier than the mares, but not quite on the level of the oxycheq extreme. the PSD version with the chemical resistant coating is nice because the coating gives some additional abrasion/cut resistance.

 

[kdlv]

Thank you! I learned something new, didn't know about Oxycheq and wasn't aware the design started with them. I thought everyone copied the Apeks style.

Just found about the DGX wings as well. Also look identical but with smaller lift of 30lbs compared to 32 of the Apeks. The lift capacity makes a slight difference to me. Diving a 300bar 12l steel tank was on the edge of lift capacity of my previous 30lbs wing for with no weights and the lightest possible alu backplate. No issues with the Mares XR and 32lbs though.
Price in the US is great, but having the DGX imported to Europe will make it almost identical in price to the Apeks.

Looks like I am headed the Apeks route for now.

 

[happy-diver]

I have an Oxycheq Mach V and my AliExpress wings leave it in their wake even though they don't make a wake

Design, quality, stitching, fabric, the lot!

Inflator and all that stuff is mostly the same everywhere if not identical

 

[kdlv]

@happy-diver, the Aliexpress one looks like Tecline Donut 15.
I struggle to understand your post though

What do you mean? That the Aliexpress wings are the ones with better quality, stitching, fabric and design?... or the other way around.

 

[Still Kicking]

both are based on the oxycheq mach V design is why they look so similar

the apeks is sturdier than the mares, but not quite on the level of the oxycheq extreme. the PSD version with the chemical resistant coating is nice because the coating gives some additional abrasion/cut resistance.

I have dived a PSD wing pretty much weekly for a decade and it's going strong. I noticed they jacked up the price outrageously but it's still a bulletproof wing.

 

[runsongas]

well the thinking with PSD is someone else is paying

@kdlv the aliexpress wings have improved quite a bit, but its hit or miss on how well the color holds up, especially if chlorinated pool water is involved.

 

[Still Kicking]

well the thinking with PSD is someone else is paying.

Key point!

 

[kdlv]

Well... ordered the Apeks (non-PSD) wing. I like the idea of the double stitching on the outer shell and the flat dump valve. Found a good discount offer and will have EU warranty.
Also ordered a carbon backplate from Aliexpress. I couldn't resist the temptation.
I have some Griplock cambands, brand new harness with alu d-rings and weight pockets in the dive gear boxes.

And if everything arrives on time, my mix-match BP/W will be ready for the next diving trip early March.
Will post pics once I get them all together. Hopefully the weight of the whole thing will be comparable to the Mares XR.