I am surprised that someone felt the DSS Kydex plate was "way too heavy for travel" compared to anything. I no longer own a DSS kydex plate, since I don't dive in warm enough water to need one; as I recall it was pretty light weight. Less that 2 lbs. I suppose.
Of course a fabric/padded is going to be lighter than most anything else out there. However, I think any weight savings going from a DSS Kydex plate to the Oxycheq ultralight is negligible.
As far as providing any structure or support, it does not.
It's literally some Cordura nylon covering what seems to be a thin layer of dense foam. So there is no structure at all.
If someone felt it was a good tradeoff to them, more power to them.
Just goes to show you.....don't take advice on the internet..........including mine.
To clarify my opinions: I owned the DSS Kydex, I sold it once I moved from Guam since I don't really dive warm water much.
I currently own the Oxycheq Ultralight (their foam/fabric) "backplate".
I stopped using it, because it left a lot to be desired.
I kept it for my Son to use, but have since bought a Dive Rite lightweight backplate. Their newer design with all of the cutouts, that is made from thinner stainless steel. It's light weight. similar to a Halcyon aluminum backplate.
The Oxycheq now sits in the closet.
As I said....I am agreement with Dan Volker's assessment of the product in question.