Brigade in cold water

[Wetpants]

Hi all,

I'm hoping in the near future i will be purchasing a Zeagle Brigade however I live Down-Under and temperatures can be as low as 10C in the water. My question is how does that affect the type of BC i get. Should i be looking at a Ranger instead?

Sorry if it's a noobie question.

Cheers
Dom

 

[Penopolypants]

I dive with it in the Pacific Northwest and have used it in 46F (8C?) water with no problems. It's a nice BC.

 

[tarheeldiver]

I use it quarry diving in 50 degree water all the time. You will love it!!!

 

[Timeliner]

I dive my Brigade year round. I find water temps. of 44 F are not a problem for it.

The only problem I could see that you might have is if you need a bunch of weight because of a extra thick wetsuit/hood/gloves ect. I weigh 175 and wear a Medium size Zeagle. I've had to put 32lbs. in mine for a cold ocean dive before while wearing 'lots' of thermo. gear. It does just fine.

Do the math on your weights and see if everything fits OK in the yellow weight bags they make for the Zeagle. I think you love the BC though It's a no Bull**** item.

 

[MtnDiver]

You won't be disappointed.

Coldest I've worn mine in so far was mid-60's F (mid-teens C) wrapped in 7mm of neoprene and loved it.

Also dove it in 80's F (upper 20's C) water in Hawaii and was very comfortable with just a rash guard underneath.

 

[Chad Carney]

The Brigade has 35 lbs of lift and a Ranger has 44. But lift doesn't tell the whole story.

The Brigade is more streamlined than the Ranger, and it's bladder is designed for single tanks. It is also lighter and smaller so it travels well.

The Ranger would be more appropriate if you need lots of weight, and it has a wider wing, suitable for doubles.

Chad

 

[scubadobadoo]

I agree. Brigade is the way to go. I always see Rangers for sale here and on ebay. It's a great BC but just over kill for most.

 

[Mike126]

Another vote for the Brigade. I dove mine a couple of weeks ago for the first time and loved it. I dive local quarries and the temps are in the 50 - 60F range. I had 20#s of weight with a 7mm one piece and AL80. The bc can take more if needed with the 35# bladder.

If you ever need a full 44# bladder, you can always purchase that later and have 2 bcs for the price of one.

Mike

 

[Wetpants]

Great, thanks heaps guys for all your responses. Seems like my decision is clear - Brigade is the choice!

I'll let you all know when i get it/