Importance of different sized backplates versus one size fits all?

[Rob9000]

I am looking switching to a bp/w. I am 6'4", so one reason I am looking to move is with a weight integrated BC the "waist" strap ends up being more of a belly band with the weights kinda high on me...resulting in me needing to wear a weight belt for better trim depending upon my exposure suit. I also weighs about the same as a steel plate bp/w out of water, but is 2 - 3 lbs positive in the water....but that is just another reason to switch.

I see that some backplate mfgs make a single size plate, and others offer different lengths and even widths. I wonder how important it is to have the waist strap 1/2 to an inch lower with a longer plate versus a "regular" one. I see some wetsuit mfgs only accommodate people up to 6'2", and others go up to 6'6", so I wonder if the one size back plate mfgs just don't have my height in mind (i.e. you must conform to the product, the product will not conform to you).

How much emphasis should I put on getting a long plate?

 

[gert7to3]

I would suggest contacting those manufacturers which offer longer backplates. Bet you that Tobin pops in with an opinion shortly (good info from him).

Another option is to try different sized BP's out see for yourself what you like.

Finally here's BAUE's site for working ouit BP/Wing fitting:

http://www.baue.org/faq/backplate_sizing.php?PHPSESSID=08ec93e14df54cdb4eae652352c8ced9

 

[Mr.X]

I am looking switching to a bp/w. I am 6'4", so one reason I am looking to move is with a weight integrated BC the "waist" strap ends up being more of a belly band with the weights kinda high on me...resulting in me needing to wear a weight belt for better trim depending upon my exposure suit. I also weighs about the same as a steel plate bp/w out of water, but is 2 - 3 lbs positive in the water....but that is just another reason to switch.

How much emphasis should I put on getting a long plate?

Fred T makes excellent backplates for all sorts of sizes and shapes. He is a member here on SB. He can easily make long plates and can fabricate in different gauges and bend styles. I had a custom long plate made to order which weighed in the 18 lb range. It offsets quite a bit of lead for those people who are tall and skinny*. His plates are to a a degree examples of steel art. Just don't drop a heavy plate on your toe though!

X

* displacing a lot more water because of body type

 

[dl348]

Rob, not sure if you know but Fred T, Oxycheq, and DSS all make several different sizes of backplates just for this reason. There may be others that do so as well. Good luck.

 

[divekcj]

I'm 6'2 and did just fine with a std plate...Then I got an extra long from Fred T... would never go back...the lower waist strap makes it easier to find those drings, and improves comfort. Also diving in cold water I put as much weight on that plate as possible...sure helped me with trim, and concvenience. ymmv

 

[jeraldjcook]

I just bought a long pattern plate from Tobin. This is what he said when I asked your same question:

"Our long pattern plate is 17.5 inches tall, and the lower slots were moved down 1/2 inch relative to the edge of the plate. That means the distance between the top edge of the plate and the lower slots is about 2 1/4 further apart than on the "one size fits all plates"

Tobin"

The Dive Rite plates are only 15.5" tall, rather short. So the extra 2.25" inches on the long pattern plate, for divers 6'3" to 6'8", makes a big difference. Plus, Tobin makes an extra long pattern as well for divers 6'8" and taller.

 

[Rob9000]

Yeah I've been looking at Oxycheq and DSS. A LDS I recently found carries Oxycheq. On one hand I believe in establishing/maintaining a relationship with a LDS via buying gear from them , but on the other hand I like the "I started this company because I want to make what I think is the best gear" aspect of small companies like DSS.

 

[*Floater*]

How much emphasis should I put on getting a long plate?

One size can fit all in the sense that the webbing will accommodate anyone wearing one, but one size is not ideal for all. This site had a demonstration (photos) to show why, but it's down now.

If the plate is too big then it may dig into the divers lower back or come up too high placing the weight of the plate and the tank/s too high, and people with small backs (relative to their plates) don't have much room to adjust this weight by moving the plate up or down by adjusting the shoulder straps.

If a plate is too short then you'll either have to wear the waist straps around your ribs or drop it down so far that the shoulder straps are too loose or the tank/s and weight of the rig may end up too far down for your comfort. If it's too wide then the waist or shoulder straps may be a little loose or uncomfortable making the rig less stable. That said most people are fine with the one size plate, but IMO better to get the best shape/size plate available to you if you have a choice.