Normal config to Long Hose

[OTF]

I strongly prefer a standard 7' hose, even for single tank recreational, because I find that it stows better than any intermediate length.

 

[Reefy]

I've tried and used a number of lengths for both the long and short hose, and heavily prefer a 7 ft hose for my primary second stage and a 22 in hose for the necklace, although many prefer a 24" for it- try both, and see which works best for you and your configuration.

 

[dmaziuk]

So you clip a regulator hose while in use that you intend to donate in a OOA situation? Like a clip attached to the mid point of the hose?

It's the simple plastic clip, the hose comes out if you tug on it a bit harder.

 

[DOBY]

Apeks makes a long hose retaining bar that takes place of a canister light to hold the hose in place if you’re set on a 5’ hose. Not sure how it would work with a standard poodle style open water BCD.

But like others have stated, a 40” or even a 38” primary hose on a 90 degree swivel works great for an open water setup. Run down the tank and under arm routes well. Main thing is to have a reg that has the 5th port for the bungeed secondary so it can be onientated horizontally. See attached DiveRite video.

dive rite regulator - Google Search

 

[inquis]

Apeks makes a long hose retaining bar that takes place of a canister light to hold the hose in place if you’re set on a 5’ hose

Such a bar works well for a 7' hose. The 5' hose -- being 2 ft shorter -- won't even reach the hip. It stays in place nicely with just the wrap around the torso.

 

[DOBY]

Such a bar works well for a 7' hose. The 5' hose -- being 2 ft shorter -- won't even reach the hip. It stays in place nicely with just the wrap around the torso.

Thanks….I never used a 5’ hose. Just 7’ for cave setup (BM or SM) and 40” for OW.

 

[KenE]

I have found the 5' hose more convenient than the 40" because it wraps around the neck. When I do reg switches the primary stays put instead of falling away. When on the surface or walking the primary is sitting right next to the secondary which is necklaced. This makes finding the primary convenient without having to clip it off. Thick gloves in cold water makes clipping less attractive. It can be done, just not as convenient as around the neck.

 

[OTF]

Better than the single-purpose retainer stick on your belt, use a sheath holding a knife or shears as a longhose retainer. More useful.