Replace Seatec Manta with...

[wmw999]

I'm a cautious occasional diver (one trip a year or so in warm water), so take that into consideration. I.e. don't like deep etc -- the pretty colors at shallow keep me satisfied. I bought a Seatec Manta at a gear swap a few years ago when I got recertified -- was certified in the 1980's, and didn't dive again until around 2010, so I took a new course.

Anyway, the Manta needed some emergency service on my last trip; fortunately Bonaire had an old dude who had the right parts -- the other shops didn't (but they were nice enough to point me at the old dude). So, while it works now, and seems to hold air still, it might be time to buy another.

I really like the fit, really like the flexibility, weight, and softness of the Manta. I've been looking at a Zeagle Express Tech partly because of the weight and minimalist nature. Simple is better than complicated as far as I'm concerned. Looking for recommendations -- if I rent what vendors have on trips, well, then it's all rental-type BCD's.

We just moved, and don't really have a LDS yet, but there seem to be some. But I'd like other suggestions as well before going there, because it just increases knowledge. I'm not tied to moving to a back BCD, but I don't want something giant to pack, since my diving will pretty much always be on trips.

thanks

 

[REVAN]

I like super minimalist and just use a backplate. It's inexpensive, very lightweight for traveling, and basically no maintenance, ever. If you dive tropical, it's a viable option up to about 3mm full suit.

More mainstream, I saw a system at DEMA last year that looked interesting. Aqualung had a very lightweight modular harness with wings as small at 12 pounds lift. I can't remember the name of it right now. Anyone know what the name of this might be? I didn't really pay much attention at the time, and it's possible it is yet to be released. I did like the way the harness clipped together though. Like I said, very light and very modular.

 

[diversteve]

A Zeagle Covert is about 2.5 lbs. lighter than an Express Tech. And roils up for travel. Other similar options are the Aqualung Zuma or the Scubapro LIghthawk.

If you want to stay with a jacket design like the Manta - Scubapro also sells their GO model. Pretty pricey though. Another jacket-style travel option is the Cressi Ultralight.

IDK anything about either jacket but I'll likely buy a Lighthawk for travel some day. I liked the ET but configured with weight system it's around 7lbs. and over 5600. I dive a Zeagle currently so initially thought I was going to buy an ET for travel purposes.

Either back-inflate model retails under $500. If you don't need the latest/greatest, Leisurepro has "new" 2013 Lighthawks for $250.
The newer 2016 model sells for around $450?

 

[Jayfarmlaw]

You might consider a Diverite Transpac and small wing. Add a utility pocket for the waist strap (if you like/need a pocket) a couple of ditchable weight pockets, and a couple of trim pockets and your about a travel friendly as it comes.

An aluminum backplate and harness of your choice (I like a Transplate) would be a second choice.

I have both and prefer either to my Scubapro Glide x jacket type. For travel, there is really no comparison.

Good luck, safe travels.
Jay