Travel Backplate - XS Scuba Aluminum vs Mares XR Backplate

[TheOldPilot]

Hi Friend,

I'm putting together my first BP/W system and looking for a back plate to pair with a DGX S1 Gears Singles Singles Wing (DGX Gears S1 Singles Wing). My goal is a lightweight travel oriented rig focusing on simplicity, durability, and value (I know there are lighter wings and lighter back plates, but I'm not a hardcore minimalist and spending significantly more just to save a few ounces isn't in my playbook). I only plan on doing "shallow", warm-water diving (reefs, etc.) to recreational depths.

I searched through the forum and couldn't locate much on either of the two back plates I'm looking at, so I'm hoping folks here could give me some info if they have first/second-hand knowledge or experience...it not with these exact products, soft vs. hard back plate experience would be helpful. Two main questions I have concern the following:

1. I've come across two instances of people saying the soft plates are unnoticeable compared to hard, but I would think that not true or soft plates would command a much higher market share.
2. Would the shape of the aluminum plate listed below impact user experience? Again, if this were not true, would we not see such a design more?

What I'm looking at:
Mares XR Backplate Soft (Soft Backplate | Mares)
XS Scuba Aluminum Travel Backplate (Aluminum Travel Backplate — XS Scuba - Everything For The Perfect Dive)

Appreciate any thoughts you have. Thanks!

 

[Centrals]

DGX Al plate is 2lb(0.9kg) in weight and selling for $75.00.
"Simplicity, durability and value) is the goal for the "Travel backplate".
Simplicity: YES
Durability: ?
Value: Cheaper than $75.00?

 

[lowwall]

Don't get a soft plate. The XS plate is a good choice for your purpose.

 

[Centrals]

2. Would the shape of the aluminum plate listed below impact user experience? Again, if this were not true, would we not see such a design more?

Simplicity vs versatility
I have never seen any travel backplate for twin tank rigging.

 

[Cheizz]

I have never seen any travel backplate for twin tank rigging.

Where do the twin tanks come from?

 

[inquis]

It's be nice to hear from someone who has used a dog bone plate like the XSS. I wonder if you'll feel it on your back? It does looks cool, though.

The "safe" bet is the DGX AL plate mentioned above. Hard to beat that price point.

 

[Centrals]

Where do the twin tanks come from?

OP asked for simplicity, durability and value.
The " dog bone plate" is simple but it has very limited application ie. for single tank diving only. While the normal Al plate offers a bit more. Which one has better value for money?
We all have different opinion when value is mentioned!

 

[TheOldPilot]

Single tank is all I need…if I ever get to doubles, I just assume up front an increase in all kinds of costs as it is.

By value, I primarily mean good quality at a good price. Paying extra for brand names of fancy features isn’t really my style.

The dog bone primarily interested me simply for physical space saving and weight saving. Would still be interested if there are any first hand users (of this or similar) who could speak to the performance/comfort and if the shape is more gimmick than anything else.

 

[lowwall]

The dog bone primarily interested me simply for physical space saving and weight saving. Would still be interested if there are any first hand users (of this or similar) who could speak to the performance/comfort and if the shape is more gimmick than anything else.

This guy uses one for his warm water travel rig. He's the founder of a GUE-style training agency and does not put up with substandard gear.



If you want more firsthand responses, you should probably start a new thread on the topic

 

[lowwall]

Here's one for $75 with color options. Drilled and slotted for doubles so Centrals should approve. (The XS Scuba version is as well.)

Aluminium Dog Bone Style Lightweight Backplate "Color: Red"

Brand new to Piranha is our dog bone type aluminium backplate We have the 3 top center holes with our slotted bottom for fitting double quickly without the hassle The plate is 3.0mm thick This lightweight plate weighs in at 1lb 3oz!.. Perfect for travel and yet strong enough to support your...

www.piranhadivemfg.com