Yes or No to a Lumbar Pad?

[vinegarbiscuit]

I've never bothered with a pad. My plate has never proved uncomfortable - not even when diving only with a skin, let alone thicker exposure protection - so I regard it as a piece of superfluous equipment. A still-damp lumbar pad could also cost you when weighing your bags at an airline's check-in counter...avoiding baggage overage charges is hard enough as it is, right?

 

[DaMaDo]

I don't use a "lumbar pad" but I have the Hollis backpad which is pretty much just two layers of webbing with a logo and a pocket. There's no padding at all, but I like it because when I don't wear environmental protection, it keeps the "freezing" steel off my back. It also lets me store stuff in there. It dries fast and looks cool too .
With my 3mm there's no difference except having the pocket to store a small lift bag or smb.

Also, if you get one, leave the bottom two holes unbolted so you can access the bottom wingnut.

 

[kevindwhite]

I have both Hollis and DSS plates. I don't use a pad with either. In fact when I asked Tobin, owner of Deep Sea Supply, for a pad for my DSS plate his response was "you couldn't pay me to sell you a pad". If you feel like you really need one I suggest DIY before spending $$ on an "official" pad.

 

[Rock2r]

Thanks for all the feedback. I believe I will pass on the Dive Rite pad. Seems like a PITA to take on and of due to design. I think a "bookscrew" application would be much simpler as some have suggested. Anyone know which brand's holes line up best with Dive Rite's back plate holes? Halcyon maybe?