Zeagle Express Tech

[GrumpyOldGuy]

I ordered my ET with a 35lb badder. I know for my size (XXL, 220lbs) with an 8/7 or 7+7 cold water wetsuit, the 26 is marginal. I would have liked a 30, but it you compare the 35 to the 26, there is very, very little size difference. Something like an extra 1/2 inch of fabric. The ET is pretty nice, not as good as a back plate, but better for travel. The only downside is the need for a crotch strap (easy fix) and the stupid long pull-dump style inflator hose.

 

[ams511]

Jim - I would typically be diving in a 2 piece 3 mil. I would most likely be diving the shortie piece (w/ full sleeves and exposure protection for the legs) down here in the Gulf, but I would most likely be wearing both pieces of the suit when diving in the springs. You're saying the 24 lb bladder would not suffice? My guess is that I'll primarily be diving AL 80s for the time being.

I'm assuming I can opt for a bigger bladder on the express tech? Perhaps this might be a better investment:

Hollis Ride Wing Travel BCD 37lbs at LeisurePro

You don't need such a large BC for diving in either the ocean or springs. Your wing needs to float the rig without you in it and to compensate for the change in buoyancy of your wetsuit. A 2 piece 3 mil is about 12-15 lb. So at the very worst you need 12 lbs of lift to compensate for the loss of buoyancy. There is nothing you can do about the tank swing because the tank only gets lighter as you use the gas.