It’s always exciting when a new BCD hits the scuba dive market, and we love to get our hands on the latest releases to let you all know how it really holds up! May 2021 has seen Aqua Lung launch the Omni BCD – a fully customisable jacket style BC. We take a look into the specifics of this BCD. Which colour kit will you choose?
Aqua Lung Omni BCD
Following on from their popular Rogue BCD, the new Aqua Lung Omni BCD is a modular jacket style BCD. Whilst most modular BCDs on the market are back inflate, this is a modular design in a more classic jacket style. This helps to solve the fit issues which can be problematic with single sized jacket BCDs.
With the interchangeable components you can customise your BCD for a perfect fit and unique styling. Four components in three size offerings make up the jacket – the shoulder assembly, waistband, back, and air cell (bladder). These click securely into place with “Modlock™” connectors, and can be easily unlocked with household tools such as a pen or key if you choose to change the pieces. Once your sizing is perfected, you can add one of six colour kits in Black, White, Glacier, Pink, Blue or Tropic Yellow. The colour kit consists of a back pad, reusable mesh bag, weight pockets, console holder, inflator velcro, zipper pulls and chest strap slider, giving the BCD stylish flashes of colour to complement the rest of your equipment.
A notable innovation in the jacket is the bladder retraction system – whilst deflating jackets can often be uneven and clumsy, the Omni pulls in the sides of the bladder during deflation to maintain a streamlined shape and reduce drag. As standard, the BCD features zip pockets, four stainless steel d-rings, an octo holder, quick release integrated weight pockets and a knife mount point, whilst the secure tank band boasts a finger-saver feature. Optional extras include additional trim pockets, an SMB pocket and a waistband extender. Dump valves are located at the top and bottom of the right hand side.
The Omni retails for around £619. The Aqualung Omni BCD must be purchased with a Colour Kit to be functional. The colour kit includes the integrated weight pockets, zip toggles, chest straps and octo pockets in your preferred colour.
Omni size guide
Unboxing the Omni and how to put it together
Have you also seen the Aqua Lung Xscape Collection
Xscape 3/4mm Wetsuit – If like us you’ve lusted after the fun prints and colours of surf wetsuits but found that they don’t stand up to the pressure (literally) of scuba diving, you will be overjoyed to see the new Aqua Lung Xscape wetsuit.
Aqua Lung’s “aim was to design the ultimate eco-friendly wetsuit”, and they’ve succeeded in creating a comfortable, strong, sustainable suit which happens to also be great to look at. Designed with explorers in mind, this 3/4mm suit is suitable for diving in water between 20°C and 28°C, and the super four way stretch makes it just as practical for other ocean sports (such as snorkelling, freediving, and even paddling or surfing).
The stretch comes from their innovative, 100% neoprene free fabric – the suit is constructed from a natural rubber core layer (Yulex) laminated with water based glue and topped with fabric made from recycled bottles. Comfort is provided by the preformed neck, arms, and legs, whilst the silicone seals at wrists and ankles and the double flap back zip prevent flushing to keep you warmer. The inner fleece layer on the chest also works to keep you warm, as well as making the suit faster-drying.
With all that flexibility and comfort you might expect a weaker suit but don’t be fooled – the reinforced knee pads and strong seams mean that this suit should see you through many years of ocean adventures.
Available through your local Aqua Lung dealer, or online for £315 here.
Where to buy new Aqua Lung products
These exciting new launches will become available over the next few months, so to be the first to get your hands on them you should contact your local dive store to request the items you’re looking for. You can check for your nearest Aqua Lung dealer via the search function on their website. If you are looking for an online retailer Mikes currently have the Omni in stock for a great price of £540!
Don’t forget that our Girls that Scuba Facebook group is also a great resource for finding fantastic local dive shops to support – why not start a conversation in there to discover who’s stocking these products close to your home, and perhaps make some new scuba friends in the process?
Disclaimer: This article is sponsored by Aqua Lung, however all views are our own. Brand sponsorships help us develop and grow the Girls that Scuba community and continually offer helpful and inspiring content.
