Soft backplates

[kelemvor]

Any chance you guys will release any kind of a soft backplate system similar to the Transpac from Diverite? I'm considering taking some steps to lighten my luggage and was thinking about trying some alternatives to my current hard backplates.

 

[fmerkel]

I have a Transpac. I did put a plate on it. IMO it's not light at all. My wife's Halcyon (they are similar lift size) is considerably lighter with the same plate. The soft pack is not as comfortable or stable.

For travel she got a small wing and a SS carved out plate (2#). It's pretty nice and will replace her old Zeagle Concept.

 

[Anthony A.]

I tried the apeks soft plate and although nicely made, it really wasnt very stable. If alumimum plate is too heavy for you, I would recommend a plastic backplate from Piranha. They are just as stable as an aluminum/ss but weigh nothing at all.

 

[rhwestfall]

Until then, DSS Kydex or OxyCheq "Dogbone".....

 

[lexvil]

Or VDH

 

[rhwestfall]

I'll let you know how it (VDH) travels in a little bit (Curacao). I do really like that plate, but I'm sure it just freaks out the masses with the DH sculpted top, and it's description as a "vintage plate"....

 

[kelemvor]

I tried the apeks soft plate and although nicely made, it really wasnt very stable. If alumimum plate is too heavy for you, I would recommend a plastic backplate from Piranha. They are just as stable as an aluminum/ss but weigh nothing at all.

Just to be clear, aluminum (or steel depending on my configuration on a given dive) plates suit me just fine in the water. I'm looking to comprimise performance in order to reduce luggage weight when traveling. The DSS Kydex plate is pretty cool but it's also VERY expensive. It's also not very flexible so it would be just as hard to pack even if it did save a pound or two.

 

[decompression]

Any chance you guys will release any kind of a soft backplate system similar to the Transpac from Diverite? I'm considering taking some steps to lighten my luggage and was thinking about trying some alternatives to my current hard backplates.

Not to take anything away from Chris and Deep6 but until they come out with a plate, this is one I’ve been using. Absolutely awesome, firm but super light weight, fits standard 2” webbing, Has bolt holes and cam strap holes and even some neutrally buoyant padding......
UTD Soft Back Plate- Camo - New 2018 · UTD Scuba Diving

 

[kelemvor]

Not to take anything away from Chris and Deep6 but until they come out with a plate, this is one I’ve been using. Absolutely awesome, firm but super light weight, fits standard 2” webbing, Has bolt holes and cam strap holes and even some neutrally buoyant padding......
UTD Soft Back Plate- Camo - New 2018 · UTD Scuba Diving

Thanks, that's an interesting option I was unaware of.

 

[lexvil]

I'll let you know how it (VDH) travels in a little bit (Curacao). I do really like that plate, but I'm sure it just freaks out the masses with the DH sculpted top, and it's description as a "vintage plate"....

Took mine to Thailand a year ago, México last June as a travel backpack, Hawaii next week and Truk in June, I think you’ll find it travels well. Have a great trip.