LEAD POUCHES

The growing trend in buoyancy compensator design is towards weight integrated units and now, nearly every manufacturer has at least one model in their line. Weight integrated BCs take the weight directly off the hips and make it more comfortable, especially if any hiking to the dive site is called for. Some BC designs have pockets designed to accept a variety of standard lead weights while others have specially designed sleeves that are inserted into the BC after weight has been installed. To add to the comfort of the weight integrated BC, soft weights are being used and these are optionally available from a few BC manufacturers. The trouble with most soft weight pouches is they often leach out that ugly "lead milk" after every dive.

But Coast to Coast Scuba, the Vancouver-based manufacturing firm is now offering completely sealed weight pouches in sizes from 2 to 15 lbs. The pouches are made of extremely tough vinyl plastic and are designed to fit Oceanic, Seaquest, Tusa, Dacor, Sherwood, Zeagle BCs and the Scubapro Venus.

Custom designs are also possible and a variety of colours are available. Coast to Coast also manufactures a full line of standard coated and uncoated lead weights from eight ounces to fourteen pounds.

For more information call their toll free (North America) fax 888 667-2822.