Review: Aqualung Rogue BCD
Hey guys, this is Cody from Rowand’s Reef and today I want to talk to you about a new BCD; the new Aqualung Rogue. I want to share with you why I think this is the perfect bcd for every diver.
The Aqualung Rogue BCD is the perfect combination of minimalist design and the most desired features. It is a totally modular BCD that comes in four parts; backplate, wing, shoulder straps and waistband. Unlike most BCDs where you just get small, medium and large sizes, each component of the Aqualung Rogue BCD can be sized independently. This gives you a total of 27 different sizing configurations to allow you to custom build your BCD for your exact shape and size. All of this is made possible by Aqualung’s patent pending ModLock System.
Not only can the Aqualung Rogue BCD fit divers of every shape and size but it is a great all-round choice for diving in every environment. The Aqualung Rogue BCD is incredibly compact and lightweight, weighing in at just under 2.2kg/5lbs makes it the ideal choice for the traveling diver. The padding on the backplate and shoulder straps is nice and light but very soft making it great for dives in thin wetsuits or rash-guards. The Aqualung Rogue BCD has a lift capacity of 35 lbs and has a number of weight pocket options making it a great choice for diving in cold water environments as well.
Aside from the Aqualung Rogue BCD’s modular design and extreme versatility there are a few other features that make this a really unique setup. My personal favorite feature is the back-mounted integrated weight system. The problem I’ve had with so with so many BCDs out there is that the integrated weights are in the front. This will cause you to roll forward when at the surface. Having the weights in the back will allow you to stay upright when at the surface and on your back when surface swimming. The only downside to the location of the weights is that you will have to re-familiarize yourself with the emergency weight dumping procedure and make sure that your buddy is aware as well.
Next I want to talk about the Aqualung Rogue BCD’s perfect pair, the Apeks XL4 regulator set. The Apeks XL4 is a compact and lightweight regulator that’s loaded with features that make it a fantastic choice for divers of all skill levels, diving in every environment, all over the world. The Apeks XL4 weighs in at just over 1kg/2.2lbs and is incredibly small in size making it a great traveling regulator set. It’s lightweight design also helps reduce jaw fatigue because it doesn’t sag in your mouth which means you don’t have bite down as hard to keep it in place.
The Apeks XL4 1st stage regulator is based on the iconic Apeks DS4 1st stage. It features an over-moulded end cap/ environmental diaphragm and a large surface area heat exchanger which helps protect it from ice build up while diving in cold environments. The Apeks XL4 1st stage also features an over balanced diaphragm meaning that the medium pressure increases faster than ambient pressure allowing for greater performance at depth. It is available in both DIN and yoke configurations.
The Apeks XL4 2nd stage is a balanced regulator featuring a large over-moulded purge button and an ergonomic venturi lever making it very easy to operate while diving with thick gloves. The flexible braided nylon hose that comes with the Apeks XL4 stands up to diving in colder environments better than a standard rubber hose. It also comes with a reusable mouthpiece clip which allows the user to quickly and easily change the mouthpiece in the field. The Apeks XL4 has a durable but flexible exhaust tee that provides optimal bubble separation.