EXOTEC

The Apeks Exotec is a back-inflation buoyancy compensator built on an adjustable backplate rather than a fixed jacket, which is what lets Apeks cover the size range in three sizes instead of five. The backplate has three height positions, and the waist and shoulders adjust on top of that.

Lift is 170N (38 lb) in small and medium, and 220N (49 lb) in large and extra large. Dry weight is around 4.2kg for the smaller sizes and 4.4kg for the larger. SurLock integrated weight pockets each take up to 4.5kg, with non-releasable trim pockets holding a further 2.27kg in each waistband pocket and 2.27kg in each bladder trim pocket.

Back inflation keeps the front of the diver clear and holds a horizontal trim more readily than a jacket-style wing does, at the cost of being less comfortable to float upright in on the surface. That trade is the reason to choose it or not, and it is worth trying in a pool before committing.