Frequently Asked Questions

• You can find the size guide to suit each product directly within the product description when you select a product.

• Please click on the "Store locator" button in the banner at the top or here. A new page will then open in which you will be able to use a geolocator with the "Use my location" button, or alternatively enter the postcode of your choice to find the Apeks dealers closest to where you are.

• See the explicative video here

• See the explicative video here

• See the explicative video here

A balanced diaphragm regulator employs a balanced design in both the first and second stages, ensuring consistent airflow regardless of changes in depth or tank pressure. This feature provides excellent breathing performance and reliability, making it suitable for a wide range of diving conditions.

Signs of regulator issues include difficulty breathing, excessive breathing resistance, free-flowing, leaks, or unusual noises during inhalation or exhalation. If you experience any of these symptoms, discontinue use and have the regulator inspected by a qualified technician.

Diaphragm regulators use a flexible diaphragm to control airflow, making them more resistant to contamination and freezing. Piston regulators, on the other hand, utilize a piston mechanism for airflow control, offering excellent performance but may be more susceptible to freezing in cold water environments.

Balanced regulators deliver consistent airflow regardless of changes in depth or tank pressure. This feature ensures smooth breathing throughout the dive, making them preferred for deep dives or when using high-pressure tanks. Unbalanced regulators may become increasingly difficult to breathe from as depth and tank pressure increase.

Environmental sealing prevents water and contaminants from entering the internal components of the regulator. This feature is crucial for diving in cold water or environments with high levels of sediment or contaminants, as it helps maintain consistent performance and prevents freeze-ups.

Most regulators allow you to adjust the breathing resistance to suit your preference or diving conditions. However, it's essential to follow manufacturer guidelines and have adjustments made by a certified technician.

DIN (Deutsche Industrie Norm) regulators screw directly into the tank valve and provide a more secure connection, preferred for technical diving and higher pressures. Yoke regulators clamp onto the tank valve and are more common in recreational diving.

First stages and second stages are designed to work together as integrated systems, and their compatibility has been tested and certified by manufacturers. Mixing components that have not been certified together can lead to unpredictable performance, potential leaks, and increased risk of equipment failure during a dive.

To ensure compatibility and certification, purchase a complete regulator system from a reputable manufacturer. Manufacturers typically certify specific combinations of first stages and second stages together, ensuring optimal performance and safety. Avoid modifying or mixing components unless approved by the manufacturer.

Manufacturers certify specific combinations of first stages and second stages together to ensure compatibility, optimal performance, and safety. By testing and certifying integrated systems, manufacturers can guarantee that their regulators meet stringent quality and performance standards for diver use. It is important that you use 1st and 2nd stages that are compatible and of the same model. It is not possible to mix and match different regulator models even if they are the same brand, as these models will not be certified as a complete regulator. i.e. using an XTX50 2nd stage with an MTX-R 1st stage.

EN250 is a European standard that regulates the design, performance, and safety requirements for breathing apparatus, including scuba diving regulators. Choosing a regulator that meets EN250 standards ensures it has undergone rigorous testing and meets minimum safety requirements for diving use.

SCUBA regulators equipped with a venturi system offer several advantages, including improved breathing comfort, reduced risk of free flows, and enhanced responsiveness to diver demand. These benefits make venturi-equipped regulators well-suited for various diving environments, including recreational diving, deep diving, and challenging conditions with strong currents or low visibility.

Spare parts are only available to authorized Apeks or Aqualung dealers and not to end users. All servicing or repair should only be carried out by an authorized Apeks or Aqualung technician and dealer.

Service courses are only available to authorized Apeks and Aqualung dealers.

A wing-style BCD features a back-mounted air bladder, offering streamlined buoyancy control and more freedom of movement. In contrast, a jacket-style BCD has an integrated air bladder that wraps around the diver's torso, providing more stability and surface flotation.

Back inflation BCDs, such as those offered by Aqualung and Apeks, provide streamlined buoyancy control and freedom of movement by positioning the air bladder behind the diver's back. This design reduces drag underwater and enhances trim, making them popular choices for recreational and technical diving.

Lift capacity refers to the amount of buoyant force the BCD can provide to lift the diver and their gear to the surface. It's essential to choose a BCD with sufficient lift capacity based on factors such as the diver's weight, the weight of their gear, and the diving environment (saltwater vs. freshwater).

To calculate weight requirements, conduct a buoyancy check in shallow water, wearing all diving equipment you'll use during the dive. Add or remove weights until you achieve neutral buoyancy at eye level while holding a normal breath and without adding air to the BCD.

Regular maintenance of your BCD is essential to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Rinse it thoroughly with fresh water after each dive, allow it to dry completely before storing, inspect for any signs of wear or damage, and have it professionally serviced annually.

If your BCD inflator mechanism becomes stiff or difficult to operate, discontinue use immediately and have it inspected by a qualified technician. Stiffness or resistance could indicate internal corrosion, debris buildup, or other issues that require professional attention.

Aqualung and Apeks BCDs often feature weight integration systems that allow divers to secure their weights within dedicated pockets on the BCD. Integrated weights offer streamlined weight distribution, improved trim, and easier weight ditching in case of emergency.

Yes, divers can use a BCD with integrated trim weight pockets in conjunction with a weight belt to achieve proper weighting and buoyancy control. It's essential to distribute weight evenly and ensure that the weight belt does not interfere with the operation of the BCD or inhibit quick release in an emergency.

Trim pockets on a BCD allow divers to adjust their horizontal trim by redistributing weight. Properly adjusted trim pockets can improve diver trim, streamline hydrodynamics, and enhance overall buoyancy control underwater.

Yes, both Aqualung and Apeks offer BCD models designed for cold water diving, featuring reinforced materials and integrated weight systems that accommodate thicker exposure suits and heavier gear configurations.

A rigid backpack provides additional support and stability, especially when carrying heavy tanks, while a flexible backpack offers greater comfort and flexibility during movement. Apeks offer BCD models with both types of backpack designs to suit diver preferences.

Aqualung and Apeks BCD bladders are typically made from durable materials such as nylon or polyurethane. These materials offer excellent abrasion resistance, puncture resistance, and flexibility, ensuring reliable performance and longevity.

Yes, many Aqualung and Apeks BCDs are compatible with drysuits. Look for features such as adjustable harness systems, low-profile inflator mechanisms, and sufficient lift capacity to accommodate the additional buoyancy requirements of a drysuit.

The chest strap on a BCD harness helps secure the shoulder straps in place, preventing them from slipping off during the dive. This feature enhances diver stability, comfort, and weight distribution, especially when carrying heavy tanks or equipment.

Size charts for BCD’s are available online and it varies per model. The best way to ensure a BCD fits correctly is to go to your local Apeks or Aqualung dealer and try one on. It is always best to try the BCD on whilst wearing the wetsuit or drysuit that you plan to dive with. (Store locator)

Apeks wetsuits are crafted with premium neoprene materials, innovative design features for enhanced mobility, and durable construction techniques, such as glued and blind-stitched seams, ensuring exceptional comfort and reliability underwater.

Apeks provides comprehensive size charts based on measurements of height, chest, waist, hips, and inseam. It's crucial to refer to these charts and select a size that offers a snug yet comfortable fit to maximize thermal insulation and minimize water flushing. The best way to ensure a wetsuit fits you is to visit your local Apeks or Aqualung dealer. (Store locator)

Apeks integrates graphene technology into its wetsuits to enhance thermal insulation, flexibility, and durability. Graphene's exceptional thermal conductivity helps regulate body temperature, while its strength and flexibility improve overall suit performance.

It's essential to rinse Apeks wetsuits with fresh water after each dive, avoid exposure to direct sunlight and extreme heat, store them flat or hanging with proper support, and periodically clean them with wetsuit-specific detergents to ensure longevity and performance.

Apeks is committed to environmental sustainability and may utilize eco-friendly materials, such as limestone-based neoprene or recycled fabrics, and implement sustainable production practices to reduce the environmental impact of wetsuit manufacturing.

Hooded Apeks wetsuits such as the THERMIQ ADV provide additional thermal insulation and protection for the head and neck, making them ideal for diving in colder waters or in windy conditions where heat loss from the head can be significant.

If an Apeks wetsuit sustains damage during a dive trip, divers can use wetsuit repair patches or neoprene cement to temporarily seal the area. Once back on land, they should assess the damage and consider professional repairs to maintain the wetsuit's integrity. Contact your local Apeks or Aqualung dealer for more information. (Store locator)

Apeks offers wetsuits with both front zip and back zip designs. Front zip suits provide easier entry and exit, minimize water entry through the zipper, and offer a more streamlined fit. Back zip suits may be more traditional and offer a wider opening for easier donning, but they can be prone to water flushing if not properly sealed.

Yes, Apeks wetsuits are versatile and can be used for various water sports and activities, such as snorkeling, surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, or swimming. They offer thermal protection, flexibility, and durability suitable for a range of aquatic pursuits.

Signs that it may be time to replace an Apeks wetsuit include excessive wear or deterioration of neoprene material, loss of thermal insulation due to compressed neoprene or damaged seams, persistent odors despite proper cleaning, or significant changes in body size or shape that affect the fit.

Apeks typically offers a warranty or guarantee against defects in materials and workmanship for its wetsuits. The specific terms and duration of the warranty may vary depending on the product line and regional policies. It's advisable to check the warranty details provided by Apeks at the time of purchase.

Apeks offers wetsuits tailored specifically for men and women, taking into account differences in body shape and size. Women's wetsuits may feature narrower shoulders, wider hips, and more tapered waistlines to provide a better fit and enhanced comfort for female divers.

Yes, Apeks wetsuits can often be repaired if they sustain minor damage or tears. Divers can use wetsuit repair patches or neoprene cement to temporarily seal the area until professional repairs can be made. Many dive shops offer wetsuit repair services for more extensive damage. Visit your local Apeks or Aqualung dealer for more information. (Store locator)

Apeks utilizes a combination of gluing, blind stitching, and liquid sealing techniques to minimize water ingress through seams. Gluing involves bonding neoprene panels together using specialized adhesives, while blind stitching creates seams that are stitched on one side and glued on the other, preventing water from seeping through needle holes. Liquid sealing is then applied to reinforce the seams, ensuring maximum durability and flexibility while maintaining water-tightness.

It's essential to try on different masks to find one that creates a comfortable and watertight seal without gaps or pressure points. The best way to select a new mask is to try one on, you can do this at your local Apeks or Aqualung dealer. (Store locator)

To prevent fogging, pre-treat the lenses of your Apeks SCUBA mask with a commercial anti-fog solution or a mixture of baby shampoo and water. Ensure thorough rinsing before diving, and avoid touching the inner surface of the lenses with fingers to minimize fogging.

Rinse your Apeks SCUBA mask with fresh water after each dive to remove salt and debris, and store it in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight. Inspect the silicone skirt and strap regularly for signs of wear or damage, and replace components as needed to ensure continued performance.

Apeks SCUBA masks offer compatibility with prescription lenses or corrective inserts to provide clear vision for divers with vision impairments. However, for personalized prescription lenses, it's recommended to visit a local optical specialist. They can create custom lenses tailored to your specific vision needs, ensuring optimal clarity and comfort underwater.

No, the coated lenses on Aqualung and Apeks dive masks do not offer UV protection, they reduce glare on the surface, but they are not certified as UV protection.

Full foot fins have a foot pocket that encases the entire foot and are typically used for warm-water diving or snorkeling in calm conditions. Open heel fins feature an adjustable strap at the heel and are suitable for cold-water diving or situations requiring the use of dive boots.

Spring straps offer quick and easy donning and doffing of fins, even when wearing thick gloves. They also provide a more secure and comfortable fit compared to traditional rubber straps. Divers may prefer spring straps for convenience and reliability, especially in cold-water environments.

Buoyancy characteristics influence the maneuverability and efficiency of Apeks fins underwater. Some fins are neutrally buoyant, meaning they neither sink nor float, while others may be positively or negatively buoyant. Choose fins with buoyancy characteristics that complement your diving style and equipment configuration.

Yes, Apeks fins are versatile and can be used for various water sports and activities, such as snorkeling, freediving, spearfishing, or underwater photography. They offer propulsion and maneuverability in the water, making them suitable for a range of aquatic pursuits.

Rinse your Apeks fins with fresh water after each dive to remove salt and debris, and store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Inspect the fins regularly for signs of wear or damage, such as cracks, loose straps, or degraded blade materials, and replace any worn components as needed.

When trying on Apeks fins, ensure the foot pocket snugly encases your foot without pinching or causing discomfort. The strap should be adjusted to hold the fin securely in place without being too tight or too loose, allowing for easy donning and doffing while providing stability underwater.

Apeks provides sizing charts and guidelines to help divers determine the appropriate fin size based on foot length, width, and shoe size. It's essential to try on different sizes and models to find the best fit, ensuring comfort and performance during dives.

The stiffness or flexibility of Apeks fins determines their responsiveness and propulsion characteristics underwater. Stiffer fins provide more power and control for strong currents or deep dives, while softer fins offer greater maneuverability and agility in confined spaces or shallow waters.

Wireless air integration allows Aqualung dive computers to receive real-time cylinder pressure and gas consumption data from compatible transmitters attached to diving cylinders. This feature provides divers with accurate and up-to-date information on gas supply, enhancing gas management and safety during dives.