Dive Rite Compact HID Light
My first “primary” dive light required 8 D-cell batteries and rivaled an aluminum-80 tank in weight. It was so heavy, that I swam into the sand when I extended the light. Ever since I discovered dive lights with separate battery packs and light heads, that old D-cell monster has been relegated to use as emergency ballast. And now, with the introduction of Dive Rite’s Compact HID lights, my current light might be joining it.

The HID (High Intensity Discharge) claim to fame is that it gives off a color temperature close to that of the sun. In simple terms, that means the light looks more natural. It also penetrates farther into the aquatic gloom and makes for better video than standard halogen lamps. In fact, the new Dive Rite Compact HID 10-watt system is equal to a 50-watt halogen rig. But, by far this new light’s sweetest asset is its diminutive size. The powerful lighthead literally fits in the palm of your hand. And, depending on the battery pack, will keep pumping out sun-sizzlin’ light waves for up to five hours. Dive Rite: (904) 755-0613 or www.dive-rite.com.

Aquamira Water Treatment
You can imagine my great disappointment when I discovered that this new product doesn’t correct poor visibility or strong currents. However, if you’re more concerned with the quality of the water you drink while on vacation than the water you dive in, then Aquamira Water Treatment is worth the investment. Aquamira is designed to treat and improve the taste of water from rivers, lakes, streams, storage containers or straight from the tap. It’s perfect for use on boats or remote locations where fresh water is stored for long periods of time.

Aquamira is stabilized Chlorine dioxide that, ironically, contains neither chlorine or iodine (another example that science may be running amok of common sense). This unique formula works by releasing “highly active” oxygen to kill odor-causing bacteria, without leaving an unpleasant taste. The two-part system comes in a pair of one-ounce bottles with drip applicators and a mixing cap. The solution must be pre-mixed before use, and the kit can treat up to 30 gallons of water. It can be used to treat water immediately prior to use, prior to storage and to refresh existing stored water supplies. McNett Outdoor: www.mcnett.com.

Waterbaby Portable Water Pump
I recently read a magazine article chastising American travelers for their near-religious fanaticism regarding bodily cleanliness. Other societies, said the author, go months without bathing. The only offense is to the nose and there is no harm done to one’s person. American travelers, he said, should get over their need to bathe.

He’s kidding, right? At least as divers, we have the great pleasure of swimming around in Mother Nature’s bathtub while on vacation. Even if we’re roughing it, things stay within acceptable nasal limitations. But, even our dive gear needs the salt rinsed from it occasionally. So, should you find yourself removed from civilization, consider lugging the Waterbaby along. It’s good for personal hygiene, washing down dive gear, rinsing boats or any thing else that requires a little water pressure on demand. The Waterbaby is battery operated, or can be run from a 12-volt system such as a car or boat. Included with the pump is an eight-foot hose with water pistol, a four-foot supply hose with inline filter, a two and a half gallon water bladder bag, AC power charger and accessory bag. Water can be pumped from the bladder or from another suitable container. Waterbaby Sports: (858) 270-1342 or www.waterbabysports.com.

J.W. Fishers Underwater Camera
Underwater search-and-recovery divers are a hardcore species. They seldom dive in anything resembling good visibility, and will spend countless bone-chilling hours underwater, locating everything from Civil War artifacts to victims of mob violence. Which all adds up to a need for serious gear, like J.W. Fishers’ new and improved DHC-1 diver-held camera system. This unit can be carried by a diver or mounted to any underwater structure. The camera housing connects to a rugged umbilical cable that feeds video to the surface for viewing on a monitor or TV screen. The picture can also be recorded on a VCR.

The DHC-1 comes with a low light, 0.5 lux, black and white camera with a 50 degree viewing angle. A color camera is also available as an option. Included with the base system are a highly abrasion-resistant, 150-foot umbilical cable and two 100-watt lights. The camera housing is rated to 500 feet and constructed of high-impact PVC. A unique leak detector notifies the diver and topside observers if water enters the housing. Total system weight (submerged) is six ounces. J.W. Fishers: (800) 822-4744 or www.jwfishers.com.

Aeris ATMOS XT BC
Diver’s have long faced the great BC quandary—they want the freedom of movement afforded by rear-inflation models, with the comfort of an upright orientation while bobbing on the surface. The solution, or at least a step towards one, can be found in the ATMOS XT BC by Aeris. The air cell design offers 50 pounds of lift, with most of that located at the diver’s back. But, the air cell also wraps around part of the diver’s waist, helping to offset the tendency to float face-down while at the surface.

Adding to diver comfort are multiple points of adjustment at the cummerbund and shoulder straps. Three dump valves have been strategically placed on the shoulder and back for easy buoyancy adjustments and the padded backpack virtually eliminates any tank discomfort. The XT is weight integrated with a total 30 pound capacity (20 pounds can be ditched in an emergency, with 10 pounds placed in non-removable pockets). Last but not least, divers can opt for an accessory kit, which features a BC knife, light and retractors for organizing other gear. Aeris: (800) 647-0605 or www.diveaeris.com.