In early January I got the chance to have a dive on the new RedBare Rebreather from VMS – Vobster Marine Systems. Overall impressions were quite easy – I really liked it!
The initial thing you notice about the RedBare is that it’s much smaller than it’s big brother, the RedHead. Most of this is accomplished by the remove of the large case than encloses the RedHead. Cylinders are on show and the counterlung is now in a fabric pouch similar to pretty much every other rebreather design. The counterlung is still back mounted though. The main part of the rebreather is protected by a small shield and there is a stainless steel foot to ensure it stands up nicely.
The second thing you notice is that it is much lighter than the RedHead and much more compact on your back. Despite this I was still able to use less lead than I traditionally would do on a RedHead or original Sentinel. In the water it is also obvious that the unit has a small form factor.
The main difference is the performance in the water. The RedHead could never be described as a bad unit to breath but the RedBare is a whole new league. It easily the most pleasant breath and best performing unit that I’ve dived. Despite the fact I was the third person to try the unit I still managed to get in a head first descent and a couple of gambols (I think everyone outside the Midlands calls it a forward roll!) with no drop in performance. The unit breathed exceptionally in every attitude I could comfortably get it into.
Of course, the main rebreather body and electronics are identical to the RedHead, meaning you get all the same great features.
The VMS RedBare is now available to order now along with training on the RedBare, RedHead and Original Sentinel models.
Video from the try dives is available to view on Facebook or below
