Aeris' ION Regulator
What is it? A regulator that Aeris bills as its smallest and most streamlined second-stage ever, with an outer ring diameter of 2.3 inches and a weight of 5.4 ounces. The ION's second stage is made from an ABS/Polycarbonate composite blend of materials and designed to give it a rugged yet lightweight feel and reduce fatigue on longer dives. The cover ring is machined from aircraft aluminum and then hard-anodized to prevent corrosion. The AT400 first stage comes with Aeris' "dry valve technology," which is designed to keep out moisture and contaminants.
Benefits to your diving: Divers looking to enhance their underwater experience often look for ways to reduce the amount and weight of their gear without compromising performance. Reducing bulk provides more freedom of movement and can contribute to longer bottom time. With its small and lightweight design, the ION regulator takes another step in that direction. For more information about the ION or to reach the nearest Aeris dealer, call (800) 647-0605.
 

 Cressi-sub's Occhio Plus
What is it? A dive mask touted for its minimal distance between the lens and the diver's eyes and its patented "rakes lenses," which give the mask a wide field of vision, particularly when looking downward. The unusual skirt design accommodates a variety of faces and is made from allergy-free silicon. In addition, a double-injection moulding procedure of the mask frame gives it a lightweight feel. The new buckles tilt vertically and sideways and are fitted with clips for disassembly. Strap adjustment is designed to be quick and precise, even when wearing thick protective gloves.
Benefits to your diving: The short distance from eyes to lens provides enhanced vision underwater. In addition, the side tilting mechanism of the buckles and the mask's minimum size make it ideal as a spare mask that can be stored inside a buoyancy compensator pocket. For more information about the Occhio Plus dive mask, or to reach the nearest Cressi-sub dealer, call (800) 338-9143.
 

 Liquid Image's
Explorer Series Camera Mask
What is it? A dive mask with an integrated camera. The Explorer Series is Liquid Image's entry-level model of its camera mask and is designed for snorkelers and divers exploring at shallow depths - about 15 feet (5 m) - but the company hopes to release next year its Scuba Series, for divers who prefer to go deeper. The camera mask can shoot about 25 images, or 53 seconds of video, and comes in 5.0- and 3.1-megapixel models, with 16 megabytes of internal memory, a USB port, and a microSD card slot, which will hold up to a two-gigabyte microSD card. Every gigabyte of memory added will allow for 1,700 or more images or about 50 minutes of videos. The camera mask is powered by two AAA batteries.
Benefits to your diving: Underwater photos are possible without having to hold onto a camera, a positive for divers who prefer a hands-free experience. A crosshair on each goggle of the camera mask makes it easy to line up the camera on your subject and shoot. For more information about the Explorer Series or to contact the nearest Liquid Image dealer, e-mail sales@liquidImageco.com.
 

 Tekna's Xtra Edge
What is it? A new version of the Xtra Edge dive knife, which is stored in a twist-loc sheath and easily attaches to a dive light handle or buoyancy compensator. The Tekna Xtra Edge is made of 420HC stainless steel, which the manufacturer says provides "increased toughness and better edge holding." A second blade style that is available - a flat screwdriver tip - is useful on most flat and Phillips screws, for added utility. The blade length for the Tekna Xtra Edge is 1.4 inches, and the overall length is 3.5 inches.
Benefits to your diving: Having a dependable dive knife handy is always a good idea, especially if diving where entanglement is a possibility. The Xtra Edge's strength is its simplicity: durable, accessible and compact. If you would like more information on the Tekna Xtra Edge or to reach the nearest Tektite Industries dealer, call (800) 540-2814.