TransPac, TransPlate, and Hydro Lite Sizing

The Dive Rite TransPac harness, TransPlate harness, plus the Hydro Lite BCs are available in a wide range of sizes. While weight and height are a good starting point for determining your size, a perfect fit requires additional information. Please carefully take the actual measurements explained below to make sure you select exactly the right size.

  • Shoulder to Waist Length -- To ensure proper shoulder strap length, measure from a point at the top of the shoulder to a point immediately below the waist, as shown in the accompanying diagram. Be sure to allow for exposure suit thickness.

  • Torso Length -- The Standard lumbar backpad and soft backplate of the Transpac, or the standard metal backplate, is the size that most often fits average build men with back-of-neck measurements greater than { 17 in | 43.18 cm }. XS/Small sizes come with Short lumbar backpads and soft backplates that are { 2 in | 5.08 cm } shorter than those of larger sizes. This is the preferred TransPac and TravelPac sizing for any diver whose back-of-neck to waist measurement is less than { 17 in | 43.18 cm } (a range that includes most women). The TransPlate harness should use a Dive Rite 'short' metal backplate for measurements under { 17 in | 43.18 cm }.

  • Waist -- The waist belt includes waist pads that are in proportion to the length of the shoulder strap. The top edge of correctly positioned waist belt will just cover the navel, not rest lower on the hips or higher on the diaphragm.
Back-of-Neck to Waist Measurements for Standard and Short SizesShoulder Strap Sizing
 
TransPac TransPlate Hydro Lite Size Shoulder
 to Waist
Torso Waist Weight
Yes  *  * X Small 13 - 16 in Short 24 - 34 in under 90 lb
Yes  *  Yes Small 14 - 17.5 in Short 24 - 34 in 90 - 110 lb
Yes Yes Yes Medium 15 - 18 in Standard 24 - 34 in 110 - 150 lb
Yes Yes Yes Large 17 - 22 in Standard 32 - 42 in 150 - 200 lb
Yes Yes Yes X Large 18.5 - 23.5 in Standard 32 - 42 in 180 - 220 lb
Yes Yes Yes XX Large 22.5+ in Standard 42+ in 220+ lb

Each size has an adjustment range so you may tighten or loosen the shoulder straps and waist belt as needed to provide a perfect fit.

  • XS is suitable for very small women and most children. (less than { 90 lb | 40.82 kg } or less than { 5 ft | 1.52 m })
  • Small is suitable for small women and larger children.
  • Medium is suitable for average sized women, or shorter men.
  • Large is suitable for average sized men.
  • XL is suitable for larger divers or those with a muscular build.
  • XXL is suitable for divers over { 220 lb | 99.79 kg }.

As a starting point for most people, consider what size t-shirt you normally wear. If you wear a mens Large T-shirt, then a Large is probably the best fit. If you wear a mens XL T-shirt, then choose an XL; and so on. If you are 'in between' two sizes then always choose the larger size.

* Frankly, exceptionally short or tall individuals are not good candidates for BCD solutions based on metal backplates. Very short individuals will find the bottom edge of the plate will dig uncomfortably into the bottom of their torso, or the tank(s) will ride too high on their back. Very tall individuals will find the the waist band will either ride much too high on their torso, or the tank(s) will sit too low on their back. We recommend considering a TransPac, which works for ALL singles and doubles, and is available in sizes to fit ANY individual.

TransPac Fit and Adjustment

Watch this two and one-half minute video showing how to select, setup and adjust the Transpac sizing for a proper fit to your body. Also learn tips for tailoring and accessorizing the TransPac to fit your personal styles of diving.


TransPac Fit for Women

Fitting the TransPac for women is different than for men. Watch this three minute video explaining what women should take into consideration when selecting their Transpac size.


TransPac XT Shoulder Strap Adjustment

Watch this two and a half minute video to learn how to quickly lengthen or shorten the TransPac XT shoulder straps for a custom fit without reweaving the webbing.