Hose protectors - Necessary?

[ScubaBoy]

I'm wondering if those hose protectors, the stiff, short hose covers that push on right close to the 1st stage, are really necessary.

If yes, why? If no, why not?

I could use a little more flex on my regulator hose and removing that protector would do it. Of course, it would make finding the hose by reaching over my head a bit more difficult.

Thanks.

[Mtrewyn]

I would think they provide support for the host where it connects to the "first" stage, I don't know if I would remove I think I would go to a "Miflex" or a swivel.

[ektess1]

You will find people on both sides of this issue.
I do not have them on my hoses. It is easier to check them and the fitting.
People will tell you that you stress the hose more if you don't use protectors. I say that when the hose fails I have a good excuss to replace it with Miflex hoses.

[divingbuddy]

You'll be fine - with or without them.

Whether or not you have hose protectors, you should check the hoses regularly for any signs of wear or damage.

Good luck!

[ScubaBoy]

Originally Posted by Mtrewyn

I would think they provide support for the host where it connects to the "first" stage, I don't know if I would remove I think I would go to a "Miflex" or a swivel.

I have a Miflex hose on the regulator, the one I need a little more flex on. Really bad before the Miflex, now just a slight tug when I turn my head to the left. Maybe I can just cut the protector in half.

[Splitlip]

Yeah. I've switched teams and don't use protection.

I don't hang my regs and like the sweep the hoses can make while being used without protection. Bonus, you don't have to remember to pull the protectors back for storage. Overall, going protectorless eliminates corrosion, IMO and easy to inpsect.

[ScubaBoy]

Originally Posted by ektess1

You will find people on both sides of this issue.
I do not have them on my hoses. It is easier to check them and the fitting.
People will tell you that you stress the hose more if you don't use protectors. I say that when the hose fails I have a good excuss to replace it with Miflex hoses.

Interesting point. You can indeed inspect the hoses a lot easier without the protectors. Also, it's possible the stress point only moves to the end of the protector.

[Splitlip]

Originally Posted by ScubaBoy

Also, it's possible the stress point only moves to the end of the protector.

Not really. The stress occurs at the fitting.

[IrishSquid]

Originally Posted by Splitlip

Overall, going hoseless eliminates corrosion, IMO and easy to inpsect.

(My emphasis)

How do you get air from the 1st stage to the 2nd?

[Splitlip]

Originally Posted by IrishSquid

(My emphasis)

How do you get air from the 1st stage to the 2nd?

Kind of like getting air fills off the internet.