Hose Logic, Part I: Lengths

One of the characteristics that define a GUE diver is our equipment configuration. It is often what draws divers to the agency. The goal of the configuration is to be comfortable, streamlined and efficient in the water, avoiding entanglement risks and unnecessary drag. An important part of achieving this goal is the hose logic, something many divers pay little attention to or conversely, overcomplicate.

This series of posts will explain GUE hose logic, starting with standard hose lengths, in part II we’ll discuss why we use a long hose and in part III we’ll explore hose routing for a single and twin tank set up.

Many divers taking Fundamentals are amazed at the difference correct hose lengths make in the water. A short backup regulator hose makes a huge difference when routed over the right shoulder, instead of hanging down or flapping around over your arm; and a long primary hose makes donating and sharing gas effortless. All the hoses are sized for streamlining—long enough for their purpose and no longer. The long hose, at first glance, can appear unwieldy, but as we’ll see in a future instalment, with proper routing a long hose is still clean and out of the way until required.

Standard GUE hose lengths:

  • Primary Regulator: 7’/210cm
  • Backup Regulator: 22”/56cm
  • High Pressure SPG: 24”/61cm
  • Low Pressure Inflation: 22”/56cm
  • Drysuit inflator if using an argon bottle: 22”/56cm

A 5’ long hose may be used for single tank diving, when you have no light canister or pocket to stow the excess hose (though it can be stowed in the belt), however for any twin tank diving or diving where there are restrictions forcing the team into single file, a 7’ long hose is essential.

Some divers prefer a slightly longer 24” backup hose when using Apeks regulators, due to the port configuration, however for Scubapro Mk25, Halcyon or other similar regulators 22” is perfect.

When traveling we tend to take two 22” regulator hoses and two 9/16” male to low pressure inflator adaptors. That way the hoses can be used for the backup regulator, wing inflation or drysuit inflation.

Divers of any height can use these hose lengths, helping team standardisation and logistics, and improving comfort, streamlining and efficiency in the water.

Stay tuned for Hose Logic, Part II: Why We Use a Long Hose.