Alternate Air Sources

Cressi Octopue XS2

88 reviews

SKU: CSBOXS

~~$189.95~~ Save: $60 (32%)

^$129.95

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A reliable and high-performance Cressi XS Octopus with a lightweight design and dependable valve.

Pros

Great performance and breathability
Good value for the price
Easy to use and adjust
Budget-friendly
Reliable and durable

Catalina Pony Bottle Tanks with Pro Valve

70 reviews

SKU: AQUTP40

~~$299.95~~ Save: $49 (16%)

^$250.95

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In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A reliable, nitrox-ready aluminum pony tank with high flow capacity valve and convertible K-valve.

Pros

Perfect size for various needs
Sufficient air capacity
Economical price
Reliable backup option
Versatile for different diving scenarios

Scubapro Air 2, Combination Octopus/Inflator Regulator

49 reviews

SKU: SCPA2GYR

^$329

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In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A durable and versatile combination octopus/inflator regulator with easy-to-use features and a classic design.

Pros

Breathability
Reduces clutter and eliminates hoses
Convenient and practical
Combination of octopus and inflator
Streamlined design

Octopus Holder with Split Ring

38 reviews

SKU: AQUOHOR

~~$6.95~~ Save: $2 (29%)

^$4.95

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In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A corrosion-resistant octopus holder with a bright color for easy identification and debris prevention.

Pros

Keeps debris out
Bright color for easy identification
Prevents damage to reefs
Fits mouthpiece perfectly
Works great

Mares Prestige 15X and Prestige Octopus Package

32 reviews

SKU: MRSPKPRGY

~~$619.90~~ Save: $170.90 (28%)

^$449

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In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A lightweight Mares regulator package with diaphragm first-stage, 4 LP ports, and 2 HP ports.

Mares Prestige Octopus

30 reviews

SKU: MRSPRO

~~$169.95~~ Save: $45.00 (26%)

^$124.95

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In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A compact and reliable octopus with easy breathing and durable housing.

Pros

Good value for the price
Suitable for beginners
Durable and long-lasting
Easy breathing
Reliable performance

Suunto Transmitter Only for Air Integrated Wrist Computers

29 reviews

SKU: SQTVTCT

^$399

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In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A streamlined transmitter for air-integrated wrist computers with easy installation and unique functions.

Pros

Convenient air integration
Helpful customer service
Easy installation and setup
Seamless syncing
Reliable performance

Aqualung Calypso/Titan Octopus

28 reviews

SKU: UDRCTO

^$239

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A reliable and easy-to-use octopus with a silicone mouthpiece and polycarbonate housing.

Pros

Great breathability
Reliable and easy to use
Prompt delivery and well-packed
Inexpensive and good value
Works well in cold water

Skum-Ball Octopus Holder with Clip

24 reviews

SKU: AQUSOHGR

~~$9.95~~ Save: $3.00 (30%)

^$6.95

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A brightly colored octopus holder with clip that secures and protects your octopus while diving.

Pros

Good price
Functionality
Secure hold
Ease of use
Secondary protection

Aqualung ABS Octopus

22 reviews

SKU: UDRABS

^$219

+ wishlist

In Stock

Oceanic Alpha 8 Octopus, Yellow

21 reviews

SKU: OCNA8O

^$169.95

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A durable and lightweight yellow octopus with nitrox compatibility and high visibility hose.

Pros

Versatile as primary and octopus second stage
Good value for the price
Easy breathing and smooth operation
Decent quality
Reliable and durable

Dive Rite Octopus Holder

18 reviews

SKU: DIV2086

^$5.75

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A non-corrosive plastic octopus holder with a 360-degree swivel design for secure and convenient storage.

XS Scuba Pony Bag

14 reviews

SKU: XSSPBB19

^$27

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A sturdy and secure pony bag with self-draining mesh bottom, ideal for connecting to primary diving cylinder.

Tank to Tank Equalizer with Pressure Gauge

11 reviews

SKU: AQUTTED

^$169.95

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A chrome-plated brass Tank to Tank Equalizer with Pressure Gauge for maximizing air availability and easy equalizing of cylinders.

Tusa SS-0002 Duo Air II Alternate Combo Inflator

10 reviews

SKU: TBTSS02

~~$299~~ Save: $59.80 (20%)

^$239.20

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A combination octopus regulator/power inflator with an air balanced power inflator valve and classic downstream regulator valve.

Spare-Air 3000 Kit

10 reviews

SKU: SX27B

^$299.99

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A reliable and compact backup air supply kit for emergency out-of-air situations during diving, available in multiple sizes and colors.

Cressi AC2/XS2 Regulator & XS2 Octo Package

9 reviews

SKU: PCKXS2

~~$344.90~~ Save: $45.90 (13%)

^$299

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A lightweight, high-performance regulator and octopus package with a non-balanced flow-by piston design.

Mares LED Tank Module

8 reviews

SKU: MRSQT

~~$339.95~~ Save: $40.95 (12%)

^$299

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A Mares LED Tank Module with RF transmission, LED indicator for tank pressure, and streamlined dive profile.

Dive Rite XT2 Second Stage Regulator (No Hose)

7 reviews

SKU: DIVRG5200R

^$199

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A pneumatically balanced second stage with a carbon fiber cover and ABS plastic case.

Aqualung Airsource Complete

6 reviews

SKU: UDRAS3QD

^$279

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A pneumatically balanced octopus and BCD inflator combo with soft-touch purge cover and rapid-exhaust valve.

H2Odyssey Quick Release EAS Bag for 6-cu. ft. Tank

6 reviews

SKU: H2EASB6

~~$11.95~~ Save: $4.00 (33%)

^$7.95

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A durable nylon bag that securely holds a 6 cu ft cylinder for easy accessibility.

Scubapro MK25 EVO/A700 Dive Regulator System

6 reviews

SKU: SCPM25EA70

^$1299

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A high-performance regulator set with customizable breathing options and enhanced cold-water diving capabilities.

Blue Reef Cross-Over Equalizer

6 reviews

SKU: AQUTCED

~~$169.95~~ Save: $55.00 (32%)

^$114.95

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A blue tank accessory with chrome plated brass fittings that maximizes air availability and is equipped with bleeder valves.

Highland by XS Scuba Silicone Regulator Necklace

6 reviews

SKU: XSSSRN10

^$22

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A silicone regulator necklace by Highland, designed for technical divers to keep their regulator close under the chin.

Air Line Scuba Tank Regulator Hose Assembly

5 reviews

SKU: ALHHOS40

^$180

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A deck mount air supply alternative for scuba diving, with solid-brass, nickel-plated fittings.

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Alternate Air Sources

Every diver knows that preparation and attention to detail are the foundation of safe and enjoyable underwater adventures. Among the most essential pieces of safety equipment in any diver’s kit is the alternate air source, often referred to as the “octopus.” This device is more than just a backup; it’s a lifeline designed specifically for emergencies when a buddy runs low on air or if a primary regulator malfunctions. The alternate air source scuba divers rely on is typically a brightly colored, easily identifiable second stage regulator—most often yellow—attached to the primary first stage. Its placement is deliberate, clipped securely within the “golden triangle” between chin and hips, so it’s always within arm’s reach for quick deployment. For those who prefer streamlined gear, there are also alternative air source designs that integrate the backup regulator with the buoyancy control device (BCD) inflator, keeping everything compact and accessible. Winter months, like January, are an excellent time to review, upgrade, or gift essential safety gear, as divers plan trips to tropical destinations or prepare for upcoming local dives when the water is clear and visibility is high.

Selecting the right scuba alternate air source involves considering your diving style, training, and the environments you frequent. Recreational divers, instructors, and technical divers alike recognize the peace of mind that comes from a reliable alternate air source. Some divers opt for a simple extra second stage, while others choose independent air cylinders for maximum redundancy, especially in overhead environments or deep dives where direct ascent isn’t always possible. The importance of a high-visibility hose and mouthpiece cannot be overstated, as these features make the alternate air source easy to locate and share in stressful situations. Hose length is another critical factor—longer hoses provide more comfort and maneuverability when sharing air, allowing both divers to ascend safely without crowding each other. If you’re shopping for a diver, an alternate air source or its accessories make thoughtful gifts, reflecting genuine care for their safety and readiness. Many experienced divers recall moments in their training when practicing air-sharing drills, the reassuring sight of a yellow regulator bringing calm and clarity to simulated emergencies. These drills are more than routine—they’re the muscle memory that can make all the difference in real-life scenarios.

Maintaining and organizing your alternative air source is just as important as selecting the right model. Ensuring it’s always in the same spot, properly secured, and free from entanglement is a habit every diver should cultivate. Accessories like clips and holders are invaluable for keeping the regulator accessible and preventing it from dangling or dragging through sand and debris. For those interested in optimizing their setup, explore our selection of Alternate Air Source Holders to keep your safety gear right where you need it. Whether you’re gearing up for a winter getaway to warmer waters or preparing for the local dive season, taking the time to inspect, maintain, and upgrade your scuba alternate air source ensures you’re ready for anything beneath the surface. The confidence that comes from knowing you and your dive buddy are equipped for emergencies allows you to focus on the wonder and adventure that await on every dive.