Alternate Second Stages

Cressi XS Octopus

87 reviews

SKU: CSBOXS

^$124.95

+ 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

Scubapro Air 2, Combination Octopus/Inflator Regulator

49 reviews

SKU: SCPA2GYR

^$329

+ wishlist

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

^$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

Atomic Aquatics Safe Second Inflator (SS1), Stainless Steel

34 reviews

SKU: ATMSS1SYL

^$449.95

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In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A lightweight, streamlined stainless steel inflator with high flow 2nd stage and easy single hand operation.

Pros

Convenient
No leaks
Streamlined setup
Easy breathing at depth
Versatility

Mares Prestige 15X and Prestige Octopus Package

32 reviews

SKU: MRSPKPRGY

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

^$449

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

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

Mares Prestige Octopus

29 reviews

SKU: MRSPRO

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

^$124.95

+ wishlist

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

XS Scuba Second Stage Quick Disconnect

16 reviews

SKU: XSSSSQD

^$79.95

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A chrome brass quick disconnect for attaching multiple 2nd stages to a single hose.

Scuba Regulator & Octo Grab Bag

15 reviews

SKU: SCBR1O

~~$514.90~~ Save: $134.95 (26%)

^$379.95

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A reliable and balanced scuba regulator and octo grab bag for underwater diving.

Oceanic Alpha 8 SP5 Piston Regulator, Black

13 reviews

SKU: OCNA8SP5BK

^$334.95

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A durable black piston regulator with easy breathing, Nitrox compatibility, and exceeding safety standards.

Hollis DC7 500SE Regulator with Maxflex Hose

10 reviews

SKU: HLSDC75D

~~$749.95~~ Save: $400.00 (53%)

^$349.95

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A high-performance regulator with over-balanced diaphragm, servo-controlled 2nd stage, and environmentally sealed first stage.

Tusa SS-0002 Duo Air II Alternate Combo Inflator

10 reviews

SKU: TBTSS02

^$265

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

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

Cressi XS Compact Octopus

9 reviews

SKU: CSBOC

^$154.95

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A reliable and comfortable Cressi octopus with a low profile design and non-corrosive materials.

XS Scuba Alt Air Octopus

8 reviews

SKU: XSSAAOBK

^$97.95

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A classic downstream demand valve octopus with an intelligent in-line mouthpiece and Miflex hose.

Dive Rite XT2 Second Stage Only (No Hose)

7 reviews

SKU: DIVRG5200R

^$150

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

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

Dive Rite XT Regulator

6 reviews

SKU: DIVRG5300D

^$459

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A patented Dive Rite XT regulator with optimal hose routing, 5 LP ports, and Teflon-coated parts.

Scubapro S600 Regulator, Second Stage Only

5 reviews

SKU: SCPS600N

^$620

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A durable Scubapro S600 second stage regulator with adjustable inhalation effort and comfortable mouthpiece.

Dive Rite XT Advanced Open Water Regulator

5 reviews

SKU: DIVPK53Y

^$779

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A streamlined, environmentally sealed regulator with adjustable 2nd stage and cold-water ready components.

Atomic Aquatics Z2 Octopus, Yellow

5 reviews

SKU: ATMZ2OYL

^$339.95

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A compact and economical yellow octopus with adjustable 2nd stage, perfect for oxygen enriched mixtures.

OMS Evoque 2nd Stage Only (No Hose)

4 reviews

SKU: OMSRESS

^$250

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A lightweight, adjustable 2nd stage regulator with a pneumatically balanced valve and ergonomic venturi lever.

Scubapro MK25 EVO/G260 Regulator

4 reviews

SKU: SCPM25EG26

^$1049

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A high-performance regulator set with adjustable 2nd stage, 5 LP ports, and enhanced freezing resistance.

Cressi Octopus Compact Pro

4 reviews

SKU: CSBOCPN

^$179.95

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A low profile octopus with a comfortable silicone mouthpiece and smooth operation.

Aqualung Leg3nd Octopus

3 reviews

SKU: UDRLO

^$299

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A pneumatically balanced octopus with easy work-of-breathing, venturi switch, and nitrox compatibility.

Sherwood SR2 Regulator & Octopus

3 reviews

SKU: SWDSR2RO

~~$1024.90~~ Save: $189.95 (19%)

^$834.95

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A high-performance regulator system with advanced technology, true balanced first stage design, and NITROX compatibility.

Zeagle F8 Octopus with Yellow Hose

3 reviews

SKU: ZGLOF8YL

^$299.95

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A lightweight yellow octopus with adjustable inhalation resistance and venturi free flow control.

Atomic Aquatics M1 Octopus, Yellow

3 reviews

SKU: ATMM1OYL

^$479.95

+ wishlist

In Stock

DESCRIPTION

A corrosion-proof yellow octopus with adjustable 2nd stage, suitable for cold water diving and oxygen enriched mixtures.

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Alternate Second Stages

An alternate second stage, often called an octopus or “safe second,” is a cornerstone of every diver’s safety setup—whether you’re exploring vibrant reefs in the tropics or navigating the cool, kelp-lined waters closer to home. As summer brings longer days and warmer water, dive season is in full swing, making it the perfect time to review and upgrade your gear. The alternate second stage is easily recognized by its bright color, usually yellow, and its longer hose, which makes it instantly accessible in an emergency. It’s designed to be shared with a dive buddy if they run out of air or if your primary regulator fails, allowing both divers to breathe comfortably while making a safe ascent. For many, the memory of their first buddy breathing drill—steadying nerves, following the instructor’s signals, and feeling the reassuring flow of air from the octopus—serves as a reminder that preparedness is part of the adventure. Whether you’re a new diver building your kit or a seasoned explorer fine-tuning your setup for deeper or more technical dives, the right alternate second stage provides peace of mind and, when needed, a literal lifeline.

Choosing an alternate second stage involves more than just color and hose length. Divers often consider features like a dive/predive switch, which helps prevent free-flow at the surface, or adjustable inhalation effort for fine-tuning breathing resistance. These small details can make a significant difference in comfort and confidence, especially on longer or more challenging dives. Some divers prefer dedicated octopus regulators, while others opt for integrated systems that combine the alternate second stage with the power inflator on their BCD—streamlining their profile and reducing hose clutter. Technical divers, or those venturing into overhead environments, may even rely on completely separate cylinders and regulators for redundancy. No matter the configuration, visibility and ease of access are key; an alternate second stage should always be clipped or stowed where it can be deployed in seconds, without fumbling or confusion. For families, gifting an alternate second stage to a newly certified diver is a thoughtful gesture—an investment in their safety and a vote of confidence as they join you on underwater adventures. And for dive professionals, choosing a reliable, easy-breathing octopus is part of the responsibility that comes with leading groups and teaching new divers.

Maintenance and compatibility are also important considerations. Alternate second stages should be serviced regularly, just like primary regulators, to ensure they function flawlessly when called upon. Matching the alternate second stage to your primary setup—whether it’s a classic downstream design or a more advanced balanced system—helps maintain consistent performance. If you’re curious about the advantages of different regulator technologies, including how balanced mechanisms can improve breathing effort throughout your dive, explore our Balanced Second Stages page for more details. Ultimately, the alternate second stage is about preparedness and trust: trust in your equipment, your buddy, and your own readiness to handle the unexpected. With the right gear and a practiced hand, you can focus on the joy of discovery—gliding past coral heads, watching a school of fish scatter in the sunlight, and knowing you’re prepared for whatever the underwater world has in store.

Top Picks For Alternate Second Stages