How to setup a single mount soft backplate
Set Up Your Single Mount Soft Backplate Easily — Dive Light, Dive Free, Dive Confident with Every Adventure!
When it comes to comfort, versatility, and simplicity in scuba diving, a single mount soft backplate system is a perfect solution for recreational divers, travelling adventurers, or those who want a lightweight alternative to traditional hard backplates. The good news? Setting up your soft backplate system is easy, quick, and requires no special tools or technical know-how.
Whether you are a new diver wanting to customise your first setup or a seasoned diver looking for an ultra-light travel system, a soft backplate gives you streamlined comfort and perfect buoyancy control without the bulk and rigidity of metal plates.
Let’s explore just how simple it is to set up your single mount soft backplate system — and why you’ll love diving with one!
Why Choose a Single Mount Soft Backplate?
✔ Lightweight and Travel-Friendly
Perfect for dive travel, soft backplates are compact, flexible, and easy to pack into any gear bag. They reduce the overall weight of your system, saving you airline baggage fees and back strain alike.
✔ Superior Comfort
Soft backplates are padded and designed to mould gently against your back — ideal for warm-water dives where minimal exposure suits are used.
✔ Simple, Tool-Free Setup
No tools, screws, or heavy fittings needed. Everything attaches with simple threading and buckling systems, allowing you to build your kit exactly how you like.
✔ Adjustable and Customisable
Soft backplate systems offer full adjustability for different body shapes, suit thicknesses, and tank sizes — ensuring a snug, balanced, and safe dive every time.
How to Set Up Your Single Mount Soft Backplate System:
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Lay Out Your Components:
Unpack your soft backplate, harness webbing, wing (if used), cam bands, D-rings, and any accessories. Ensure you have everything at hand, including the single tank adapter if applicable. -
Thread the Harness Webbing:
Start by threading the webbing through the shoulder slots of the soft backplate. Adjust for an even, comfortable fit on both shoulders. This webbing forms the basic harness that will secure the system to your body. -
Attach the Waist Strap and Buckle:
Secure the waist strap by threading it through the appropriate slots or loops at the base of the backplate. Fit the waist buckle (usually a plastic or stainless clip) so that it closes comfortably but securely around your waist. -
Add D-Rings and Retainers:
Position your D-rings on the chest and waist straps where you’ll want to clip accessories like an SPG, octopus, or torch. The soft backplate allows you to move and adjust these to your personal preference — a great feature for customisation. -
Install the Crotch Strap (Optional but Recommended):
If included, thread and attach the crotch strap. This prevents the soft backplate from riding up and improves stability, especially when diving with a thicker wetsuit or drysuit. -
Secure Your Tank:
Use the cam bands to attach your single cylinder to the backplate. Ensure they are tight and the tank sits centred and stable against the backplate. -
Final Adjustments:
Try the rig on with your wetsuit or drysuit. Adjust the harness webbing for a snug but unrestricted fit. Make sure all D-rings and straps are within easy reach.
Ready for Your Next Comfortable Dive?
A single mount soft backplate system offers unbeatable comfort, lightness, and simplicity. Setting it up is straightforward, fast, and rewarding — leaving you with more time to enjoy the water and less time worrying about your gear.
Stop by our store or visit us online to explore our range of soft backplate systems and accessories — and start building your dream dive rig today. Dive light. Dive free. Dive confident — with every dive!