Mares Aliikai Vs Mares Kaila

[bubbletrouble]

I've got the Kaila and its fab.... a lot of thought and research went into buying it (as it did when buying the majority of my kit).....

I looked at my identical twin....

Said 'wotcha think of your stuff Jude?'...

She said 'It fits and it works'...

Went to the shop and bought it!

Sorted

[myerbairn]

Hi all

I am a new diver trying to decide between the kaila or aliikai? I have recently done my PADI OWD but am hoping to continue training over the next few years, so am looking for a BCD that will meet my needs now and as I become more experienced. I will be diving both in the UK and abroad.

From what i've read they both have their advantages and disadvantages.
Kaila
more comfortable
more security
more pockets
still easy to stay horizontal as most of the air is in the back
solid backplate
But less manoverability when wearing a drysuit and the feeling of squeeze and constriction

Aliikai
Lighter and easier to pack for travelling
More manoverability
but less pockets and no solid backplate, less comfort and security

Can anyone confirm these and give me their opinion on which you think would best suit me

My main concern with the aliikai is the bouyancy and feeling of security at the surface as I have only used Jacket BCDs before. Is it more difficult to control your position at the surface with just the backmounted inflation?

Unfortunately I love in north scotland where there are very few dive shops so would be unable to actually go try them on before ordering, someone else had mentioned they are quite big made has anyone else found this?

Thanks