Mares Dragon SLS Jacket BCD
Comfort, Stability, and Strength for Southern California Diving
The Mares Dragon SLS Jacket BCD is a premium, front-adjustable jacket-style BCD designed for Southern California divers who want exceptional comfort, stability, and durability in cold-water and high-use environments. Ideal for kelp forest dives, boat diving, shore entries, and local training, the Dragon SLS blends intelligent design with rugged construction to perform dive after dive.
At the core of the Dragon SLS is Mares’ SLS (Slide and Lock System) integrated weight system, offering a secure, intuitive, and reliable way to manage ballast—perfect for divers wearing thicker exposure protection common in Southern California.
Advanced SLS Integrated Weight System
The SLS ballast system is engineered for safety, ease of use, and confidence:
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Stable weight retention with increased holding surface
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Active mechanical locking system
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Smooth guide tunnel for easy insertion
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Quick-release mechanism for emergency situations
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Audible and visual confirmation of correct pocket insertion
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Customizable identification label on weight pockets
Weight Capacity:
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XS–S: 4 kg / 9 lbs per side
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M–XL: 6 kg / 13 lbs per side
This makes the Dragon SLS ideal for divers transitioning between wetsuits and drysuits or adjusting ballast for different Southern California dive conditions.
Comfort-Driven Design for Real Diving
The Dragon SLS Jacket is designed with separation between the air cell and shoulder straps, allowing the BCD to remain stable and comfortable even when fully inflated. This design prevents shoulder squeeze and improves mobility—especially useful during surface intervals and long swims.
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Sliding shoulder buckle system reduces traction on shoulders during inflation
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Adjustable belly band for a secure, customized fit
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New 50 mm swing buckles for easy adjustment and durability
Adjustable Corrugated Hose Position
The Dragon SLS allows divers to adjust the corrugated hose counter strap into two positions, accommodating different diving styles:
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A higher position for easy air dumping by raising the corrugate
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A closer, streamlined position for divers who prefer minimal movement
This flexibility makes it comfortable for both recreational divers and instructors.
Storage, Stability & Durability
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Extra-large pockets with elastic panels for SMBs, reels, lights, and accessories
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Stretch pocket with abrasion-resistant neoprene panel and strong horizontal zipper
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High-lift air cell with “Dragon” wings for excellent surface and underwater stability
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Intelligent trim weight positioning for improved horizontal trim
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Single monoplate backrest compatible with single or twin cylinders
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Cordura® 420 construction for long-term durability in saltwater environments
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Five stainless steel D-rings for accessory attachment
Technical Specifications (Size L)
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Weight System: SLS (Slide and Lock System)
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Lift Capacity: 200 N
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Material: Cordura® 420
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Backpack: Monoplate
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D-Rings: 5 × Stainless Steel
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Weight: 4.5 kg
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Integrated Weight Capacity:
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XS–S: 4 kg / 9 lbs
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M–XL: 6 kg / 13 lbs
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Ideal for Southern California Divers
The Mares Dragon SLS Jacket BCD is a top choice for:
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Southern California recreational diving
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Kelp forest and wreck dives
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Boat diving and shore diving
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Local training and certification courses
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Divers who value comfort, security, and durability
Built to handle cooler Pacific waters and frequent use, the Dragon SLS delivers confidence, comfort, and control—dive after dive.