Specifications

Test Stats

The Bonaire and Cayman are Subgear’s midrange and top-end models, respectively. They share the same compact balanced-diaphragm first stage with a dry ambient pressure chamber for diving cold or murky waters. Two of the four LP ports are high flow, which deliver about 15 percent more gas than conventional low-pressure ports. Both second stages come with diver-adjustable venturi switches, orthodontic mouthpieces and high-flex Airflex hoses. However, the Bonaire’s second stage is unbalanced, while the Cayman’s second stage is pneumatically balanced.

Performance:

Subgear Bonaire

Subgear Cayman

Both of these regs are giant-killers when it comes to moving gas. They’re the only regs in the Under $500 category that were able to reach all standard RMV/depth tests levels with very good to excellent work of breathing, and then keep on going and going and going. While the Bonaire took each test level without slowing, the more we stressed the Cayman, the better it actually performed. They both exceeded depths of 225 feet at the extreme breathing rate of 75 RMV before exceeding test parameters. During ergo tests, the regs fared just as well. Both are comfortable, sweet breathers in all diving positions, they dive dry and purge water effortlessly with an easy push of their large purge covers. The venturi control switches do a good job of reining in surface free-flows, although it can sometimes be hard to grab onto them when wearing thick gloves.

Bottom Line:

These regs delivered above-average breathing performance and a surprising amount of reserve capacity. The balanced second stage on the Cayman smoothes out the breathing at deeper depths and heavier breathing rates, but the Bonaire is no slouch. Both are incredible values and get our votes for Testers’ Choice and Best Buy, respectively.