90-degree left and 90-degree right options . The transflective MIP ( memory-in-pixel ) display provides clear and concise viewing of relevant dive information and the computer ’ s battery life , depending on usage , can be anything from 21 days in watch mode with up to 30 hours of dive time .
Charging is via the same USB clip-on device used by the rest of the Descent line of devices , which also allows firmware updates and dive downloads . Alternatively , updates can be carried out via Bluetooth . With 32 Gb of internal memory , there ’ s enough space to log 200 dives or upload them directly onto the Garmin Dive app .
While I ’ ve mentioned in the past that Garmin ’ s menu system takes a little practice to make perfect , the more familiar I ’ ve become with the Descent , the more I ’ ve come to appreciate its simplicity – even ad hoc changes underwater are a doddle .
Using the Mk2i and Mk2S side-by-side over a series of dives , they ( unsurprisingly ) provided identical information . With the former paired to a Descent T1 transmitter I was also able , via Garmin ’ s incredible SubWave sonar , to monitor either my own or even my buddy ’ s remaining air time and consumption rate . This facility has a 10-metre range .
Decisions , Decisions ...
So , which do you go for – the chunky , eye-catching Descent Mk2 / Mk2i ? Or the more subtle tones of the ‘ Mini Me ’ Mk2S , which sits on the wrist almost as if it wasn ’ t really there ? Among a mixed gender group of divers , the smaller version appeared almost universally favoured by the female contingent , who liked the fact it didn ’ t feel out of place for general use . There was less of a straight choice among the males in the group , although both sexes did remark that regardless of size the Mk2i was the obvious choice if you need the option of monitoring gas usage . Although there are no plans as yet to launch a Mk2Si complete with the sonarbased SubWave technology that allows such outstanding wireless data transmission , it would certainly be a logical next step and provide further food for thought .
In a straight fight between the Mk2 and Mk2S the lines are blurred . The former retails at £ 1,199.99 in stainless steel guise , while the Mk2S , available in carbon grey , gold or blue colour schemes is £ 250 less , at £ 949.99 . That doesn ’ t exactly make it a budget option , I must concede .
Just like Garmin ’ s Fenix range of multi-sport smart watches , the Descent also offers users an almost unlimited range of apps . Some are particularly useful for divers , including those for weather and tides , heart rate , respiration , hydration and even women ’ s health .
Paradoxically , what may swing it for many potential buyers is what they actually get up to when they ’ re not diving . With apps for activities such as running , swimming , yoga , golf , cycling and many other sports , the compact form of the Descent Mk2S does make it a very compelling option . Neil Hope
Layer-up
CoreTek Base
Hammond ’ s latest addition to their excellent range of thermal undergarments – the CoreTek Base – was produced in response to customer feedback citing the need for something to bridge the gap between temperature ranges .
Designed to be worn directly against the skin , the unisex , 100 % polyester base layer is black with grey highlights from shoulder to waist . The Base is long-sleeved and also has a generous length so as not to ride up when in use .
The body gave a nice close fit , and while I ’ m not renowned for my bulging biceps , the upper arm area did seem a little roomier than expected . The secret to successful thermal protection while using a membrane drysuit is all about layers .
‘ Thinner in the summer , thicker in the winter ’ is the mantra for insulation – but there are times when just that little bit extra insulation is required . This is when the CoreTek Base provides a viable solution , without affecting buoyancy or manoeuvrability .
As an experiment I made a first dive using my normal undersuit . For my second dive I added the Base into the mix . While not overly cold after a 45-minute , 9 ° C first dive , I ’ d normally expect to feel its effects as the second dive progressed ... but thanks to the Base , this was definitely not the case .
The CoreTek could also be used effectively as a standalone beneath a neoprene drysuit during the summer months , when the water temperature hits its peak . Neil Hope
SCUBA SAYS
Smaller , lighter and more affordable than the original , Garmin ’ s Descent Mk2S mimics its bigger sibling ’ s features exactly , but in an appealingly compact package .
SCUBA SAYS
Hammond ’ s inexpensive CoreTek Base provides that little extra warmth for when you need it . It looks great out of the water too .
51