Primary donate (long-hose configuration)

A primary donate configuration uses a regulator with a hose length between 1.5 m and 2.2 m. This setup allows you to give air to a buddy while you maintain control of your own buoyancy. You will see this gear in wreck diving or deep technical dives because the long hose reaches a struggling diver more easily. Most tech divers use this since it prevents the gas donor from being pulled into a dangerous position during an emergency.

Don’t forget your training. I saw a diver in Koh Tao in 2018 struggle because his long hose was tucked too tightly against his chest. If the hose is too short, you cannot reach your buddy effectively. Always practice your gas sharing drills until the motion feels natural and automatic. Keep the hose routed along your side to avoid snagging on wrecks.