In the world of scuba regulators, few names carry the recognition of Mares. The Italian manufacturer has built a strong following among recreational divers for its balance of price, performance, and reliability. The Prestige 15X and Octopus package sits comfortably in the middle of the Mares range, marketed as a lightweight, travel-friendly set for divers who want dependable breathing without breaking the bank. But does it live up to that promise?
We checked reviews across multiple platforms, including Scuba.com, ScubaBoard, Scuba Diving Magazine, and diver forums to see what actual users are saying.
Breathing Performance and Comfort
Across independent testing and diver feedback, the Prestige 15X earns praise for smooth and consistent breathing at recreational depths. Scuba Diving Magazine’s ScubaLab scored the set “very good” for ease of breathing and air delivery. Divers report that the Mares VAD (Vortex Assisted Design) system makes inhalation feel natural and effortless, particularly when swimming in a horizontal position.
That said, some users mention a tendency for slightly wetter breathing when inverted, something also noted during ScubaLab’s test dives. It’s a minor quirk rather than a deal-breaker, but worth noting if you spend a lot of time photographing below your subject or working head-down.
Reliability and Nitrox Use
The first stage, the 15X, is a balanced diaphragm design with four low-pressure and two high-pressure ports. It’s Nitrox compatible up to 40 percent oxygen and well-suited to recreational use. Most divers report years of reliable service with little maintenance beyond annual servicing.
However, one verified buyer on Scuba.com reported multiple O-ring failures when using Nitrox, an issue that hasn’t been widely repeated elsewhere but raises questions about consistency or handling. On ScubaBoard, experienced users note that the 15X performs well mechanically but emphasize the importance of regular servicing and proper O-ring care.
Build Quality and Design Choices
The Prestige second stage is made from Mares’ high-grade techno-polymer, keeping weight down without feeling flimsy. The overall design is compact and ergonomic, making it easy to pack for travel or liveaboard trips. Divers who travel frequently mention its convenience and durability in warm-water conditions.
The absence of a pre-dive switch divides opinion. Some divers like the simplicity, while others would prefer the ability to fine-tune airflow to prevent freeflow on entry. Fortunately, the VAD system does a good job at minimizing that risk, according to both lab tests and diver reports.
Service and Support
Servicing is a recurring topic in user discussions. Mares equipment is widely supported in Europe and popular dive destinations, but some divers in more remote regions report difficulty finding authorized service centers or parts. The ScubaBoard community advises confirming local support before purchase, as a good regulator is only as reliable as its maintenance schedule.
Verdict: A Capable Mid-Range Choice
Overall, divers see the Mares Prestige 15X and Octopus package as a solid, affordable regulator set that performs well for the price. It’s lightweight, travel-friendly, and easy to breathe from at typical recreational depths. For divers in warm waters like the Red Sea, it’s a practical choice that balances comfort with value.
Those who demand top-tier performance in extreme conditions, or plan heavy Nitrox use, might prefer a more advanced setup. But for many divers looking to upgrade from rental gear or build their first kit, the Prestige 15X earns its place as a dependable mid-range workhorse.
The Takeaway
What divers say about the Mares Prestige 15X boils down to this: it’s reliable, affordable, and performs better than its price tag might suggest. The few concerns about servicing and Nitrox reliability are valid but manageable with proper care. For anyone seeking a straightforward, budget-friendly regulator that just works, the Prestige 15X remains a strong contender.
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