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Short take: A well-liked adjustable harness that blends technical control with recreational comfort. Divers praise the sturdy stainless hardware, padded shoulders, and easy donning. Assembly requires patience, but once set up, the Hollis Elite 2 Adjustable Harness System delivers a comfortable and capable platform for single or twin-tank diving.
What divers like most
Divers consistently highlight comfort, adjustability, and solid stainless hardware. Owners describe the Hollis Elite 2 harness as flawless once assembled, with secure attachment points and a waist buckle that feels exceptionally robust compared with similar rigs. Quick-release buckles make boat entries and exits easier than traditional one-piece DIR harnesses, a point echoed in verified Scuba.com reviews and user discussions on Reddit where divers compare adjustable harnesses to minimalist webbing setups.
Key specs at a glance
According to the Hollis product page, the Elite 2 features adjustable shoulder and sternum straps, removable pads, multiple pre-bent stainless D-rings, and a stainless latch-style waist buckle. The harness alone weighs roughly 1.7 lb, and it’s compatible with both aluminum and stainless backplates. Specifications listed on Scuba.com confirm the same details, along with clear size guidance and verified buyer Q&A.
Comfort and fit on the boat
Real-world reports note that padded shoulders and quick-release buckles make the Elite 2 Harness easier to don on crowded decks or in rolling swell. Divers transitioning from jacket-style BCDs say it feels streamlined yet familiar. The ergonomic padding is often cited as a key benefit for instructors and photographers who spend long hours in gear.
Assembly and setup
Expect a learning curve. Several divers mention that setup is straightforward if you’re familiar with backplate routing, but confusing for first-time users. Reviewers suggest using Hollis YouTube tutorials to get it right. Once the webbing is routed and pads positioned, the harness feels custom-fit and secure. This extra setup time pays off in comfort underwater.
Build quality and hardware
Feedback repeatedly praises the stainless hardware used throughout the Hollis Elite 2 Adjustable Harness System. The pre-bent D-rings are durable and perfectly positioned for lights, reels, and gauges. Divers compare the curved stainless waist buckle favorably to premium competitors, describing it as “virtually indestructible.” Buckles may feel stiff initially, but loosen naturally with use.
In-water performance and trim
Most divers report stable trim and neutral balance when paired with an appropriate wing and backplate. Scuba.com reviewers say the harness maintains excellent tank stability, especially when using a single-tank adapter. For doubles, divers like the straightforward D-ring layout and unrestricted shoulder movement.
Sizing notes
The Elite 2 harness comes in multiple sizes, each providing ample webbing to trim for a perfect fit. Smaller divers mention that shoulder pads can crowd accessory pockets, while taller divers appreciate the generous strap length. Scuba.com’s sizing chart is reliable for matching torso length and chest measurements before trimming excess webbing.
Compatibility and inclusions
The harness includes a crotch strap but no backplate, wing, or cam bands. According to verified buyers on Scuba.com, the Hollis Elite 2 is compatible with most standard 2-inch-slot backplates, including third-party options. The modular design lets divers mix and match components to suit their configuration.
Adjustable vs one-piece debate
Discussions on Reddit and other forums show two clear camps. Technical purists prefer one-piece webbing for simplicity and fewer failure points. Others praise the Hollis Elite 2 for comfort, adjustability, and quick donning, especially in training and recreational environments. The consensus: the Elite 2 offers an ideal balance of control and convenience.
Comparisons and alternatives
Many divers cross-shop the Hollis Elite 2 harness with the Dive Rite TransPlate or the complete Hollis ST Elite system. While those setups include plates and wings, the Elite 2 stands out as a flexible upgrade for divers who already own the rest of their rig and want to fine-tune comfort and mobility.
Price and value
Divers generally agree that the Hollis Elite 2 Adjustable Harness is fairly priced given its build quality and stainless components. Some note that while cheaper harnesses exist, few match the same durability or comfort. For divers who want adjustability without losing the technical profile, it delivers excellent long-term value.
Who it suits best
- Divers who want a comfortable, adjustable harness without abandoning tech-style streamlining
- Photographers or instructors who appreciate multiple D-rings for accessories
- Cold-water or travel divers who value quick donning and easy adjustments
Potential deal breakers
- Minimalists who prefer single-piece webbing
- Smaller divers who find padded shoulders reduce space for storage pockets
- Beginners who dislike detailed assembly and fitting
Verdict
The Hollis Elite 2 Adjustable Harness System earns its reputation as a reliable and comfortable choice for divers who want modular control with modern comfort. Once fitted, it becomes a robust, low-maintenance harness that feels natural both above and below water. For divers upgrading from a jacket BCD or seeking a customizable rig, it’s a strong investment.
Where to buy
Shop the Hollis Elite 2 Adjustable Harness System on Scuba.com or check Amazon’s listing for the Hollis Elite 2 harness for competitive pricing and quick shipping options.
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