These days, one of the best things about shopping for a reg is that we no longer need to choose between performance and comfort. Here are nine regs that offer both:

1. CRESSI T10-SC MASTER BALANCED (Editor's Pick)

This new reg from Cressi delivers top performance as well as comfort, with ergo-friendly features such as a lightweight second stage with a wide purge cover (surrounded by titanium trim) and easygrip breathing-resistance adjustment. The SC model has an environmentally sealed chamber in the first stage, which is rated for cold-water use. The long base of the foot pocket provides stability and comfort. It’s also available with spring straps.

CONTACT: cressiusa.com

MSRP: $679.95

2. Sherwood Scuba SR2

The SR2 offers muscle-reg performance with a refined look and feel, and has one of the most compact second stages we’ve ever used, virtually eliminating jaw fatigue. A single adjustment combines functions of the Venturi and breathing adjustment, and a 360-degree swivel on the first stage puts hoses where they’re most comfortable.

CONTACT: sherwoodscuba.com

MSRP: $736 ($746 DIN)

3. Zeagle F8

The latest flagship reg from Zeagle combines the impressive air-moving capacity the Flathead series is known for with a buttery-smooth flyweight second stage. Designed with an emphasis on comfort that would do a luxury car proud, the F8 has a large, soft purge cover, an oversize Venturi lever and a large breathing-adjustment control.

CONTACT: zeagle.com

MSRP: $599

4. Oceanic ZEO

The ZEO’s second stage keeps a trim profile thanks to its elliptical shape, and the in-line ball swivel eliminates jaw fatigue. The breathing adjustment delivers a wide range of control to set airflow, and the all-metal demand valve improves cold-water performance and helps recirculate moisture to prevent dry mouth.

CONTACT: oceanicworldwide.com

MSRP: $649.95

5. IST Sports R860

IST’s flagship reg offers solid performance and plenty of details that provide user comfort. The first stage has a 360-degree rotating swivel for endless hose-routing options, and the trim ring on the second stage is made of a rugged, light alloy for durability and reduced weight. The Venturi lever and breathing adjustment are shaped for easy operation even when wearing heavy gloves.

CONTACT: istsports.com

MSRP: $430

6. Scubapro MK25 EVO/G260

The metal and matte black of the G260 give it an all-business look that’s not unwarranted — breathing-simulator tests have shown it’s able to deliver at demanding depths and breath rates. But under its tough looks, the reg’s a pussycat, with smooth air delivery, a second stage that won’t tire your jaw and ergo-friendly controls.

CONTACT: scubapro.com

MSRP: $689

7. Seac DX 200

The breathing-resistance control is shaped for easy grip with bare hands or gloves, and allows precision adjustment for effortless breathing. The oval exhaust ports keep the second stage compact and deflect bubbles away. The diaphragm trim ring is lightweight metal for durability, and the glossy finish trim is resistant to abrasion and scratches.

CONTACT: seacusa.com

MSRP: $650

8. Dive Rite XT (Cool Deal)

Known for delivering rugged tec-level performance, Dive Rite also provided for comfort in the XT, an easybreathing, lightweight reg with controls that are precise and easy to adjust. For optimal routing whether in a tec or rec configuration, the XT has a rotating first stage and is available in right- or left-hand configuration.

CONTACT: diverite.com

MSRP: $440

9. Poseidon Cyklon Metal (Cool Deal)

Introduced way back in 1958 and constantly refined ever since, the side-exhaust Cyklon is known as a tough workhorse often chosen by naval divers, but it’s also a surprisingly comfortable reg for rec use, with an easy-onthe- jaw second stage, a smooth air delivery, and a side exhaust that keeps bubbles out of your face and allows you to use it on the left or right side with no alterations.

CONTACT: poseidon.com

MSRP: $799.95

Our Dream Regs

It’s easy to say what we all want most in our reg — reliable, easy breathing at whatever depth we’re diving. But ask divers what’s the second most important thing about their reg and you’ll get a surprisingly wide range of answers. For some, it’s a lightweight second stage that won’t tire their jaw. Or it may be easy-to-operate Venturi and breathing controls that give them a wide range of precise adjustment for depth and breathing demand. Other divers want just the opposite, and are willing to give up fine-tuning performance for the simplicity of a reg with no adjustments at all. Divers with a tec-oriented style might need the flexibility in design that allows them to set their reg up for left- or rightside use, or additional ports on the first stage. Still other divers are looking for some of the extras that provide that little bit of additional comfort, such as rotating first stages that help position hoses where you want them or swivel-flex hose connections that don’t pull on the second stage. The good news is whatever you’re looking for in a dream reg, it’s out there somewhere.