BIGBLUE enters the tactical helmet market: a successful gamble?

BIGBLUE: a newcomer to the world of tactical helmets

In this article we take a look at BIGBLUE's new tactical helmet: a major innovation for underground diving. Designed to meet the specific challenges of underground environments, the brand promises to improve diver safety and comfort.

The discipline of underground diving: 

This unusual activity, reserved for experienced and/or adventurous divers, involves exploring submerged caves and caverns, often inaccessible by other means. A fascinating world opens up to divers! 

The discipline boasts a number of specific features, including : 

• Complex navigation: Underground diving requires complex navigation through narrow passages, tunnels and submerged chambers. Divers need to be able to read natural and artificial signs to avoid getting lost and to find their way back through the cave system. A breadcrumb trail is the way to find your way.
• Reduced visibility: Visibility can be considerably reduced in caves and caverns due to suspended sediments, low light levels and light reflections.
• Rapidly changing conditions : Environmental conditions can change rapidly when diving underground due to terrain topography, underwater currents and variations in water quality. 
• Deep galleries. Underground cavities can be very deep. Human exploration has reached a depth of 312m. This depth was reached by Frenchman Xavier Meniscus in January 2024. 

Introducing the Bigblue brand: 

Bigblue, a brand dedicated to deep-sea exploration and high-performance underwater lighting! 

• BigBlue Dive Lights entered the dive light market in 2007, when it presented its first models at the DEMA show in Orlando, USA. Since then, the brand has gone from strength to strength. The unique shapes, colors and features established by these early models set an unrivalled standard for BigBlue.
• Every year, BigBlue Dive Lights continues to build its reputation as a leader in dive light innovation, performance and quality. As the only manufacturer to actively pursue new innovations in recreational, technical, underwater photo and video lights.
• With advanced designs and unprecedented affordability, BigBlue offers the most technologically advanced and accessible LED lights on the market. Whether you're looking for a simple recreational dive light or a complete technical underwater lighting system, BigBlue has a solution to suit your needs!

Features and benefits of the BIGBLUE tactical helmet :

• Construction material: Made from ABS, this helmet offers a combination of lightness for optimum protection in the most demanding aquatic environments.
• Shock-absorbing pads: The inside of the helmet is fitted with shock-absorbing pads for enhanced comfort and shock absorption during underwater movements.
• Side Headlamp Brackets: Incorporates two side headlamp brackets, compatible with BigBlue AL1300 or AL450 models, offering a practical solution for illuminating dark environments.
• Optional GoPro mount: An optional GoPro-type mount can be added to the front of the helmet, allowing you to attach a camera to capture your underwater explorations.
• Ventilation holes: Multiple holes on the top of the helmet allow bubbles to escape easily, ensuring efficient ventilation and optimum comfort during dives.
• Custom fit: Designed for head sizes between 52 and 60 cm, the helmet features integrated adjustment knobs for a precise, customized fit.
• Color Options: Available in two colors, gray and black, to match your aesthetic preferences and diving equipment.

Comparison with other technical diving helmets : 

• Construction material : 

BigBlue: ABS with internal padding for protection and comfort.

Competitor A: Polycarbonate for lightness, but may be less impact-resistant.

Competitor B: Reinforced fiberglass for excellent strength, but heavier than ABS.

Headlamp mounts: included for Bigblue helmets.

• Support and compatibility : 

BigBlue: 2 side brackets compatible with BigBlue AL1300 or AL450 headlamps.

Competitor A: Integrated brackets available, but limited compatibility with other brands.

Competitor B: Brackets available, but variable strength and compatibility.

• BigBlue: Optional GoPro mount on front panel.

Competitor A: Integrated camera support may not be available, requiring additional accessories.

Competitor B: Availability of camera support variable depending on model and options.

• Size and adjustment : 

BigBlue: Adjustable for head circumference from 52 to 60 cm with adjustment knob for precise fit.

Competitor A: Similar adjustment possible with different adjustment mechanisms.

Competitor B: Fit may vary depending on adjustment system, affecting comfort and stability during diving.

• Price : 

BigBlue: Competitively priced, available in specialty stores and online.

Competitor A: Price varies by brand and range, availability varies by distributor.

Competitor B: Higher cost possible due to materials, limited availability due to restricted distribution.

• In summary : 

BigBlue: Offers a good balance between price, functionality and comfort.

Competitor A: Can be lighter or have integrated headlight mounts, but compatibility and availability may be issues.

Competitor B: Offers the best strength, but may be heavier, more expensive and less accessible.

In a nutshell, the BIGBLUE Tactical Helmet: Ideal for enthusiasts

Dive into excellence with the BigBlue Tactical Helmet, designed for divers and aquatic exploration enthusiasts who demand the best.

The BigBlue Tactical Helmet embodies excellence in the world of underground diving and water sports. With its rugged ABS construction, innovative features and custom fit, it offers optimum protection, superior comfort and unrivalled versatility for the most demanding divers.

Whether you're a technical diving professional looking for reliable equipment or a watersports enthusiast looking for adventure, the BigBlue Tactical Helmet is your ultimate ally for exploring the mysteries of the deep sea with confidence and style.

Don't let boundaries hold you back. Equip yourself with the BigBlue Tactical Helmet today and get ready for unforgettable underwater experiences!

The helmet is available from diveavenue.com

If you'd like to know more, you can find a review of the helmet on our social networks @Diveavenue.