Scuba Regulators Recalled Globally Over Drowning Risk

HEAD Watersports, in conjunction with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), has announced a voluntary recall of approximately 1,105 Apeks second-stage scuba regulators due to a serious safety concern. These regulators, sold between April 2025 and June 2026, have been found to restrict airflow to divers at depths exceeding 45 meters (approximately 147 feet), presenting a significant risk of drowning. The affected models include the Apeks XL4, XL4+, and XL4 Ocea, which were available in various colors, including black, white, gray, mint, and yellow.

The regulators in question bear serial numbers ranging from 250402212 to 260402893. These serial numbers are laser-etched onto the side of each regulator and are also printed on the original shipping carton. Consumers who have purchased these regulators are strongly advised to cease using them immediately. To address the hazard, HEAD Watersports will provide a complimentary repair service. Affected consumers should bring their recalled regulators to any HEAD Watersports Authorized Retailer, where the valve spindle assembly will be replaced at no cost.

The recalled Apeks regulators were distributed through authorized retailers of Apeks, Aqualung, and HEAD Watersports, as well as online through apeksdiving.com, aqualung.com, and head.com. The price for these regulators ranged from $260 to $1,140. While no incidents or injuries have been reported in connection with this specific recall, the potential severity of the hazard necessitates immediate action. HEAD USA, Inc., doing business as Head Watersports of Delray Beach, Florida, is listed as the importer of these regulators, which are manufactured in England. For more information or to arrange for the repair, consumers can contact HEAD Watersports toll-free at 800-874-3236 during business hours (9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday). Alternatively, inquiries can be directed via email to RecallXL4@aqualung.com or by visiting specific recall information pages on the following websites: https://us.apeksdiving.com/pages/recall-information-and-technical-notice, https://us.aqualung.com/pages/recall-information, or https://www.head.com/en_US/recalls. Consumers can also find information by navigating to “Voluntary Recall” at the bottom of the head.com website.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

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