Mistral Aqualung 50th anniversary 1955 – 2005 #234
Aqua Lung Mistral 50th Anniversary 1955 – 2005 #234
The Aqua Lung Mistral, a tribute to the classic 1950s design, integrates the first and second stages at the tank. It features corrugated hoses that deliver air to the diver’s mouth and direct exhaust behind the diver’s head. While honoring its vintage roots, the Mistral includes modern components such as the Titan first stage and an environmentally sealed second stage. It supports nitrox mixes up to 40% and is available in both yoke and DIN versions.
Breathing Experience
As a double-hose regulator, the Mistral is influenced by physics. In a vertical position, it breathes as easily as a single-hose regulator and excels when looking up or swimming on your back. However, in a facedown position or during head-first descents, inhalation effort increases significantly.
Divers used to single-hose regulators may need time to adjust, especially with traditional purging and buddy breathing methods. Nonetheless, for those seeking a nostalgic dive experience, the Mistral offers a unique adventure.
Historical Context
The term “Aqua-lung” was first used by Emile Gagnan and Jacques Cousteau in 1943 for their pioneering diving gear. Today, “scuba” is the more common term. The early Aqua-lung regulators featured twin-hoses—one for air supply and one for exhaust—regulated by a one-way valve.
Single-hose prototypes of the era tended to free flow when the mouthpiece was higher than the regulator, leading to the addition of a second hose. Although this didn’t entirely resolve the issue, it reduced disturbances in front of the face and ears, enhancing visibility for photography and fish observation.
Evolution of the Design
Initial Aqua-lungs had single-stage regulators, with breathing effort affected by water pressure, leading to inefficiencies. The switch to a two-stage balanced design improved performance by reducing tank pressure to an intermediate level with the first stage and aligning air supply with the diver’s breath through the second stage.
Despite its nostalgic appeal, the dual-hose design had drawbacks such as variable breathing effort, buoyancy issues, and potential dislodging of the mouthpiece. As a result, dual-hose regulators fell out of favor around 1980.
Modern Mistral
In 2005, Aqua Lung reintroduced the “retro” dual-hose regulator, the Mistral. Although it resembles the original, the modern Mistral incorporates contemporary technology with the Titan first stage and re-breather-style hoses. The second stage connects to the first stage via a small hose, offering flexible placement.
Feedback on the new Mistral is mixed. Some divers prefer classic designs like the Royal Aqua Master, noting the retro model’s larger, more buoyant hoses. Others appreciate the modern features, including high and low-pressure ports and the ease of servicing contemporary components.
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