Hydrospine: Revolutionizing Freediving with Innovative Weight Design

Designers Ludovic Lahccen and Raoul Morel Redefine Underwater Balance and Buoyancy

The Hydrospine project began in Lille, France, in August 2019, and was incubated at Transalley in Valenciennes, France, from September 2020 to September 2022. The design was born out of the need for a more practical and comfortable weight system for freediving. The designers took inspiration from sea creatures and speed machines, resulting in a unique, hydrodynamic structure that can support up to six kilos and remains flexible to follow the body's movements.

Hydrospine's unique properties set it apart from other diving weights. It is the only dorsal ballast of its kind, with a quick-release buckle for safety and a modular design for comfort. The system is so comfortable that divers can forget the weight they're carrying, allowing for optimal glide and precise buoyancy. The design can be used in all freediving activities and in all positions, making it the most advanced system to date.

The materials used in Hydrospine are all waterproof, easy to source, and inexpensive, including elastic and polypropylene straps, plastic buckles, textiles, and lead. The shell is made of thermoformed textile with a zipped side opening, and the internal structure has slots to fix the leads like a spine and accordion ribs to follow all movements. The leads were designed from a single template to limit the molds and keep a hydrodynamic structure, covering 98% of user needs.

The design team faced many challenges in creating Hydrospine, particularly in developing the harness. It was difficult to hold 6 kg on the back without preventing the rib cage from inflating, and the design had to be safe with a quick release and homologated in competition. The team conducted extensive structural and material testing to overcome these challenges, resulting in a design that adapts to different morphologies and offers incredible comfort.

Hydrospine is not just a product, but a testament to the power of innovative design. It is a fusion of marine animals and gear created for speed, resulting in very hydrodynamic lines and optimal glide under water. Its versatility makes it a one-of-a-kind concept, and its success is a testament to the power of design to transform experiences and push boundaries.

Hydrospine's innovative design has been recognized with the Silver A' Sporting Goods, Fitness and Recreation Equipment Design Award in 2023. This prestigious award is given to top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs that illustrate outstanding expertise and innovation. The award is a testament to the design's strong technical characteristics, splendid artistic skill, and remarkable level of excellence.