Zeagle produces a competitive product. Actual side by side product comparison and trying a BCD on for personal fit is always the best method to compare any BCD. If you study the different design features, you will understand why the Eagle Z1 represents the better value. The advanced Eagle Z1 design, comfort and performance becomes apparent the moment you hit the water.
HARNESS & AIR CELL PROTECTOR
ZEAGLE: The Ranger harness is not sewn or permanently attached to the air cell protector. It is only mechanically attached with light weight 2" webbing at 4 points. This allows the wing to move and twist with the forces not equally distributed to the harness. The simple "U" shape air cell is not as stable or as secure as a fully sewn permanently attached air cell protector. Unlike most technical level BCD designs with a complete sewn reinforcing fabric panel, the Zeagle only uses a simple "U" shape air cell with the modular shoulder section passing through two wing loops.
EAGLE Z1: Uses a fully lock stitch sewn anatomically correct harness permanently attached to the air cell protector. Like most technical level BCD designs, it uses a complete sewn reinforcing fabric panel, with additional non slip reinforced fabric also sewn for additional strength and abrasion resistance. This advanced integrated harness & air cell design positively maintains the harness and air cell integrity and prevents the divers cylinder from the rocking back and forth motion as he swims. Always secure.
Zeagle Ranger / Side Wing
HARNESS CYLINDER CARRY POSITION
As can be seen below, having the harness and shoulder designed as one component allows the cylinder to be correctly carried very close to the body securely with a minimum of center of gravity shift. Having the cylinder parallel and close lowers the drag, and entanglement risk. As you can see, the superior Eagle Z1 harness on the right side will provide better balance, and lower drag both above and below the water.