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Mares Abyss 22 Navy II: Cold-Water Workhorse Regulator

By: Brian Young  ● Updated: October, 2025  ● Min read

The Mares Abyss 22 Navy II is a professional-grade scuba regulator built for divers who need absolute reliability in extreme conditions. Designed with input from military and technical diving programs, it’s engineered to perform in freezing water, at depth, and under high workload.

This regulator stands out for its proven cold-water performance, robust construction, and stable airflow across all depths. Certified by the U.S. Navy Experimental Diving Unit (NEDU) and rated for use below 190 ft (58 m) in water colder than 38 °F (3 °C), it delivers confidence when other regulators might fail.

Throughout this review, you’ll learn how the Abyss 22 Navy II performs in real-world dives, what features set it apart, and whether it’s the right choice for your diving style.

Abyss 22 Navy II Regulator

Mares Abyss 22 Navy

Mares Abyss 22 Navy Review

Our Overall Score:

4.5/5

Manufacturer: Mares

Disclaimer: This review is based on personal experiences and opinions of the author and may differ from others.

Comfort & Ergonomics

Well-balanced metal second stage; comfortable mouthpiece and minimal jaw fatigue during long dives.

Performance & Ease of Use

Exceptionally smooth airflow at all depths; VAD and DFC systems keep inhalation effortless even in freezing water.

Build Quality & Durability 

All-metal construction with chrome-plated brass and fluoropolymer coating; designed for extreme conditions and long-term reliability.

Maintenance 

Simple design, easy to service; Mares service kits widely available; routine maintenance keeps performance consistent.

Value For Money

Premium regulator with military-grade certification; excellent long-term investment for serious or cold-water divers.

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Mares Abyss 22 Navy

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All You Need to Know about the Mares Abyss 22 Navy in 2025: Key Features and Benefits

The Mares Abyss 22 Navy II is a regulator built to perform when conditions turn harsh. It’s been tested and approved by the U.S. Navy Experimental Diving Unit (NEDU) for cold-water and deep-diving use.

Every part of it — from the metal second stage to the sealed first stage — is designed to stay reliable when most regulators struggle.

Below are the key features that make the Abyss 22 Navy II stand out underwater.

All-Metal Second Stage

The second stage is made entirely of metal, not plastic. Metal helps conduct warmth from the water, reducing the risk of freezing in near-ice temperatures. It also makes the regulator tougher, giving it a solid, balanced feel in your mouth. Even after hundreds of dives, the purge button remains smooth and responsive.

Balanced Diaphragm First Stage with Environmental Seal

The first stage uses a balanced diaphragm design, which keeps breathing effort consistent regardless of depth or tank pressure. It’s fully sealed, preventing water, salt, or silt from entering the internal mechanism — a key factor for cold-water reliability and long-term durability.

Dynamic Flow Control (DFC)

Mares’ DFC system ensures steady airflow, even at great depths or high breathing demand.
You’ll notice smooth inhalation with no noticeable drop in air delivery — something many divers highlight after deep dives or heavy exertion.

Vortex Assisted Design (VAD)

This unique system directs air through a bypass tube that creates a small vortex inside the second stage.
That swirl lowers internal pressure, helping the diaphragm respond instantly to each breath.
It makes breathing feel natural, even when diving in cold or fast-moving water.

CWD Cold-Water Kit

The Abyss 22 Navy II includes a CWD (Cold Water Diving) kit, protecting the spring chamber from freezing in icy conditions. Combined with the metal body and environmental seal, it provides dependable performance in water below 38 °F (3 °C) — the same conditions used in U.S. Navy testing.

Mesh Grid Cover

The mesh-style front cover controls the flow of water over the diaphragm, reducing free-flow in strong currents or when swimming into surge. It’s a subtle but effective design touch that adds to the regulator’s reliability and stability underwater.

Military-Grade Certification

Approved for use by the U.S. Navy and listed as Authorized for Military Use (AMU), this regulator has been tested to 190 ft (58 m) and extreme cold. Few civilian regulators carry that kind of pedigree.

Mares Abyss 22 Navy: Manufacturer's Specification

1st Stage Design:

Diaphragm

1st Stage Type:

Balanced

Environmentally Sealed

Yes

Number of Ports:

2 High-Pressure (HP) / 4 Low-Pressure (LP)

2nd Stage Type:

Unbalanced downstream 

Adjustable 2nd Stage:

No

Materials:

Chrome-plated marine brass first stage, all-metal second stage with fluoropolymer finish

Weight:

DIN: 1,172 g (41.3 oz) / Yoke: 1,337 g (47.2 oz)

Regulator Connection:

Yoke, DIN

Water Temp Range:

Warm, Cold, Temperate

Our Rating: Mares Abyss 22 Navy Review

Abyss 22 Navy II Regulator

Overall Score

4.5/5

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4.5/5

Comfort & Ergonomics

Despite its metal construction, the second stage feels surprisingly balanced in the mouth. The curved hose connection and soft silicone mouthpiece reduce jaw fatigue during long dives. The breathing effort is tuned just right out of the box — no knobs or switches needed.

4.5/5

Breathing Performance & Ease of Use

The Abyss 22 Navy II delivers a consistent and effortless airflow at any depth or tank pressure. Mares’ Dynamic Flow Control (DFC) and Vortex Assisted Design (VAD) work together to maintain smooth inhalation with no flutter or hesitation, even in cold water. Breathing remains natural and steady, whether you’re descending below 100 feet or hovering near the surface.

5.0/5

Build Quality & Durability

Everything about this regulator feels solid.
The metal second stage and chrome-plated brass first stage can take heavy use without corrosion or performance loss. Divers often describe it as “indestructible,” and many report years of reliable service with only regular maintenance. The environmental seal and CWD kit add an extra layer of protection for salt, silt, and ice diving.

4.0/5

Maintenance & Serviceability

Mares regulators are widely supported by dive shops worldwide, and service kits are easy to find.
The Abyss 22 Navy II’s simple mechanical design — no adjustable controls or complex moving parts — makes servicing straightforward and reliable.
With annual checks, it can last for decades.

4.5/5

Value for Money

It’s not the cheapest regulator, but you’re paying for proven performance, durability, and certification that few others can match. For technical or cold-water divers, it’s worth every dollar. For tropical recreational divers, it’s probably more regulator than you’ll ever need — but it’s built to last a lifetime.

What We Like:

✅ Exceptional Cold-Water Performance

The Abyss 22 Navy II is engineered to excel in near-freezing temperatures. The metal second stage, sealed first stage, and CWD kit work together to prevent freezing, even below 38 °F (3 °C). Divers who have taken it under the ice or into deep northern lakes consistently report zero free-flow and reliable performance.

✅ Outstanding Build Quality

This regulator is built like a tank. The chrome-plated brass first stage and metal second stage can take years of rough use — from saltwater exposure to repeated drops on the deck — without corrosion or failure. It feels solid, reliable, and capable of handling serious dive conditions.

✅ Smooth, Consistent Breathing

Mares’ VAD and DFC systems ensure effortless inhalation at any depth or air pressure. Breathing feels natural and unrestricted, whether you’re hovering at a safety stop or pushing deep into a cold descent. Many divers mention that it performs on par with much more expensive regulators.

✅ Simple and Reliable Design

No Venturi switches. No adjustment knobs. Just clean, tuned performance that works every time. This simplicity reduces the risk of user error and makes the regulator easier to service. It’s a piece of gear you can trust to breathe right when conditions get tough.

✅ Certified and Field-Tested

Approved by the U.S. Navy Experimental Diving Unit (NEDU) and included on the Authorized for Military Use (AMU) list, this regulator has a pedigree few others can claim. It’s been tested in real military conditions — not just lab simulations — which speaks volumes about its reliability.

What We Don't Like:

❌ Heavier Than Plastic Models

The all-metal second stage adds weight compared to lightweight travel regulators. While it feels balanced underwater, you’ll notice the difference when packing or carrying it during long trips.

❌ No Breathing Adjustment Controls

For divers who like to fine-tune inhalation resistance, the lack of a Venturi or adjustment knob may feel limiting. However, it’s tuned so well that most divers won’t miss those features.

❌ Priced Above Recreational Models

The Navy II costs more than standard regulators. You’re paying for cold-water reliability and military-level durability — but that level of performance comes at a premium.

The Verdict

The Mares Abyss 22 Navy II is a regulator built for divers who value reliability over frills.
Every component, from its balanced diaphragm first stage to its all-metal second stage, is designed to deliver consistent performance in demanding conditions — cold, deep, or remote.

It’s not the lightest or most adjustable regulator on the market, but that’s intentional. The Navy II focuses on what matters most: dependable breathing in extreme environments. The lack of switches or knobs means fewer failure points, and the performance tuning is spot-on right out of the box.

For technical divers, cold-water explorers, or professionals who dive in harsh environments, this regulator stands out as one of the most trustworthy options available.
If your dives take you to tropical reefs, it might be more regulator than you need. But if you want a piece of gear that’s proven, rugged, and built to last, the Abyss 22 Navy II is a solid investment that will keep performing dive after dive.

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Mares Abyss 22 Navy: FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Mares Abyss 22 Navy II be used for sidemount or stage bottles?

Yes. The first stage’s compact size and balanced diaphragm design make it suitable for sidemount setups and stage bottles. Many technical divers use it for these configurations because of its consistent airflow and durability in cold or deep water.

How often should the regulator be serviced if it’s not used frequently?

Even if you dive only occasionally, it’s best to have the regulator inspected and serviced every 12 months. The internal seals can dry out over time, especially if stored in warm or dry environments. Regular checks help ensure the first and second stages remain sealed and ready for use.

Is the Abyss 22 Navy II compatible with other Mares octopus models?

Yes. It works perfectly with Mares octopus models such as the Abyss Octo or Rover Octo, as they share the same intermediate pressure range. This allows you to mix and match components within the Mares line without performance issues.

Have you tried the Mares Abyss 22 Navy Regulator? What did you think? Let us know in the comments below! Happy diving!

Continue Reading

Do you want more scuba diving gear recommendations? continue reading these articles below:

Dive Computer | Scuba Regulator | Wetsuits | Scuba BCD | Dive Knife | Dive Mask | Scuba Fins

About the author

Brian Young is a lifelong scuba diver and marine enthusiast. With years of experience exploring some of the Caribbean’s best dive sites, he brings a personal touch and insider knowledge to every article on ScubaDiverHQ.com. Brian specializes in writing in-depth dive guides, gear reviews, and travel insights that help divers of all levels plan unforgettable underwater adventures. When he’s not writing, you’ll find him in the water, guiding dives, testing new equipment, or sharing his passion for ocean conservation.

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