Suunto D6i Computer Strap Quality

Published: 26 October 2017

By: William

I have not used any dive computer other than Suunto's. I was sold by the review of the SCUBA divers using the Suunto product. 

My first personal diving computer was the D4i. Unfortunately I lost it. I will not talked about how I lost it. I logged five dives on that computer and I was satisfied with it. The only problem with that dive watch was the strap. It was easily broken and I replaced it once. The strap was not that cheap.

Since I lost my D4i. I decided to purchased the higher version the D6i. Hoping that the strap problem was no issue. Actually the strap problem still persist. I have replaced it once. And less than six (6) months the new strap was broken. 

When I bought the replacement strap (it was not cheap), I have asked the storekeeper if this replacement strap is already rectified to be strong. He replied in an affirmative. So I bought the strap and let him replace my broken original strap. Recently, I was disappointed the strap already broken. I was fortunate to find out earlier because if not it will have drop somewhere else or during the dive.

I just recently checked online if there were other divers experience this strap issue. True enough, I lot of them complained. Actually, I am planning to buy the metal strap. Luckily I checked online and find out that the metal strap has some issue as well. It is not made entirely of metal. Thank you for this video, it save me 400 bucks! If I bought the metal strap, I will be able to purchase a new dive computer for purchasing those freaking strap! Strap is not the core business of Suunto I guess, or maybe?

I have no question on the dive computer itself. I am only disappointed on the strap. The strap also plays a vital role in the computer because it is the mechanism that will hold the computer to your wrist. If this strap detach while diving, then you will be sorry. You cannot claim Suunto for damages. 

If you just recently bought the computer please observe the following after three (3) months, based on daily usage of the computer as wrist watch:

1. Check the back of the strap if cracks are visible. Once cracks are visible avoid using the computer to avoid dropping it unexpectedly. 

2. Check the free loop (free ring) if cracks are visible. These cracks is not damaging because it is not supporting the computer. But if these appears, it will give you a warning for the strap to crack soon.

3. Replace the strap with alternative strap. I am waiting for the availability of the alternative strap.

Actually I already have some idea on how to reinforce the rubber strap. This has got to do with the design and material composition of the strap. If Suunto company has not solve this issue, they can contact me if they are interested. Contact me in this email address: scubaandtravelph@gmail.com to get more details.

God Bless, Keep on Learning and Never Give Up on Your Dreams!