The SOS Freedom8 shark deterrent is a wearable option for divers, spearfishers and snorkellers who want to add an electrical deterrent to their ocean-safety routine. Its ankle-mounted module and trailing antenna move with you, keeping the equipment on your person as you swim.
Developed by Sentinel Ocean Systems, Freedom8 uses Shark Shield electrical deterrent technology. The neoprene pouch, rechargeable battery and supplied charger make it a reusable part of your diving kit, with correct fitting and pre-use checks essential on every outing.
Features and benefits
Electrical deterrent technology explained
Sharks use sensitive electrical receptors, called the Ampullae of Lorenzini, to detect faint signals in the water. Freedom8 sends electrical pulses between two electrodes on its antenna. At close range, this field is designed to create an unpleasant sensation that encourages an approaching shark to turn away.
This is a shark risk-reduction measure. No deterrent guarantees protection in every encounter, and it does not make an area safe to enter when local advice says otherwise.
Ankle-mounted design that travels with you
The electronics module sits in a neoprene pouch secured around your ankle. This arrangement keeps the unit attached while you move between locations. Fit it carefully and check that the pouch stays secure with the exposure protection and fins you intend to wear.
Flexible antenna with two electrodes
The trailing antenna positions the two electrodes in the water so the electrical field can form between them. Its correct placement is part of the setup, rather than an optional detail: follow the activity-specific instructions and check that the antenna can trail as intended without fouling your equipment.
Rechargeable battery and LED status indicator
Recharge the lithium battery between outings using the supplied charger. The LED indicator lets you check battery status, helping you include the deterrent in your normal equipment checks before entering the water and during use. Plan your activity around the device’s instructions and remaining charge.
Depth-rated for in-water use
The operating-depth rating allows use for scuba diving and freediving within the unit’s stated limit. It is an equipment limit, not a recommended diving depth: stay within your training, experience and dive plan.
Fitting and practical use
Freedom8 is intended for activities including scuba diving, freediving, spearfishing, snorkelling and ocean swimming. Other activities require their specified mounting and antenna arrangements; do not assume the ankle setup suits every application.
Before first use, read the supplied instructions, charge the unit and practise fitting the pouch. Before each outing, check the battery indication, pouch fastening, antenna and connections. Make sure the setup works with your fins and other equipment, and follow the instructions for switching on and checking operation.

The illustration explains the electrode arrangement and electrical field. It does not represent a guaranteed protection distance or a shark-free zone.
What’s included
- SOS Freedom8 unit
- Charger
- Quick Start Guide
- QR-code information for further product guidance
Care and storage
After use, follow the supplied care instructions and rinse salt and debris from the unit, pouch and antenna with fresh water. Check the antenna, pouch and connections for wear or damage, and let the equipment dry before storage.
Keep the charger and charging connection clean and dry, and use the supplied charger as directed. Treat Freedom8 as electronic equipment: follow its own cleaning and storage instructions rather than a wetsuit-wash routine, and contact DGA for help with damage or operating faults.
Technical Specs
| Brand | Sentinel Ocean Systems (SOS) |
|---|---|
| Model | Freedom8 |
| Deterrent type | Pulsed electrical field through two antenna electrodes |
| Mounting | Ankle-mounted electronics module in a neoprene pouch |
| Antenna length | 2.2 m, flexible trailing design |
| Battery | Rechargeable lithium battery |
| Battery status | LED indicator |
| Maximum operating depth | 50 m / 164 ft |
| Charging time | Approximately 3–3.5 hours |
| Operating temperature | 12–40°C; lower temperatures reduce operating time |
| Manufacturer warranty | 2 years, subject to warranty terms |
Choosing and using a shark deterrent
Independent research on electrical shark-deterrent technology includes earlier devices; those results should not be treated as a separate effectiveness trial of the Freedom8 model. Keep the device’s limitations in mind and continue to follow local shark advice, beach closures and normal ocean-safety practices.
Considering Freedom8 for your diving or snorkelling kit? Order above, or ask Dive Gear Australia about fitting the pouch and arranging the antenna for your intended activity.


















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