Bryan has offered powder coated, color matched rings in red and black so they do not stick out so much.
I have been using the hose gaiters (covers) for extra protection and with them installed I cannot see the three hose weights that I have installed on each of my three Krakens. I have the silicone hoses and while I do not think the weights are necessary they do help as Luis says to tame the floatiness of the hoses.
The HD EDPM hoses are heavy enough on their own and do not need the rings and tough enough that I could not likely kill them with a 45-70, my opinion. I prefer the silicone hoses, just little ol' me
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If you notice, you will see hose weights and gaiters on rebreather hoses for the same reasons, protection and extra weight.
Nem