Description
| Dimensions (Main Unit) | Weight (Unit Only) | Operating Depth | Battery Life |
| 105mm L x 146mm W x 41mm H | 1025g | 50m (164 feet) | Up to 5 hours |
SOS's FREEDOM8 Personal Electric Shark Deterrent is designed to provide an additional level of protection for people spending time in the ocean, including swimmers, snorkellers, surfers, divers, spearfishers, and marine professionals. When activated, the device generates a powerful electric field around the user, designed to create an aversive response in an approaching shark and encourage it to turn away before making contact.
Backed by more than two decades of development and refinement, the technology behind FREEDOM8 has been independently evaluated by leading shark researchers and universities. Research published in multiple peer-reviewed scientific journals has demonstrated a measurable reduction in close-range shark interactions and bite probability across several shark species when the technology is active.
Portable and designed to travel with you in the water, FREEDOM8 provides added peace of mind whether you're exploring below the surface, working in marine environments, or enjoying your favourite ocean activity.
FREEDOM8 is designed to reduce the risk of shark interactions; however, no shark deterrent can provide complete protection or eliminate the inherent risks associated with entering the ocean. Always follow appropriate ocean safety practices and use the product in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Box Contents:
- Quick Start Guide
- Quick QR Codes
- Freedom8 Unit
- Charger
Technology & Features:
- Battery Pack Life - Long life lithium rechargeable battery, lasts up to 5 hours
- Electrical Field - Generates an electrical field created by a 2.2m trailing antenna
- LED Battery Life Indicator - Real-time battery status display
- Comfortable Design - Lightweight design with easy-to-wear neoprene velcro pouch
- Includes Charger - Includes charger with international power adapters
- Trusted By Professionals - Used by the Australian & US Navies
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is Freedom8?
- Freedom8 is a personal shark deterrent device designed to provide an additional layer of shark risk reduction for ocean users. It uses electronic deterrent technology to create an electrical field that can encourage sharks to turn away at close range.
How does Freedom8 work?
- Freedom8 generates an electrical field in the water. Sharks can detect electrical signals through their sensory system, including the Ampullae of Lorenzini. When a shark comes within close range of the field, the sensation can cause discomfort and encourage the shark to turn away.
How do I charge my Freedom8 Shark Deterrent?
- To charge your Freedom8 Shark Deterrent, align the arrow on the unit with the arrow on the charging cable before connecting. The charging connection is designed to be firm, helping reduce electrolysis corrosion between the two connection points. If the connector feels tight on first use, the female connector can be gently warmed in sunlight or with a hairdryer to soften the material before connecting.
Does Freedom8 guarantee protection from sharks?
- No. Freedom8 is a risk-reduction tool, not a guarantee. It is designed to help reduce the likelihood of close shark approaches in certain conditions, but it should always be used alongside ocean awareness, local advice and other shark safety measures.
Is the technology independently tested?
- Freedom8 is built on electronic shark deterrent technology with a long history of independent testing and real-world use. Independent research into this type of electronic deterrent technology has shown measurable effects on shark behaviour, including encouraging avoidance behaviour.
Has Freedom8 itself been independently tested?
- Freedom8 represents an evolution in design, usability and durability while maintaining the same core electronic deterrent principles that have been independently studied. The technology it is based on has a long history of independent testing, but Freedom8 should still be understood as a risk-reduction device, not a guarantee.
Which shark species has the technology been tested on?
- The underlying electronic deterrent technology has been tested with Great White, Tiger and Bull sharks. The media release also refers to more than two decades of real-world testing involving species including Great White, Bull and Tiger sharks.
Who is Freedom8 designed for?
- Freedom8 is designed for ocean users who want an additional personal safety measure, including divers, spearfishers, surfers, kayakers and swimmers. It is intended to support existing risk awareness, not replace it.
Can Freedom8 be used with a surfboard, kayak or boat?
- Yes. Freedom8 can be configured for different ocean activities, including use with a surfboard, kayak or boat. Always follow the recommended setup instructions for your specific use case.
Can Freedom8 be used while fishing?
- Yes. Freedom8 can be configured for use from a boat or kayak, including situations where fish are being towed or handled close to the vessel. The device is designed to create an electrical field that sharks can detect at close range, which may encourage them to turn away. As with all shark deterrents, it does not guarantee that sharks will avoid the area or prevent shark interactions with hooked or landed fish. Always follow the recommended setup instructions for your specific use.
Can Freedom8 be used in all ocean conditions?
- Freedom8 can be used across a wide range of ocean environments. Effectiveness may vary depending on conditions, correct setup and user behaviour.
Is Freedom8 safe for marine life?
- Freedom8 is designed to deter sharks at close range and does not attract sharks. While the field may be uncomfortable for sharks, it is not designed to injure sharks or other marine animals.
Does Freedom8 replace other shark safety measures?
- No. Freedom8 is intended to be one personal safety option used alongside awareness, local advice and existing shark management measures. It does not replace beach patrols, public warnings, aerial surveillance, tagging programs or personal judgement.
Why choose Freedom8?
- Freedom8 is built on electronic deterrent technology with a long history of independent testing and real-world use. It is designed to influence shark behaviour at close range by encouraging sharks to turn away, giving ocean users an additional layer of personal risk reduction.
