ATOMIC BCDAtomic BC2: The BCD That Lasts Decades
Atomic builds the BC2 like its legendary regulators: tough, double-coated material that laughs off years of saltwater. Forgiving enough for a brand-new diver, yet built to last a full diving career. Not the cheapest jacket out there, and maybe the last one you buy.
CRESSI BCDCressi Emperor: All-Round BCD That Just Works
The Emperor is the BCD you stop fiddling with and start trusting. Thick, comfy padding, swiveling shoulder buckles that move when you do, and integrated weights that drop fast when it matters. It nails the boring stuff, dive after dive. One BCD for every trip.
CRESSI BCDCressi Elettra: Women's-Specific BCD
Plenty of so-called women's BCDs are just smaller men's jackets in a new color. The Elettra is the real thing: narrower straps, a self-pivoting waistband, and a cut that follows a woman's shape instead of fighting it. Light, integrated weights, comfy all day. Finally, a jacket that fits.
CRESSI BCDCressi Aquawing Max: Travel Wing BCD
Want the clean trim of a wing setup without hauling a steel plate through airports? The Aquawing Max is the hybrid: a donut air cell holds you flat and stable, the harness adjusts without rethreading straps, and it folds suitcase-flat. Wing diving, travel weight.
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Choosing the right scuba BCD directly impacts your trim, comfort, and efficiency in the water, and not all designs perform the same once you are actually diving. Jacket-style BCDs, back-inflate models, and backplate and wing systems each behave very differently underwater, and the wrong match can leave you constantly adjusting your position or feeling off-balance throughout a dive.
At DIVEIN, our team has tested more than 20 BCDs from brands like Scubapro, Aqualung, Cressi, and Oceanic over the past three years in real dive conditions, from warm-water reefs to more demanding cold-water dives. We evaluated each model using consistent criteria, including lift capacity, comfort with a full tank, weight integration, underwater trim, and packability for travel. This hands-on testing approach allows us to recommend the best scuba BCDs based on how they actually perform in the water, so you can choose with confidence.
Atomic Aquatics BC2
Where to buy
Atomic Aquatics BC2 BCD review
One of the most durable BCDs on our list, the Atomic Aquatics BC2 can meet and exceed the demands of any diver. Because it’s made from material that is both extremely tough and quick drying, you won’t have to worry about rips and snags from an accidental bump while diving shipwrecks, and you won’t have to worry about the trunk of your car getting soaked.
It’s a little pricey for some and a little bulky in areas, but these are really the only two complaints we have concerning the BC2. The BC2 is still light enough to take on any adventure you can plan.
Cressi Aquawing Max
Cressi Aquawing Max BCD review
The Cressi Aquawing Max is a streamlined, travel-ready backplate and wing system designed for recreational divers looking to make the switch from a jacket-style BCD.
With smart features like an adjustable harness, padded support, and a lightweight aluminum backplate, it hits the sweet spot between minimalism and comfort—perfect for divers taking their first step into BPW diving, or anyone just looking for a simple backplate and wing solution.
Aqualung Axiom i3+
Aqualung Axiom i3+ BCD review
One of the most comfortable BCDs on the market, the Aqualung Axiom i3+ has features stacked on features. The “Wrapture Harness Comfort System” molds and adjusts to nearly every diver regardless of size or gender. The chest strap can slide up or down depending on your personal needs, and the shoulder and waist strap snug tightly to your body.
With five stainless steel D-rings, the Axiom i3+ gives divers plenty of choices of where to attach gear. Designed as a “mini backpack,” the padded back rest ensures no hard pieces will jab you while diving.
The i3+ inflator does take some time to get used to, as does the rubber oral inflation hose, but with a little practice, divers can feel confident in their usage. Speaking of confidence, the Axiom i3+’s “SureLock II” integrated weight system delivers an audible click, ensuring that your detachable weights are secure.
Oceanic Biolite
Oceanic Biolite BCD review
The Oceanic Biolite, weighing just over five pounds, is the lightest BCD we’ve tested. And it’s one of the lightest BCDs on the market, making it great for travelers. Even though it’s light, it packs a punch. Able to lift 38 pounds (in the large model), your time on the surface, regardless of what tank you use, will be as comfortable as your dives.
In all honesty, the Biolite took a little getting used to. I’m so used to diving with a heavy backplate and steel tank that it felt odd, and it felt like I was rolling a little bit. It didn’t take long for me to overcome this difference, though. I’m a big fan of D-rings and clips, so the fact that the Biolite doesn’t have any was a disappointment. However, those things are easy to pick up at my local dive shop, so it didn’t affect my dive.
ScubaPro Hydros
ScubaPro Hydros BCD review
The Scubapro Hydros Pro merges modular Monprene construction with streamlined buoyancy control. We tested the Air2 version, which replaces a separate octopus with an integrated inflator regulator. In the women’s model, that comes paired with a true female-specific fit for better comfort and stability.
Mares Prestige SLS
Mares Prestige SLS BCD review
From Mares comes the Prestige SLS BCD. This is a lightweight, comfortable, traditional jacket-style BCD. It is easily adjustable at both shoulders, the waist, and across the chest, making it able to fit a multitude of body styles. Two stainless steel and four technopolymer D-Rings give divers plenty of freedom in attachment points.
The Slide & Lock System (SLS) is a bit of a design flaw. The concept makes sense—you clip the integrated weights into their pocket housing and not only hear the audible click, but also see a color switch. This seems like a doubly safe intent.
However, the SLS, in practice, is cumbersome. Rather than using a single hand to slide the weight pocket, divers must use both hands to keep the handle separated from the body of the weight pocket as they insert it. It’s hard on dry land when not wearing the BCD, but it’s nearly impossible while riding a bumpy boat and already wearing the jacket.
Hollis STS
Hollis STS BCD review
If backplate/wing (BPW) diving is already your setup, and you’re looking for something new, or if this is your first foray into BPW diving you can’t go wrong with the Hollis STS. Made from top-of-the-line 304 stainless steel, the backplate also features a comfortable two-piece pad. A 1680 cordura nylon wing gives the STS quality and durability.
Technical divers have known for years that a BPW setup provides better trim and better buoyancy control—and recreational divers are starting to make the transition. With the Hollis STS, that transition becomes far simpler.
Cressi Elettra
Cressi Elettra BCD review
Designed specifically for women, the Cressi Elettra BCD strikes a balance between comfort, travel readiness, and adjustability. Its patented self-pivoting waistband and dense padding offer a flexible, body-contouring fit without the bulk.
This BCD offers excellent lift at the surface, lightweight, dry materials, and an ergonomic fit. While the integrated weight system and small pocket size could be improved, it remains one of the most comfortable hybrid back-inflate/jacket-style BCDs for women.
SEAC EQ-Pro
Where to buy
SEAC EQ-Pro BCD review
The SEAC EQ-Pro is great for novice, budget-conscious, and experienced divers alike. The EQ-Pro makes sense for new divers, as buying that first set of gear can be expensive when everything is added together.
The SEAC EQ-Pro also makes a great backup BCD for the experienced diver. Even though we have our gear serviced regularly, things happen, so it’s nice to have extra equipment that won’t break the bank.
Diving the EQ-Pro felt very similar to diving in much more expensive models. The air is distributed evenly; it has a lot of D-Rings; and the pockets expand when open. The one complaint we have is with the tank band. I never felt like I could get it tight enough, so a tank slipping was always in the back of my mind.
Dive Rite Hydro Lite
Dive Rite Hydro Lite BCD review
One of our favorite BCDs we’ve tested, the Dive Rite Hydro Lite offers unbeatable comfort, adjustability, rugged toughness, and pinpoint trim. It’s a great transitional BCD for those looking to move to backplate/wing (BPW) diving without adding the weight of a stainless steel backplate.
Even if you’re not thinking of making the switch to BPW, the Hydro Lite makes a great travel BCD. Weighing just over six pounds, and compacting easily, the Hydro Lite makes packing for your next adventure easy.
I loved the way the Hydro Lite felt underwater. Great trim leads to great buoyancy, and I had that the whole dive, every dive. Because of the padded lumbar, hip, and shoulder straps my walk to the shore was comfortable as well.
Aqualung Rogue
Aqualung Rogue BCD review
When you think of quality, Aqualung comes to mind, and the Aqualung Rogue is no different. Specifically designed with parts to be interchangeable and set up to meet your personal needs, the Rogue is a great choice for everybody, but specifically for younger divers who may still be growing.
By being able to switch shoulder and waist straps as your young diver grows you won’t have to shell out money for a brand new BCD. Simply buy the next size up. Deciding where your weight pockets and gear pockets go is another advantage of the Aqualung Rogue. Personal design is paramount.
With the trim and buoyancy control of a backplate/wing setup and the portability of a travel BCD, the Rogue can take you on diving adventures near and far.
Genesis Origin
Where to buy
Genesis Origin BCD review
Genesis Scuba is known for giving divers good equipment at a great price. They offer a ton of gear in varying styles and colors to meet your needs.
The Origin BCD follows that playbook to a T, offering good quality at a reasonable price. The Origin is a great starter, budget, or backup BCD. With exceptional lift capability, you’ll be just as comfortable on the surface as you are while diving the Genesis Origin.
Sherwood Scuba Avid Phantom
Sherwood Scuba Avid Phantom BCD review
Durable, comfortable, and affordable—these are the words that come to mind when describing the Sherwood Scuba Avid Phantom BCD. The Avid’s durability comes from 1000-denier nylon construction with a polyurethane coating.
Comfort comes from being able to adjust your BCD to meet your physical needs. The Avid has multiple adjustment points to ensure you are secure in your gear. Comfort also comes from being able to reach all your gear, and the Avid has you covered. Six stainless steel D-rings means it’s easy to clip your equipment where you need it.
Zeagle Zena
Zeagle Zena BCD review
Unisex BCDs that were better designed for men used to be the standard. That’s been changing as more women enter the diving world. Differences in body shapes and sizes require BCDs that better fit a female diver.
The Zeagle Zena adds a twist to the traditional BCD design by using a corset for the front panel. Most people are familiar with the typical jacket-style BCD. Some divers may also be familiar with the back inflate or hybrid-style BCDs that have become popular recently. With these, you have the typical three (3) adjustment points (two (2) shoulders and a cumberbund), which do not always offer the best fit to a woman’s torso.
With the Zena, Zeagle has created a more form-fitting and comfortable BCD. The corset has six (6) points of adjustment (1 on each shoulder and 2 on each side, and a front zipper replaces the typical cumberbund).
Zeagle also separated the front section of the BCD from the back, allowing for more sizing variations. Something their biggest competitors, the Aqua Lung Pearl and ScubaPro Lady Hawk, do not have. The result: a lightweight female-designed BCD that allows for individual fit and a bit of fun with color.
Dive into our in-depth review to find out more about the Zeagle Zena.
TUSA Tina
TUSA Tina BCD review
Praised for its stability and comfort, the TUSA Tina BCD has been awarded the Tester’s Choice for women’s BCDs by ScubaLab.
We value comfort in our workplace and everyday life, why should we ignore these standards while diving? TUSA designed the Tina BCD with ergonomics in mind. The TUSA Tina BCD features a high-cut waist and quick-drying shoulder and back pads to eliminate discomfort on the back, shoulders, and hips. The back and shoulder padding on the Tina makes this BCD one of the most comfortable BCDs on the market.
Aside from comfort, TUSA also designed the Tina to ensure its divers have easy access to any and all accessories they may need during a dive. The TUSA Tina features two large side pockets, a front zipper pocket on the cummerbund, and relocatable D-rings. As a bonus, the Tina also features a safety whistle attached to the adjustable sternum strap.
Dive into our in-depth review to find out more about the TUSA Tina BCD.
Cressi Travelight
Cressi Travelight BCD review
If you are looking for a 2nd BCD to use on your adventures or simply one BCD that can serve both daily dive and travel needs, the Cressi Travelight is the right BCD for you.
The Travelight packs down into its own travel bag. Even though it is small, it also has plenty of storage in its two side pockets or on its 8 D-Rings. Adjustable shoulder straps and cumberbund allow for a comfortable fit, with or without the chest trap that feels a bit high. The nylon anti-roll panel and optional crotch strap help to create a comfortable underwater setup for both the new and experienced diver.
The Cressi Travelight has other unique features so dive into our in-depth review to learn more about the Cressi Travelight for Women.
Oceanic OceanPro
Oceanic OceanPro BCD review
Are you a newer diver looking for a solid BCD that will stand the test of time? Or perhaps you’re a seasoned sea dog with plenty of dives under your weight belt looking for a workhorse. In either case, the Oceanic OceanPro BCD could be just the ticket.
Oceanic’s entry-level BCD is tough enough to withstand a few knocks and has just the right amount of features for recreational scuba. It’s a dive center rental favorite for these reasons and it’s been spotted in many a pro’s dive bag too.
Already know the OceanPro is for you? Click the link below to check prices or make an order. Otherwise, read on for our full review of this Oceanic BCD.
Buy This BCD If:
You’re after a solid jacket-style BCD, in which case this is really a no-brainer. It’ll get the job done for years to come and it’s comfortable enough for long dives or hours spent in confined (if you’re a professional). For dive centers, The OceanPro offers the perfect balance of cost, quality, and ease of use. Highly recommended.
Cressi Aquawing
Cressi Aquawing BCD review
Cressi makes great equipment, and the Aquawing is no exception. I am a traditional backplate/wing diver, and once a little weight was added, the Aquawing felt just like diving a stainless steel backplate. Due to the positioning of the weight pockets next to the tank, the weight becomes distributed across your back and feels great.
With an aluminum backplate and weighing just over six pounds, the Aquawing is a great choice for the backplate/wing diver who doesn’t want to lug their heavy everyday kit around the world. It’s also a great mid-range choice for anybody looking to start their journey in backplate/wing diving.
Zeagle Fury
Zeagle Fury BCD review
The Zeagle Fury offers experienced divers a BCD that will work well no matter the thickness of the wetsuit. For diving in cold water with a drysuit or a rash guard, the Fury easily adjusts, offering one unisex BCD where some divers might have two.
It’s a mid-range product with a solid construction that we’ve put through the paces in myriad types of conditions and suits.
Beyond confirming the durability, the Fury’s features–including 2 types of integrated weight systems–is a solid option worth considering for recreational use as well as for some technical diving.
Let’s dive deeper into the features of the Zeagle Fury to see if it is time to take some of your multiple BCDs to the next gear swap.
Mares Magellan HD
Mares Magellan HD BCD review
The Mares Magellan HD is a lightweight (5 lbs./2.3 kg) back-inflate BCD with big lift (41 lbs./18.5k) and a surprisingly sturdy feel for travel gear. It handled an 8 mm semi-dry and plenty of lead without issues and still packed small in my luggage.
You get a plastic back shield, comfy mesh-padded shoulders, a secure integrated-weight system, a roll-down pocket, and a clever line-cutter sleeve on the right shoulder. The only real downside is trim: the built-in trim pockets sit low, so with all your lead in the hips the rig tends to be slightly feet-down. Optional higher trim pockets or tank-strap weights fix most of that, but they’re extra.
If you’re a recreational diver who wants a travel-friendly back-inflate that can still handle thicker suits, the Magellan HD hits a very solid sweet spot.
Buyer’s Guide: What to look for when buying a new scuba BCD
You may also hear it called a BC or buoyancy compensator. This really depends on location, who your instructor was, or how easily it rolls off your tongue. Either way is fine, and both terms are interchangeable.
These essential bits of equipment allow a diver to offset their negative buoyancy by adding air from the tank to the scuba BCD while underwater. They’re also essential on the surface for maintaining positive buoyancy.
Before deciding which scuba BCD is best for you, you must decide what kind of diving you plan to do. Will you primarily be traveling or do you want to advance into the technical world of carrying extra tanks? Are you going to need to use a lot of weights, and what kind of tank do you plan on using? Consider the answers to these questions before you pull the trigger on a purchase.
Whether you’re making your very first scuba BCD purchase or upgrading to a newer model, keep the following considerations in mind.
Lift Capacity
Each scuba BCD has a certain amount of lift, which is directly related to the size and volume capacity of the air bladder. The amount of lift capacity you’ll need depends on a number of factors, including your own body weight, the amount of weight you need to add, the number of tanks you carry, and the type of exposure suit you wear.
If a diver wears a neoprene drysuit and goes diving in very salty water, he or she will need significantly more weight than the same diver wearing a skin suit and diving in a freshwater lake. More weight equals a greater lift requirement.
As a general rule, though, if you’re wearing a properly sized BCD, it will offer the right amount of lift for recreational diving. So, even if you’re a larger individual who needs a lot of weights, an XL or 2XL BCD will have big enough bladders to give you all the lift you require.
The only time an inappropriate amount of lift would be an issue is if a diver who uses a lot of weights and wears no exposure suit manages to squeeze themselves into a scuba BCD many times too small and cannot maintain positive buoyancy on the surface. That same diver would run into trouble by loading up with steel twins and deco tanks and hitting the depths.
We could come up with a few more situations like the above, but as you can see, these are very unlikely scenarios so rest assured that for recreational diving purposes, a properly sized BCD will offer you the lift you need.
Types of Scuba BCD
There are three main types of scuba BCD: jacket or vest, back-inflate, and wing. Let’s have a look at each type below.
Jacket BCDs
Jacket BCDs, also called vests, are the most common in recreational diving. They’re kind of like an inflatable waistcoat. The air bladders sit behind and on the sides of the diver. You are basically surrounded by a big, airy hug.
For entry-level divers, a jacket BCD is a great option because they will float the diver face up on the surface if an unexpected emergency occurs.
Back-Inflate BCDs
As the name suggests, back-inflate scuba BCDs feature bladders solely at the back of the diver, where they sit on either side of the tank. This style is relatively new but proponents champion the streamlined style and the fact that there is less drag than with a traditional jacket.
One drawback to back-inflate BCDs is that new divers may struggle with them on the surface as all the buoyancy is at the rear. This effectively pushes a diver forward.
Backplate and Wing
As the name suggests, this type of buoyancy device involves a solid metal backplate that is mounted with a wing bladder. The plate is made from either stainless steel or aluminum—each has a different displacement, so do the weighing math before you buy. Holding everything together and attaching the setup to the diver is a harness, generally made from webbing.
Tech divers and cave divers prefer this set-up because it is customizable—different wings can be used with different backplates. Some divers like this setup because it leaves their entire front open and lessens the risk of entanglement.
What is a hybrid BCD?
You may have heard the term ‘hybrid BCD.’ A hybrid aims to combine the best elements of wing systems and jacket-style BCDs. The distribution and shape of the bladders mean that maintaining a trim position while diving and being comfortable on the surface are both easily attained. This style of scuba BCD is growing in popularity.
Older hybrid models offered a lot of lift by combining a partial wing at the back with the jacket bladders at the front. These have largely fallen from favor because of their bulkiness and the—often unnecessary—amount of buoyancy they provide.
Weight System
Many scuba BCDs offer integrated weight pockets; others have no weight integration system. Very basic, entry-level BCDs are usually of the latter variety. There’s nothing wrong with that and a lot of divers actually prefer to use a weight belt.
Some BCDs offer trim weight pockets at the rear. These are usually small, situated near the tanks, and hold about 2.2 pounds (1 kg) of lead each.
What about the BCD pockets?
Everyone loves pockets, right? Well, when it comes to your scuba BCD that’s not strictly true. Many divers prefer to keep the front of their BCD clear and don’t want big pockets.
Other divers prefer large pockets where they can stash a spare scuba mask, their SMB, a torch, and all those other essentials.
This one is really up to personal preference, but keep in mind that without pockets you may have to clip all of your extras onto your BCD, so be sure to note how many D-rings your preferred BCD has.
Find a scuba BCD that fits you
Getting the right BCD fit, even when you’re buying online, isn’t hard so long as you measure yourself properly. Check the manufacturer’s guidelines on their website before making a purchase, and talk to your local dive shop to ensure that your new BCD can be serviced locally. For the most part, BCD sizing is down to height and weight.
Many divers mistakenly buy a BCD that is too large. Try to avoid this, as an oversized device will make it harder to stay streamlined while diving and will contribute to tank roll, even when it’s fully tightened.
How do you take care of your new scuba BCD?
First, soak it in water to get all the webbing wet. When the webbing gets wet it tends to stretch, so you may end up with a looser tank than you had planned if you don’t soak it first.
We also suggest conducting a proper weight check before you fully dive. You may use the same exact weight as with your old scuba BCD, but if not, being on a dive is the wrong time to find out.
Finally, always have your scuba BCD serviced regularly. The exterior may look fine, but having a technician look at the bladder will save you in the long run.
Buying a scuba BCD for small children?
If you’re buying for a child, look for a simple, jacket-style BCD without unnecessary straps, buckles, and pockets. Basically, you’re looking to avoid the potential hazard of hoses and straps getting tangled up.
Because children do not need a lot of weight to dive, a BCD with integrated weight pockets is a good idea and saves them the hassle of a weight belt.
Overall, our top recommendation for a young diver’s BCD is the Aqualung Rogue because it’s fully customizable and can grow with your little bubble makers.
Number of D-rings
D-rings are in-built rings that a diver can use to attach additional gear to his or her BCD. Metal is the preferred material but plastic or resin D-rings are typically solid enough to attach a whistle, an SMB, or a slate.
If you intend to carry stage tanks, or would like your BCD to do double duty as a side-mount device, look for one with enough metal D-rings placed accordingly.
The main difference between a jacket BCD and a back-inflate scuba BCD is where the air bladder sits and how it affects your position in the water. A jacket-style scuba BCD inflates around your sides and chest, helping keep you upright at the surface and making it a popular choice for beginners. A back-inflate scuba BCD places buoyancy behind you, promoting a more horizontal trim underwater and improved streamlining. Jacket BCDs are ideal for new divers, while back-inflate scuba BCDs are preferred by more experienced divers seeking better control.
Scuba BCD lift capacity depends on your body size, exposure suit, and overall gear setup. Most recreational divers need between 20–40 lbs (9–18 kg) of lift, while cold-water divers using thick wetsuits or drysuits may require more. The right scuba BCD lift capacity should comfortably support you and your equipment at the surface without adding unnecessary bulk.
The best travel scuba BCD is lightweight, compact, and designed to reduce bulk without sacrificing performance. Travel scuba BCDs typically weigh under 6 lbs (2.7 kg) and use flexible materials, foldable backplates, and streamlined designs for easy packing. Choosing a travel-friendly scuba BCD helps minimize luggage weight while maintaining reliable buoyancy control.
When choosing between a traditional scuba BCD and a backplate and wing (BPW), it comes down to simplicity versus customization. A standard scuba BCD is more intuitive and convenient, making it ideal for most recreational divers. A backplate and wing system is modular, streamlined, and favored by technical divers or those who want a more customizable scuba diving setup.
Integrated weight systems in a scuba BCD replace the need for a traditional weight belt by storing weights in built-in pockets. These pockets are designed for quick release in an emergency and help distribute weight more evenly for improved comfort and trim. Many scuba BCDs also include trim pockets to fine-tune balance underwater.
Scuba BCD sizing is based on your height, weight, and chest or waist measurements rather than standard clothing sizes. A properly fitting scuba BCD should feel snug but not restrictive, with adjustable straps to fine-tune fit. Always check the manufacturer’s sizing chart, as scuba BCD sizes can vary between brands.
The lifespan of a scuba BCD is typically 5–10 years or more with proper care and maintenance. Rinsing your scuba BCD with fresh water after each dive, storing it properly, and servicing it periodically will help extend its life. Heavy use, saltwater exposure, and poor maintenance can shorten the lifespan of a scuba BCD.
You do not need a scuba BCD for snorkeling, as most snorkelers rely on natural buoyancy or simple flotation aids like snorkel vests. A scuba BCD is designed for precise buoyancy control during scuba diving, which is not necessary for surface-level snorkeling.
Take a moment to look at this.
Hi Elliot,
This should not happen on a travel BCD. I’d recommend you to get a hold of Cressi, and hear what they have to say and if it’s an issue they now.
If you’re looking for new options. I’d recommend the Zeagle Scout.
Hi Don,
Yes, you should be able to deflate it completely, and it shouldn’t take that long.
How long does it take to delate on the surface?
Do you have a dump vale on the shoulder or bottom-back? If so, try using that, if it’s faster you might have a block in the inflator hose.
Should my BCD deflator valve release all air in the BCD? I purchased a new one as nd zm having troble decending. I float a long time on top with a small air releasing . It takes for ever to decend.
Hi Irene,
It’s a great choice. No, not in terms of features, the only difference is the size and color.
I am looking at Cressi ultralight. Is there any difference between men and lady?
This is often part of the technical specifications, but it’s not something we tested specifically when going through the BCD’s. How come you’re looking for extra lift? All the BCD’s in the guide will be more than capable of carrying a diver that fits the sizes of the BCD. If you’re looking for more lift, I’d recommend you look at a lift bag.
Which integrates BCD and Wing has the best lift
You shouldn’t be diving unless you can control your your air properly! If it’s an emergency, you should be able to use a buddy’s air, and if you are competent at diving on your own, bring a pony – but if you said you have ran out of air during a dive and are concerned about this being a regular occurrence I’d suggest not diving on your own!
What is the best BCD designed for women
In my opinion, Scubapro BCDs a re the most versatile in the market, good air capacity, multi tank position, and super comfortable.
My wife and I have had Cressi Travel lite BCD’s … did about 60 dives with them in 4 years. The inside bladder on both (we always rinsed the BCD’s after every dive) have ben disintegrating. A local dive shop said that this has been seen with the travel BCD’s, apparently due to the folding and packing of then when traveling. We like the travel lite options for the obvious travel benefits, but we’re hesitant to buy another due to this concern. Have you sen or heard of this? Are there any you would recommend? Thanks.
Learn the rule of thirds.
Get a pony bottle. Plenty of spare air to get toy you to the surface. There are several different size bottle to choose from. Steve S
We didn’t include this in the guide. You might be able to find it elsewhere.
is there a list of bcds with two tank straps?
hi , what do you think of seac sub smart BCD !?
My usage is average not that big much .
I started with a ScubaPro Night Hawk rig. I love the design and features. It comes with ScubaPro’s Air2 inflator and secondary breathing regulator. It also has two pockets as well as removable weight pockets. 4 metal D rings and two trim weight pockets also help round this unit out. Mine has 10 hard years on it and is ready to retire, but ill be looking to get another one.
I believe “AP Diving” still offers a pocket on the back of their “Commando” BCD for an emergency bottle that actually connects to the lower right purge valve thereby sending air into the bladder for both buoyancy and breathing through the inflation hose.
Hope this helps.
Cheers….Kevin
Hi Lenore,
When I started out diving, we use to have a small tank attached to the back of the BCD that could be used to inflate in case of an emergency. I haven’t seen BCD with the attachment valve on BCD’s for many years, so I’m quite sure it’s not made anymore.
My best advice to you would be to monitor your air better instead of looking for solutions once you’re this close to an emergency.
I need to find a BCD with its own integrated emergency inflation system. I have experienced running out of air, and found that when I reached the surface, I was exhausted and could not inflate my BCD manually. Luckily I had something nearby to cling to, otherwise I might have drowned. I note that yachtsmen’s floatation vests have integrated inflation, and I am seeking a BCD with its own separate air canister.
This would also be very helpful when helping a buddy who has run out of air i.e. instead of trying to inflate his vest manually, one could initiate the built-in inflation and his flotation would quickly be restored. Do you know of any such vest?