What You Need to Know About the Oceanic OceanPro BCD
Let’s take a look at some of the OceanPro’s key features:
We mentioned earlier that this is a workhorse of a BCD. It’s been designed to be tough and durable so it can certainly withstand a few knocks or a day left out in the sun (even though we don’t recommend treating your BCD that way!).
Oceanic markets this unit as an entry-level option, and it’s priced accordingly making it an enduring favorite with dive centers as a rental BCD. The tough denier nylon can handle endless dive students so it can certainly handle even the most demanding recreational diver.
The OceanPro comes with integrated weight pockets as standard, but if you prefer to use a belt, these are easily removed. The pockets are simple to operate and you won’t struggle to slot the weighted pockets into the BCD while you’re wearing it, which can be an issue with some integrated BCD models.
Additionally, the quick-release system is swift when you want it to be but reliably secure when there’s no need to drop weights.
There are two trim weight pockets at the rear of the BCD near the tank strap. Newer divers and experienced divers alike will appreciate the chance to balance out their weighting (trim) with these. Each holds the equivalent of a 2-pound or 1-kilogram weight.
Integrated Weights and Trim Weight Pockets
The OceanPro comes with integrated weight pockets as standard, but if you prefer to use a belt, these are easily removed. The pockets are simple to operate and you won’t struggle to slot the weighted pockets into the BCD while you’re wearing it, which can be an issue with some integrated BCD models.
Additionally, the quick-release system is swift when you want it to be but reliably secure when there’s no need to drop weights.
There are two trim weight pockets at the rear of the BCD near the tank strap. Newer divers and experienced divers alike will appreciate the chance to balance out their weighting (trim) with these. Each holds the equivalent of a 2-pound or 1-kilogram weight.
Pockets and D-Rings
The OceanPro’s D-rings are, unfortunately, plastic instead of stainless steel. But that said, it does have eight rings in total, so more than enough to clip on accessories such as an SMB and a reel.
Additionally, there are two decent sized pockets on either side of the BCD. These are generous enough to fit larger items such as a spare mask or dive torch. The zipper closure is preferable to a velcro closure as the latter tends to wear out over time. So long as you keep the heavy-duty zippers clean (no sand and salt) and run a little silicone over the teeth from time to time, they should last well.
Dump Valves
In addition to the standard left-hand shoulder dump and the bum dump (which is really only useful if you’re in an uncontrolled accent situation with your bum in the air), the OceanPro BCD is equipped with a rapid release on the LPI. To activate this, pull the LPI down and slightly away from your body. The release dumps air faster than releasing air from the LPI’s dedicated deflate button.
The BCD is also equipped with an automatic overpressure dump valve (a standard feature on all BCDs) to protect the bladder from bursting if it is inflated too much.
Oceanic’s After Sales and Servicing Support
Oceanic’s BCD warranty covers you for five years from the date of purchase on materials and manufacturing. You should have your BCD serviced every year. When we talk about getting BCD serviced, you’re mainly looking to ensure there are no rips or tears in the bladder and that the LPI has been kept in good working condition.
Oceanic has a great reputation for after-sales and servicing support. The company, which is now part of Huish Outdoors, is headquartered in the United States, but if you purchased an Oceanic BCD (or any other Oceanic scuba kit) overseas you can contact Oceanic by filling in a form here.
Summary
The Oceanic OceanPro BCD is a reliable piece of dive gear that should last you for years to come. Although marketed as an entry-level BCD, and priced accordingly, it boasts some features you won’t always find on cheaper BCDs, such as an integrated weight system and a high-quality LPI.
If you’re after a jacket-style BCD to take you from Open Water and beyond, you can’t go wrong. Likewise, adventurous recreational divers will find plenty about the OceanPro they love.
Specs & Features
| Style | Jacket |
|---|---|
| Integrated weights | Yes |
| Designed for | Unisex |
| Sizes | XS to XL |
| Weight system | Trim weight pockets |
| Material | Durable 1000D denier fadeless nylon construction |
| D-rings | Eight, plastic |
| Pockets | Two with zip closure |
| Lift capacity | 20 pounds (9 kg) to 48 pounds (21 kg) |
| Dump valves | Three (bum dump, shoulder dump, and LPI rapid release) |
| Valves | Overpressure release valve |
| Inflator | Oceanic Alliance Inflator included |
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