​BCD Buying Guide: 8 Tips for Diving Enthusiasts

Let’s dive in, full throttle!

If you’re planning many exhilarating dives annually, this can lead to hefty gear rental fees…

But, if we think beyond just getting a certification and a few dives sessions, there’s a smart financial move: invest in your own gear. This not only lets you explore whenever you want, but also saves you from constantly renting used equipment. It’s like unlocking a whole world of underwater fun, made just for you. 

So, as you gear up for this exciting journey, remember, sometimes the best investment is the one that takes you on countless unforgettable adventures!

However…

When the time comes to invest in your own essential equipment (such as a regulator or BC), the following questions might be popping up in your mind:

○ Which one is the right fit for you?
○ Which piece aligns with your personal diving style?

Following the recommendations of the trusted instructors at your dive shop is one option, while grabbing a budget-friendly gear set is another.

Yet, for those who enjoy a meticulous selection process, we’ve gathered seven crucial points to consider when selecting your BC!

1. BC Styles: What You Need to Know

There are three main styles of BCs to consider. It’s crucial to choose the one that aligns with your preferences.

(a) Jacket BCD

This style boasts exceptional balance and stability. It allows air to flow seamlessly throughout the entire BC, facilitating precise control over air intake and release. This results in consistent and substantial buoyancy.

However, it’s worth noting that this style may offer less flexibility in terms of size. Using it with both wet and dry suits might present a minor challenge.

(b) Back Inflation Style

In this style, unlike other BCs, air is directed exclusively into the back section.

This design choice concentrates buoyancy towards the back. It makes it easier to maintain a horizontal position whether you’re submerged or at the surface.

However, trying to raise your face above the water surface may present a slight challenge due to the specific balance required.

In this style, unlike other BCs, air is directed exclusively into the back section.

This design choice concentrates buoyancy towards the back. It makes it easier to maintain a horizontal position whether you’re submerged or at the surface.

However, trying to raise your face above the water surface may present a slight challenge due to the specific balance required.

Since there are no constraints on the sides, this style is highly recommended for photography enthusiasts who seek unrestricted movement!!

(c) Backplate and Wing BCDs

They offer a versatile and customizable option for experienced divers. Especially for those engaged in technical diving or planning to. 

This modular system comprises a sturdy backplate that supports a buoyancy bladder, or wing, worn on the back. The backplate provides stability and attachment points for additional equipment, while the wing allows precise control over buoyancy. 

This style is favored for its adaptability, allowing divers to fine-tune their equipment to suit specific diving conditions. It’s a go-to choice for divers who appreciate a personalized setup tailored to their preferences and requirements.

2. Local Diver or Resort Adventurer?

If you primarily dive in your hometown or have easy access through transportation like a car, you may not need to worry too much.

But for those of you who yearn to explore dive sites across the nation or even around the globe, having lighter or heavy gear becomes a significant difference, doesn’t it?

Overly heavy equipment could lead to extra fees at the airport check-in….

Surprisingly, even BCs that appear similar can have a notable difference in weight when you take a closer look!

The difference can be over 2 to 3 pounds (1 to 1.3 kilos)

That’s certainly a detail worth considering.

3. Weighing in on Weight Pockets

When it comes to BCs, some come equipped with designated compartments for weights.

Especially in diving scenarios involving a drysuit, depending solely on a weight belt to carry all the weights can strain your hips or slip off and loose your weight belt.

This is where BCs with integrated weight pockets come to the rescue. By storing weights in these assigned compartments, you can ease the pressure on your hips or risk loosing your weight belt!

Remember, if you opt to place weights in your BC, always use the provided weight pockets designed for quick release!

The weight pockets integrated into BCs are designed for quick and easy removal in case of an emergency.

You may occasionally spot divers stashing weights in their BC pockets. However, it’s important to refrain from this life threatening practice. Not only does it hinder quick access in emergencies, but it could potentially damage the BC. It’s best to avoid it altogether!

4. Shoulder Buckles

Adjustable Buckles on the shoulder straps allow for a personalized fit around your body. They are found in most types of BC’s. Most likely, most rental gear comes with this feature.

With the waist belt positioned in the front, adjusting it to your body size is a breeze, ensuring a comfortable fit and easy on/off process.

Every brand offers BCs with adjustable Shoulder Buckles, making it a recommended starting point for divers of all levels!

5. Equipped with Attachment Points

Have you ever noticed seasoned divers with an array of equipment hanging from their BCs? It’s quite the sight, isn’t it? Use this feature sparingly!  

From pointers and underwater lights to cameras, dive slates, current hooks, signal floats, and more…

These specific spots for affixing accessories are referred to as attachment points. If you’re inclined to outfit your BC with an assortment of gear, I’d recommend opting for one with a generous number of attachment points. Again, use it sparingly, don’t look like a Christmas tree and avoid dangleys.

For relaxed recreational dives, you may not need quite as many, though.

6. Sizing

Just like with clothes, the same goes for BCs.

Une image contenant texte, reçu, capture d’écranDescription générée automatiquement

Make sure to choose one that fits you properly.
http://www.aqualung.com/jp/bc-size-and-lift-chart
Each manufacturer provides a sizing chart, so be sure to check it out!

Manufacturer’s sizing differs from one another, so it’s best to try it out.

7. BCs Tailored for Women

It might come as a surprise, but every manufacturer offers BCs specifically designed for women.

These BCs are crafted to complement the female physique. It features a more streamlined and shorter torso section.

What’s more, they showcase unique color palettes that distinguish them from other BCs

8. Underwater Buoyancy

BCs, second only to wetsuits, take up a significant portion of diving equipment.

This implies that buoyancy is also influenced by the BC you select. Select a BC with enough lift to give you surface flotation in full gear, typically only around 35 lbs/16 kg is required for the average recreational diver. More lift is not better

To put it simply, a BC with lower buoyancy allows for a reduction in weight, while one with higher buoyancy may require additional weight.

It’s crucial to note that the buoyancy or lift capacity mentioned here isn’t the value listed in each company’s catalog. That figure relates to the buoyancy when the BC is fully inflated and considers being on the water’s surface.

The real game-changer is the BC’s inherent buoyancy – essentially, the buoyancy when all air is expelled.

However, this topic caters more towards experienced divers…

Manufacturers usually don’t provide these figures, and it appears they might not even measure them in the first place.

To acquire this knowledge, you’d likely need to consult with someone highly knowledgeable in equipment matters (typically someone within the manufacturer’s team).

Given the relatively high cost of these items, it’s advisable, if possible, to try one out before deciding. However, this isn’t always practical.

Nevertheless, a top-quality BC can significantly enhance comfort. Even when worn on land without a tank (cylinder) attached. I highly recommend giving it a try at least once!

Bio

Avatar

miyaki

BLOG