Which BCD is best for me?

There are many factors to think about when choosing a new Buoyancy Compensator Device.
• Comfort and Fit
• Weight integration and trim weight pockets
• Type
o Stabilizing jacket
o Front adjustable jacket (Back and Sides with quick release shoulders)
o Back inflate
• Lift capacity
• Dump valves
• Weight capacity (integrated weights)
• Quality of materials
• Price
You need of course to look at comfort and fit. If the BCD is uncomfortable you will not be thinking about your dive, instead you will be focused on the pain or rub that you are getting.
What about weight integration? Just like old cars without seat belts non-weight integrated BCD’s mean you are not as safe. I am sure that you know or have heard of someone losing their weight belt during a dive or even forgetting to put it on prior to jumping into the water. With integrated weights you are less likely to have this happen. Also, it is just more comfortable. We always tell people when they are choosing gear that comfort is very important.
The stabilizing jackets have unrestricted internal passageways to allow air to flow continuously throughout the jacket and accumulate at the highest point. You are surrounded by this buoyancy bubble and can move easily and precisely underwater. This is great for the photographer that is trying to get that difficult shot. On the surface it provides a comfortable and relaxed face up floating position.
Front adjustable jackets allow variations of fit, regardless of the thickness of suit worn. Quick release adjustable shoulder buckles make this style of BCD very easy to put on and take off. The variety of styles and sizes offer a custom-like fit.
Back flotation jackets are the BCD of choice for the diver preferring a totally uncluttered chest area. The design positions the air bladder on the sides of the tank rather than under the arms or over the shoulders. Underwater it helps you attain a horizontal swimming position.
Dump valves are important because you are not always in an upright position. Make sure that you choose a BCD with ample dump valves that allow you to release air from your BCD no matter what position your body is in. All of our Scubapro BCD’s have three dump valves for this reason.
Lift capacity – All jackets need a minimum of internal volume to allow sufficient air to be injected inside to reach neutral buoyancy and flotation on the surface. Not only is this a comfort issue but it is a safety issue because a jacket needs to be streamlined to reduce drag in order to save energy when swimming.