When you look around the dive deck, you will see there are many different brands offering different types of BCD’s but they all do the same basic thing underwater, control your buoyancy. Ultimately the difference between BCD’s are the main features you are personally looking for and comfort.
When purchasing a BCD some of the features you should consider include:
Basic BCD functions
- Wing vs jacket
- Integrated weights vs weight belt
- Inflation type
Additional Functions
- Placement of D rings
- Pockets
- Tank strap of back weights
Other Factors
- Back plate and padding – comfort
- Fitting
- Material
- Service/warranty
- Travel
From here you will be able to narrow down the choices between a couple of BCDs, then i recommend the best way to get a good idea for a BCD is to try it; do a few dives in it! Then you will get used to it and figure out the features you really need. I have a Mares Kalia and i think its brilliant!
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