Scuba diving is an incredible adventure that requires proper gear and equipment. Among the most important pieces of dive gear is a Buoyancy Control Device (BCD). A BCD helps regulate your buoyancy underwater, making it easier for you to maintain a comfortable and safe position.
It allows you to maintain a comfortable and stable position, whether you’re diving in shallow or deep water. The Best Scuba BCD also provides a secure place to store your dive gear and accessories, so you have everything you need within reach.
Additionally, it provides a secure storage area for your dive gear and accessories. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll help you when it comes to choosing the best scuba BCDs for your needs. We will take a look at different types of BCDs, their features, and the most important factors to consider when making your decision to choose scuba BCDs.
What are Scuba BCDs?
Scuba BCD stands for Scuba Buoyancy Control Device. It is a piece of equipment used by divers to control their buoyancy while diving. It is a vest-like device that is worn around the torso and contains an inflatable bladder.
This bladder can be inflated or deflated to adjust the diver’s buoyancy, allowing them to float at their desired depth and move up or down as needed. BCDs play a crucial role in making diving comfortable, efficient, and safe, by helping divers maintain neutral buoyancy and reducing the physical effort required to control their depth.
Scuba BCDs are typically made of durable materials such as nylon or neoprene and have a range of pockets, straps, and other features to allow divers to carry equipment and adjust their buoyancy. Most Scuba BCDs have an extra-large bladder that is filled with air to provide buoyancy. The air can be released or added to the bladder as needed to control buoyancy.
Types of Scuba BCDs
There are three main types of scuba BCDs: back inflation, jacket-style, and hybrid.
- Back Inflation BCDs
Back inflation BCDs are designed with a single bladder that runs along the diver’s back. They are popular among advanced and technical divers as they provide better mobility and a streamlined profile. This type of BCD is ideal for divers who want to reduce drag and maintain a low profile in the water.
- Jacket-Style BCDs
Jacket-style BCDs are designed with a bladder that encircles the diver’s torso, providing stability and security. This type of BCD is ideal for recreational divers and those who prefer a more secure and stable fit. Jacket-style BCDs are also popular among divers who prefer a traditional, familiar design.
- Hybrid BCDs
Hybrid BCDs are a combination of back inflation and jacket-style BCDs. They are designed with a single bladder that runs along the diver’s back, and an adjustable waistband for added stability. Hybrid BCDs are ideal for divers who want the best of both worlds and want to enjoy the mobility of a back inflation BCD with the stability and security of a jacket-style BCD.
Top 8 Best Scuba BCDs in 2023
Here are comprehensive reviews of the best scuba BCDs based on my extensive research on the Internet. Let’s take a look!
1. Oceanic Jetpack BCD
The Oceanic Jetpack BCD is a high-performance scuba diving Buoyancy Control Device that is designed for advanced and technical divers. This BCD offers exceptional buoyancy control and a comfortable fit, making it a great choice for those who demand the best from their dive gear.
It can be used in a variety of diving situations, including deep diving, technical diving, and cave diving. The adjustable shoulder straps and waistband provide a secure and comfortable fit, and the waistband can be adjusted for added stability underwater.
The Oceanic Jetpack BCD also has a secure harness system and multiple pockets for storing your dive gear. This BCD is compatible with a variety of weight systems, so you can choose the one that works best for you.
Key Features
Brand: Oceanic
Comb, lumbar, and harness are all adjustable
Weight pockets that can be customized
Integrated day bag with semi-dry lining
Built-in cylinder band
Our Overall Review
4.4
Reasons to buy:
Reasons to Avoid:
Where to Buy?
4.4 / 05
Oceanic Jetpack BCD
2. Cressi Durable Start Jacket Style BCD
The Cressi Durable Start Jacket Style BCD is a budget-friendly option that is perfect for beginner divers. This BCD offers a comfortable fit and excellent buoyancy control, making it a great choice for those just starting.
In particular, the strength of this BCD is its durability. The high-quality materials ensure that it will last, even with frequent use. The adjustable shoulder straps and waistband provide a secure and comfortable fit, and the waistband can be adjusted for added stability underwater.
Key Features
Brand: Cressi
Holding pouch for pressure gauges
Holder for the Octopus
Handle that is padded
A pair of technopolymer d-rings
Two spring-clip holding rings
Our Overall Review
4.5
Reasons to buy:
Reason to Avoid:
Where to Buy?
4.5 / 05
Cressi Durable Start Jacket Style BCD
3. Cressi R1 Scuba Diving Jacket BCD
The Cressi R1 Scuba Diving Jacket BCD is a top-of-the-line BCD that is designed for both recreational and technical divers. This BCD offers a comfortable fit, excellent buoyancy control, and a variety of useful features that make it a great choice for those looking for a versatile and reliable BCD.
The Cressi R1 Scuba Diving Jacket BCD also has a secure harness system and multiple pockets for storing your dive gear. This BCD is compatible with a variety of weight systems, so you can choose the one that works best for you.
Key Features
Brand: Cressi
Hydrodynamic design
Buckles in the squeeze style
Cummerbund with velcro closure
Quick-release weight system for Lock Aid
Detachable weight pockets
Our Overall Review
4.5
Reasons to buy:
Reason to Avoid:
Where to Buy?
4.5 / 05
Cressi R1 Scuba Diving Jacket BCD
4. Scubapro Hydros Pro Men
The Scubapro Hydros Pro Men BCD is a high-performance buoyancy control device (BCD) that is designed for experienced scuba divers. This BCD is packed with features that enhance diving comfort and efficiency.
Hydras Pro Men BCDs are distinguished by their lightweight design. Despite being packed with features, the BCD is very comfortable and doesn’t feel bulky underwater. This is especially important for divers who are looking to travel with their gear, as the lightweight design makes it easier to transport.
Key Features
Brand: ScubaPro
Inherent buoyancy of near zero
Back panel with dual-compound material
Single tank bank system
The articulated shoulder straps
Balanced Power Inflator included
Our Overall Review
4.6
Reasons to buy:
Reason to Avoid:
Where to Buy?
4.6 / 05
Scubapro Hydros Pro Men
5. Zeagle Ranger BCD
The Zeagle Zena Women’s BCD is a lightweight buoyancy control device (BCD) that is designed specifically for women. This BCD is designed to provide a comfortable and efficient diving experience, with features that are tailored to the needs of female divers.
Among the most appealing features of the Zena Women’s BCD is its fit. The BCD is designed with a women’s specific cut, which provides a comfortable and secure fit. The adjustable straps and cummerbund are also designed to fit the curves of a woman’s body, providing a snug and comfortable fit underwater.
Key Features
Brand: Zeagle
Straps and waistband are adjustable
The shoulders are equipped with two customizable D-rings
A rear trim weight system with a capacity of 20 pounds
Mounting points of the cylinders
Our Overall Review
4.2
Reasons to buy:
Reason to Avoid:
Where to Buy?
4.2 / 05
Zeagle Ranger BCD
6. Cressi Travelight BCD
The Cressi Travelight BCD is a compact and lightweight buoyancy control device (BCD) that is designed for scuba divers. This BCD is designed to pack and transport easily, so it is ideal for divers who are always on the go.
Among the most striking features of the Travelight BCD are its compact size and lightweight design. The BCD can be easily packed into a small travel bag, making it a great choice for divers who are looking to save space and minimize their gear load. Despite its small size, the BCD is still equipped with all the essential features that divers need for a comfortable and efficient dive.
Key Features
Brand: ScubaPro
Straps that adjust
Elastic cummerbund and chest belts
Angular stainless steel D-rings
Y-shaped hose carrier
2-year limited warranty.
Our Overall Review
4.6
Reasons to buy:
Reason to Avoid:
Where to Buy?
4.6 / 05
Cressi Travelight BCD
7. Mares Pure SLS BC Vest
The Mares Pure SLS BC Vest is a high-quality buoyancy control device (BCD) that is designed for recreational divers. This BCD is designed to provide a comfortable and efficient diving experience, with features that are tailored to the needs of recreational divers.
As a result, the Mares Pure SLS BC Vest is an excellent choice for recreational divers who are looking for a BCD that provides a comfortable and efficient diving experience. With its plush comfort, versatility, and range of features, the Pure SLS BC Vest is a top choice for recreational divers of all levels.
Key Features
Brand: Mares
FAST folding system
2.0 Integrated Lock Aid Weight System
An adjustable waist, chest, and shoulder strap
Design of air bladders
Quick-release buckles
Our Overall Review
4.5
Reasons to buy:
Reason to Avoid:
Where to Buy?
4.5 / 05
Mares Pure SLS BC Vest
8. Oceanic Hera BC
The Oceanic Hera BC is an affordable buoyancy control device (BCD) designed specifically for scuba divers. This BCD is designed to provide a comfortable and efficient diving experience, with features that are tailored to the demands of amateur divers.
The BCD is designed with a plush, adjustable back pad and shoulder straps, which provide a comfortable fit during even the longest dives. The adjustable waistband also helps to provide a secure fit and minimize any unwanted movement underwater.
Key Features
Brand: Oceanic
Retractable bladder with a low profile
System for personal fit
Weight system based on ripcords
Rear weight system
Our Overall Review
3.2
Reasons to buy:
Reason to Avoid:
Where to Buy?
3.2 / 05
Oceanic Hera BC
How to Choose the Right & Best Scuba BCDs? Buying Guide
Choosing the right scuba buoyancy compensator device (BCD) is an important decision for scuba divers as it directly affects their safety, comfort, and diving experience. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a BCD:
- Diving Style
It is important to understand that the type of diving you plan to do will greatly influence your choice of BCD. During frequent travels, passengers will look for a bag that is light and small, whereas underwater photographers will need a bag with a greater number of pockets and D-rings for carrying their camera, lights, and other gear. You will have to pay more attention to the specific features you need as you get more technical.
What style of wetsuit do I need for scuba diving?
You should choose your wetsuit based on the water conditions in which you will be diving. The shorty wetsuit (only covering the main torso) is perfect for shallow diving because it offers freedom of movement.
Nevertheless, if you plan on diving below the thermocline, you’ll need something a bit warmer to maintain your body temperature. An additional layer of warmth is offered by full-length steamers, which are full-body suits. As a result of the full-body design, the product is also more resistant to abrasion.
It is recommended that these suits be worn for wreck dives and reef dives to protect you from scrapes and cuts. Essentially, layer systems consist of neoprene layers that trap water more effectively for increased thermal insulation. This type of suit is perfect for colder water conditions.
- Safety
Now let’s talk about safety. This is probably the primary reason why I recommend getting your BCD. You can react without hesitation when you’re familiar with your gear. Therefore, you should choose a BCD that you are comfortable with and can easily operate. Regarding safety, I tend to pay attention to Integrated quick-release weight pockets and Dump valves.
- Dump valves
These handy devices allow you to release air from your BCD when necessary. The experience of using BCDs has led to a preference for BCDs with at least one dump valve on the shoulder and one on the back, near the bottom. This is due to a simple reason.
When you are in the water with your head up, all the air is in the top of your BCD, so you can dump it easily by pulling on the dump valve near your shoulder. It is possible that when inverted in the water, your butt is the highest point and all the air is on the bottom of the BCD.
You know you can’t use the dump valve on your shoulder when you’ve been inverted. You can release air as much or as little as you need with a dump valve near your butt.
- Lift Capacity
The lift capacity of a scuba BCD (Buoyancy Control Device) refers to the amount of buoyancy it can provide to the diver. This is an important factor in ensuring a safe and comfortable dive, as it allows the diver to control their buoyancy underwater.
The lift capacity of a BCD is determined by the size and type of the BCD, as well as the type of air bladder it has. A larger BCD will generally have a higher lift capacity, while a smaller BCD will have a lower lift capacity. The type of air bladder also affects the lift capacity, as some bladders are designed to provide more lift than others.
- It is important to choose a BCD with the right lift capacity for your body type and diving needs.
- A BCD that is too large or too small can negatively impact your diving experience, as it may not provide enough or too much buoyancy.
- The right size of a single-sized BCD will provide recreational divers with decent lift capacity.
Therefore, if you buy an M or L instead of an XS or S, the amount will be higher. Generally, if you dive recreationally you won’t need the lift if you don’t use heavy equipment such as double tanks.
- Size
Taking the time to measure yourself and reading the manufacturer’s size chart will ensure that you get the right size BCD. The ranges usually cover both the diver’s weight and height; as long as you fall within those ranges, you’re good to go.
As a rule, I recommend ordering the same size as your BCD unless there are serious sizing issues. To get a nice, and tight fit, take a BCD one size smaller than your shirt size.
It is common for beginners and even experienced divers to buy BCDs that are much larger than they need. As well as being useless in terms of lift capacity, it will also make you heavier in the water, waste air, and take up more space when packing your dive bag.
- Comfortable BCD
In order to have a good dive and survive the dive, you need a comfortable Scuba BCD. It is best to choose a Scuba BC with a waist, chest, and shoulder strap that can be adjusted. As a result, we can determine your BC’s height and width so it fits like it was made just for you. You should be able to inflate your BC around you, not squeeze yourself.
- Moreover, you should have about 6 inches of webbing at each adjustment point on a properly fitted BC, even if you’re not wearing a wetsuit.
- There is a misconception that Scuba BCDs for women are the same as those for men.
- This isn’t true. BCs for women have narrower shoulder straps when compared to BCs for men.
- The reason for this is that women’s shoulders are generally narrower. In addition, women’s BCs usually have slight curves in the chest.
It is also common for women’s models to have a higher chest strap buckle than men’s models. In the women’s version, there is often an adjustment point on the torso strap that’s lower than the men’s version.
Finally, the waist. As a general rule, women’s bodies tend to have more curves along their waists and hips than men’s. This is taken into account when making BCs for women and they deliver a more comfortable fit. Overall, the best BC is the one that is most comfortable for you, whether you are a male or female.
- Weight System
The weight system is integrated into many mid-range and high-end BCDs. The BCDs with integrated weight pockets are convenient, and if you can afford them, get them. As a result, your trim will usually improve, and you don’t have to buy as many items as a weight belt.
A simple way to improve your streamlined performance in the water. In an emergency, you can also drop your weight one-handed, which is considered safer than a weight belt. Make sure the BCD you choose can support your weight and your gear by double-checking its weight capacity. You can even fill the trim weight pockets on some BCDs to achieve a more tailored look.
- BCD Durability
Although it seems like a no-brainer, we must address durability. Many of our customers admit that they bought cheap, old gear online in an attempt to save money. Oftentimes, this equipment fails or breaks down quickly.
- The Scuba BCD is an essential component of your underwater survival equipment.
- Looking for BCDs that will hold up to the conditions you intend to dive into when choosing them is always important.
- In addition to double stitching and high-quality thread, I also look for the best bindings when recommending BCDs.
- As a result, you’ll either have to get rid of your gear or wade through the water wearing heavy gear and weights.
- It is not ideal since it puts both you and your dive partner at risk.
- Additionally, make sure the gear has been tested extensively for UV, abrasion, salt water, and chlorinated water.
- As a result, you’ll know you’re investing in gear that will last, withstand the elements, and function when you need it.
- Some of the top brands we carry have conducted these types of tests, including ScubaPro, Mares, and Aqua Lung.
Why should I buy a BCD for Scuba Diving?
Scuba divers are recommended to buy their BCDs rather than renting them for several reasons. They are very durable and usually last a decade or more, which makes them a good investment.
The buoyancy and trim of such BCDs are generally better than rental ones, and they fit better as well. Furthermore, only one BCD is required for every dive, allowing the same BCD to be used on all dives. You are better off purchasing your scuba gear than renting it.
In general, buying a BCD is a good choice for several reasons.
- It will last forever
You should treat your BCD with the same respect you would treat your wetsuit, rope, or shoes for surfing or climbing. A quality Backplate/Wing kit should last you at least 10+ years, as I’ve seen divers jump in BCDs from the late 80s.
- Better Buoyancy & Trim
Your buoyancy is affected greatly by your BCD, as opposed to a regulator. You will become a better diver when you use your BCD, improve your trim, and buoyancy, and make a great investment in the long run when you use your BCD.
- Good fit
You have to adjust to a new piece of equipment wherever you go if you always rent a certain piece of equipment. You may receive an ADV-style BCD that is too loose or too tight, you can’t find all the air releases, and the trim is off. Wearing a BCD will always be possible wherever you go if you buy one yourself.
- Less extra weights
A new BCD can never guarantee how many weight pieces will be right with a new BCD. As a result, this creates unnecessary drag underwater and increases air consumption. If you are wondering what scuba diving weight you need, you can use my FREE weight calculator to find out.
- Poor Rental Gear
It’s a fact that most dive shops provide shoddy rental equipment. A low-quality product with worn-out parts, missing pieces, and no convenience at all. In this area, BCDs are among the worst, usually consisting of a €150 kit that has been in use for five to ten years.
- Easy to travel with
As long as you follow our advice and purchase a modular Backplate/Wing setup, traveling will be as easy as pie. You just need to pack the backplate in your backpack (it won’t be counted against your travel weight restrictions), fold up the wing, and pack it in your suitcase.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Final Thoughts
As a result, investing in the Best Scuba BCDs for scuba diving is a smart move for several reasons. Owning your own BCD can provide a better fit and more comfort, allow you to customize your dive gear, and be more cost-effective in the long run. When choosing a BCD, it is important to consider your diving style, body type, and personal preferences, and make sure it is compatible with the rest of your dive gear.
Additionally, I think you will find the Cressi Start appealing as a budget diver. This BCD comes with an erosion-resistant outer shell, two large utility pockets, and dual air filtration. There’s no need to follow what I say exactly when buying a scuba BCD because there’s no requirement to do so. Despite that, I hope that the buying guide and other usage tips here are helpful to you.
So, if you are a scuba diver looking to take your diving experience to the next level, consider investing in a BCD. You won’t regret it!
There are many individuals who are passionate about scuba diving, but there are only a few who are equally passionate about writing about scuba diving gear. One such person is Sarah, a scuba diver and writer who is based in a coastal town in Australia.
Shakira’s love for scuba diving started when she was a teenager. She was fascinated by the underwater world and the beauty of the marine life that thrived beneath the surface of the ocean. As she grew older, her interest in scuba diving only intensified. However, it was not until she started working in a dive shop that she began to appreciate the importance of scuba diving gear.
Shakira quickly realized that having the right scuba diving gear could make or break a diving experience. She also noticed that many divers did not fully understand the importance of choosing the right gear or how to use it properly. This realization sparked her interest in writing about scuba diving gear.
Shakira began to write articles for scuba diving magazines and blogs, sharing her knowledge and expertise on various types of scuba diving gear. She covered everything from wetsuits and fins to regulators and dive computers. Her articles were well-researched and informative, and they quickly gained a following among scuba diving enthusiasts.
What set Shakira apart from other scuba diving writers was her ability to explain complex gear concepts in a way that was easy for divers to understand. She had a talent for breaking down technical jargon into simple terms, and her writing was always clear and concise.
In addition to writing, Shakira continued to dive and test different types of scuba diving gear. She wanted to ensure that her articles were based on firsthand experience and that she could provide practical advice to divers.
Today, Shakira is considered one of the leading writers on scuba diving gear. Her articles are highly respected among the scuba diving community, and she continues to educate and inspire divers around the world. Her passion for scuba diving gear is infectious, and she has helped countless divers make informed decisions about the gear they use on their underwater adventures.