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How to Choose a BCD
With all of the BCD options in the market right now, you might be wondering how to choose a BCD? Do you want something that can be used for both coldwater and warm water diving? We’re here to help guide you on what to look for in a BCD, how to fit your BCD, and how to take care of it!
Standard BCD Features
- Expandable bladder
- Low-pressure inflator and oral inflation mechanism
- Deflator mechanism and overpressure valve
- Adjustable straps, buckles, bands or releases
- Adjustable tank band and sturdy back plate
Optional and Desirable BCD Features
- Integrated weight system (main and trim pockets)
- D-rings, clips and hose retainers
- Pockets
- Alternate inflator regulator combines your alternate air source with the BCD inflator
- Chest straps that can be adjusted vertically to accommodate for different body shapes
- Women specific BCD’s
How to Choose Your BCD
Choose your BCD based on where you’ll use it most, and then make sure it fits. A BCD is an investment that should last for several years, so don’t sacrifice fit and comfort for price!
With a style in mind, try on the BCD for size. If in doubt, try on a few sizes. If you’ll wear a dry suit or thick wetsuit, consider wearing it to get the right fit.
While wearing the BCD (and maybe gloves if you usually dive with them):
- Tighten and loosen, clip and unclip every strap and release on the BCD.
- If the BCD is weight integrated, play around with the weight pockets and ensure the quick release style is easy to use and reliable.
- Play with the inflator and deflator mechanisms.
- After trying on a few BCDs, narrow down your choice by fit and comfort. Then, make the final decision based on style, color, optional features and personal preference.
Staff Picks
Scubapro Level BCD
A fresh design incorporating eye-catching silver, blue and white graphics make the Scubapro Level BCD stand out in any diving crowd. But beyond good looks, this front-adjustable BCD brings together all of the performance and comfort features you’ll need for any recreational diving scenario. The bladder, made of EndurTex high-tenacity 420 nylon fabric, is lightweight yet extremely rugged, and it’s designed to comfortably wrap around your body without squeeze. Rotating quick-release shoulder buckles allow you to optimize the routing of your shoulder straps for comfort, and a sternum strap and adjustable cummerbund with double-pull over-strap make for the perfect fit.
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This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Oceanic Hera BCD
The Hera BC from Oceanic comes standard with all the features and durability required of a high-end women’s BC. The
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This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Oceanic Oceanpro BCD
Built Like a Tank. An economical jacket for the diver who wants to keep it simple, the OceanPro features the same quality workmanship, comfort and fit that you expect from Oceanic.
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This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Cressi Patrol BCD
The Patrol BC is an impressively light weight, rear inflation BC that is anatomically designed for maximum comfort and durability.
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This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Cressi Travelight BCD
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This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Zeagle Covert XT BCD
Every feature for every getaway. Winner of the 2018 Tester’s Choice Award. Functionality, convenience and comfort are blended into the
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Atomic BC2 BCD
The Atomic BC2 is the back inflation evolution of the acclaimed Atomic BC series. The Atomic BC2 incorporates the same futuristic, incredibly tough, corrosion-resistant materials as the jacket-style BC1. A result of the Atomic “design studio” approach, the BC2 is a radical design departure from conventional back inflation BCs and is the TOUGHEST BACK INFLATION BC in the world.
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Scubapro Hydros BCD Mens
The HYDROS PRO is a true breakthrough in dive comfort and convenience. The moldable Monprene®, adjustable fit and multi-attachment points combine to make this the most customizable and comfortable BCD ever.
The HYDROS PRO includes both Trav-Tek straps and an integrated weight system. So with a quick switch of clips, you can transform it from a harness travel BCD to a fully integrated weight BCD. Now you only need one BCD for both local diving and travel!
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Oceanic Excursion BCD
The Excursion is for the serious adventurer. Our extremely comfortable and stable rear inflation BC is ready for any adventure
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This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
XDeep Stealth 2.0 Classic Sidemount BCD
XDeep Stealth 2.0 Tec Sidemount BCD
XDeep Stealth 2.0 Tec BCD
Engineered for serious technical and cave divers, the XDeep Stealth 2.0 Tec BCD offers unparalleled stability, trim, and streamlining. Its modular sidemount system features a robust wing design with 42 lbs of lift and a customizable harness for a precise fit. Built for redundancy and long decompression dives, it's trusted by explorers for its durability, performance, and adaptability in demanding underwater environments. Includes: Stealth 2.0 Tec Harness, Standard Spine Weight Pocket / 4 Compartments / 4 x 6lbs (2.5kg), Set of bungee and hardware to rig the system ** Side Trim pockets need to be ordered separately**
Engineered for serious technical and cave divers, the XDeep Stealth 2.0 Tec BCD offers unparalleled stability, trim, and streamlining. Its modular sidemount system features a robust wing design with 42 lbs of lift and a customizable harness for a precise fit. Built for redundancy and long decompression dives, it's trusted by explorers for its durability, performance, and adaptability in demanding underwater environments. Includes: Stealth 2.0 Tec Harness, Standard Spine Weight Pocket / 4 Compartments / 4 x 6lbs (2.5kg), Set of bungee and hardware to rig the system ** Side Trim pockets need to be ordered separately**
Hollis SMS Katana 2 Sidemount BCD
How to Care For Your New BCD
- Rinse thoroughly with fresh water after each use – both outside and inside.
- When rinsing inside the BCD, hold the deflate button down and spray water directly into the inflator. Add a bit of air to the BCD and give it a shake to rinse as much of the BCD as possible. Then hold it upside down and press the deflate button to drain the water.
- Let the BCD dry completely – out of direct sunlight as much as possible.
- Partially inflate the BCD and store in a cool and dry place. Don’t leave weights in the weight pockets.