Top Best Diving Bcd Of 2024: Best Reviews & Guide
By, Sara RyanUpdated
Our Top Picks
1. Best Overall: Aqua Lung Pro HD BCD i300C Dive Computer Titan Regulator Package
Aqua Lung Pro HD BCD features a balanced-diaphragm mechanism resulting in ease-of-breathing and consistent performance while environmentally protecting the internal parts. The quick connect regulator simplifies inflating and releasing your BCD, making it easy to inflate your BCD without ever being out of breath. Read Review
2. Best Bang For The Buck: Cressi Travel-Friendly Light Back Inflation BCD for Scuba Diving
With this Cressi Travel-Friendly Light Back Inflation BCD, you will have a good time in the water. It's easy to inflate and deflate with the included inflation hose, because it comes with a spring closure, which is comfortable and easy to use. The capacity of 4.5 kg is perfect for those who want to dive in their own favourite pool or even go on a trip. Read Review
3. Best Lightweight: Scubapro Hydros Pro w/Air 2 Mens Scuba BCD
Scubapro Hydros Pro w/Air 2 Mens Scuba BCD is designed for advanced technical divers, who need a harness that is ultra durable, lightweight and comfortable. The patented Injection Molded Monprene Gel Harness is extremely resistant to UV chemicals and abrasion. It uses no velcro or zippers, making it perfect for divers who need to wear clothing under their gear. Read Review
4. Best Adjustable: Cressi R1 Weight with Integrated BCD, Black/Grey/Red, X-Large
The Cressi R1 Weight with Integrated BCD is a great entry level weight that has all the features you need to get started in SCUBA diving. It comes with a rigid back pack that is padded and equipped with a built-in carry handle, it has 3 exhaust valves for easier buoyancy adjustments, 2 large zipped pockets on either side of the BC for convenient storage of accessories. Read Review
A good fitting, comfortable and breathable BCD can make all the difference in your comfort and safety while scuba diving. The right fit keeps your gear in place and makes movements more accessible and natural. The right BCD can help you dive harder, longer and safer.
The world of diving BCDs is vast. Several different brands and types available can makeshopping for the best BCD a little daunting if you don’t know what to look out for or what features to look for in a diving BCD. Today we will take an in-depth look at the types of best diving BCDs - from the most basic to high-end - as well as their key features that all divers should consider when buying a new one.
Our team had to focus on researching and sifting through 16 hours to get such results for readers. These studies are based on customer star reviews and interviews about their feelings when using the product. Regarding finding the best diving bcd, we believe our Aqua Lung Pro HD BCD i300C Dive Computer Titan Regulator Package with a balanced-diaphragm mechanism is a worthy product to buy. If you're looking for additional options and more in-depth advice, you may check out the following.
RELATED: Our top professionals have tested, examined, and ranked the 10 best back inflate bcd of 2024 for you. See our top picks here.
Our Top Picks
- Aqua Lung ABS Octo: The ABS Octopus combines good breathing performance with the benefits of a low profile body style.
- Aqua Lung i300C Air, Nitrox Two Gauge Computer Console: Features 4 operating modes. Air, Nitrox, Gauge with run timer, and Free Dive with Nitrox mix to 50% O2
- Aqua Lung Titan Qick Connect Regulator (Closeout Sale) | Uses a balanced-diaphragm mechanism resulting in ease-of-breathing and consistent performance while environmentally protecting the internal parts
- Includes: Aqua Lung Pro HD BCD Features: SureLock II Mechanical Weight Release System
- The Aqua Lung Pressure Gauge delivers both remaining air pressure and temperature in one easy-to-read display.
Best Bang For The Buck
Cressi Travel-Friendly Light Back Inflation BCD for Scuba Diving
- The 100% dorsal air chamber has the best buoyancy of the entire Cressi range
- The pockets fit perfectly into their places.
- Pockets with zippers and bindings on the side lobes
- Capacity of up to 4.5 kg each with flexible weight
- Spring closure (15 mm long) in case of any accidental snags
- straps and pouches. Extended lifespan due to simplified repairs. Virtually every component
- BC-4-Life Modular Design: Customizable to add/remove weight systems
- including buckles
- chemicals and abrasion. The fabric-free harness uses no velcro or zippers.
- Ultra Durable: Patented Injection Molded Monprene Gel Harness is extremely resistant to UV
- Made of durable 500-Denier Cordura, ideal for rental solutions or for an intense use.
- The R1 Harness System uses Traditional Squeeze-Style Buckles and Adjustable Straps on the Shoulders, Chest and Waist for Precise-Adjustment-and-Fit.
- It has 3-exhaust valves for easier buoyancy adjustments, 2 Large Zipped Pockets on either side of the BCD for Convenient-Storage of Accessories.
- The R1 is a Cressi product designed for scuba divers who want a very complete yet light, hydrodynamic and affordable jacket.
- It comes with a Rigid Back Pack that is Padded-and-is-Equipped with a Built-In Carry Handle.
- A Velcro Adjustable Waist Cummerbund provides Extra-Security and a superior comfort to any other Bc in the same category.
- Ultra Durable: Patented Injection Molded Monprene Gel Harness is extremely resistant to UV, chemicals and abrasion. The fabric-free harness uses no velcro or zippers.
- Dual-Compound Backplate: Provides the ultimate in stability and comfort. Single tank band system allows for easier assembly.
- "BC-4-Life" Modular Design: Customizable to add/remove weight systems, straps and pouches. Extended lifespan due to simplified repairs. Virtually every component, including buckles, can be replaced without stitching.
- Instant Dry: Ideal for travel due to less water retention and lower post-dive weight.
- Neutrally Buoyant: Near-Zero inherent buoyancy requires less lead, resulting in better buoyancy control and much more enjoyable diving.
- Clearly see every detail of your dive with the Cressi Leonardo C2 Dive Computer console
- Cressi Aquaride Pro Buoyancy Control Device with intagrated weights and back weight pockets
- Cressi MC9 Compact 1st and 2nd stage regulator with balanced diaphragm and compact Octo
- GupG Regulator bag used to protect your Scuba Diving Regulator and Dive Computer. Great for transporting your reg set.
- Ultra Durable: Patented Injection Molded Monprene Gel Harness is extremely resistant to UV, chemicals and abrasion. The fabric-free harness uses no velcro or zippers.
- Neutrally Buoyant: Near-Zero inherent buoyancy requires less lead, resulting in better buoyancy control and much more enjoyable diving.
- "BC-4-Life" Modular Design: Customizable to add/remove weight systems, straps and pouches. Extended lifespan due to simplified repairs. Virtually every component, including buckles, can be replaced without stitching.
- Instant Dry: Ideal for travel due to less water retention and lower post-dive weight.
- Dual-Compound Backplate: Provides the ultimate in stability and comfort. Single tank band system allows for easier assembly.
- BC: 30lbs lift.
- 14 lbs dumpable weight / optional cylinder band trim weight.
- Adjustable position weight pockets.
- 10lbs non-dumpable.
- One size fits all = custom fit for everyone: adjustable harness, cummerbund and lumbar.
- The Aquapro+ is designed and manufactured in Hungary by Cressi. Cressi is an Italian brand pioneer in scuba diving, snorkeling, and swimming equipment since 1946.
- Ergonomic inflator handle for rapid control of the buoyancy. Button with wide play with respect to the seat to avoid the blocking action of the grains of sand. 2 air dumps valve, one on the right shoulder, one on the bottom right.
- The Aquapro+ is a Scuba Diving Buoyancy Compensator Device appreciates for the complete features and accessories and for helping greatly the diver to have a perfect balance underwater.
- Ventral strap independent of the bag and of the cummerbund. It allows you to tighten to the maximum with the deflated BCD without generating pressure on the stomach during inflation.
- It is made for intense use (Nylon 420 Denier), in any water conditions, ensuring excellent comfort and resistance characteristics. Thanks to its hydrodynamic and light design it makes easier any movement and maneuvers underwater.
- It features side gravity pockets for the weights ballast, with quick-release buckles in case of emergency. Rounded, exceptionally wide, and easily accessible pockets with sturdy YKK 8 pitch zippers. Available D-Ring under each pocket.
- Wide shoulder straps, on the right easily identifiable size. Each strap has a 50mm stainless steel D-Ring. The wide quick-release buckle makes easy to take off the device. 25mm D-Ring on top of each pocket for extra accessories.
- Semi-rigid backplate, light, and of minimal thickness. It minimizes erosion points on the internal fabric. Design that leaves the handle perfectly accessible. Support to keep the cylinder perfectly centered, with non-slip rubber inserts and strap.
- Contoured, lightweight backpack w/back pad, lumbar support, and a rolled neoprene comfort neck
- 1000 denier CorduraTM w/ PU lamination outer shell & 15mm urethane internal bladder
- 2" Nylon waist strap with quick release buckle and 2" SS d-ring, New comfort molded backpad
- 35 lbs bladder S & M sizes / 45 lbs bladder L & XL sizes
- Traditional 2" waist strap with Stainless buckle
What Does Our Expert Advice You To Consider For Selecting best diving bcd?
best diving bcd is chosen based on a number of parameters. Depending on the product category, the learning process differs. And so, we're here to consult, guide, and address your product-related problems.
Please keep in mind the following points before selecting best diving bcd:
Lift Capacity
You will need more lift capacity for the more difficult diving.
You should always have more than what you actually need. If you're bringing more than 30 pounds of gear on your dives, you should consider a BCD capable of providing up to 40 pounds.
Adjustability
This extreme variation can be addressed by a BCD that has many adjustable features. Adjustable straps such as a cummberbund and crotch strap will help ensure that your BCD is securely on your body.
To prevent the device sliding around, you should look out for adjustable waist, shoulder and chest straps. Women's BCDs are one exception. They sometimes have a chest strap that is intentionally absent because it tends to compress a woman’s bust.
You might also consider using adjustable straps for your tank to secure it to your back, so you aren't left without an air supply hundreds of feet below the surface.
Storage Space
BCDs with lower prices will come equipped with Velcro pockets or plastic D-rings. They aren't very secure, and divers have lost their entire scuba gear when they accidentally opened the pockets or broke the D-rings.
A BCD that has zippered pockets and expandable compartments is ideal. They provide ample storage and keep items secure inside. They can be folded up to take up very little space when not in use.
Also, consider how many pockets and D-rings a BCD contains as well as where they are located. They should be easy to find and large enough to hold all of your gear.
Weight System
BCD manufacturers also design extra weight pockets at the back of their BCDs, called trim pockets. These pockets allow for smaller weights and help with trimming.
It doesn't matter what weight system you choose, there are a few commonalities. It is essential that all weight systems have a fast-release mechanism so you can unload dive weights immediately in an emergency.
The weight pockets must be constructed so that they don't move around while you swim. A weight locking mechanism is also recommended to prevent weights being accidentally released.
The third thing is to make sure the pouches hold enough weight for the required dive weights. You need to have plenty of weight for cold water diving. For warm water diving, you will need less. You should not overload the equipment as this can pose a danger to your safety.
Material
However, when it comes to cold water diving or technical, the priority should be given to durability, comfort and lift capability. It is also important to consider cost. BCDs with lightweight and durable materials will be more expensive than those made of lower quality materials.
Most high-end BCDs use 1000-denier Cordura. Cordura is tear- and abrasion resistant, so it can withstand rough water without worrying about the BCD breaking.
Nylon is another popular material. Although it's less durable than Cordura, nylon is light and therefore a great material for traveling BCDs.
FAQs
How Does BCD Sizing Work?
When shopping for a BCD, you can't just rely on your regular clothes sizes. A person could wear XL-sized T shirts, but need a BCD that is medium in size. You can find a size chart online and compare it to yours. Each brand has a slightly different size for every model. Always refer to the sizing charts.
Keep in mind, too, that BCD size can affect its dry weight, lifting capacity and drag. Pay attention to what features are affected by changing sizes. The BCD is generally larger, which means it has a greater lift capacity. It also has a bigger bladder, which can affect underwater drag. A few BCDs have a consistent lift capability across sizes.
How Should A BCD Fit?
The perfect BCD should be snug enough to fit comfortably when it's fully inflated, but not too tight that it becomes restrictive. Your chest, stomach and crotch will feel secure when you strap it in. The best way to ensure a perfect fit is with adjustable straps
Jacket BCDs (the most common type) can feel constricting when inflated due to their placement. This issue is not present with back-inflation BCDs as the wing is in the back and away from your body.
You should also ensure your backplate doesn't exceed the maximum length. This can cause problems with the tanks stability. Too short a backplate can cause discomfort as the cylinder could hit the diver's tailbone while they dive.
Is A BCD Mandatory For Diving?
Yes. Yes. A BCD is an important device to quickly get you out of trouble in case of emergency. It is essential for your safety and security. A BCD is essential for any advanced diver. It is basically the same as a life-saving device like a jacket, once it's fully inflated.
If you're just getting started, it is important to ensure that your BCD can lift you up and your equipment safely to the surface. You can also dive with a BCD if you are willing to gamble your life. We don't recommend this.
How Long Does A Scuba BCD Last?
It doesn't matter how sturdy an equipment piece is. It will eventually break, especially if it is used frequently or exposed to harsh conditions. The best BCDs can last between 8-10 years and then need to be replaced. The less expensive ones might need to be replaced every few years.
If you properly maintain the unit, you will be able to do around 4,000 dives. Another problem is that not all divers know how to properly maintain their dive BCDs.
How Do I Inflate A BCD?
Two ways can you inflate your BCD. The majority of BCDs have a power inflator. This connects to the cylinder, and then inflates your bladder with the inflatorhose. An overpressure relief valve is one of the fail-safes. It kicks in when your bladder is being inflated too fast or excessively with gas. This is the best way to inflate your BCD.
In the case of a power failure, the second method is to inflate your bladder orally. It is easy but not difficult to inflate the bladder orally. This can be done at both the surface and underwater. Simply blow in the regulator using your mouthpiece, until the air is sufficient to fill it. You will need to change between the regulator and your mouthpiece underwater.
How Do I Maintain A BCD?
Your BCD can be maintained in the same way as your other equipment. Your BCD should be thoroughly washed with water after each dive. This is done to remove any salt or debris. These salt deposits can build up and can cause damage to your gear.
BCD malfunction is often caused by improper cleaning of the air bladder. It is important to clean the interior of the bladder. Connect a garden hose with the inflator and flush out all debris. Otherwise, the accumulation of dirt and debris could eventually cause the bladder to burst.
It is best to dry your gear in an area that has good ventilation and shade. Avoid exposing your gear to direct sunlight as the UV rays could cause damage and make it more brittle. You should only store your gear once it is completely dried. Otherwise, any moisture may cause mold growth.
Because we are product consulting professionals with much expertise, we believe the data is credible. Aside from that, the best diving bcd data is kept up to date, and you may feel confident that the information is up to date and correct.
We can help you in addition to best diving bcd. If you want to support, please don't hesitate to contact us. Thanks for reading!
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