Best Scuba BCDs in 2022
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Most novice divers tend to rent their dive equipment until they get at least a few dives using differing kits under their belt. However, once you really go in for scuba diving and start building your personal gear preference, it makes a lot of sense to purchase your own equipment. Buying a BCD is one of the best investments you can make, as it will help you to become a more comfortable, confident, and efficient diver. Learning such little details as where your pockets and D-rings are, how exactly your weight system works, etc. will add to your safety and the overall enjoyment during the dive.
That being said, with so many options available on the market, it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you. So, to help you choose the best buoyancy compensator for your setup, we’ve put together this list with short reviews of some of the best BCDs out there.
Best Scuba BCDs - Comparison Chart
BCD | Style | Weight Integrated | Lift Capacity (LBS) | Dry Weight (LBS) | Number of D-Rings | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Cressi Start Pro | Jacket | Yes | 29-45 | 5.4-6.3 | 6 (plastic) | $ |
Cressi Patrol | Back Inflate | Yes | 29-51 | 5.7-6.4 | 6 (plastic) | $ |
Seac Smart | Jacket | Yes | 21-40 | 6.8 | 6 (stainless steel) | $ |
Cressi Travelight | Jacket | Yes | 13-36 | 5.3-5.7 | 8 (light alloy) | $$ |
Seac EQ-PRO | Jacket | Yes | 22-36 | 7.7 | 8 (stainless steel) | $$ |
Seac Modular Max | Back Inflate | No | 44 | 6.8 | 4 (anodized aluminum) | $$ |
ScubaPro X-Black | Jacket | Yes | 38-65 | 9.5-10.3 | 8 (aluminum) | $$$ |
Atomic Aquatics BC1 | Jacket | Yes | 31-48 | 9.2-11.2 | 10 (stainless steel with Titanium coating) | $$$ |