3 BCDs For Beginners

As part of our kit for beginners series, Neil Hope looks at three options for BCDs...

words Neil Hope

BCDs or Buoyancy Control Devices, allow fine-tuning of buoyancy underwater and keep you afloat at the surface so selecting the correct style and fit is of utmost importance. Always check out a BCD for fit with the suit you'll be diving in, making sure there's sufficient room to inflate it fully without excessive squeeze. Conventional jacket-style versions provide a more upright position at the surface than wings and optional integrated weight systems can also prove more comfortable for many divers by removing the necessity for a weight belt. 

Cressi Travelight Lady 

Cut to provide better support and comfort for the female figure, the 210 denier nylon Travelight has a foldable flexible padded backpack, integrated weight system and a pair of large zipped pockets. Three relief valves are built into it's traditional jacket design and a second cylinder retaining strap ensures that weight is transferred to the hips rather than the spine.

PRICE £319 | www.cressi.co.uk

Seac Sub Ego 

As an inexpensive, hard-wearing option the Ego is a great choice if you don't require an integrated weight system. Manufactured from 1000D Cordura material and with a PU coated 840D Nylon bladder this jacket has a padded backpack, metal D-rings and a pair of large velcro side pockets.

Price: £194 | www.seacsub.com

Mares Prestige MRS Plus 

Big on features but simple in its appearance the Cordura MRS Plus has swivelling joint shoulder buckles for comfort, integrated weights, and a large volume zipped pocket. Featuring a rigid backplate with integral grab handle, Mares' compact Ergo inflator and low profile dump valves, the jacket also has rear trim weight pockets and grommet holes to attach a knife.

Price: £310 | www.mares.com