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Scuba BCDs - an overview

Scuba BCDs or buoyancy compensation devices are used by scuba divers to maintain the desired level of buoyancy while in or on the water.  Proper fit is key to the continued enjoyment of your scuba BCD.  To maintain a proper fit, it is important to ensure your straps and buckles are in working order and have some travel left in them for underwater adjustment as your environment suit compresses at depth. 

There are some unique fit considerations for ladies.

The most popular types of Scuba BCDs are Vest and Jacket style BCDs.

Diving in colder water requires a thicker wetsuit or drysuit.  The added insulation required by cold water will increase the amount of weight you will need to dive with.  This added weight will drive the need for the appropriate BCD.

Common Features for most Scuba BCD’s include:

  • A variety of shoulder and waist adjustments to help you custom fit the BC to your body

  • Quick releases on the shoulders make for easy removal

  • Trim weight pockets typically in the back of the BC, which allows the diver to balance the placement of weight

  • Trim weight pockets are usually NOT diver ditch-able and are used for trim only

  • Integrated weight systems where the weight is carried in pockets of BC and can be ditched by the diver in an emergency (Other models require the diver to wear a separate weight belt.

The number of D-rings, easy access pockets, shoulder dump valves, lumbar support pad and adjustable cummerbunds are all features that make the BC’s more comfortable and easier to use.

The Denier number designates how tough and heavy duty the material is on the BC. The average BC will have around 620 denier and can be as high as 1600.

Whatever style of scuba BCD you choose make sure your BCD is appropriate for the type of diving you do.  Here are some things to consider:

  • Proper fit - does the BCD offer the types of adjustments needed for the kind of diving you do?

  • Lift capacity - does the BCD enable you to maintain buoyancy while in and on the water?  If you frequently dive in cold water, a higher lift capacity will be required as you will have more weight due to the fact that you will have a thicker exposure suit.

  • Good construction - Will the BCD hold up to the type of diving you do?  You don’t need to spend $500 on a technical BCD if you plan on doing one warm water dive trip per year.

  • Reachable pressure release valves - there should be release valves in easily accessible spots - not just your inflation hose attached to the front of your BCD.  Many Scuba BCDs also have release valves at the bottom of the bladder to enable you to release pressure as you are descending or in a head down orientation.

  • Comfortable, quick-release straps - Especially helpful when boat/liveaboard diving because you will be changing in and out of your kit frequently.

  • Quick and easily accessible adjustment -keep in mind that you will be making adjustments while underwater as well so your adjustment points should be visible when you have your mask on.

  • Pockets with zip or Velcro closure -These are helpful for carrying a rescue tube or other equipment.  Not to be used for gathering goodies off the bottom!

  • Accessory attachment points -Make sure you have enough attachment points for your goodies!  These may include a compass, flashlight and/or camera.