How can you dive and still control your descent and ascent? In addition to holding your scuba tank, a buoyancy compensator lets you manage your buoyancy and movements underwater. Find out more about its characteristics to help you choose the right model.
THERE ARE THREE MODELS OF BUOYANCY COMPENSATOR FOR YOU TO CHOOSE FROM: ADJUSTABLE WRAPAROUND BCD, BACK INFLATION BCD AND TRAVEL BCD.
As its name suggests, this type of BCD is designed so that the volume of air is distributed over the entire surface of the body it covers. This provides a high level of buoyancy as well as better support if you are in an upright position. It usually features a backpack that is often padded for comfort. With its waist strap and adjustable shoulder straps, this buoyancy compensator is easy to adjust and adapts to fit all body shapes (men or women). It has large side pockets and some models even have integrated quick-release weight pockets.
This buoyancy compensator is a type of BCD mostly used for technical diving such as cave diving, wreck diving, etc. But they are becoming increasingly widespread. They are also quite popular with photographers because the front part is unobstructed and it lets you move freely underwater. The bladder, located at the back, leaves the diver's torso free and the tightening and adjustment is independent of inflation. In addition, this type of buoyancy compensator helps keep the diver horizontal when underwater.
Generally, this type of buoyancy compensator does not have a rigid backpack, which makes it easier to fold up. Very light and ultra compact, it can be either an adjustable or back-inflation type. It is the ideal BCD if you are going on a diving holiday for example.
As with any diving equipment, don't forget to maintain your gear!~
Diving sales assistant - decathlon bouc-bel-air, france - level 3 ffessm and subea sub-editor
When trying on your future buoyancy compensator, remember to always inflate it fully! This way, you will be sure which size is most suitable for you and you can see if you are able to easily access the rings, inflator, etc.