Jacket Style BCDs

BCDs, or buoyancy compensator devices, are invaluable pieces of diving equipment. Scuba divers use BCDs to set and adjust buoyancy to maintain an ideal diving depth. This helps you conserve energy, hover in place, remain upright, and improve your safety underwater.

Common BCD Styles

The three primary styles of BCD are backplate and wing, back-inflate, and jacket-style BCDs. Jacket-style models are the most popular thanks to a buoyancy bladder that fully surrounds your torso for better control in staying vertical. BCD diving jackets are also very easy to connect to your gas cylinder for a balanced and comfortable diving experience.

Popular Features in Jacket-Style BCDs

Depending on your preferred style of diving and the accessories you use, there are a few key features to look for in your BCD jacket.

Integrated Octopus

Some BCD diving jackets feature an “octopus” that integrates with the jacket’s inflator. This provides an extra regulator at all times. Since you’ll become accustomed to using the inflator on every dive, you’ll have an easier time remembering that your octopus is there if an emergency occurs.

Weight Integration

Have you only ever used diving belts for depth control? It’s time to upgrade to a weight-integrated jacket style BCD. Weight integration streamlines your gear so you’re more comfortable, leaving you with fewer accessories to worry about. Look for quick-release weights that let you lighten your load in case you need to surface during an emergency.

Adjustable Straps

Feeling restrained or compressed during a dive can prevent you from enjoying your time below the surface. Jacket BCDs with adjustable chest, waist, and shoulder straps make it easier to change their fit for comfort, and to adapt to changing dive conditions.

Integrated Storage Pockets

Divers need to carry plenty of accessories, but you may also need to pick up trash, debris, or important items as you go. Make sure you can securely carry anything you like with integrated, zippered storage pockets in your BCD diving jacket.

Find the Right Fit and Lift Capacity

Your BCD jacket should fit snugly without restriction. It should also offer sufficient lift capacity to handle all the gear you’ll carry. A comfortable, well-fitting jacket will help you feel more at ease in any underwater situation.

Comfortable, Reliable Jacket-Style BCDs 

No matter what type of diving you prefer, your BCD is an important piece of safety and control equipment. Brands like Aqualung, Scubapro, Cressi, and Mares are among the best in the diving world for comfort, well-known for their full complement of safety features.