Cressi Start Pro BCD Medium

2017-03-28T23:30:33

I have mixed feelings about this package. I never had any problems with it but really only used it for work at a pool company. Took it out in open water once (cold, Boston area) and while I didn't have any issues, I also never felt comfortable enough with the construction to use it again. I think it would be okay for warm water diving, but my biggest complaint is with the design of the weight pockets on the BCD. They are a fold-over design and quite cumbersome even out of water. If you need to add/remove weight in water, all the lead could just fall out as soon as you release the buckle. The regulator is alright but not as "smooth" breathing as others I've used. Feels like you've doing a bit more work. No malfunctions or problems. I'd say this is a decent set for a new warm water diver but personally, I wish I'd invested in higher quality gear before buying it. Ended up selling it and the person who bought it was happy. B+

Glenn H.

2017-01-05T12:42:37

I used to rent these to patrons of the dive shop/charter service where I worked. The customers liked them so much I eventually tried one out and loved it. Simple, durable. What's not to like?

Kip S.

2016-08-27T23:32:39

I'm a PADI Divemaster and have gone on over 100 dives using this BC. Although I have been using the BC for a while it is more a result of not wanting to pay for a new BC than anything else. These are the problems I have with it: 1) The strap is very high up on the BC, this means during your dives the 1st stage of the tank will be hitting you in the back of your head- reducing your possible head positions and making it difficult to look up. 2) The tank slides. During the dive the tank will often slide to the left or the right of the BC so it is hanging off, you can do a dive like this without fear of the tank falling out however it really throws off your buoyancy 3) Not a comfortable BC, my back always kills after dives with this BC, my buoyancy is always much worse with the BC. I've used quite a few different BCs and never have this problems unless its a size related issue. While clearly you can survive with the BC (as I mentioned before I did over 100 dives with this) there are much more comfortable models out there- Cressi and otherwise.

James F.

2016-07-27T11:57:50

I would recommend... I would also recommend wearing a few times in the water. Because of its stiffness, I almost lost my tank the first dive, and the 2nd I lost my weight in one pocket even though it was still clipped. The BC is comfortable and quite durable. Thanks Leisure Pro!

LINDA P.

2016-06-01T19:45:36

Bought this for my wife. Fits great. Looks good, well bult. Simple and utilitarian. Negatives: She has lost weights out of her weight pockets 3 times while diving. The closure system is just flawed. If you put 5-6 pound weights in them, they will slide out when horizontal, eventually. Also, there should be at least 1-2 D-rings and there are none at all to clip a light or compass to. Heavier divers will need to figure out how to carry additional weight.

GREGORY B.

2016-05-30T08:30:00

I'm an experienced Divemaster and I've dove over 100 dives with this BC. Pros: Looks cool, emergency release valves are handy, has never broken/ everything still works after 3 years. Good travel BC. Cons: Price, for what you're getting its really just any old BC, it takes about 5-10 dives to get used to, but whenever I switch to someone else's BC it is rare that I prefer mine over theirs. Weight storage sucks, no pockets on the back, doesn't allow for integrated weights. Weight pockets on the side make it really hard to take weights out underwater without them plummeting to the bottom. Buoyancy issues: I always feel after a half tank my buoyancy gets really bad and I can no longer achieve perfect buoyancy just through breathing, I need to start using my fins otherwise I'll just hang upside down.

James F.

2015-08-24T20:00:00

Perfect

Lulita

2015-08-03T20:00:00

Delivery was quick and package arrived in pristine condition.

Roland W.

2015-07-19T20:00:00

Delivery was really fast. I ordered the BC on Tuesday morning and it was on my doorstep Thursday afternoon. I chose the free 5-7day shipping.

Roland W.

2014-03-04T19:00:00

i bought this bcd thinking it would get me thru until i could afford a nicer one, however, i wouldnt trade it for the world, i have made over fifty dives in this bcd now and i love it. it is very rugged, and can stand up to just about anything ive thrown at it, the fold up weight pockets are a great design, and it feels better on then any other bcd ive ever owned, travles well, just an over all great product! i plan on buying two more for my sons.

rheslin2

2013-06-23T20:00:00

had my doubts about the folding weight pocket design, but after using them ..... i really like the design, the BCD is very well constructed, all valves and hoses are easily accessable, over this is a great BCD for beginners to advanced diver, very comfortable.

rheslin2

2012-07-17T20:00:00

I'm a DiveMaster and FINALLY got my wife into diving. I bought her this BCD & it works very well. She diving much better having her out set-up. I highly recommend it. Great for beginners, "casually divers" or kids. Integrated weights & velcro pockets are great!

tazman

2012-06-18T20:00:00

As a woman, I like the fit of this BC. It is easy to adjust and comfortable to wear on land and in the water. The weight pockets are a great feature as well.

Jenny

2012-03-17T20:00:00

We use this item in Oregon and Washington where the weather and water tends to the colder side. It's nice to have a no nonsense BCD that is easy to get into and out of that requires little if any adjustment.

Scuba t.

2012-01-04T19:00:00

Just completed my 12th dive with this BC. Just a very good basic BC. Everything works and it's not large and cumbersome. Easy to float on your on back while waiting to climb back in boat. Some people have doubts about the weight intregation design. I love it. It's really easy to load up the pouches...especially on crowded, rocking boats! Max weight is about 7 lbs per side. I'd prefer zippered side pockets but the velcro works ok. Overall very nice.

Scuba1102

2011-10-03T20:00:00

This is a great starter BCD. Also, great value. easy to use and maintain

Torpedo