Buoyancy Compensators are there different types?If your regulator set is your most important piece of equipment, then buoyancy compensators are a close second. But all buoyancy compensators are the same right?I mean, true some are weight integrated but other than that, aren’t they almost identical?Not even close. Different buoyancy control devices (BCD), are better for different situations. We’ll get into that in a minute. First let’s discuss the features available on buoyancy compensators. Buoyancy Compensator Features
Weight integration A weight integrated buoyancy compensator is one in which the weights can be put directly into the BCD eliminating the need for a weight belt. Personally I wouldn’t buy a BCD that didn’t have weight integration. It’s just too convenient of a feature. Just make sure your BCD also has a quick and effective means of dropping the weight in an emergency. I think Zeagle BCs take the cake here. The weights are dropped with a quick pull of a zip cord. True it’s a pain in the butt to restring the system but if you had to use it in the first place, you’re probably so thankful you’re still alive that you don’t care about restringing the weight drop system. Air Dumps Another great feature to have is air dumps. Air can get trapped in the oddest places and really wreck havoc on your buoyancy. Many times it’s a major inconvenience to have to shift into an upright position to vent your air, so many manufacturers place air dumps on the shoulder and/or bottom of the BCD. That way you can dump your air without having to adjust to a feet-first position. 
Beyond the basic features, Buoyancy Compensators also come in a range of bladder types. Each type is best suited for a different type of diving. For example, a back-mounted bladder or wings works best for an overhead environment diver. These BCD's tend to force you to a horizontal position which is where these guys want to be anyway. Another type of BCD is a vest bladder. These bladders wrap completely around the body and over the shoulders. The main benefit to this kind of buoyancy compensator is that the air can move anywhere. If you turn upside down and cocked slightly to the left, that’s where you’ll stay until you move. This BCD is great for open water diving when exploring massive reef formations. Finally you have the every day buoyancy compensators, which have a bladder that runs along the back and wraps around the stomach. These tend to keep you in a horizontal position like the back-mounted BCD, but not quite as forcefully. This kind of BCD is sort-of a happy medium between the other two. BC MaintenanceI know your BC is kind of the ugly duckling of your scuba kit, but don't forget to give it the attention it deserves. After all your going to give your regs a tub, why not your BC?Click here for more information on buoyancy compensator maintenance. Neutral BuoyancyAchieving neutral buoyancy is what all divers strive for, because once you have "got it", your diving life will become so much more enjoyable. A good BC will help you turn the light bulb on so you "get it" and never have to feel uncomfortable under water again.Click here for more information on neutral buoyancy. There are many types of BCD’s to choose from in both brand and style. Think about the kind of diving you do and what BC will make you the most comfortable. Play with the different features and see which ones you think will make your dive more enjoyable and which ones you can live without. The right buoyancy compensator can make an immeasurable difference in your diving comfort. Return to Underwater Diving Equipment Home Page.
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