Hello friends. I've recently returned to diving after a 26 year surface interval. I geared up for shore diving in Maui and was pleased with the 2022 Scubapro Level BC; it is comfortable for walking around with tank and integrated weights. It's basically a better version of what I learned on. I dove with 16 pounds of lead, AL80, 1 mm skin.
For boat diving and especially international travel, I'm starting to succumb to the SB siren call of BP/W for the simplicity and compactness. Bare bones DIR? Not there yet. One thing is certain: I have determined not to wear thick wetsuits and hoods ever again. We are talking warm sea water, a few times a year.
In summary: I am now a tropical vacation diver, a fairly fit manatee (orca?), recreational only, single tank only, AOW certified, focused on UW photography and the zen of diving. I'll use whatever tanks are typical at the destination - anything from AL80 to steel 120; intrinsic buoyancy will vary. Looking now at additional BC options. Any insights are appreciated.
The xDeep stuff is sexy yet pricey. Plain DIR is too bare bones. I tried a Zeagle Express Tech--the 24 pound U-shaped bladder is too small for my comfort zone and I'd need to add a bunch of stuff to make it work well. So in the "in between," I've looked at the Subgravity Paragon single tank package and the HOG system. Probably a 30-32 pound wing. Will opt for the front-adjustable harness to accommodate my bad rotator cuffs. No one in the area seems to stock them. So advice will be helpful.
Those who have tried these or others not mentioned, please weigh in. So to speak.
