A few things:
The tendency of some BP/W enthusiasts to call anything that isn't a BP/W a "poodle jacket" or to suggest that only new or less competent divers fail to recognize the unwavering superiority of the BP/W suggests a lack of reasonableness or objectivity. I have noticed something here. A number of the BP/W advocates on this forum (but not all by any means) take firm positions on this subject based on a fundamental misunderstanding. They used borrowed or rental jackets in their classes and maybe for their first dives, often the wraparound kind, and often low-end rental models, perhaps not even sized properly. They were overweighted (as many dive students are) and experienced a cumbersome, uncomfortable product. It kept them from floating to the surface when they did not want to, and kept them bobbing on the surface like a cork when the needed to be on the surface, but that did little to enhance the dive experience. They then tried a BP/W and got their weighting better sorted, and loved the feeling. In reality, a good back inflate BCD with little or no inherent buoyancy and that fit well would have done the same thing, but they don't understand that. Maybe a good wraparound BC would accomplish the same thing, I am not sure. I suspect a number of people who tout the wonders of a BP/W would be just as happy with a quality back inflate BCD that fits well, if they knew about them or tried them first.
Frankly, when I see folks with BP/Ws in warm water "fly-to-dive" destinations, I notice many of them have added things like padded shoulder straps, pockets and weight pouches. Essentially, they have converted their BP/W into a back inflate BC. Some even leave the steel plate at home and use a kydex or aluminum plate and then wear a weight belt, because of airline weight issues. Granted, if you are so inclined you can get a more reasonably sized wing than comes with a lot of factory BCs and you can certainly tailor a BP/W to your personal tastes more readily than many factory BCDs if you need extra D rings and other gadgets. I often see it claimed that a BP/W can be put together much more cheaply than the cost of a BC. I have no idea if that is true. Assuming it is, then I guess the BP/W may be worth a closer look for those who can't afford a factory BCD.
As I said in my earlier post, certain types of diving and certain body shapes make the BP/W more desirable. It is also a perfectly reasonable choice in other kinds of diving or for those who simply prefer it. I don't care in the least if someone likes something that I may not care for. I also appreciate that in some situations a backplate and wing can offer clear benefits. But come on, they are not the best choice for every diver in every situation and when someone says "hey direct me to some good travel-friendly BCDs for warm water diving, it is quite possible that a BP/W is not really what they are looking for and not really the best choice, and calling anything else a poodle jacket or a poor choice is unreasonable and unhelpful. I have a family member who is a farmer in the midwest. He drives a large, 4wd pickup. I have another family member who is a retired guy living in Miami. He drives a Vette. Neither one of these guys would be happy with the other's car. Choosing the right BC is a similar concept. What works best for one person may not be best for another. Unfortunately, some BP/W enthusiasts cannot grasp that concept. I think someone needs to counterbalance the vocal BP/W voices on this forum when someone is looking for help.
I have no issue when someone says the BP/W is an option in response to a broad request for suggestions. I have no problem when someone objectively points out what they believe to be the benefits of a BP/W. But, when a question is asked that clearly is about something other than a BP/W, and some people feel the need to jump in and "convert" that person, I think that is a bit obnoxious. When other types of BCs and divers who don't prefer the BP/W are referred to in a derogatory manner, I find that obnoxious. It would be like someone asking whether they need to spend the extra money to get a balanced regulator or not, and the only responses were that only a rebreather or a vintage double hose reg is worth owning.
Sometimes when people ask for BC suggestions, people like me who haven't drunk the kool aid just send PMs and avoid the battle. But, sometimes, I figure it is worth saying something or I am feeling a little more fiesty.
When someone comes on here and asks about which BP/W is best for them, I don't jump in and point out that they should consider a back-inflate BC instead or insult the products or users. If you have a BP/W and like it, I think that is great. If you want to tell people how much you like it, that is great too. If you had a certain type or brand of BC before and found it lacking, then you should feel free to share your experiences. But try to keep some balance and some respect for alternative views and try to understand other people may have different goals, different tastes and different needs.
That is my opinion, anyway. I hope you all continue to have great dive experiences regardless of what gear you dive with.
