First BCD Purchase

[Kimela]

Whatever you get, try it on with a tank before you pull the trigger. I own a BC that I bought based on how it felt without a tank, and then discovered it wasn't a good fit once the tank was in place.

 

[Jake 10]

Go to your local dive shops and try as many BCD's as you can, inflate them orally and get a feel for the BC. You will find one that fits you best.

 

[DanBMW]

BTW, speaking of Zeagle, I recently bought their new Covert XT. I haven't even got it wet yet, but plan to use it mostly for travel. I like the basicness to it and the price was really good. I normally use a weight belt.

 

[WillieJustice]

Now that I have a weight belt and can distribute weight between the bcd, tank straps, and belt, I like the belt. I hated heavy belts with all weight in them.

 

[L2m]

If you want cheap, then the BP/W is definitely the way to go.

Any recommendation for “ultimately cheap” BPW? I completely agree that BPW is theoretically the best option for budgeting - very rugged design virtually indestructable and modular design allow easier maintenance and field repairs. However the cheapest steel BPW I can find on market is still like £350+ and most brands are higher not to mention Halcyon. Whereas Decathlon nowadays sell back inflate BCD at ridiculously low £210 that comes with three shoulder D rings.