How to choose a size for a tall yet skinny 13 year old.

[ChimarraoMate]

My son is 5' 9", has a 27 inch waist, and weighs about 118. But he is growing fast. Right now he fits width wise in an xs and small, but is too tall for them. Medium is perfect for his height, but the vest will not hug his waist. Should I just get him a medium and add a saddle strap, since he will surely grow up and out in the next year or two?

Any suggestions are welcome.

 

[claymore]

You might not want to hear it but in this instance a BPW in one form or another is probably the best answer as the main components stay the same just the webbing needs to be adjusted or replaced as your son grows.
if you get a standard BC the fit will not be right now and who knows if it will be right later. It is is kind of like guessing what size shoe a kid is going to end up wearing.

 

[underH2Oman]

There are several BC's that have adjustable waists (some adjust more than others) Check with your LDS and they should be able to show you how they adjust.
Alternately you may be able to order a smaller waist strap and install it into the medium BC.

Diverite has a youth program as well that may work for you (not sure if other manufactures have a similar program)
Scuba Diving Gear for Children, Teens and Kids by Dive Rite

 

[Aqua-Andy]

I second the BP/W set up. Yes I know this is said all too often around here but it just fits so many situations. It is your least expensive option in the beginning and down the road also. In the beginning just leave some extra webbing behind the buckle and on the tag end and it will fit him for a few years. When he out grows the webbing you can replace it for around $20, you don't have to purchase a whole new BC. If your son decides he does not like diving you can sell the BP/W for much more than you could a standard BC.

 

[danaero]

If you want to get him into a BC, but not spend a ton right now, I have a 'great starter BC' for sale right now in the classifieds, $50 plus ship from Portland, OR area. It is a medium so should fit him now and for a time. Also, I had it recently checked out by a dive shop, paperwork included. Good luck in your decision.

 

[ChimarraoMate]

Excellent responses, and all apply. Today, I discovered just how much sizes differ from manufacturer to manufacturer. Add the fact that the makers are international, and spread throughout the globe, and it is surprising by how much. My BC is a Cressi-sub made in Italy. They are all sized for guys with big bellies. A Cressi medium start at a 38 inch waist. Today, our friend had a 1 1/2 year old BCD made by XS Scuba and a medium starts with a 31 inch waist. It fit him like a glove. So, I guess our problem is solved. I guess the lesson is that, if you are built like an Italian and eat like one, buy Cressi, etc. , etc.....

Hahahaha

---------- Post added March 16th, 2014 at 07:09 PM ----------

If you want to get him into a BC, but not spend a ton right now, I have a 'great starter BC' for sale right now in the classifieds, $50 plus ship from Portland, OR area. It is a medium so should fit him now and for a time. Also, I had it recently checked out by a dive shop, paperwork included. Good luck in your decision.

We already found one by the time I read your post, but thank you for your generous offer.