Got Certified Open Water last weekend with PCH Scuba in Avalon. I plan on renting equipment for a while to get an idea of what matches me. I'm 6'5" around 230lbs and have some issues with BC sizing.
Congrats on the OW. I'm 6'2" and about 230 right now. When I got OW'd, I was about 238 lbs. I used an XL Black Diamond that fit okay. Then I started losing weight and I was down to 220 lbs by my 17th dive (from so much diving) and on my first night dive, back when I still sat on the bottom with me knees (I'm horizontal these days) I stretch my arms up to reach for a fish and the BC popped off me at 60' connected to me only by me reg that I wouldn't let go. The next week I was on a BP/W and on my first dive with it (a DSS BP/W -- Tobin is awesome) nearly all my bouyancy and comfort problems went away. Plus, as I change weight I can adjust my harness and not by a new BC. The BP/w is probly the best investment in gear I have made as it made the biggest difference in my overall abilities and comfort. They are cheaper than a BC, too (at least cheaper than the 3 BC's I purchased).
My best friend just OW'd and I got him a BP/w from day one and his bouyancy and trim was impeccable from the beginning.
That said, if you like a BC, an XL might be your size, but most decent brands allow them to be somewhat adjusted for smaller or larger waist.
All that off my chest, PM me and I'll send you contact info, I'll go diving with you sometime. I'll even bring the BC and see if you like it. I have another BC never used but brand new that you can try also.
On the one hand, yes, I want to sell them, on the other hand, if you're not in the market, you can get a feel for what some decent BC's (non-rental variety) can be like. All my 1st and 2nd sets of gear are "loaners" until I get off my arse and sell them.
Thanks,
Shawn
