Thanks to all who have posted here. When I resumed diving after a 26-year surface interval, I was determined to go with Scubapro, and equally determined not to spend north of $1000 on a travel BC. I went back and forth between the Go and Level, both jacket-style with cummerbund. Older versions of the Go are pretty bulky on the sides IMHO. The Level seems sleeker (for a jacket).
Ultimately chose the 2022 SP Level for its conventional backpack, with carry handle and standard SP tank cinch system. Both have integrated weights; the 2022 Level also has rear trim pockets. The Level’s side pockets have minimal room to stash things, but that’s not an issue for me. Worked well for shore diving. Gauges are well supported by a pass-through and the octo pocket is perfect to capture the hose. Plenty of air-dump options. Weighs a bit under 7 pounds. Packs small enough to fit in a carry-on. Very pleased. Good luck finding one, as they seem to sell fast.
For warm water boat diving where bulk and weight are primary considerations and comfort out of the water is secondary, I’ve thought about BP/W and back-inflate. Like the OP, I am not naturally drawn to these. I just ordered a Zeagle Express Tech Deluxe (with Ripcord) at a substantial discount. It will require some added trim pouches, crotch strap, and D-rings. Maybe swap Ripcord for Zip Touch? We’ll see.
That $1000 will get spent one way or the other!
Ultimately chose the 2022 SP Level for its conventional backpack, with carry handle and standard SP tank cinch system. Both have integrated weights; the 2022 Level also has rear trim pockets. The Level’s side pockets have minimal room to stash things, but that’s not an issue for me. Worked well for shore diving. Gauges are well supported by a pass-through and the octo pocket is perfect to capture the hose. Plenty of air-dump options. Weighs a bit under 7 pounds. Packs small enough to fit in a carry-on. Very pleased. Good luck finding one, as they seem to sell fast.
For warm water boat diving where bulk and weight are primary considerations and comfort out of the water is secondary, I’ve thought about BP/W and back-inflate. Like the OP, I am not naturally drawn to these. I just ordered a Zeagle Express Tech Deluxe (with Ripcord) at a substantial discount. It will require some added trim pouches, crotch strap, and D-rings. Maybe swap Ripcord for Zip Touch? We’ll see.
That $1000 will get spent one way or the other!
