Using your own BCD for Open Water class?

[YellowfinKunkfish]

Okay, I have another newbie question about equipment!

My hubby bought me a BC, I love it! I want to use it in my open water class. Is this ever done? Do you have to use the dive shops BC's? I would feel more comfortable in my own, because I don't really like the jacket style. I am one of those people that won't wear a coat in the car, because that's just too much stuff, and then I have to put a seatbelt on over it, and I'm uncomfortable. That's probably as clear as mud, but I'm sure someone will understand what I'm trying to say.
Anyway, number one problem is that I did not purchase this BC from the dive shop where I am taking class,:11: and I don't want to upset anyone there at the shop. Also, we are required to wear a weight belt, and I don't think a weight belt will work with the BC that I have. It's a Zeagle Zena, and comes down pretty low on my waist. If anyone has one, or has seen one, you know it comes down low, and zips up the front. Would it be possible to wear the weight belt under or over the bottom of my BC? The only time I could see this being a problem would be during the weight belt removal and replace, and the BC removal and replace. Does anyone have any advice or suggestions? I know I could just wait until I'm certified to use my own BC, but I would really like to learn in it, so I will not have to start from scratch on bouyancy.

 

[Hemlon]

I don't think your instructor would have any problem with it. They would surely see it as an advantage that you are very familiar with your own gear.

BTW...I have the Zeagle Zena also...and love it!

 

[Berdman]

I used all my own gear when I took my class. The only issue that arose is when I would surface since my BC has air trim I couldn’t put my hand up as I swim up. The instructor mentioned something that was more out of curiosity and that was it.

 

[justleesa]

The sooner you get to know your own gear, the better

If the fit is right you should have no problem wearing the weight belt around your waist - where it belongs. I am not familiar with the BC - is it perhaps a weight integrated BC?

 

[knotical]

we are required to wear a weight belt

That's surprising.
It might depend on certifying agency, but PADI only requires you to remove and replace weights. This can be either weight belt, or integrated weights.

 

[YellowfinKunkfish]

The sooner you get to know your own gear, the better

If the fit is right you should have no problem wearing the weight belt around your waist - where it belongs. I am not familiar with the BC - is it perhaps a weight integrated BC?

Yes, it's a weight integrated BC, and it comes down very low. I agree, the sooner I get to know my own gear, the better. It's a back inflate BC, so I'm worried about learning on the jacket style, and then having to relearn a back inflate.

 

[YellowfinKunkfish]

That's surprising.
It might depend on certifying agency, but PADI only requires you to remove and replace weights. This can be either weight belt, or integrated weights.

It's a PADI agency. I just assumed it was required because the instructor said her BC is weight integrated, but for class she wears the weight belt. They wouldn't let me drop weights in the pool, but if I only had to take them out, and then put them back in the pockets, I suppose that could be done. I guess I just need to ask if I absolutely have to wear the weight belt.

 

[Brand0n]

why would you even think about not using your own. ware your own gear get comfortable in it.

 

[Scram Bulleggs]

Remember you (assuming its a pool) going to be soaking that brand new BC in chlorine for hours a day. If you do wear it make sure you rinse the heck out of it.

 

[jbd]

As noted by Scram Bulledeggs pools can be very hard on scuba gear, especially if the chemical levels are incorrect. I've had a lot of gear absolutely ruined in very short order in poorly maintained pools.

Typically there is a requirement about removing and replacing a weight belt at the surface and at depth so this is probably why the instructor is wearing a weight belt and may require you to wear one for at least part of the class. It shouldn't be a real issue. Of course after you are certified you can just use the integrated system.