Back to the original question: for teaching in the open water I have become very fond of the sea quest pro. Lots of lift, decent pockets, and enough o rings to attach other stuff for teaching. Everyone one has a personal preference. I find there is value to wearing the general type of equipment the students are wearing. Better for demonstration and discussion. I use an older sea quest balance in the pool. When I am diving for pleasure I have other gear I use, depending on location and conditions. For teaching, though, I think wearing what the students wear is important.
DivemasterDennis