Danielle,
Many of our BCs, especially men's models, tend to run bigger than other brands, but I have not had my Lazer sample long enough to say for certain. Our Zena BC is closer to the norm, IMO.
I put the Lazer on a few ladies this weekend at the FL Dive Show and it seemed to run slightly larger than the Zena, but as I said earlier, it's too early to be sure.
Many women end up with the next size smaller shoulders, which the Zeagle personal fit system allows. (Ex. small shoulders on a medium BC.)
The measurements on the website have a lot of overlap and in most cases too much range in my opinion. The center measurement is the closest.
For example I'm about the biggest guy that can wear a medium Stiletto at 6'1" and 33" waist. (I wear large wetsuits.) The size chart says MD 33"-41". Anybody bigger than a 34" waist should probably be in a large. If I didn't live and dive in Florida mostly, I might prefer a large.
Trying one on is the best way to know. Where you dive and how thick your suit(s) are can also matter.
Here's a few key issues:
The weight pockets should be on your sides, not nearer to the back. The buckle should not cinch up all the way on your waist, even with no wetsuit. The cummerbund can be moved but is best in the 1st or 2nd setting, not in the farthest setting.
The shoulders should not pull all the way down either, or have lots of excess strap.
Hope this helps.
Chad
FL Zeagle Rep.
