Buoyancy Control Device (BCD)

Imagine scuba diving while hovering, weightless underwater – eye to eye with a fish. How is it possible? It starts with your buoyancy control device (BCD).

A BCD does exactly what its name describes – it gives you control in the water. Sometimes you want to float on the surface comfortably. Occasionally, you want to kneel or stand on the bottom, sometimes during a training course. Most of the time, you want to drift along effortlessly mid-water, observing the scenery. To do this efficiently, you need a BCD that fits you well, along with a weight system to fine-tune your buoyancy. The BCD also holds your tank. Visit your PADI Dive Center or Resort to get advice about BCDs.

• Expandable bladder
• Low-pressure inflator and oral inflation mechanism
• Deflator mechanism and overpressure valve
• Adjustable straps, buckles, bands or releases
• Adjustable tank band and sturdy back plate

BCD Styles

• Jacket style – most popular for recreational scuba diving. Some made specifically for women.
• Wing (back-mount) style
• Traveling BCDs – made of lighter materials
• Technical diving systems combine wing-style bladders with harness setups
• Sidemount divers combine a back wing with a harness system that mounts tanks to your sides.

• Integrated weight system
• D-rings, clips and hose retainers
• Pockets
• Alternate inflator regulator combines your alternate air source with the BCD inflator

Choose your BCD based on where you’ll use it most, and then make sure it fits.

1. With a style in mind, try on the BCD for size. If in doubt, try on a few sizes. If you’ll wear a dry suit or thick wetsuit, consider wearing it to get the right fit.
2. While wearing the BCD (and maybe gloves if you usually dive with them):
   • Tighten and loosen, clip and unclip every strap and release on the BCD.
   • Play with the inflator and deflator mechanisms.
   • Orally inflate the BCD completely and make sure it’s still comfortable, not restrictive.
3. Check that the BCD’s inflator hose is compatible with your regulator setup.
4. After trying on a few BCDs, narrow down your choice by fit and comfort. Then, make the final decision based on style, color, optional features and personal preference.

A BCD is an investment that should last for several years, so don't sacrifice fit and comfort for price.

1. Rinse thoroughly with fresh water after each use – both outside and inside.
2. Let the BCD dry completely – out of direct sunlight as much as possible.
3. Partially inflate the BCD and store in a cool and dry place. Don’t leave weights in the weight pockets.