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Customers most agreed on the following attributes:
from SAN ANTONIO TX on 9/29/2008
RECREATIONAL DIVE FRESH WATER
from Boston, MA on 7/23/2008
Purchased the BCD for a trip to the Red Sea. I wasn't disappointed, particularly in the ease of packing (shaved a few pounds off of the the baggage weight as well), its general performance and its easy integrated weight system.
Images shared by: JBK007WW2 tank sunken off the coast of Aqaba, Jordan
Tags: Using Product
from Cambridge, MA on 6/4/2008
My first BC, took it on 9 dives in Grand Cayman, never had any problems. Weight integration worked great, fit very well, and was very comforetable. I've only used rental BCs prior so I don't have much to compare to, but I thought it was a great product for the money and my experience.
from North Jersey on 5/31/2008
A great entry level BCD for the price. It is comfortable, fits well and easy to use. However, the weight pockets are awkward, and certainly not easy to release in an emergency. Otherwise, for the value, this is a great BCD.
from Colorado Springs, CO on 5/30/2008
Great BC for travel due to size and weight.
from Indianapolis, In on 5/25/2008
A great travel BC... travels and packs very good. Light weight and very comfortable to use. What a steal!
from Miami , FL on 5/19/2008
I love how light and confortable this BCD is;very easy to pack for travel; nice looking, finely made. I barely feel it underwater. One feature that I love is the double Tank straps, my buddy divers always comment about it.
from Florida East Coast. on 5/14/2008
Very Good BCD for the money! I use it mainly in warm water 75-82 F and down to 100+ ft. Travels well depending on your travel bag.
from Las Vegas on 5/14/2008
Has worked very well for me other than the neck rubbing.
[1 of 1 customers found this review helpful]
from Midwest on 2/24/2008
Great BC for recreational divers who don't need lots of gear pockets and want to pack light. The two strap tank bands hold the tank secure and help with keeping the tank in a comfortable position.
[1 of 1 customers found this review helpful]
from Sydney, Australia on 2/2/2008
I researched reviews before buying this BCD (here and elsewhere including dive mags) and I haven't been disappointed. The BCD is very comfortable in and out of the water. I'm happy with both my trim underwater and how I sit on the surface.
The only impact I feels from not having a backplate is the added comfort. The double tank bands are very secure - there's no way that tank is going anywhere! The cumberbund is nice and snug. The pockets are nice and big and there is still room in there even when the weight pockets are full.
Speaking of those weight pockets... well, they aren't perfect. I have had weights fall out on two occasions (but I've learned a few things, so read on). The first time was on exit so I didn't notice, but the second time I lost all 3 weights out of my left pocket at around 10 metres (30 feet). Thankfully I noticed quickly, found the weights, and re-inserted them (not that easy).
You should understand that I often hang upside-down looking at things. Even so, I don't think this is a good result.
In order to avoid this I have done 2 things. First, I make sure that the buckle is as tight as possible. Don't use weights that are too big for the pocket and mis-shape it so that the buckle is perpendicular to the BCD; the pocket should sit flush. If you look at the picture of the BCD you'll notice that the pockets are higher toward the back. Remember that you are horizontal most of the time under water so the weights will be pulling the pocket toward the front of the BCD. The only thing stopping the pocket falling forward / down and emptying is this buckle and the rigidity and angle of the pocket. If you have it at all loose, it can fall beyond the buckle, distend, and empty. (If you hang upside-down, the weights are at the top of the pocket, if you then go to horizontal the weights are pulling this pocket / buckle from the top = more leverage). I have replicated this at home.
What I have also done is to tape my weights together into a bundle so they make one larger item. I suppose you could use weight pouches as well. I haven't had a problem since I've done both these things. Not sure what would happen when using less weight (I'm talking about 3-4 kgs in each pocket here).
I'd still recommend it and buy it again - but be aware of this weight pocket issue because losing your weights and then having an uncontrolled ascent may be very dangerous.
Very secure tank straps and ugly user.
Tags: Using Product
from baltimore, md on 1/25/2008
This is my first BC, and I love it. Took this on a trip to Roatán -- diving twice daily for two weeks. Had no problems at all. Great adjustments, very easy to clean. Compact design let me easily pack and carry around.
from Toronto, Canada on 1/23/2008
Excellent product comfortable although still relatively new I am very satisfied with the BCD and look forward to using it again.
from Toronto, Canada on 1/23/2008
Still relatively new I have used the product once, and am very satisfied with its functionality for my skill level. I am looking forward to using the BCD in the very near future.
from Northern KY on 1/22/2008
I received this item as a gift and it looks great and is comfortable. I cannot wait to get into the water with it. My wife also got a BCD and the first one didn't fit. [...] Great Job!
from Newfoundland, Canada on 12/30/2007
Great BCD. If your a new diver looking for more for your money...search no more. Many of the reviews deal with tropical uses. I'm Canadian, and I find it a good choice even for the cold waters. You just need to be paying close attention to the weight you carry (which is not a bad thing).
this bc is one of the best i have owned light easy to use some of the comments listed below are untrue such as there not be any trim weight pouches on the back; there is also the ditching system is quite easy and is secure.
from Boston, MA on 12/23/2007
I loved this BC with all my heart when I took it in the pool for the first few test dives with my new reg and computer. This is by far the most comfortable BC I've ever worn. There was however a problem when I went on a cold water dive with it. With 5mm gloves on, the weight system was impossible to use. Just something to think about when you purchase this product. If you're going to do some cold water diving, go for the Cressi S111 or any of the models that have pull handle weight release systems.
from Farmingdale, NJ on 11/25/2007
First BC I have owned, but in comparison best I have used. Lightweight, compact, and full of features.
However, being 6'2" and 240 lbs, possibly not enough air volume for rough surface times. Held me up fully inflated, but barely. Someone my weight range should buy the extra large. I bought the large, because I wanted the reduced amount of vest material, and a tight fit under water.
6th dive withthe new BCD
Tags: Using Product, Picture of Product
from Aiken, SC on 11/25/2007
Love this BCD. I have rented many others and took a chance on purchasing my own, with "lightweight" in mind for travels. Just returned from a 7 day trip to Belize, worked great over my shorty. The weight system worked great for me as it was easy to access the weight pockets. The colours help it stand out from others, so makes for quick "preparation" to get into the water. Lots of compliments on the colour, seems to attract sharks! (nurse, carribbean & black tip). The adjustable straps & releases on shoulders are great for tightening for perfect fit & releasing buckels to take off & climb up boat ladder. I am petite size and this was a very manageable BCD for me. No lugging & complaining!
Images shared by: DawnMarieCressi keeps you protected!
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from Rockledge, Fl. on 11/13/2007
An excellent BCD for the money. I've been using rentals and this is my first BC purchase. It's very comfortable and fits well. Very easy to control bouyancy and trim. Nice to not have a weight belt for a change, but to also have the option to use one instead of the pockets. The tank straps are difficult to tighten/adjust after sliding it on the tank. An owners booklet with figures and descriptions would be helpful also.
[1 of 1 customers found this review helpful]
from Colorado Springs, CO on 11/11/2007
Not happy with weight system. Needs trim weights in back to counter balance. Kept me too vertical. Had to borrow some shoulder weights. Also the weight pocket strap came loose (on 2 or 19 dives) and weights were lost on 1 dive and retrieved on other dive. On the plus side, light weight, very comfortable, and pockets were very large.
from Australia on 11/10/2007
This is great BCD for a great price. The large fits me perfect (Solid built 173cm 85KG)
The weights pockets hold enough to keep neutral buyancy with a 5mm wetsuit, hood, booties and fins.
Great quality product and would definitely recommend to others.
from Denison, TX on 11/8/2007
Good Value. I've found the weight integration releases work well with or without thick gloves, it's just a squeeze release.
from Atlanta on 11/8/2007
This is my wife's first BC of her very own. I did LOTS of research and dollar for dollar, this was the best I found. Although she won't abuse it with hundreds of dives a year or anything...it looks like it could take a beating.
from Indianapolis, Indiana on 11/3/2007
I've used this BC in the warm waters of the Caribbean to the colder temps. of the Great Lakes and it has performed exceptionally well. What a steal!
from Douglas Wyoming on 11/1/2007
This is just a great BCD. It folds up well to maximize dive bag space. The weight pockets take a little getting used to but if you do not need a ton of weight they are perfect. It also looks great and the 2 tanks straps hold the tank very tight.
from Douglas Wyoming on 10/31/2007
This is the first BCD I have bought and I love it. Have rented many other brands and it does not get any better then this one. It is easy to pack in your dive bag. The weight pockets take a little getting used to but if you do not need a ton of weight this is the BCD for you.
from cranford, nj on 10/28/2007
A very good bcd, it fulfilled my expectations both in warm and in cold water. The product is worth recommendation.
from Minneapolis,MN on 10/26/2007
Really like the amount of components you can fit and it packs very well in a suitcase
from BOWLING GREEN OH. on 10/25/2007
I thought about buyin this BCD for about two weeks. I did and i have dove twice with it now and it is great. The padded backpack and straps just make divin that much more enjoyable. [...]
from Brisbane, Australia on 10/24/2007
My twelve year old daughter loves it ... and it has good bang for the buck !
LeisurePro breaks down the tyranny of distance,
important when ordering from overseas (Australia)
from Birmingham on 10/23/2007
I bought the BC for my girlfriend last christmas. This has been a great peice of equipment for her to start diving with. It comes with all the clips to hang your oct,secondary, and your SPG. The only bad thing about the BC is that you have to slide it over the tanks, due to the type of tank straps it has. Overall A Great BC for a Starter.
[1 of 1 customers found this review helpful]
from Las Vegas on 10/19/2007
It has two big pockets and some strange extra storage compartment with clip fastener on both pockets. I was told to buy a large but it is actually too big for me. I have to tighten the waist and shoulder straps almost to their ends.
from Orange County, CA on 9/26/2007
I purchased the BCD for warm water travel. I now use it for cold water diving in Southern CA. I was a little concerned about the weight pouches & drop system, but they work perfectly and are simple to operate. This is a very comfortable BCD with adequate features for recreational diving in all types of waters.
from Miami. Florida on 9/25/2007
This is an affordable,simple,yet well made piece of Italian craftmanship I will use 'til god Poseidon forbids. I love the double strap for the tank feature, makes it very secure and nice looking too. I barely feel I have a BC on. I've recommended to everybody down here.
from Vienna Va on 9/25/2007
A great BCD for travelers due to low weight and many features
from broken arrow ok on 9/21/2007
I use it on all my dives
from Dominican Republic on 9/20/2007
Great purchase
[1 of 1 customers found this review helpful]
from New Bern, NC on 9/20/2007
This BC fits perfectly and satisfies all my needs.
from Deerfield Brach, FL on 9/20/2007
Very confortable ...
from Huntington Beach, CA on 9/12/2007
Very comfortable. Easy to use .
Easy to put on and take off.
Very well made.
I am very happy with the purchase.
from New York on 9/6/2007
The weight system is not particularly well designed: it holds limited weight; it is not as intuitive and quick to unload during a dive as other systems I have seen (even from Cressi); and most important, it might open inadvertently during dive. Having said that, I dive with 10 pounds and have no problem with it.
from Ocala, FL on 9/5/2007
I bought this online and was inpressed with the product and the price. I'm a little on the over weight side and could have use a couple of weight pockets in the back. The BC was very comfortable and easy to adjust.
from Boston, MA on 8/15/2007
I purchased this BC a few days ago and have already put a few dives on it. I absolutely love it. I'm a cold water diver, and this could work well for any dive you can imagine. It's lightweight, easy to travel with and very responsive. Just a wonderful BC all around.
from New York on 8/9/2007
The only problem I had with this BC is that I cannot place the tank low enough for me.
from McIntosh, Florida on 8/7/2007
I do alot of underwater photography this BC allows good movment when working with my cameras, great for the traveler!!!!
from Vass, NC on 7/29/2007
Not for cold water! I could not release the buckles with my 5 mil gloves on and changed back to my old weight belt. I tried thinner gloves and found that I could work the buckles fine with 2 mil or thinner. In warm water it works great.
from Palm Harbor, FL (Close to Tampa) on 7/20/2007
Great BC, this is my first (that i've owned), it was worth the extra [$] over the cressi-sub line bc. it does come with a low pressure inflator hose. durable materials.
the weight pockets cant hold lots of weight or the weight falls out whats the point of weight intigration if u have to wear a weight belt and there is no quick release of the weights i hate this product go with mares
from Manila, Philippines on 7/10/2007
i have used this bc for my advanced checkout dives as well as several fun dives and it has not given me any significant problem. the double tank straps gives added security to your tank. the inflator/deflator hose is quite responsive. the dump valves are strategically located however you may need to pull on it 2-3x for it respond. generally , it is a bc that gives you value for your money!
This is a the best BC I have owned in 33 years of diving. I am a Dive Master and see a lot of time in the water, traveling and lots of different equipment. I would like to see an easier weight release, (perhaps weights that pull out) but on the other hand, the weights are very secure.
from homosassa , FL on 5/19/2007
ive taken this bc diving so many times it very durable and you dont even notice its on you
Bought this for the weight savings during travel. It is an excellent warm-water travel BC. However, I now use it on all my dives, including cold water dives. It has plenty of lift and I like the simple, yet effective, weight pockets. The tanks straps are very secure.
from Douglas, WY on 4/10/2007
Have traveled to a number of dive locations and with airline weight restrictions this BCD helps divers stay within 50lbs per bag and still allow you too check another bag with all other additional necessary travel items.
from Tacoma, WA on 3/10/2007
I bought this bc because it was simple, comfortable, and effective. I dive in the northwest in the puget sound. I've used this bc with both a drysuit and a wetsuit. I dive dry now and love that it is such a minimal bc. For a wetsuit it might be slightly less effective because it is limited in bouyancy capacity. It worked for me but I was only using about 29 lbs. With a drysuit I use 33 and I'm super comfortable. The BC is never in my way. If you get to feel claustrophobic at all this is the BC for you. And the Double tank straps are great they are the envy of all my dive buddies.
from Idaho on 2/24/2007
Good stuff! Keep in mind that this guy is made for basic recreation dives. It is comfortable and extremely adjustable. I have taken this BC out to the hot springs in Utah and in Idaho. Every time that I have been out I found it really easy to become naturally buoyant. I hardly felt this BC on me in the water. I bought the large and it has about 33 pounds of lift.