The 10 Best Buoyancy Compensators
Special Honors
Aqua Lung Axiom This upper level model offers a lot of convenient features, like a reliable and easy-to-use tank strap, dedicated instrument pocket, and locking weight system. It's slim body is streamlined to give the diver as much maneuverability as possible, and it has several attachment points, including one dedicated to your dive knife. It's priced just below the level of many professional options. aqualung.com
Editor's Notes
May 08, 2020:
We replaced a few outdated models by ScubaPro from our previous list with newer offerings from the company, namely the Scubapro Glide X and the Scubapro Hydros X, with the Glide representing a more budget-friendly option for casual, but frequent divers, and the Hydros edging more toward a professional setup thanks largely to its modular system that lets you both customize its layout and replace any small components that might come to harm on a dive without having to replace the entire BCD.
We also added the pro-level Atomic BC2 Backmounted to our list, with its excellent weight system and titanium-coated d-rings. It's funny how important these little rings can become when you get used to diving with certain tools — more than just a nice dive watch — and plastic ones just won't cut it if you're serious about your pastime or you dive professionally. And while we take lift capacity seriously, it's such a personal thing depending on your body's positive or negative buoyancy that we only saw fit to point it out where it seems lacking or particularly versatile.