A comfortable and functional BC will make any good dive even better. Our 2017 scuba diving Gear Buyers Guide will help you find the best scuba diving BC that fits your diving style. Based on your style preference — jacket, back-buoyancy, hybrid or tec — here is our guide to the newest BC models.

Atomic Aquatics BC 1

Crafted from premium materials for ultimate durability
With engineering-grade plastics, corrosion-resistant metals and polyurethane-coated textiles that shed water rather than absorb it, Atomic’s first — and much anticipated — BC is built to last. It also features a stellar ratcheting cam- lock tank band and and a patented EZ-LOK weight release.
$1,399.95; atomicaquatics.com

Cressi Ace

Rear air cell won’t interfere with the harness, even when fully inflated, for maximum freedom of movement
This is a high-lift BC designed for maximum comfort and durability. The ultralight rigid backplate ensures optimal stability, and with the Flat Lock-Aid weight system it’s easy to release ballast weight.
$469.95; cressiusa.com

Cressi Patrol

Extremely lightweight BC includes an adjustable waist strap and hard backpack
The new Patrol back-inflation BC sports a minimalist design yet is still loaded with features. It comes with a low-profile air cell with high capacity, Flat-Lock Aid integrated-weight system and a hideaway cargo pocket.
$399.95; cressiusa.com

Cressi Start Pro 2.0

High level of buoyancy and rugged construction makes this BC ideal for beginners, diving schools or renting
The Start Pro 2.0 boasts an ultralight rigid backplate, external ballast-carrying pockets with quick-release safety buckles, two large cargo pockets, three pressure relief valves, and four plastic D-rings.
$329.95; cressiusa.com

Cressi Ultralight

The perfect soft backpack BC for travelers
Weighing only 4.4 pounds (size medium), the back-inflation Ultralight could be the lightest BC on the market. It features a hideaway pocket and anatomical shoulder straps.
$419.95; cressiusa.com

Hollis SMS Katana

New design builds on the proven SMS100 and SMS75 sidemount systems
The Katana is a compact, cutting-edge cave penetration tool built to perform. Super streamlined to reduce drag, this new system is designed to let you move easily through the warm-water cenotes and caves. And its one- size-fits-all “H” harness and 35-pound-lift wing make the Katana perfect for dive travel. Rigging Kit not included. $499.95; hollis.com

Scubapro Equalizer

High-performance wraparound bladder is durable, lightweight and extremely comfortable
The Equalizer brings together everything you could want in a recreational BC. With a full-size backpack and tank strap system, a quick-release integrated weight system, cargo pockets plus octo pockets, this BC is hard to beat. $499; scubapro.com

Scubapro Hydros Pro

Converts quickly from a travel BC with injection-molded Monprene Gel harness to an integrated-weight BC
A breakthrough in design, comfort and convenience, this BC is built for anyone who loves to dive. The extremely compact size when packed makes it perfect for any destination and any dive.
$839 w/BPI; $959 w/Air2; scubapro.com

SEAC Icaro 2000

Constructed of 1000D Cordura coated with polyurethane on the outside, and a polyurethane inner bladder
This lightweight back-flotation wing design sports an aluminum backplate, D-rings and 35 pounds of lift, which makes for easy travel. And additional weight and mask pockets can be added to adapt to any diving environment.
$669; seacusa.com

SEAC Sherpa

Cordura 1000 wrapping around an innovative 3-D back- inflate design
The Sherpa’s bladder features a 3-D effect that surrounds the cylinder, improving stability and weight distribution. The BC is equipped with SEAC’s Q&S weight system, AHS Frame-to-Back harness system and fully adjustable straps.
$689; seacusa.com

SEAC Trip

Harness anchors directly to the bottom of the backpack for better load distribution and stability
Travel divers who prefer a jacket-style BC with wrap- around bladder will enjoy the Trip’s light weight and how easily it folds up. It features easy-release weight pockets, six alloy D-rings and a precise valve system.
$489; seacusa.com

TUSA BC0102 Soverin Alpha

Ultimate Stabilizing Harness eliminates tank roll
The Soverin alpha is loaded with features, including TUSA’s brand-new Advanced Weight Loading System, Independent Harness System and snap hooks that can be repositioned, plus a new quick-adjust waist belt, making the personal customization of the BC easier than ever. $499; tusa.com

Zeagle Stainless Steel Backplate Combo

Expandable platform for building your ultimate rig
With its capability to mount single or double cylinders, along with crotch straps, scooter rings, sling bottles, shoulder pads, torch canisters and more, Zeagle’s durable stainless backplate with simple, single-webbing harness gives tech-minded divers endless options to customize. $449.95; zeagle.com

Zeagle Halo

Designed with rugged 1000 denier plus a mix of 1680D heavy-duty and 420/PU material
The first jacket-style BC offered by Zeagle, the Halo is for divers who want the fit and performance of wrap- around inflation in a BC equipped with Zeagle signature features like the Personal Fit System and Ripcord Weight System. $773.95; zeagle.com