Part of Apeks’ line of tec-oriented wing systems, the model we tested was built around a new ultralight travel plate, 18-pound-lift single tank “donut,” one-piece harness and SureLock weight system. You get everything required to assemble it, but what you will also need is a bit of patience to adjust all the harness webbing and serrated retainers. Fortunately you only need to fiddle with that once, and the payoff is a rock-solid platform that earned top scores from our divers. They praised it for stability and comfort, rugged construction, a great tank strap system, large and well-placed stainless D-rings and flawless valve operation. The weight system — which divers rated “excellent” — holds up to 20 pounds. You’ll pay for all this performance. While the WTX mashes flat enough to fit easily inside a suitcase, it’s less compact and weighs a little more — and costs quite a bit more — than many other travel BCs. But you also have the ability to easily change components, such as a larger air cell for more tec-heavy use. For its performance and flexibility, the WTX is our Testers’ Choice.

Buoyant lift: 18 pounds
Inherent buoyancy: -0-
Contact: aqualung.com
MSRP: $750