Back Inflate or Vest

[SeaDog]

One of the things I noticed at the LB Scuba show was the abundance of Back Inflate BCD's. I started with a Back Inflate when I was first getting certified when i was living/working in Hong Kong, and later when I was training in Southern California I switched to a vest,( because that's what the shop rented out). I remember having some trouble staying up right on the surface with the Back Inflate but the fact that I was a "newbie" kicking all over like a duck may have had something to do with it too. I always planned on buying Vest style, because that's what I was used to the most. But after hearing a gazillion opinions. Key word "Opinions", It seemed the divers with the most experience, Tech and Recreational, preferred the Back Inflate.
Needless to say I haven't been able to come to any decision. I tried both on at the show and have to admit I found the Back Inflate BCD's very comfortable, and easy to move in, granted I was standing in the convention center with no tank, wetsuit or anything else I attach to myself before hitting the deep blue.
That said, I'm still looking for a few opinions from my peers who aren't trying to sell me their latest product. Any and all info is welcome and appreciated. I realize it's "All Opinion" but I would like yours anyway
Thanks in advance
SeaDog

[Zero]

Back inflates will almost always put you face down in the water when you start out and if you are unconscious. Something to consider but thats the way i dive and i love it. No clutter at the front or squeezes if you over inflate.

Matt

[seasnake]

I switch back and forth between both regularly and like them both. If I had to pick one to stick with it would be the back inflation though. I find the stuff in front of me with the vest on a little annoying. I found back inflation a little harder to get used to than the vest. I have also found that they only tend to push you face down on the surface if they are completely inflated. Since most have more than enough lift you don't have to inflate it all the way on the surface and then you get a more upright floating position. Going with a backplate and back inflation wing is very comfortable and allows lots of freedom of movement, and you have the option of moving to more advanced diving with the same set up.

[BamaCaveDiver]

I think that most divers have started transitioning back to a BP/W set up because of their versatility. With a jacket you are limited to single cylinders, while the back plate can be configured for singles, doubles, or whatever floats your boat. Do know that there is a difference between the traditional backplate and wing setup and the newer back inflate BC's that have recently flooded the market. While most of these tech wannabe (my cavern instructors term) designs work nicely with average cylinders, they do not compare with the stability offered by a solid backplate with a simple webbing harness. The BP setup is also a lot easier to make fit different sizes as opposed to the convoluted rigs you see being sold today. The best advice I can offer is to try as many different setups as you can, focusing on how they trim at depth, the stability they offer for the cylinders you are using, and how they float you at the surface, then pick the one that is right for the type of diving that you are most interested in.

[hbh2oguard]

Going back to what zero said about face down in the water. First off any diver is very difficult to rescue with gear on. If they are unconscious, it very possible they are still breathing and you don't want to be face down because you will drown, and inhale water. So I dive with a vest bc and have grown to like it.

[amtrosie]

Going back to what zero said about face down in the water. First off any diver is very difficult to rescue with gear on. If they are unconscious, it very possible they are still breathing and you don't want to be face down because you will drown, and inhale water. So I dive with a vest bc and have grown to like it.

If you are looking for a vest to maintain your head above the water after the dive, you will have to get a Personal Flotation Device found in most marine supply stores. There is not a BC, wing or vest, that is approved as a PFD. So the question should be, "what device will provide the most efficient diving?" A packplate with wings (bp/w) provides for the most efficient trim in the water, while the vest will usually place the diver in the head down position. With your head down you will be constantly working to maintain trim, using more gas, and an over-all negative dive experience (more work, less enjoyment). The bp/w will allow for horizontal trim, which directly translates to less work to maintain trim, which also leads to less gas consumed, less fatigue after a dive. Basically a more controlled dive, which is always safer. The benefits are endless. Rule number 1 in my diving for success is this: 1. The diver (me) MUST HAVE FUN, and less work, means more fun! Rule number 2? 2. Repeat rule number 1

[LANCE]

I am a vest guy

[The Publisher]

Whatever you are most comfortable with is usually the best.

[acelockco]

I am a vest guy

Really? I wouldn't have thought so. I find that rear inflation is becoming much more common in the U.S. but don't know about elsewhere in the world. I also find rear inflation to be more common with males then females. These are just my observations from being on the dive boat pretty often.

I guess it just depends on what you are used to using.