Buoyancy Compensator (BCD) Styles and Features

A buoyancy compensator (also known as a buoyancy control device, BCD, or BC) has two basic functions in scuba diving. It allows a diver to control his buoyancy, and therefore his depth, during a dive, and it attaches the tank to the diver.

While all buoyancy compensators share these common functions, they accomplish the functions in a startling variety of ways. From the differences between vest-style and back-inflating buoyancy compensators, to the various kinds of accessory pockets, scuba divers should have a clear understanding of the different styles of BCs before purchase. Here are twelve common features of BCs to consider.