The evolution of the tropical backpack-style BC
Backpack-style BCs are one of the hottest trends in recreational diving. This ''new'' gear configuration actually dates back to the earliest days of scuba, when tanks were carried on a simplistic webbing harness that ran over the shoulders and attached at the waist. Years later, wreck and cave divers beefed up the webbing to support heavy double tanks and added ''wings''-back-mounted air bladders that wrapped around the tanks.
Next, the technical diving movement spawned a new generation of BCs that combined high-capacity, back-mounted air cells with padded backpack-style harnesses designed to spread the load of heavy gear configurations.
The final steps in backpack BC evolution were the streamlining of the harness system and the downsizing of the air cell. Thus was born the recreational back-flotation BC.
Advantages of the backpack BC include streamlined front and side profiles, ease of entry and exit and comfort. Like a hiker's pack, a well-designed backpack BC system spreads the load of tank and weights evenly between waist, hips and shoulders.
Within the category, models vary from heavyweight technical BCs to ultrastreamlined tropical models-plus several ''modular systems'' that allow the user to reconfigure the system according to the dive plan. Today, it is the featherweights that are drawing the most attention. Compact, light and simple, they are an ideal choice for the warm-water traveling diver.
Here, we feature an example of the modern tropical backpack BC, configured specifically for travel and warm-water use.
ScubaPro TravTEK
Sizes: S-XL
Features: Low-profile wing with double bag constructon; 29 lb. lift capacity; Alpine Pack Load Technology spreads weight across hips & chest; pull dumps on left shoulder & lower left side; 8 stainless steel D rings; adjustable shoulder and waist straps; available with either Air 2 or balanced power inflator.
MSRP: $543
Contact: 800-467-2822
www.sportdiver.com/ebrochure/scubapro
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