Editor's Pick - APEKS Black Ice
Designed for the advanced diver, this tough BC includes the Wrapture Harness System, Surelock II integrated-weight system, a dump valve in each corner, plus lots of D-rings and other features no serious diver can do without.
Contact: aqualung.com
MSRP: $695

Carrie Garcia

Cool Deal - Cressi R-1
Divers get ample padding, a contoured cummerbund with a double-pull overstrap and a convenient molded lift handle. It also features Cressi’s new Flat Lock Aid integrated-weight system. For the price, a Cool Deal.
Contact: **cressi.com
**MSRP: $380

Carrie Garcia

Mares Prime
The Prime is a good choice for divers who want to start with a basic BC. It comes with large cargo pockets, plus stowage for an octo and gauge console; the U.S. version also comes with the MRS Plus weight system.
Contact: mares.com
MSRP: $360

Carrie Garcia

MARES HYBRID AT
The Hybrid is now available with Air Trim, which lets divers add or bleed air with the push of a button in virtually any position. It comes with a foldable backpack, integrated trim weights and a MRS Plus weight system.
Contact: mares.com
MSRP: $750

Carrie Garcia

SHERWOOD SCUBA SHADOW
A new hybrid BC that offers a rear air cell, plus wraparound buoyancy for added lift and vertical stability. Features include a plush lining, a neoprene neck roll, stainless-steel D-rings and a couple of cargo pockets.
Contact: sherwoodscuba.com
MSRP: $N/A

Carrie Garcia

TUSA BCJ-8000C X-WING
Blending tec with recreational, the X-Wing’s stabilizing harness system and horseshoe-style rear air cell team with a 3-D foam back pad and new integrated-weight system to create a BC for virtually all diving scenarios.
Contact: tusa.com
MSRP: $629

Carrie Garcia

SCUBAPRO GLIDE X
This new addition to the Glide line features a wraparound air bladder that retains its cradlelike shape even when fully inflated. It comes with a secure integrated-weight system, prebent stainless-steel Drings and big, zippered cargo pockets.
Contact: scubapro.com
MSRP: $617

Carrie Garcia

AQUA LUNG SOUL i3 TWILIGHT
A luxury hybrid women’s BC that offers the best of both backbuoyancy and jacket-style designs. Loaded with features, the Soul i3 Twilight is designed with sleeker, lower-profile lobes, and a shorter torso length for ultimate fit and comfort.
Contact: aqualung.com
MSRP: $685

Carrie Garcia

CRESSI TRAVELIGHT LADY
Constructed of featherlight 210-denier nylon, its soft-pack design can be folded in seconds and stowed in its own carry bag. It’s a comfortable BC with contoured shoulders, a wide range of strap adjustments and plenty of padding.
Contact:cressi.com
MSRP: $450

Carrie Garcia

AQUA LUNG LOTUS i3
This year’s Lotus i3 sports a black/charcoal color scheme for divers who prefer a stealthy look, plus all the design innovations — including the i3 air-control system — that have made this cool-looking BC a favorite among female divers.
Contact: aqualung.com
MSRP: $595

Carrie Garcia

ZEAGLE ZENA
The Zena’s twin waist- and hip-band system lets divers securely position their weights and buoyancy below waist level, while the neoprene front panels enhance fit and comfort.
Contact: zeagle.com
MSRP: $542 with standard inflator; $697 with OctoZ

Carrie Garcia