What type of scuba BC is best — jacket-style or back-inflation? The short answer is, there is no right answer — only what’s right for you. Start by trying on (and inflating) as many as you can, and then decide what features matter most to you and for your style of diving.

Jacket-style BCs offer a secure fit, room for big cargo pockets, plenty of buoyant lift, and distributed flotation to help keep you upright on the surface.

Back-inflation BCs are easy to trim to a natural-swimming position when you’re submerged, and they don’t interfere with your upper body’s range of motion.

If your diving includes a lot of flying, a travel BC might be worth considering. The latest models are light (many around 5 pounds or less) and fold or roll up into small packages. As these BCs continue to be improved upon by dive-gear manufacturers, they offer comfort, stability and functionality that compares well to full-featured BCs.

Ready to start shopping around? Check out these 10 Perfect BCs for Any Diver HERE.