BCD Recommendations

I desperately need a BCD that will fit me, and not damage my already bad back. The problem is that I'm extremely tall & thin, and I don't fit into a standard size. Typically, if it's long enough, then it's way too bulky. And if it fits around my torso, then it's not nearly long enough for my back to comfortably support the weight.

I'm not married to any particular brand or feature set, however, I would prefer something back inflated with integrated weights. Given my medical history, anything with extra lumbar support would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance for your suggestions. --David

I'd say the Tekwing lite may suit you ( http://www.apvalves.com/uk/products/wings/tekwinglite/ ) I have recently purchased one for 'domestic' single cylinder diving and the build quality and specification is superb. As for their after sales service, AP Valves still support the jacket I bought 20 years ago...

What about backplates with cushion backs? The harness can be cut to fit whatever your dimensions are and fit snugly.

Plenty of choices there, there are even titanium backplates out there.

Right now, I'm liking the Oxycheq Ultra Lite Travel plate myself. But I have too much dive gear to justify more junk. I have Oxycheq SS Travel, OMS and DivRite alu plates, using a halycon, dive rite or OMS wing.

I would seriously investigate a harness & backplate. They're not just for techies anymore, more and more rec divers use them. I upgraded in anticipation of future tech training and I'm a total convert. The harnesses are infinitely adjustable.

Get one with a crotch strap, it keeps the rig better balanced on your back (i have a crummy back too). I use the Halcyon Eclipse wing which is a newer style doughnut wing and I love it. The whole system is modular so you can mix & match, adding accesories like drings, weight systems, pockets, knives etc anywhere to the harness. Also due to minimal extra bulky material on the rig, the whole thing is more negative UW and requires less weight.

As with most back inflated BCD's they will not float you face up on the surface and are designed for proper fully horizontal attitude diving. The whole wing & harness is extremely streamlined, you feel like you're barely wearing anything. Couple that with a long hose/short hose system and you're as streamlined as a you can get. Cheers,

Chris

I hadn't originally considered going with a wing system, but the more I think about it, the more sense it makes. That said, I feel like I have a ton of research to do before I buy a new rig. There have been plenty of articles written on choosing a new (jacket-style) BCD. Are there any similar guides on how to get started with wings, harnesses, & backplates? On that note, there must be additional wetpixel threads on the subject.

Drew mentioned "backplates with cushion backs". That sounds great. Is this a common feature from most brands?

My #1 concern is with the weights. The last thing I want is to wear a weight belt. I realize there are different models, Chris, but what kind of weight system would you recommend? For that matter, where are the weights usually stored on this system?

Another minor concern is the lack of pockets, but that's something I can deal with. As fellow photographers/gadget geeks, I trust your recommendations more than I would from a typical tech diver. Thanks again for your feedback. -David