The Cressi Carbon was a ScubaLab Testers Choice during the 2018 BC test. Learn why testers chose this jacket-style BC as their favorite in this video review. See the full ScubaLab BC review here.

I’m Roger Roy, the ScubaLab director. We tested the Cressi Carbon BC. This BC features a number of extras, but most importantly, it performs all the essential functions of a BC very well. The Carbon was our Testers Choice for jacket-style BCs.

We tested the Carbon at Blue Grotto Dive Resort in Central Florida. We conducted objective tests in the pool to measure its buoyant lift and inherent buoyancy and to gauge its ability to cope with a runaway power inflator. We also conducted a series of test dives where testers scored the BC in ten categories including comfort, stability and ascent control.

The Carbon has almost no inherent buoyancy and manages to be both comfortable and supportive without becoming bulky. The harness is highly adjustable and can be fine-tuned for a snug fit.

It took the high score for stability. One diver noted that it, “let’s you float in most orientations with little effort.”

The BC’s weight pockets slide right into place and took top scores for loading and ditching.

The zippered cargo pockets, octo pocket and eight metal D-rings allow for plenty of accessories, although testers didn’t care for the hard-to-access zippers. Like an alchemist turning lead into gold, the Carbon takes all of the basic elements of a good BC and makes them shine.

The Cressi Carbon is our Best Buy for jacket-style BCs.