From our recent test of the latest BCs, these four models were the clear performance leaders.

Dive Gear reviews from our recent equipment test at The Devil's Den in Williston, Florida.

Sure, there might be other dive gear deemed more important to basic survival (a reg) or your general well-being (a dive computer) than a BC. But when it comes to being able to comfortably acclimate to being underwater — to the point where you feel like a resident rather than a clumsy topside tourist — the BC is the most important component of your kit.

Follow these 8 easy tips to keep your BC in good working order and ready for your next dive.

This year’s undisputed favorite among test divers, the Aquaride Elite is well built with virtually no inherent buoyancy.

TUSA’s BCJ-4000 — the Soverin — is made of 500 Denier Cordura nylon and is loaded with features. The Ultimate Stabilizing Harness uses strategically placed rails to hold the tank in place.

The Integra 2 by Scubamax is a full-featured jacket-style BC designed for diving in all conditions. A rugged BC, it’s built from heavy-duty 1100 Denier nylon with a half-dozen stainless-steel D-rings and a stainless mount for attaching a knife.

Traveling divers who like jacket-style BCs are going to love SCUBAPRO’s GO. Although lightweight, this is a full-featured BC with a super-secure integrated weight system, huge cargo pockets with mesh reinforcements and zippered closures, lightweight shoulder strap buckles and large aluminum D-rings.

In this month's Back of the Boat interview, we spoke with longtime scuba-gear designer and Sherwood's Director of Product Development Bill Oliver