I need a new jacket - but which one? Do I need a hybrid, an ADV or a wing jacket? This question arises at the latest in front of the sales shelf. What are the advantages of each type and which buoyancy control device suits me best? This blog post will tell you.
Abkürzungen
- BCD = Buoyancy Control Device
- ADV = Adjustable Divers Vest (one type of jacket)
- Wings = Only back inflated vest (one type of jacket)
- Hybrid = Mix between ADV and Wing (one type of jacket)
In general
All jackets are basically the same and are used for diving to maintain neutral buoyancy or for positive buoyancy at the surface. To control this, all BCDs have an inflator hose which is operated pneumatically (by compressed air). ADV and hybrid jackets have two quick exhausts, one at the top and one at the bottom of the jacket. A wing, on the other hand, usually has only one outlet, which is located at the bottom of the jacket. The large opening of these vents allows air to escape quickly so that a too fast ascent can be stopped.
No matter what type of jacket is purchased, donning it works the same as a backpack, with everything from simple straps to comfort straps available on the market.
The main difference between the different types of jackets is the arrangement of the bladder.
A jacket should be revised at least every two years. It is only safe to dive with a functioning buoyancy chamber!
ADV
This type of jacket is the most widespread and includes the most modern models. Comfort, simplicity as well as lead integration are the main points. The bladder is mainly located under the arms and on the back. This gives the wearer a stable position above and below the water. The weight system is "clicked" directly into the jacket. To ensure perfect buoyancy (trim), there are small pockets at the back of the ADV to store extra kilos. Because of the bubble arrangement and comfort, the packing volume is slightly larger than other jackets, but it is incredibly comfortable to wear and dive in.
Wing
There are two types of wings: the first type is used in technical diving, as diving is done with two tanks - which are connected via a bridge. The principle is similar to a modular system, as the plate, bladder and straps can be put together as desired. Depending on the size of the tanks and the number of stages (additional tanks for further gas mixtures for use in deco dives), the bladder size is chosen. As a rule, these are between 20 - 24 litres in size. The back plate is available in aluminium, thicker fabric or steel. The latter is the heaviest and its thickness can be chosen - this saves lead on the harness or in the pockets, which also makes diving more comfortable.
The second type is dived with a singletank (one tank) and has a bladder size between 16 - 20 litres. Meanwhile, this type is taking a larger and larger share of the market, as it is becoming more and more similar to commercial diving, e.g. with lead integration and comfortable straps including pads.
A common misconception is that the Wing is not practical on the surface because the bladder arrangement pushes the wearer forward. This is true to a certain extent, but you can maintain an upright position without much effort and float just as relaxed on the surface as with an ADV jacket. On the other hand, the water position under water is optimal for a perfect trim. Due to the very tight-fitting straps, the water resistance is lower than with other types of jackets. Thanks to the small packing volume and the low weight, singletank wings are ideal for travelling but also for diving in local waters with a dry suit and a lot of weights.
Hybrid
This is a mixture of both: ADV and Wing. The bladder size is larger than in the ADV jacket (as in the Wing), but the strapping and lead integration is taken from the ADV. Depending on the model, the bladder is arranged more like the ADV. The result is that it is more voluminous to wear. On the other hand, it has more buoyancy, which is particularly required for double devices, as many hybrid models can be fitted with both types of bottle.
Conclusion
Well, which jacket suits me best? We can best answer this question in a personal consultation in our shop, because it always depends on where, how and when you want to dive with the jacket. You can try on all types of jackets and we will be happy to answer all your questions.