My rationale is simple. In almost any thread where someone asks a question or makes a comment about a BCD (back inflate, jacket style or hybrid), one can expect to see generalized negative comments about BCDs (as opposed to BPWs) within the first 3-4 posts and often the comments are little or nothing more than a an attack on any device that is not a BPW, typically including referring to them ans introductory or beginner devices and frequently referring to all brands and styles as "jackets." I often see comments along the lines that the only people who would prefer a BCD must need the side squeeze of a jacket to calm them while in the water. Typically the BPW disciples then take over the thread, talking about different brands and styles of BPW, different webbing systems, which wing is better for doubles, etc. The poor OP who was asking about something else likely just gives up and goes away. That is rude, plain and simple. If one person said something like "Hey, you might also want to consider a BPW, I like mine and you should feel free to PM me if you want to want to talk about that"... I would have no real issue.
Yes, a BPW is a buoyancy device and therefore technically a "BCD" but that is just wordplay. The issue is that not everyone wants a BPW and they are not inherently superior for everyone in every situation, but the proponents of the BPW seem to have some uncontrollable urge to force their love of the things on everyone else. I don't care whether it is or is not better than something else for you, if some guy or girl asks about a scubapro vs an aqualung or a back-inflate vest a jacket style, they don't always need a lecture about how they should go buy a steel backplate BPW because it is better. In my opinion this simply stifles open discussion and I would bet it intimidates some people out of feeling free to ask questions or state preferences.
Frankly, I can dive fine in a jacket BCD, a back-inflate or a BPW but for me and for how and where I dive, a back inflate BCD is what I like best; I like integrated weights and and a pocket or two. I have no desire to fly with a steel backplate or wear a weight belt. By the time one adds pockets and weights to a BPW, it is simply a badly designed BCD. And the BCDs I use trim out fine, fit well, are easy to pack, comfortable and easy to use. I also don't care when people want to point out how economically they can put together a BPW. I can afford to buy what I want and don't need to use BPW to save money. But that doesn't mean that what suits me is better for the next guy and it doesn't mean I am a better diver or more knowledgeable or less knowledgeable than someone who prefers something else.
I am glad you like your BPW; I hope you enjoy it for many years to come but I was interested in reading about this new BCD, simply because I am interested in new products and new designs and innovations, even when ultimately I might conclude they are not desirable. It is hard though, to read such a discussion or participate in it when it is quickly and vigorously derailed by people who want to talk about something else.
