I wasn't sure if I wanted to buy one, but I have an upcoming trip where airline weight restrictions are a BIG factor. So I bought one on Friday and used it in the water all day Saturday and again on Sunday. I have to say that I really loved it.
I'm a diver at the National Aquarium (in Baltimore), and am in the water for a minimum of 3hours during the day (1 - 1.5 hours x 2 per day). One thing I really noticed at the end of the day was no lower back ache, which normally occurs for me after a long day of diving in cold water I was concerned by the placement of the tank strap on the Zuma, but along with the back padding and tank placement, there was wonderful back support.
Oh - last comment. Saturday was in salt water (10 pounds), Sunday fresh water (4 pounds)
Sunday, we were testing prospective new divers in the pool and I was in the water 4 straight hours (again with the new BC) and again at the end of the day - no back ache. This was a great test for the BC
The Zuma is very trim and very easy to swim with. I even liked the integrated weight system - I generally don't like integrated systems. It will easily take 14 - 16 pounds of lead. I filled the sack to see. I only use 10 - so that was easy enough
I feel my Zuma got a great first test run - 7 hours underwater total over the weekend.
The downside is where to hang things like octopus, safety sausage and gauges, but I'll figure that out. There are 4 "D" rings, so I don't anticipate any problems.
Totally happy
NAIBdiver1