jpsexton:
I am trying to decide which one to get. I really find the vest style BC uncomfortable, mainly because the cumberbun is too high and they ride up. The back inflate BC looks like it would be much more comfortable but everyone says they push your face down on the surface. I really like the looks of the Genesis Tropic Weight Integrated. Any advise or opinions?
Thanks,
John
John,
The "face in the water" story about back inflate bc's or backplate and wing's is partically true, but only when the gear is used incorrectly.
Two things lead to this problem:
1) Being overweighted, now you need lots of air at the surface
2) Not using a crotch strap. Without a crotch strap when you add air at the surface the rig rises, but you don't. The normal reaction is to add even more air. This results in the rig being up over your head!
Contrast this with being properly weighted, and using a crotch strap. With the right weight you only need a "puff" of air in the wing, and at the surface this puff will be right behind your neck, not down at your lower back.
With a crotch strap you and the rig rise out of the water, it's like sitting in a swing! Very comfortable, no stress.
I would very much question either the experience or motives of anybody trying to sell a conventional jacket in lieu of a Back Inflate or BP&W who claims that "back inflate shoves your face in the water" Used properly it's simply not the case.
Regards,
Tobin