dschonbrun
Contributor
I recently switched from a cushy BC (Scubapro Knighthawk) to a BP/W setup. Tobin was very helpful in getting me into the right equipment. We went with a SS plate and HOG harness, which is what he recommended starting with. After a week of diving (about 24 dives), and a few config changes, I realized that my anatomy and the hog config weren't a perfect match... cutting in at my neck, shoulders, and obliques. I didn't feel the backplate at all underwater... it was the webbing that was the problem. Rather than give up all together, I switched to a Transplate harness. The attachment points are a bit different and the straps remain closer to my sternum; I'm happy with the results. The setup is still very streamlined, highly adjustable, and quite comfortable (minimal pad at the shoulders, so no real positive bouyancy). The modularity of the BP/W is wonderful, as is the efficiency and reduced drag. Too many people judge the comfort out of the water... it's better to try it diving. I find that it has enabled me to be an even more efficient diver.