Thoughts on TUSA Soverin

[WanderLust68]

Hello!

after completing my open water certification and getting a few dives under my belt, I've been looking at getting a BCD. I don't anticipate doing a lot of lake diving, but enjoying the warmer waters when possible.

I've narrowed my choices down to 2 (with 1 or two fighting for third place based on what I can read up on them), but I'm looking at either the Cressi Aquaglide Elite or the TUSA Soverin.

If you have personal experience with either, please give me your opinions.

I'm used to having my trim pouches up high, but it looks like the Soverin is down low on the jacket. On other TUSA's, I've read that the integrated weight pockets take away from the space in the pockets and can make getting gear in and out a bit tricky.

My other question is regarding the upgrade for the Active Purge Assist...is it worth it and what is the benefit that you've seen?


Thanks for any input!

 

[cnar]

Hi, just wondering if you've already made your purchase since this post was a few months ago?

For what it's worth any BC you use you will eventually get use to. Trim was always my biggest problem and funny enough I solved my trim problem with proper weighting and no longer use the trim pockets on my BC. Prior to this I'd only use two BCs neither of which had integrated weights or trim pockets. When I did get my Soverin I used the trim pockets to great effect but as I improved my buoyancy and shed weight I now only use the dump-able weight pouches. The more time I spend in the water the better I got at using my BC and managing trim and more importantly breathing.

With regards to the APA I decided against it. The tried and true way of dumping air works for me and is cheaper to boot. I'm also a big guy so my jacket is an XL. The pockets are large enough to carry my backup mask, slate, DSMB and my 10" knife (normally only used when snorkeling). I am however a TUSA fan with my gear except for my dive computer and wet suit. Their products are as high quality as any other and the price is reasonable.