A BCD's inflation style changes how it feels both on the surface and underwater. Here's the difference between the two main styles, and how to pick the right one.
Jacket (full inflate) BCDs
A jacket-style BCD wraps the air bladder around your sides and lower back as well as behind you, similar to wearing an actual vest. That full wrap makes it very easy to float upright and stable on the surface — even fully geared up — which is why it's the most common style for new divers, dive schools and rental fleets. The trade-off is a slightly bulkier profile and a bit less control over your horizontal trim underwater. The Mares Dragon SLS BCD is a good example of this style.
Rear (back) inflate BCDs
A rear inflate BCD keeps the air bladder entirely behind your back, between you and your tank. With no bladder wrapping your sides, you get a slimmer, more streamlined profile and better horizontal trim in the water — a real advantage for photographers, videographers and anyone diving in tighter spaces like wrecks or caves. The trade-off is it takes a little more skill to stay balanced and upright on the surface, since the lift isn't wrapped around you. The Cressi Patrol BCD is a lightweight, travel-friendly example.
Which one to choose
If you're new to diving, doing your training, or want the most forgiving setup on the surface, a jacket-style BCD is the easier choice. If you're an experienced diver chasing better trim, buoyancy control and a streamlined feel underwater, a rear inflate BCD is usually the upgrade worth making.
Compare styles in our BCD's (Buoyancy Control Device) range.