Inside ScubaLab: 2013 BC Test
In early March, the ScubaLab Test Team tackled 14 new models in the clear, cool waters of Blue Grotto Springs in Williston, Florida. We dived the latest from Apeks, Aqua Lung, Beauchat, Cressi, Mares, Seac and Sherwood. From tough tec-ready rigs to beginner-friendly jackets and ultra light traveling companions, the new crop of 2013 BCs is a diverse and capable lot.
Here’s a photo gallery of all the new 2013 models we tested. And look for the complete ScubaLab reviews in the June 2013 issue, plus a complete digital package with features charts, test protocols and more, right here in early June.
Eric Michael
Eric MichaelThe super capable Apeks Black Ice BC boasts four dump valves for evacuating air in any positiion.
Eric Michael
Eric MichaelThe Aqua Lung Axiom BC sports handy trim pockets and a burly metal latch on the tank band for added security.
Eric MichaelBeuchat Masterlift X-Air Light 2
Eric MichaelWith double tank bands, the Beuchat Masterlift X-Air Light 2 BC helps keep scuba cylinders safely in place.
Eric Michael
Eric MichaelWhile lightweight for easy packing, the Cressi Air Travel BC also employs a smart wraparound bladder design for added stability underwater.
Eric Michael
Eric MichaelThe rear-inflation Cressi Back Jac Elite BC keeps the business in the back for a streamlined ride underwater.
Eric Michael
Eric MichaelThe wrap around air cell design of the Cressi R1 BC increases stability on the surface when prepping or finishing a dive.
Eric Michael
Eric MichaelThe Mares Hybrid AT BC sports the Air Trim buoyancy control system that manages inflation and deflation with a handy pneumatic control module.
Eric Michael
Eric MichaelThe modular design of the Mares Hybrid Pure offers flexibillity to configure the BC to handle simple recreational to light technical applications.
Eric Michael
Eric MichaelThe entry-level Mares Prime MRS BC features quality materials the MRS integrated weight system.
Eric Michael
Eric MichaelThe Seac Sub Nick BC offers serious lumbar support with strategic padding and reinforcement.
Eric Michael
Eric MichaelThe intergrated weight system on the Seac Sub Pro2000HD is one of the best we've ever tested.
Eric Michael
Eric MichaelThe Sherwood Avid CQR-3 BC keeps a seriously streamlined profile with trim weight pockets that tuck neatly away.
Eric Michael
Eric MichaelThe CRQ-3 integrated weight system on the Sherwood Axis BC is easy to load, a cinch to ditch and holds the load securely.
Eric Michael
Eric MichaelThe ployurethane-coated material used on the bladder of the Sherwood Ventura BC dries super quickly.
In early March, the ScubaLab Test Team tackled 14 new models in the clear, cool waters of Blue Grotto Springs in Williston, Florida. We dived the latest from Apeks, Aqua Lung, Beauchat, Cressi, Mares, Seac and Sherwood. From tough tec-ready rigs to beginner-friendly jackets and ultra light traveling companions, the new crop of 2013 BCs is a diverse and capable lot.
Here’s a photo gallery of all the new 2013 models we tested. And look for the complete ScubaLab reviews in the June 2013 issue, plus a complete digital package with features charts, test protocols and more, right here in early June.
