We tested the Cressi Lightwing at Blue Grotto Dive Resort in Central Florida.

We conducted objective tests in the pool to measure buoyant lift and inherent buoyancy and to gauge each BC’s ability to cope with a runaway power inflator. We also conducted a series of test dives where testers scored BCs in eleven categories including comfort, stability and ascent control.

Aimed at the traveling diver, the Lightwing lives up to its name. Weighing less than 5 pounds, it was the lightest BC in our test. A soft backplate, minimal harness with air-net padding in the shoulder straps and a modest-size bladder also let it squeeze down and fold up for packing. But the stripped-down harness didn’t keep it from taking very good scores for comfort and stability, helped by the bodyhugging fit of the curved shoulder straps and supports built into the lower back to keep tank roll to a minimum.

The compact air cell has a close-fitting profile that reduces drag, earning one of the better scores in the test for streamlining. A smattering of D-rings and web loops, and a drop-down cargo pocket that’s big enough but tricky to access under the weight pocket, left testers wishing for a few more places for their essentials. A featherweight traveler with admirable performance, the Lightwing was among the favorites of multiple test divers.