A Guide to Mares BCDs with Watersports Warehouse

Welcome to Watersports Warehouse's comprehensive guide to Mares BCDs. Here, we'll delve into the features, differences, and benefits of various Mares BCD models stocked on our website. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced diver, Mares offers a range of BCDs to suit your needs.

Why Mares?

Before delving into the specific models, let's explore why we stock Mares products and why we appreciate the brand. We've been proudly working with Mares since the early days of our PADI 5 Star Scuba Diver Training Centre – some 35+ years ago. Mares is renowned for its commitment to quality, innovation, and durability. With decades of experience in the diving industry, Mares consistently produces cutting-edge equipment that meets the demands of divers worldwide. Their attention to detail, ergonomic designs, and focus on safety make them a trusted choice for scuba enthusiasts of all levels.

Choosing the Right BCD

When selecting a BCD (Buoyancy Control Device), several factors should be considered:

Fit and Comfort: Ensure the BCD fits snugly and comfortably, allowing for ease of movement underwater.

Buoyancy Capacity: Choose a BCD with adequate lift capacity to support your body weight and any additional gear you may carry.

Weight Integration: Integrated weight systems offer convenience and streamlined buoyancy control. Consider whether the BCD includes weight pockets or if they can be added separately.

Diving Style: Different BCD models cater to specific diving styles, such as recreational diving, technical diving, or travel diving. Select a BCD that aligns with your diving preferences and needs.

Features: Look for features such as multiple D-rings for attaching accessories, pockets for storage, and ergonomic design for enhanced comfort.

Back Inflation BCD vs. Jacket BCD: 
When choosing a BCD (Buoyancy Control Device), one key decision is whether to opt for a back inflation BCD or a jacket BCD (also known as a vest type or front-adjustable jacket). Here's a brief overview of the differences between the two:

Back Inflation BCD:
Back inflation BCDs feature a buoyancy bladder located primarily on the diver's back. This design promotes a more streamlined profile underwater, reducing drag and allowing for smoother movement. Back inflation BCDs are favoured by many experienced divers, particularly those engaged in technical diving or diving in environments where minimal resistance is crucial, such as cave diving or wreck exploration. They also tend to provide better buoyancy control, especially when diving in a horizontal position. However, some divers may find back inflation BCDs less comfortable on the surface due to the tendency to tilt backward.

Jacket BCD (Vest Type, Front-Adjustable Jacket):
Jacket BCDs, on the other hand, feature a buoyancy bladder that wraps around the diver's torso like a vest. This design offers excellent stability on the surface, making it particularly suitable for beginner divers or those who prefer a more upright position during dives. Jacket BCDs often come with ample storage pockets and attachment points for accessories, making them versatile for various diving scenarios. While they may provide slightly less streamlined underwater compared to back inflation BCDs, many divers appreciate the comfort and familiarity of jacket-style BCDs, especially during surface intervals or while waiting for entry.

Ultimately, the choice between a back inflation BCD and a jacket BCD depends on factors such as personal preference, diving style, and the specific requirements of the dive. Both types of BCDs offer unique advantages, and selecting the right one can enhance your diving experience and comfort underwater. At Watersports Warehouse, we offer a diverse range of both back inflation and jacket BCDs from Mares, ensuring there's an option to suit every diver's needs and preferences.

Mares Rock Pro Diving BCD (Back Inflation BCD)

The Mares Rock Pro dive BCD is a versatile back inflation BCD suitable for entry-level to advanced divers. Its lightweight design makes it ideal for travel, while its durability ensures longevity. Key features include:

• Integrated, quick-release weight system for easy adjustment.
• Tyrpol padding for enhanced comfort.
• Six strategically placed stainless steel D-Rings for convenience.
• Two large zipped external side pockets for storage.

Mares Rock Pro Diving BCD - Learn More

Mares Prestige SLS Diving BCD (Jacket BCD)

Prestige SLS BCD is a front-adjustable jacket BCD that combines comfort, stability, and functionality. It features Mares updated SLS Integrated Weight Pocket system and offers excellent lift capacity. Highlights include:

• Improved fit with dedicated profiles for each size.
• Lightweight construction.
• 3-D self-draining pocket with zip closure.
• Available in two-colour options for men and women.

Mares Prestige SLS Diving BCD: Learn More

Mares Dragon BCD with SLS Weight System (Back Inflation BCD)

The Dragon SLS BCD is a back inflation BCD known for its reliability and durability. Its redesigned version offers enhanced comfort and stability, making it suitable for diverse diving conditions. Key features include:

• Separation between bag and straps for better movement.
• Internal fusion bladder for high lift capacity.
• Ergo inflation and deflation control device for intuitive use.
• Adjustable abdominal wide strap closure for a customised fit.

Mares Dragon BCD with SLS Weight System - Learn More

Mares Magellan Travel BCD (Jacket BCD)

Ideal for travel, the Magellan BCD is a front-adjustable jacket BCD that combines lightweight construction with robustness. Its foldable design and contoured shoulder straps ensure maximum comfort and freedom of movement. Key features include:

• Integrated quick-release ballast system.
• Pre-shaped shoulder straps for comfort.
• High-capacity cargo pockets for storage.

Mares Magellan Travel BCD - Learn More

Mares Bolt SLS BCD (Back Inflation BCD)

The Bolt SLS BCD is a back inflation BCD that offers exceptional comfort, stability, and hydrodynamics. Its rear-mounted wing-style bladder provides great lift capacity, while the Slide & Lock System ensures secure weight retention. Highlights include:

• Adjustable abdominal wide strap closure for a precise fit.
• Supplementary rear weight pocket for added balance.
• Easy transportation and customisation options.

Mares Bolt SLS BCD - Learn More

Mares Kaila SLS Women's Scuba Diving BCD (Jacket BCD)

Designed specifically for women, the Kaila SLS BCD is a front-adjustable jacket BCD that offers superior comfort and performance. It features Mares' SLS integrated weight pocket system and offers excellent fit customisation options. Key features include:

• Aircell slides on shoulders with "Dragon" winglets for increased comfort.
• Stretch pocket with neoprene panel for durability.
• Adjustable cummerbund for a personalised fit.

Mares Kaila SLS Women's Scuba Diving BCD - Learn More

Mares Scuba Ranger Junior Scuba Diving BCD (Jacket BCD)

Ideal for junior divers, the Scuba Ranger BCD is a front-adjustable jacket BCD that offers practicality and functionality. It includes features specifically tailored for younger divers, ensuring a comfortable and safe diving experience. Highlights include:

Adaptability to accommodate a variety of junior sizes.
Pockets for securing Octopus and Pressure/Depth Gauges.
Full rigid backplate for improved shock absorption.

Mares Scuba Ranger Junior Scuba - Learn More

Caring for Your BCD

Proper maintenance is essential to prolong the lifespan of your BCD. After each dive, rinse your BCD with fresh water to remove salt and debris. Allow it to air dry completely before storing it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Periodically inspect and service your BCD according to the manufacturer's recommendations to ensure optimal performance and safety.

Investing in a high-quality BCD is crucial for a safe and enjoyable diving experience. With Mares BCDs, you can trust that you're getting top-notch equipment designed to meet the demands of the underwater world. Explore our range of Mares BCDs on our website and embark on your next diving adventure with confidence.

As you embark on your next diving adventure, remember that your BCD is more than just equipment; it's your lifeline beneath the waves. At Watersports Warehouse, we're committed to providing you with the finest selection of Mares BCDs and accessories to ensure your safety, comfort, and enjoyment on every dive.

Whether you're exploring vibrant coral reefs, diving deep into mysterious wrecks, or simply enjoying the tranquillity of underwater life, trust in Mares to accompany you on your journey. With their dedication to quality, innovation, and reliability, Mares BCDs are the perfect companion for all your underwater explorations.

So, gear up, dive in, and let the wonders of the ocean unfold before you. Your next underwater adventure awaits with Mares and Watersports Warehouse. Happy diving!