The Zuma is Aqua Lung’s newest travel BCD. It only weighs 4.4 lbs! And let me tell you, when I packed up my gear to go diving today, I really noticed the weight difference!!! It also rolls into a nice tight little package that would fit perfectly into a carry on. (If you want to see how crazy small the BC can roll into, just come into the shop and see the display!)
When I first saw the Zuma I noticed how low the tank strap was and how bizarre that seemed (tank strap is at the same height as the waist strap). I thought that maybe it would rest uncomfortably on my backside or just constrict my motion underwater. I was also concerned about storage space!!! Where am I going to put all my stuff?! The Zuma has a small pocket that unfolds if needed that has the capacity to carry a dive light or slate. It also comes equipped with a few plastic D rings to hook other attachments on. I was very surprised to find that this BCD had two dump valves – one on the shoulder and one at the rear. I found no problem at all finding the cord when underwater today!
This was also my first experience with a back inflate! Pretty awesome. I’ve never felt more free (nothing bulky at my sides)! All in all, I was very pleased with the performance of this BC. It definitely was a different sensation regarding the tank strap placement, but didn’t take away from my diving experience whatsoever. A+!
-Katherine
