#187
RonCooley - 3/19/2009 12:30 AM
Although weight-integrated is optional for men, most women need weight integration because a weight belt holds the weights too high up their bodies. For proper trim, most women need their weights on their hips, not on their waist. For MOST women, weight integrated BCDs can put the weight where she needs it better than a weight belt.



It’s harder for a woman to buy a BCD than it is for a man because different women have float differently due to fat (that floats) being carried in different areas of their bodies. Because of this difference, trim is the biggest issue, with floatation & weighting located perfectly for one woman in a BCD that doesn’t work well for another woman. If possible, don’t buy a BCD you haven’t had a chance to dive with. 


That said, the Zeagle Zena seems to fit (comfort & trim) more women than most BCDs, so I would recommend you try a Zena. Also try 3-4 others to find WHICH WORKS FOR YOU. If you find one that is comfortable and where you don’t have to think about trim, that’s the BCD for you.