Scubapro Hydros Pro BCD Review: A Modern Scuba Solution
The Scubapro Hydros Pro BCD is a top-of-line buoyancy compensation device design with a great deal of versatility. It’s a highly customizable BCD which allows for the addition or removal of weight systems. The modular design allows it to be used as an integrated weight and a lightweight travel BCD.
If you’re looking for a BCD that performs no matter where your diving adventure takes you, then you should consider this BCD. In this review, we are going to look at some of the key features that make this BCD from Scubapro stand out from the rest, as well as our thoughts on what we like and don’t like.
Let’s dive in…
Manufacture: Scubapro.com
Our Score:
Summary:
The Scubapro Hydros Pro BCD is a modular black-inflated (Wing Design) BCD that makes it easy to replace components to change how it weights and functions. It can either be a tough weight integrated BC or lightweight enough to be packed for travel. It also features a flexible harness made from monoplane which can mold and holds its position while being tough as neals.
Scubapro Hydros Pro BCD Review Video
The video below is a great overview of the BCD done by the guys over at SimplyScuba.com. In the video, you can get a closer look at some of the great features of the Scubapro Hydros Pro.
Features And Benefits
The Scubapro Hydros Pro BCD comes with a wide variety of features that make it worth the price tag.
Comfortable Fit
For one, in terms of comfort, this unit is made to be worn for long periods of time without shifting or riding up. This is thanks to the Body Grip Gel and the dual compound back plate, plus the articulated shoulder straps are fully adjustable to provide a snug and comfortable fit.
It’s designed to mold to your body and to allow for proper weight distribution
Durable Construction
Something else which stands out about the Scubapro Hydros Pro BCD is how it is made with Monprene, same as the Seawing Nova Fins, which is extremely durable, resistant to wear and tear, and nearly impossible to puncture. It also happens to be very resistant toward chemicals and sunlight as well.
The BCD itself is quite solid, and it helps to hold the tank firmly in place, as well as all other necessary components.
Weight Integrated
On that same note, the Scubapro Equator BCD can hold up to 44 pounds of releasable weights, spread out over 4 pockets.
In terms of the weight and design, it’s a fairly sleek and streamlined model which allows for fast and easy swimming, plus it’s also fairly lightweight.
Durable 420-D Nylon Construction
The 420-D nylon fabric used in the construction is surprisingly lightweight, but also quite durable; it may not be the most durable in the world, but still enough to be resistant toward a good deal of punishment.
Modular Design
Finally, one of the biggest selling points of the hydros is its modular design and ability to personalize it to your specific needs. By removing the weight system it can easily strip down to be a lightweight travel BCD. You can also easily remove damaged parts or upgrade parts to make it into the ultimate BC for local diving.
BCD Specs
BCD Type | Jacket |
BCD Style | Travel |
Lift Capacity | 22.5lbs/10.2Kg |
Weight Integrated | Yes |
Weight Capacity | 7.35lbs/3.33kg Each-Pocket |
Valves | 3 |
Number of Pockets | 2 |
Pocket type | Zipper Closure |
Number of D Ring | 6 |
Trim Pocket | No |
How Does It Stack Up?
Durability
Made with a dual compound Monprene® construction and high-quality components; durability is definitely not an issue here.
Functionality
Designed with a high level of customization, the Scubapro Hydros Pro BCD can be used for virtually any type of diving.
Comfort
The lightweight design, the gel back plate, and the adjustable shoulder straps make this BCD about as comfortable as humanly possible.
Price
The Scubapro Hydros Pro BCD is a very expensive BCD to go with, although it is technically worth the investment.
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What We Like
What we like about this Scubapro Hydros Pro BCD is that it’s simply one of the most durable, comfortable, and versatile buoyancy control devices around. The fact that it’s so highly customizable and can be worn for virtually any diving situation is a big bonus. Being adjustable for comfort, being highly durable, and allowing for the attachment of weight systems are all big benefits. All the dump valves are in the right place and the controls are fits in your hands nicely and easy to use.
What We Don’t Like
When it comes down to it, one of the main things that we don’t like about the Scubapro Hydros Pro BCD is its high price. It is, in fact, one of the most expensive BCDs on the market right now. Yes, it is a high-quality item no doubt, but you also have to pay for it.
The next thing we don’t like about the BCD we don’t like about this BC is that there is no quick release for the weight pockets.
Who Is The Scubapro Hydros Pro Designed for?
The Scubapro Hydros Pro BCD is designed for people who need an all-around comfortable, durable, and highly customizable buoyancy control device. Due to its 2-in-1 design, it can be used as a weighted BCD system for quick sinking and rising, as well as a travel BCD system.
It’s the kind of BCD that can be used for shallow, deep, cold, and warm waters alike. It’s perfect for anybody who needs a high-end BCD designed with quality components, versatility, and made with comfort in mind.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Scubapro Hydros Pro BCD gender specific?
How portable is the Scubapro Hydros Pro BCD?
Do the weight pouches come included?
The Bottom Line
If you plan on doing a lot of scuba diving, and you plan on doing so in varying water conditions, both locally or on travel, but you only want to buy one BCD, the Scubapro Hydros Pro BCD makes for a great option.
It might be a bit pricey, but it’s got the durability, functionality, comfort, reliability and customizability to match.
