Cressi Start BCD

At a glance

Cressi Start BCD is a bcd from Cressi, rated 4.2 out of 5 and placed 35 of 39 in our bcds & wings shortlist. Its defining number is lift capacity: 16-18 kg (35-40 lbs) depending on size. It scores hardest on packed weight (88/100) and softest on bench performance (60/100). The clearest advantage divers report: very affordable price point for beginners.

What the bcd actually gives you

Where it wins and where it costs you

Full review: Cressi Start BCD

The Cressi Start is a jacket-style buoyancy compensator device designed by Cressi, the Italian diving equipment manufacturer with decades of underwater innovation behind it, specifically for divers who want dependable performance without unnecessary complexity or expense. Built around a durable 420/840 denier nylon construction, this BCD is aimed at entry-level and recreational divers, as well as dive centers and rental fleets that need equipment capable of withstanding frequent use by different body types and experience levels. The jacket style wraps buoyancy around the diver's torso, offering stable in-water trim and making it easier for newer divers to maintain proper positioning while they build confidence and skill underwater.

Functionally, the Cressi Start features an external weight pocket system that allows quick-release weight dumping, letting divers ditch weight rapidly in an emergency without fumbling with integrated pouches. The BCD includes reliable stainless steel D-rings for attaching accessories like dive lights, cutting tools, or reel lines, along with a simple yet effective inflator/deflator mechanism that gives divers precise control over buoyancy adjustments at depth and during ascents. The backpack section is padded for comfort during long surface swims or boat transitions, while the cummerbund and adjustable shoulder straps accommodate a range of body sizes, making it a versatile choice for dive shops that need one model to fit many customers.

Overall, the Cressi Start strikes a balance between affordability and functionality, making it a practical entry point for divers who are just moving beyond certification courses into regular recreational diving. Its straightforward design minimizes maintenance concerns, an important factor for rental operations that put equipment through repeated use across varying conditions. Whether used in warm tropical waters or temperate dive sites, the Start provides the buoyancy control, comfort, and durability that align with Cressi's reputation for producing gear that performs reliably without overwhelming the user with excessive features, making it a sensible choice for beginners building their personal dive kit or facilities outfitting multiple divers at once.