Most of us don’t buy our own dive gear before we become qualified divers, and many of us simply rely on rental gear for the first few dives after we qualify – partly because purchasing scuba gear can be a bit challenging, and partly because quality gear can represent a significant financial investment. Once you are ready to purchase your first set of scuba gear, it’s vital that you first conduct some research, and that you seek assistance from someone with plenty of experience using various types of gear. Beyond this, there are some additional steps you can take to make your buying experience a pleasant and positive one.
Gear for Beginners
While some venues offer complete kits to students, many others require that you have a few of your own items to begin with. Don’t worry – you don’t need to purchase cylinders or weights right now, and you don’t need to invest in a buoyancy control device. In fact, all these large, bulky items are readily rented in most places, and as they are heavy and can be difficult to travel with, some avid divers make the decision to rent rather than purchase them. When you do begin purchasing gear for yourself, be sure it fits properly and is comfortable to wear. Not only does this make diving easier and safer, it also helps to ensure you enjoy your first dive experiences!
If you’re only now considering becoming a diver and you’re not quite sure what’s involved, the following information has been compiled with you in mind. Starting at the beginning, we’ll define SCUBA: This acronym stands for “Self Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus.” As you’ll learn during your first training session, your scuba gear is actually an underwater life support system. You can’t breathe without it!
Your first set of scuba gear should include the following items:
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Scuba Mask – A scuba mask is quite a bit like a snorkeling mask, however it is made with superior materials and is designed to stand up to the pressure of the underwater environment. Be sure you buy a mask designed for scuba diving, not for snorkeling. There are many different types available, including masks with prescription lenses, masks with purge valves for venting water that leaks in, and even masks with cameras attached.
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Snorkel – Your snorkel is designed for allowing you to breathe easily while surface swimming. It is not meant for breathing underwater, as it’s simply a tube that connects your airway to the air above the waterline. Learning how to snorkel before learning to dive is a good way to introduce yourself to the concept of seeing and breathing while your face is submerged in water. If you’re on the fence about learning to dive, consider learning to snorkel first since it’s less of an investment.
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Fins – Fins for scuba diving are different from the ones commonly sold with snorkel kits. Your fins are designed to help propel you through the water without tiring yourself. Try on a few different types as you make your choice, and listen to the advice the salesperson has to give. Be sure you can wiggle your toes, and ensure that the straps are roomy enough to accommodate a pair of booties. Just like trying on jeans to get that perfect fit, trying on fins can take some time. Be patient and make your choice carefully, and you’ll be rewarded with a better diving experience. Be sure to purchase a couple of extra straps to add to your save-a-dive kit!
Beyond Basics
Once you’ve passed your open water certification and are ready to dive on a regular basis, you may want to invest in some additional items many divers consider to be quite personal. Though these items can be rented, there are definitely advantages to owning them yourself.
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Buoyancy Control Device – Also known as a BC or BCD, a buoyancy control device looks a bit like an inflatable life jacket, but its main purpose is not to float you on the surface; it is designed to help you achieve negative buoyancy, neutral buoyancy, and positive buoyancy. There are several different styles available at various price points. Pick one with enough pockets to hold the accessories you prefer to dive with, and be sure to choose one that feels comfortable on your body. If at all possible, rent the same model and try it out before making an investment.
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Regulator – Regulators have different features and are available at various price points from a number of different manufacturers. Be sure to select a comfortable mouthpiece to go with your regulator, and you’ll find that breathing underwater is easier.
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Exposure Suits – Shorties, wetsuits, and drysuits are all types of exposure suits for diving. Each type is designed for use in specific conditions, and there are lots of designs to choose from. When purchasing your own exposure suit, be sure to consider what conditions you’ll be diving in most. If you think a drysuit might be best for you, you will need to take a drysuit diving course in order to use the suit safely.
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Dive Computers – A dive computer is a combined timer and depth gauge that monitors gas absorption and performs additional functions. As with other dive gear, there are many different types of dive computer available, and all come with specific advantages and disadvantages. Pick a computer that seems user-friendly to you, and be sure to get help from a salesperson if you are not absolutely certain about the features a certain model has. You may be able to rent a similar computer to try before making a purchase decision.
No matter which items you purchase, be sure that you care for them according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, and be certain to have items which require servicing maintained as recommended. Caring for your scuba gear doesn’t just help you stay comfortable and safe underwater, it also ensures that you’ll have to replace it less frequently, saving you money in the end.