WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Masks:  Try on as many masks as possible and buy the one that fits best.  If you wear glasses, get a mask that will accept prescription lenses.  The weak point is the mask strap so ask the dive shop to throw in an extra one when you buy the mask.

Fins:  The trick is to find a fin with a foot pocket that perfectly matches the shape and size of your foot.  Other important considerations are blade size and flexibility.  Another item to look for is quick release buckles which will put a smile on your face when it’s time to remove your fins at the dive boat ladder.  Again, ask for a backup fin strap so you’ll be ready when one breaks.

Snorkels:  A soft, comfortable mouthpiece, a purge valve below the mouthpiece and a flexible lower tube so the mouthpiece falls out of the way when you’re not using the snorkel.

Wetsuits:  Because a top quality, custom-made wetsuit is one of the best investments you can make if you want to be a happy diver.  Get zippers in the arms and legs and make sure the neoprene is thick enough to keep you warm in the environment you’ll dive in most often.

BCDs:  Look for a weight-integrated BC that eliminates the discomfort of weight belts.  We also prefer rear flotation but this is a matter of personal taste. 

Regulators:  This is probably the most important item of gear you will ever buy.  There are many excellent regulators available and you do not have to saw off an arm and a leg for one that offers high performance.  Look for a balanced diaphram first stage and a light, compact second stage.  As always, try as many regulators as possible in a variety of different conditions and buy the one that feels best which probably will NOT be the most expensive one.  A good tip to increase a regulator’s longevity is to put it back on a tank after you rinse it and blow some air through it with the purge valve to remove water and corrosive particles that may be trapped in the system.

Dive Computers:  This is another essential item which, if properly used, will substantially enhance your safety and reduce the inherent risk of diving.  If you can dive without bells and whistles, you’ll find some very affordable dive computers that give you what you need to know.  If you’re into nitrox diving, you’ll want to buy a nitrox-capable computer which can be programmed for various gas mixes including one of our favorites, air.

Equipment Manufacturers
Apollo, Atomic, Bare, Beuchat, Bodyglove, Cressi-sub, Dacor, Deep Sea, Force Fin, Genesis, Henderson, Idi, Mares, Oceanic, O’neal, Pseidon, Scuba Pro, Sea Quest, Sea Vision, Sherwood, Tusa, Us Divers, Uwatec, Zeagle