Tips for Finding the Best Scuba Gear

There are countless online sources that purport to tell you exactly how to choose the right scuba gear. These include gear reviews, buddy recommendations and magazine articles, and now our humble little blog. Well, at the risk of adding to what may already be a confusing decision for first time divers, we would like to offer our tips on what to look for when buying new gear.

• Buy in person: As we’ve said, there are many sites that offer advice on choosing the perfect diving gear. There are also just many places to purchase scuba gear online. However, if you want to be sure that sizing and comfort are perfect for you, there is no substitute for doing an in-person fitting. Look at stores in your area and go in to try the equipment you are considering buying.
• Buy what you can afford: Don’t take chances with your safety by purchasing discount scuba gear. Buy the best equipment you can afford to buy and that fits you and the kind of diving you will be doing.
• Know what sort of diving you will be doing: Where you will be diving will greatly impact the kind of gear you will want to purchase. For example, if you plan to explore temperate waters like those that surround Maui, you will want to purchase lightweight equipment. On the other hand, if you plan to explore colder regions such as the North Sea, you will want to purchase heavy-duty equipment meant to withstand colder temperatures.
• Test your equipment prior to making a purchase: Fit is the most import
• ant feature to consider when buying every component to a diving outfit. For masks, perform the “suction test.” Do this by placing the mask on your face sans the strap and inhaling. If you are unable to breath then the mask will be airtight. Also, be sure to thoroughly test your fins, suit, buoyancy compensators and regulator before buying. Any reputable store owner will be more than happy to help you find the right equipment in your size.
• Seek advice: Inexperienced divers should seek the advice of people who have diving experience in order to aid them in the decision-making process. Sources of advice and information for beginners includes local dive shops, clubs, schools, buddies, and plenty of Internet groups.

Hopefully, these tips will help you to choose the right diving equipment. In the end, it pays to put a little research and time into the search for the perfect dive equipment. Doing so will ensure that you have a safe dive and that your equipment will last for many years. That way you will also get value from your purchase. When you have chosen the right equipment join us on one of our custom dives in Maui. Our beginner dive tour in Maui is fun, safe and will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.