Scuba Diving Gear

There are few things as exhilarating as scuba diving. Yet, we know what you’re thinking – “why would I willfully place myself in a foreign, unknown environment with killers outfitted in a flimsy latex suit and an oxygen tank?” Well, if you put it that way, you’ve got an argument. Yet, folks have been diving for years, and while we can’t say (not by a long-shot) that it is risk-free, it’s certainly not as dangerous as you might expect. Scuba diving made a big splash (pun intended) during the 1930s and through World War II. The Germans, Italians and British were leaders at this time, developing oxygen re-breathers and bringing to existence the infamous frogmen. Post World War II frogmen continued with re-breathers, which were strategic devices as they didn’t make bubbles, and hence did not give away the presence of the divers. As scuba diving became more technologically advanced, it went from military use to more recreational use. Prior to buying anything, or even booking that trip to the Great Barrier Reef, if you want to scuba dive the first step is obtaining a license. Like driving, jumping into the water with an oxygen tank immersed in a liquid bereft of air requires some initial training. Most scuba license programs require applicants to be at least 10 years of age, in good physical health, and with decent to above-average swimming skills. A course consists of a classroom or independent study program where scuba diving principles are laid out over five sections of the Open Water Diver Course. Next comes a confined water dive where basic scuba skills are imparted, and finally, open water dives where more exploration is encouraged. But what kind of gear do I need, you ask? Great question, and the first purchase is the diving mask. Our eyes aren’t great underwater, and as such a mask is vital. But more than that, the whole point of diving is to take in (visually) the beauty and wonder of the sea. A high-quality, comfortable mask will make all the difference. Don’t skimp here as a good mask is arguably the number on priority in terms of diving gear. After the mask, the drysuit or wetsuit is your next purchase. These are typically made of neoprene rubber, which serves to keep you “warmer” by locking in a thin layer of water along your skin. We say this keeps you “warmer” because the temperature of the water you’re diving in is the first determinate in how warm you’ll remain. If the water is overly cold you’ll need a thicker suit to maintain a comfortable, diving temperature. Fins are optional, but most folks use them. In fact, if you know someone with fins, ask to borrow them and take them out for a test-swim in a pool. You’ll quickly recognize the difference fins make in your swimming experience. Speed is greatly enhanced as is your movement and agility. Fins come in an open heel format or full foot fins. Lastly, one of the more costly purchases is your scuba tank and regulator. Most tanks are made of aluminum or steel and have a maximum pressure rating anywhere from 2000 to 3500 psi. The regulator makes is possible to breath the air housed in the tank, and the key with the regulator is finding one that is comfortable and performs according to your individual needs. From here, additional components like gloves, a dive computer, and underwater camera and host of other accessories can be purchased. We recommend renting this gear to begin with, and if you think scuba diving is for you long-term, then pull the trigger and buy your gear moving forward.