Getting
Started with your Scuba Gear
Although
most if not all your Scuba Gear can be rented, It is best
to purchase a few items to start with. As the Editor and
avid Scuba Diver of this section of the website I would
like to help direct you to obtaining the proper starting
gear and not have to go through the mess I did in the beginning
by purchasing unnecessary equipment that will sit in your
closet forever.
To
start with you will only need a Mask, Snorkel, Fins, Booties,
and Gloves.
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Scuba
Masks
There are quite a few Scuba Masks on the market today
to choose from, it is best to purchase a Mask from
a Scuba Dive Shop as they will have a quality selection
to choose from. Stay away from Masks sold at your
local Big 5 Store as they are not meant for Ocean
Depths and can seriously injure you. Your Scuba Mask
is a "Very Good" investment and will last
you for years of diving so it is best to get a really
good one to start with and spend the extra money,
you'll be thankful you did.
Do's
1.
Make sure the Mask is Certified for Scuba Diving.
2. Try on different Masks for a proper and comfortable
fit.
3. Consider a Mask Strap, they make a world of difference.
Don't's
1. Don't buy a Mask with a Purge Valve -
One less thing to break.
2. Don't use a hand me down Mask.
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Scuba
Mask Average Price
$50.00
Mask
Straps
Average Price
$10.00
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Snorkels
Some snorkels have extra features which can
be very useful such as purge valves and wave or splash
protectors. These are all great, as long as they are
working properly and don't restrict the flow of air.
Do's
1.
It is best to start with a basic no thrills cheap
Snorkel for training.
Don't's
1. Stay away from Snorkels with a Wave or
Splash Protector.
They tend to stick after a
few uses. Very frustrating. |
Snorkel
Average Price
$10.00 - $50.00
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Scuba
Booties
To choose the best size for you simply use
your normal tennis shoe size as a guide. If you normally
wear a 1/2 size in a shoe, simply round up to the
next biggest size, (8 1/2 would become a 9.) Remember
that it is always better to get a pair of boots that
is a half size too big than to small. |
Scuba
Booties
Average Price
$30.00 - $80.00
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Scuba
Fins
Fins make a big difference when Scuba Diving.
To start with you
can purchase inexpensive fins for training and invest
in better ones later on. I prefer the Split Fins,
as they require minimal effort to use.
Do's
1.
Try on the fins with booties to make sure they fit
good and have good straps
that won't break on you.
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Scuba
Fins
Average Price
$20.00 - $250.00
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Scuba
Gloves
Depending on how easily you get cold will
determine what thickness of Scuba Gloves you should.
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Scuba
Gloves
Average Price
$30.00 - $80.00
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