The Best Scuba Diving Equipment

SCUBA diving equipment is chosen for current and future needs. Over time, many divers find the need to replace or upgrade equipment. This practice becomes expensive, and dive gear should be considered an investment in safety as well as the sport itself. Once quality dive equipment is identified and purchased, it should not require constant upgrading. Many dive professionals use the same equipment for years because it's reliable and well maintained. The distinguishing features of the best diving gear are fit and comfort, how it enhances performance underwater and its extended capability to meet the needs of continued experience.

  1. BCD

    • Buoyancy compensator devices (BCDs) enable a diver to descend to depths and provide stability when inflated at the surface. BCD design can be jacket, back inflated or hybrid styles. The amount of weight a BCD is capable of carrying is called lift, with heavy duty or cold water BCDs rated with a larger lift. Integrated weight pouches eliminate the need for a weight belt. Photographers and advanced divers consider the number of accessory rings and dump valves on a BCD, to maintain a streamlined profile underwater. Consider your current and future needs when selecting a BCD.

    Air

    • Divers carry a primary regulator and an alternate air source (octo). Many regulators have fixed settings that require professional tuning. Regulators with tuning valves and switches allow for the diver to adjust the air flow settings for easy breathing underwater. An octo is required for safe diving; this can be a secondary regulator or integrated with the low inflation setup of a BCD for a streamlined profile underwater. Select air sources that accommodate a range of conditions and require low maintenance.

    Computer

    • Dive computers can be basic analog gauges or more complex digital computers. Digital dive computers account for multilevel diving and can provide the diver with more precise information about time limits at certain depths. Digital dive computers also have the function of adjusting calculations based on air mixes such as enriched air (nitrox). Choose a digital computer that is readable underwater and provides the flexibility of calculating enriched air.

    Exposure Suit

    • Avid divers typically purchase an exposure suit with their first set of dive gear. A well-fitting exposure suit reduces or eliminates the effect of water in reducing core body temperature, improving comfort underwater and offering protection from the environment. Exposure suits can be wet suits, semi-dry wet suits or dry suits. Make sure your wet suit is snug fitting and if trained, your dry suit has enough room to accommodate internal layers of clothing.

    Personal Gear

    • Masks and fins are personal gear. A good-fitting mask that is properly defogged will last for years. Similarly, fins that are well-fitting and easy to don and doff become an extension of the diver's legs. When choosing fins, consider the water conditions and the style that promotes efficient kicking underwater without causing cramps. Many divers install spring straps to their fins for quick wear. Choose fins designed for efficiency.