The acronym "scuba" refers to self-contained underwater breathing apparatus, a descriptive phrase coined in 1939 by the United States Navy to describe a rebreather suit invented by Christian Lambertsen. The suit, designed for underwater warfare, weighed 28 lbs. and featured a full face mask. Later refinements to scuba gear lead to recreational applications. Today's scuba gear, compared to Lambertsen's invention, can best be described as high tech and fashionable.
Early Scuba Gear
In 1943, Frenchmen Jacques-Yves Cousteau and Emile Gagnon collaborated to design an on-demand underwater breathing apparatus. Cousteau, a marine explorer, and Gagnon, an engineer, developed what they called the "Aqua Lung." As opposed to earlier devices that had continuous air flow, the Aqua Lung allowed the diver to breathe fresh air as needed from a cylinder, then exhale carbon dioxide into the water. Today's scuba gear owes much to the Aqua Lung.
Essential and Non-Essential Gear
Scuba gear includes essential and non-essential equipment. Essential equipment consists of a scuba unit (tank, regulator and buoyancy control device), mask and fins. A wide variety of items such as a snorkel, weights, dive computer and gear bag comprise a category of handy, but non-essential scuba gear. You may rent or purchase most scuba gear.
Functions
Essential scuba gear enables you to free swim and breathe underwater for extended periods of time. The buoyancy control device (BC or BCD) is a vest-like apparatus used to control descent and ascent. Attached to the BC is the tank. Adding or releasing air into the bladders of the BC allows the diver to go up, down, or hover in the water. A regulator is also connected to the tank and delivers air to the diver. Masks provide divers with the ability to clearly see underwater. Fins help to propel divers through the water while expending a minimal amount of energy.
Considerations
When purchasing scuba gear, first contemplate where and how often you will be diving. While basic gear will suffice for the occasional dive trip, non-essentials such as a dive computer will prove invaluable for frequent dive excursions. Consider purchasing scuba gear from reputable dive shops or dealers. While purchasing used equipment from individuals or discount sporting good stores might lower the initial cost, professional dive shops offer services that cannot be easily replicated. For example, professional dive shops can provide prescription lenses for your mask, ensure that your scuba gear fits properly, and can match scuba gear to your personal needs and skill level.
Warning
Divers depend upon the functionality of their scuba gear. Malfunctions can contribute to aborted dives, dive accidents, or even fatalities. Prior to any dive, check that your gear is operational. Following every dive, carefully rinse all equipment and allow it to air dry. You should have tanks and regulators checked annually by a certified dive shop.
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