While most dive shops rent dive gear, it is best that divers own several pieces of basic equipment. When purchasing this equipment, you need to consider several factors, including comfort, fit, price and type of diving. The success of a dive trip is heavily influenced by the fit of the dive gear. If scuba gear does not fit properly or is used incorrectly, serious injury can result, making it imperative that you are comfortable with your equipment.
Scuba Mask and Snorkel
The scuba mask and snorkel are the two most basic pieces of equipment. When fitted properly, a scuba mask allows you to see clearly underwater. To test the fit of a scuba mask, place the mask on your face and breathe in through the nose. If the mask sits comfortably in place without the strap, it is a well-fitting mask. The snorkel is a small tube that traditionally hangs from the left side of the dive mask. Its basic function is to allow you to swim along the water's surface without having to lift your head to breathe.
Scuba Booties and Fins
Scuba fins are designed to reduce the amount of energy you exert while swimming. If fitted properly, scuba fins engage your thigh muscles, allowing you to propel yourself farther, faster and more efficiently through the water. Scuba booties are like neoprene socks that fit snugly under the fins. Sized in a similar way as shoes, scuba booties are designed to keep your feet warm while protecting them from cuts, abrasions and blisters.
Scuba Weight Systems
Scuba weight systems are designed to offset the buoyancy of a scuba diver's body and gear, in order to create neutral buoyancy. Ideally, scuba weights prevent you from floating to the surface or sinking to the bottom. How much weight you need to carry to establish neutral buoyancy depends on many factors, including lean muscle mass, weight and gear. Although many different weight systems are available, the traditional and simplest system is a nylon belt with solid weights that can be slipped on and off.
Buoyancy Compensation Devices
Buoyancy compensation devices, or BCDs, are inflatable vests that are fitted with a harness for mounting air tanks onto your back. BCDs can be inflated and deflated under water, giving divers the ability to adjust their buoyancy. Most BCDs have a lift capacity of 30 to 40 lbs. and have many pockets for storing various gauges and gear. When fitted correctly, a BCD will lie snugly across the chest but still allow the arms a full range of motion.
Regulators and Gauges
A regulator is a two-part device that allows divers to breathe underwater. It does this by reducing the pressure of the air coming from the tank to the ambient water pressure before delivering it to the diver for breathing. The first part of the regulator connects to the air tank and the second part connects to your mouthpiece. You should also carry gauges that allow you to monitor depth, air consumption, direction and time. These gauges provide you with vital information for navigation, monitoring air supply, and determining when and how quickly to start your ascent.
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