Scuba diving is an exciting way to explore the underwater world of rivers, lakes and oceans. You will need reliable scuba equipment whether you dive professionally or just for fun. Scuba gear makes it possible for you to dive and to safely adapt to a variety of underwater conditions. It is important for all divers to know how their diving equipment works, how to assemble it and how to use it properly.
Scuba Mask and Snorkel
Two essential pieces of equipment for any kind of diving are the scuba mask and the snorkel. The mask allows you to see underwater while protecting your eyes. Your mask needs a tight seal; the seal creates a pocket of air around the eyes that allows you to see clearly. The mask should also have a comfortable, flexible nose piece to enable you to equalize the pressure in your ears.
Snorkels allow you to breathe with your face in the water while swimming on the surface without having to use oxygen from your tank.
Wet Suit and Fins
All divers need to wear a wet suit and fins. Your wet suit protects you from cuts and scrapes and keeps you warm when you are diving. It can also help prevent hypothermia which can lead to decompression sickness. Wet suits are made out of synthetic rubber and come in a variety of thicknesses which allow you to dive in different water temperatures.
Scuba fins allow you to propel yourself through the water using only your legs. Fins may be webbed, split, curved or shaped like a dolphin's tail. Some fins are flexible and some are stiff; fins with a stiffer blade allow to move more efficiently in the water. Your fins should not be overly tight or loose, and should fit like a good pair of shoes.
Scuba Regulator and Alternate Air Source
A scuba regulator is a device that reduces the air pressure from your tank and makes the air breathable. The regulator is connected to your tank by a hose, and has an attached mouth piece which you use to breathe while you're underwater.
You should always have an alternate air source in case the primary regulator malfunctions. Extra regulators also allow you share your air to with other divers if they happen to run out of oxygen while underwater.
Extra Accessories
There are a variety of accessories that can make your diving experience safer and more fulfilling. Diving lights are used for night dives and to explore dark areas and cracks and crevices. A diving knife can be used for protection or to cut through underwater debris that may become tangled around you as you dive. Floats rest on top of the water above you as you dive, and alert passing boaters that divers are in the area. A whistle or signal tubes are signaling devices that can be used to get the attention of a boat or other divers.
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