Purchasing dive gear is the final step for new divers ready to take the plunge into scuba. The amount of dive gear, gizmos and gadgets you need can be overwhelming for first time scuba shoppers. Don’t be concerned, here is a quick list of dive gear essentials for beginners planning their first scuba dive.
Getting started with dive gear
Masks
Scuba diving allows you to explore underwater, but if you want to actually see what lies beneath you better get yourself a mask. The dive mask seals around your nose and eyes to create an air pocket, allowing you to keep your eyes open while underwater. Unlike goggles, the mask encloses the nose as well so you are able to equalise air pressure as you dive down deeper. When choosing an appropriate dive mask, place the mask on your face without the straps to ensure it sits evenly without any gaps. Next, place the head strap on and make sure the mask sits comfortably on your face. Note: the nose pocket should not be touching the skin or be uncomfortable on the upper lip.
Snorkels
While you will require a dive tank for deeper scuba dives, the snorkel allows you to conserve air while you are close to the surface or diving shallowly. The main thing to look for in a snorkel is comfort – you don’t want to be adjusting the mouthpiece while you are diving, as this can become a real nuisance. If you don’t plan on doing much snorkelling or shallow diving, this piece isn’t necessary.
Fins
If you want to explore the ocean, you must do like the fish and don on a set of fins. They will assist in propelling you through the water, conserving energy and helping you dive for longer without over-exerting yourself with kicking. When looking for fins, tighter is better – there’s nothing worse than a lose flipper. There are two options when choosing fins – open-heel or full foot. While full foot fins don’t require dive booties, open-heels do. However, open-heel fins include an adjustable strap, making them perfect for multiple users (family members).
Suits
If you are not planning on diving in warmer waters, you will need to invest in a good quality dive suit to keep you warm while in the water. Dive suits or wetsuits range in thickness and material for versatility around different dive locations. The suit will need to be snug to stop unwanted water becoming trapped inside and robbing you of body heat. Wetsuits can vary in sleeve length, leg options, inner coatings, and colours – the brighter the colour, the more visible you are in the water to other divers.
Get decked out and ready to dive
If you are ready to get your dive gear and start exploring the oceans, get your essential snorkel gear from the team at Dolphin Scuba. The Welshpool based dive gear shop offers one of Australia’s most diverse ranges of premium scuba brands, snorkels and diving gear. Dolphin Scuba are able to get you ready to dive by suiting you up with the basic dive gear required. Our team is made up of full-time dive instructors with years of experience and knowledge to help our clients. We can assist you at our Welshpool store, open 7 days a week, or you can contact us on 9353 2488.