Fins, Masks & Snorkels

The Essential Scuba Diving Gear You Need for Your First Class

You may think it’s unnecessary to have your own scuba diving gear, especially if you’re a beginner. The truth is, you may not want to wear a diving suit or a mask that has been used before.  Scuba is a very personal activity and so should your scuba gear. Beginners, in specific, are advised to have their own basic set and gradually add advanced equipment as their skill level progresses.

Here’s the scuba diving equipment you need to include in your beginner’s set:

1. Scuba mask

The function of the mask is to create an air space in front of your eyes so you can see clearly underwater. To choose this essential scuba diving piece, you need to check a few points. First, the mask should rest easy with no gaps on your face. The skirt should also feel comfortable on your upper lip. Second, place the regulator or snorkel mouthpiece in your mouth. The mask should still feel comfortable. Third, be sure the nose pocket doesn’t touch your nose. The nose pocket allows equalization of air pressure as you dive deeper.

Finally, repeat the three steps mentioned above but with the mask strap around the back of your head. Some masks come with adjustable straps to provide extra comfort. This essential scuba diving gear may also include purge valves to help get rid of any water that leaks in.

2. Scuba fins

Remember you’re a human diving into a territory dominated by fish. Wearing scuba diving fins is the closest you can get to a sea creature. Fins help you move through water with ease enforcing the power of your leg muscles. When choosing scuba fins, go for ones that are efficient and comfortable. They should snugly fit without pinching your toes or binding your feet. If there isn’t enough room to wiggle your toes, they’re too small then.

As a beginner, you may be less conditioned, so smaller, more flexible fins would be a better fit. However, if your hip and leg muscles are strong, you can start off with bigger, stiffer scuba diving fins. In both cases, make sure the buckles and straps are easy to use.

Another point to consider is the open heel versus the full-foot fins. Open-heels are best worn in cold waters with a bootie underneath. Closed heels work best with warm waters though they lack the adjustability and flexibility of the open-heel scuba fins.

3. Scuba suit

Having your own scuba diving equipment is a decision you shall never regret, especially with a piece as personal as the scuba suit. Scuba suits made of neoprene are form-fitting and provide insulation against cool water. Other spandex-like suits made of lycra, for instance, don’t provide as much insulation, but, still, help protect the skin from injuries. Your scuba diving suit should snugly fit, so it doesn’t absorb much water and consequently lowers your body temperature.

Other features to look for in your scuba diving suit are the wrist, collar, and ankle seals, sealing flaps behind zippers, pre-bent arms and legs, and smooth inner coatings. Do not go for a suit that is too loose or contains a lot of gaps or one that is too tight that it restricts movement and breathing.

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