Scuba Diving & Snorkeling Buying Guide

There is something intriguing about the underwater world, something special and different.  We all wish to explore it in our own way, though we don't have the gills in which to do so.  However, with the aide of a snorkel  or scuba tank , we are free to swim with schools of tropical fish  or explore intriguing underwater rock formations .  So whether you are a first-time snorkeler or an experienced diver, we have all of the equipment and information that you are going to need before you hit the water.

Snorkeling

To become a snorkeler, all that you will need is about an hour of time, a body of water, and an approximate $50 worth of gear .  Yet, like most things, you will want to be sure that you have properly planned your adventure ahead of time.  

• Learn the basics.  Before jumping in, you should know how to clear any water from your mouthpiece and how to readjust your mask while treading water. 
• Have equipment that is fitting.  It is very important that your equipment fits properly.  Fins that are too large will often slip off of your feet and a mask that's too big will leak in water.
• Look, but don't touch.  Even the gentlest caress can harm the wildlife.  You won't want to feed the fish either, as it will only lead them to become dependent on handouts, losing their ability to hunt for food.
• Be cautious.  Always be aware of your surroundings; you will want to steer clear of stinging jellyfish and fire coral.  It is also wise to remove all jewelry, as shiny things have led barracudas to attack.  
• Stay calm.  Choose calm waters for snorkeling; it will be much more enjoyable! And do be aware of currents. Unless you plan to do a "drift dive" where you start in one spot and let the current carry you to an exit point, it's usually best to swim into the current first and then let it carry you back at the end when you are the most tired.
• Know your site.  Prior to your excursion, study the problems or conditions that surround your site.  If it is known for its currents, waves, shallow spots, or difficult entries, then you will want to be sure to bring a flotation device.  Being aware of your environment will keep your mind focused on your snorkeling!

Snorkeling Essentials
Mask Snorkeling masks are an important part of your equipment, as they allow you to see the beauty of the underwater world!  All masks have a lens, a rubber strap, and a skirt, which create the seal and provide air space for your eyes.	Snorkel Snorkels can come in either a dry  or semi-dry  models; this deciphers how much water might come in during your swim and is all a matter of preference.  We recommend buying a snorkel with a replaceable mouthpiece , as this will wear out with extensive use.	Fins Fins are a snorkeler's means of forward movement in the water.  With many different colors, sizes, and styles available, you can easily find a pair to suit your needs.	Sun Protection Be sure to wear a generous coating of waterproof sunscreen  on your back and on the backs of your legs.  The water over you serves as a magnifier, so you may not realize that your skin is burning until it is too late!  Those with extra sensitive skin may want to wear a rashguard top .	Life Vest  Though wearing a life vest may seem like a hassle, it will keep you safe in the water.  Beginners will absolutely want to wear one; however, we will recommended it to everyone, as it will make your swim much easier, allowing you to keep your energy and enjoy the marine life.

Scuba Diving

Scuba diving may be performed for a number of reasons, both personal and professional. Most people begin though recreational diving, which is performed purely for enjoyment and has a number of distinct technical disciplines to increase interest underwater, such as cave diving ,wreck diving ,ice diving  and deep sea diving .  Yet, no matter what your passion, the basic essentials of diving are still the same. 

• Know your limits.  To dive, you will obviously need to be certified.  While you can go out on your own, it is strongly emphasized that you know your capabilities.  Never dive in conditions that you have not been trained for or are not comfortable with.  For even better safety, dive with a buddy!
• Avoid ear injuries.  With greater depths comes greater pressure.  If you have problems equalizing your ears while you make your descent, ascend a few feet to relieve ear pressure slightly, and then try again. If after a few tries you still cannot get your ears to clear, you should call off the dive to avoid hurting yourself.
• Improve air consumption.  Better air consumption means longer bottom times.  You can actually improve your diving time by 25%, simply by controlling your breathing patterns; slow, even movements will help you keep a neutral buoyancy, preserving more air.  If you are very concerned about running out of air, a dive in shallower waters will help you feel more comfortable. 
• Understand your gear.  It is important to know why your gear does what it does, as this will make you feel much more confident in the water.  Scuba certification courses should teach you how to use your gear responsibly, though they will not make product recommendations (that's what we are here for!).  We are in favor of buying your own gear instead of renting it from a scuba shop; this way you get a perfect fit for your needs every time.   

Scuba Diving Essentials
Wetsuit This piece of diving gear will need to be just the right fit.  It serves as a second skin and will provide you with thermal protection while diving.  If the suit fits too tightly, it can restrict your breathing, yet if it is too loose, water can seep in.	Buoyancy Compensator (BC)  A buoyancy compensator is a jacket that you can inflate to keep afloat at the surface, adjust your buoyancy while diving, and hold your scuba tank  and regulator  (as well as other dive accessories ). A BC should fit like a comfortable jacket--snug but not too tight.	Air Regulator  A scuba regulator is one of the most important pieces of dive gear. The regulator supplies you with air from the tank at a pressure that will allow you to breath properly underwater. Attached to the regulator is a primary second stage, an additional second stage (often called an octopus) and a set of scuba gauges.	Scuba Weights  A scuba weight system works in harmony with the BC to help you maintain proper buoyancy. Weights can be worn on a belt  around your waist or integrated  in the BC. No matter which option you go with, you must be able to release them quickly in case of an emergency.	Gauges  and Dive Computers  Scuba gauges are used to give you important information while diving. These gauges will tell you how deep they are and the remaining air pressure in their tank. Some gauges will tell you how much dive time is left based on the remaining air pressure in your tank.

• Looking to take diving lessons?  Check out our Guide to Scuba Lessons to find out what kind of equipment you will need to take along with you, as well as what you can expect from different certification courses!

Useful Extras

Underwater Photography Surely you will want to capture the beauty below.  Whether its a disposable camera  or an underwater case  for your digital, underwater photography is a must on your excursion!	Lights  The deeper you go, the darker it gets.  Protect yourself with lights made specifically for deep dives.	Gear Bag  Stay organized by keeping all of your snorkel  or scuba gear  in one place.  Look for a gear bag in the right size and color to suit your style!	Knives and Spearguns  Some divers like to bring a dive knife along with them.  This provides extra protection in the case of an emergency.	Underwater Watches  Keep track of your time underwater with a dive watch , but beware of wearing anything too ornate underwater; you don't want to attract a predatory fish/mammal with anything reflective or flashy. Rubber and PVD-coated watches  are a good bet for any underwater sports activity.  Popular brands like Citizen ,Bulova ,Luminox  and Seiko  all make watches that cater to the needs of a diver.

Related Guides

Check out some of our other buying guides to learn more! 

• Men's Beachwear
• Travel
• Underwater Cameras
• Water Sports
• Women's Swimsuits