Congratulations on completing your Open Water certification! Now comes the exciting decision of purchasing your first set of diving equipment. While it might seem overwhelming at first, choosing the right gear is crucial for your safety, comfort, and enjoyment underwater. This comprehensive guide will help you make informed decisions about your first diving equipment purchases.
Why Buy Your Own Equipment?
Many new divers wonder whether they should invest in their own equipment or continue renting. While rental gear is perfectly adequate for occasional diving, owning your equipment offers several advantages:
- Familiarity: Using the same equipment builds muscle memory and confidence
- Hygiene: Your own gear is always clean and well-maintained
- Perfect fit: Equipment sized specifically for you improves comfort and performance
- Cost savings: Over time, owning equipment is more economical than renting
- Availability: No worries about rental equipment being unavailable or unsuitable
Essential Equipment Priority List
Not all diving equipment is created equal in terms of importance and cost. Here's a recommended order for building your diving kit:
Priority 1: Personal Items
These items should be your first purchases as they directly affect comfort and hygiene:
Mask
Your mask is arguably the most important piece of equipment. A poorly fitting mask can ruin a dive, while a good one becomes invisible once underwater. When choosing a mask:
- Ensure a proper seal by placing it on your face without the strap and inhaling gently through your nose
- Choose tempered glass lenses for safety and clarity
- Consider low-volume masks for easier clearing
- Look for comfortable, hypoallergenic silicone skirts
Snorkel
While not always used during scuba diving, a snorkel is essential for surface swimming and is required by most certification agencies. Choose a simple, comfortable design without unnecessary features that might cause problems.
Fins
Fins are your primary means of propulsion underwater. Consider these factors:
- Open heel vs. full foot: Open heel fins are more versatile and can be worn with boots
- Blade stiffness: Stiffer blades provide more power but require stronger leg muscles
- Size: Fins should fit snugly without being too tight
- Material: Look for durable materials that won't crack or break easily
Budget Tip:
Start with a good mask, snorkel, and fins set. Many manufacturers offer package deals that can save you money while ensuring compatibility between components.
Priority 2: Exposure Protection
Staying warm underwater is crucial for comfort and safety:
Wetsuit
For Red Sea diving, a 3-5mm wetsuit is typically sufficient. Consider:
- Thickness: 3mm for warm water, 5mm for cooler conditions or longer dives
- Fit: Should be snug but not restrictive
- Style: Full suits offer maximum protection
- Quality: Look for reinforced knees and good zippers
Boots and Gloves
Neoprene boots protect your feet and provide better fin fit, while gloves protect your hands from cuts and stings (where permitted).
Priority 3: Safety Equipment
Dive Computer
A dive computer is essential for safe diving. It tracks your depth, time, and decompression status. Features to consider:
- Display: Easy-to-read screen with good contrast
- Algorithm: Conservative algorithms prioritize safety
- Battery: User-replaceable vs. rechargeable
- Additional features: Nitrox capability, logbook function, compass
Surface Marker Buoy (SMB)
An SMB increases your visibility to boats and other divers during ascent and at the surface. Essential for drift diving and recommended for all diving.
Major Equipment Considerations
These items represent significant investments and should be purchased after gaining more diving experience:
Buoyancy Control Device (BCD)
Your BCD controls your buoyancy underwater. Types include:
- Jacket-style: Wraps around your torso, good for beginners
- Back-inflate: Inflates behind you, better for horizontal trim
- Wing-style: Used with backplates, popular with technical divers
Regulator System
Your regulator delivers air from your tank. A complete system includes:
- First stage: Reduces tank pressure
- Primary second stage: What you breathe from
- Octopus: Backup second stage for emergencies
- Pressure gauge: Shows remaining air
- Inflator hose: Connects to your BCD
Shopping Tips
Try Before You Buy
Whenever possible, try equipment before purchasing. Many dive shops offer demo programs or will let you test equipment in their pool.
Buy from Reputable Dealers
Purchase from authorized dealers who can provide proper service and warranty support. Avoid buying life-support equipment from unknown online sources.
Consider Used Equipment
Used equipment can offer good value, but be cautious with life-support items like regulators. Always have used regulators serviced before use.
Budget Considerations
Quality diving equipment is an investment in your safety and enjoyment. While you don't need the most expensive gear, avoid the cheapest options for critical items.
Maintenance and Care
Proper care extends equipment life and ensures safety:
- Rinse thoroughly: Always rinse equipment with fresh water after diving
- Dry completely: Ensure all equipment is dry before storage
- Store properly: Keep equipment in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
- Regular service: Have regulators and BCDs serviced annually
- Inspect regularly: Check for wear, damage, or deterioration
Red Sea Specific Considerations
When diving in the Red Sea, consider these local factors:
- Sun protection: Strong UV rays require good coverage
- Coral protection: Reef-safe equipment and practices
- Temperature variation: Water temperature can vary with depth and season
- Current conditions: Equipment suitable for drift diving
Pro Tip:
Start with the basics and build your kit gradually. Focus on fit, comfort, and quality over features you might not need yet. As you gain experience, you'll better understand what additional equipment suits your diving style.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Buying everything at once: Build your kit gradually as you gain experience
- Focusing on price alone: Quality and fit are more important than cost
- Ignoring proper fit: Ill-fitting equipment can be dangerous and uncomfortable
- Buying unnecessary features: Start simple and add features as needed
- Neglecting maintenance: Proper care is essential for safety and longevity
Conclusion
Choosing your first diving equipment is an exciting milestone in your diving journey. By prioritizing essential items, focusing on fit and quality, and building your kit gradually, you'll create a setup that enhances your diving experience and keeps you safe underwater.
Remember, the best equipment is the gear that fits you properly, suits your diving style, and is well-maintained. Don't hesitate to ask experienced divers and dive professionals for advice – most are happy to share their knowledge and help you make informed decisions.
At Pro Master Hurghada, our equipment specialists are always available to help you choose the right gear for your diving adventures. Visit our dive center to try equipment and get personalized recommendations based on your diving goals and local conditions.
Happy diving, and welcome to the wonderful world of underwater exploration with your own equipment!