It's important to choose scuba gear that's suitable for your diving conditions. For instance, if your climate is cold, it's a good idea to get a winter jacket. In warmer climates, a rashguard of light weight and thinness is sufficient. You will require a BCD if you dive in water temperatures above 28°C. SMB (scuba computer) and dive computer are also vital pieces of equipment.
Less expensive scuba diving equipment
You can find cheap scuba diving equipment at a variety of places, even if you are on a tight budget. Many sporting goods and discount stores sell scuba equipment. Some even have an entire department dedicated to it. They are not dive shops, but they will provide the same advice and services as retail outlets. These outlets won't sell name-brand gear and they won't have a sale. For lower prices, you can also look into catalogs.
Sites dedicated to second-hand diving equipment will also have cheap scuba equipment. Craigslist and Gumtree offer a range of second-hand diving equipment at lower prices than the norm. There are also dedicated Facebook groups where you can sell second-hand diving equipment. Second-hand equipment can be discounted up to 50%. The savings can even be greater if you buy older gear.
Comparing renting scuba gear to buying
The biggest decision a diver has to make is whether or not to rent or buy scuba gear. It is a costly investment to own a regulator or BCD. You can rent your equipment to try it out before you buy. Renting equipment allows you to get to know how to use and abuse it, as well as test out different brands and models to find the right one for you.
Scuba gear has many benefits. You will have the opportunity to test out different styles and sizes before you make a purchase. Renting scuba gear can be uncomfortable or even ineffective, so you want to make sure you get the right fit before diving. The second step is to become familiar with your gear. This includes SMB, alternate sources of air and other accessories.
Making an educated decision when buying scuba gear
Before you purchase scuba gear, there are many factors to consider. First and foremost, know exactly what gear you need. This will help you make an educated decision. There are many options for gear and it is important to be able to easily compare their prices. It is a smart idea to shop at a well-respected dive shop for used scuba gear. This will save you money and make it easier to purchase.
You can determine the gear you need based on what type of diving you do. Make sure the gear you choose is durable and will last for many dives. Also, think about your future needs. You will need a variety of personal equipment, such as masks, fins booties gloves, gloves, and a surface marker buoy. Also, consider a mesh bag as well as a slate.