Best Name in Scuba Gear?

[TomToro]

Taking my class in a month and need equipment. I don't have a clue what brand to get. Can you guys give me the three best names in equipment so I can do some online shopping? Also if we're allowed, can you guys give me links to the best online stores to get this brand(s)?

Thanks,
Tom

 

[hypertech]

Don't buy a full set of gear before your class. Just use the shops rental gear. You shop probably wants you to buy masks fins and snorkel. For mask and fins, fit is important so just buy it from them so you can try it on first. For snorkel, buy the cheapest one they have as you may choose not to use it outside of class.

 

[LakeCountyDiver]

Atomic
ScubaPro
BARE

DiversDirect
Leisurepro
Scuba.com

Hi Tom welcome

If I may before you just drop cash on gear try some different brands out see what you like. As for a mask that you should NEVER buy online unless you are sure it fits. You dont buy gear on the way it looks first you go for the way it fits. Good fitting gear makes all the difference between a good experience and a bad one.

Rent gear for a while and rent different brands that is the best way to get an idea of what you will like best. Most divers change out all there first gear to stuff that fits better and what works better to the type of diving they will be doing.

Good Luck and Happy Diving

 

[Doc Harry]

Pick of the pick:
Halcyon is the "Patagonia" brand of scuba gear. Expensive but worth every penny.

Bottom of the Barrell:
Friends don't let friends buy anything from OMS.

 

[The Chairman]

"Best Name in Scuba Gear?" Dems fightin' words 'round here!

Your Scuba Instructor and shop will play an important roll in what gear you choose to buy especially at the outset. It's important to listen to them, but it's also important to come back here first and research their recommendations. Don't let them pressure you to buy something you're not absolutely OK with.

In addition, you'll find that fit and comfort are far more important than the name on the gear. After all, it's hard to look cool with snot coming out of your mask and being all drippy wet and such, so focus on being comfortable instead. Here are some pointers:

Mask: Look straight up and lightly lay the mask on your face (with the strap around the front. Inhale slowly. Does the mask seal easily? If not, keep trying.

Snorkle: Cheapest is best. Try to keep it under $15.

Booties: Should be snug but comfortable. Fit these BEFORE you fit fins.

Fins: Make sure you are wearing your booties and check for pinch points. Fit should be snug, not tight with no wobble in the foot pocket.

Wetsuit: Two types of divers: Those who pee in their wet suit and those who lie about it. This should be hot and tight. If it's way comfortable in the store, it won't keep you warm in the water. Just be sure you can breathe. Being a rather large individual, I went with Welcome to Wetwear - Custom Wet Suits of Rubatex Neoprene for Scuba Diving and All Water Activities for a custom fitted suit at about the same price as a high end rack suit. Best investment I ever made.

BC, regs & others... wait until you get a few dives in.

 

[dkktsunami]

There is no single "best brand" but there are a number of manufacturers that do a great job on a few items. The equipment you purchase is also partially dictated by your planned type of diving and your pocket book. Oddly enough the brands that I consider to be the best are frequently less expensive than the stuff you will likely see in your average dive shop. You might look at the following online sites: dive rite express, golem gear, halcyon, divers supply, scuba toys,deep sea supply, xs scuba, etc. I use a golem bp/w, dive rite "pocket mask", oms slipstream fins, dive rite harness, scuba pro regs and booties, dui dry suit, pinnacle wet suit, and misc. other stuff.

 

[Blackwood]

Friends don't let friends buy anything from OMS.

Mt 5mm OMS wet gloves have held up better than any other wet gloves I've owned.

 

[Jim Lapenta]

Comfortable
FitsCorrectly
Doesnotemptyyourwallet


Otherwise there is no best any more for the most part. I have brands I prefer but they may not work for you. And Ditto what NetDoc said.

As to where to buy, give your local shop a chance first. Do your homework and give them the opportunity to match prices. If they won't and the differnce is big then consider on line. But keep in mind if you do that some shops get pissy and won't let you use the gear in class at all.

 

[dmoore19]

Loaded question.

Everyone has their favorites around this board. I am no expert but this is my take.

Things to consider are:

What kind of diving are you going to do?

The equipment you buy should be engineered to provide what need for your diving.

Where will you be able to get your gear serviced? Can you wait while it goes to an online retailers for service?

The major brands usually will provide excellent performance and service.


For the most part the brand is kind of like buying a Ford, Chevy, Dodge, Toyota, Nissan etc and everyone has their opinions.

Consider what type of diving you intend to do ie: Cold water, warm water, tech, etc and buy the equipment you can get serviced in a manner that is acceptable to you.

Basically, design, function and service are the most important. Then your preference and brand come into play.

Just my opinion, on the internet so take it for what it's worth to you.

 

[fnfalman]

Why would anybody want to buy their own gears before even taking the course?