I would stick to companies who back their gear.
But when it come to buying your gear, test drive as much as you can before you buy it.
For example, I recently purchased a new back-up mask. I tried on every mask in the store. After narrowing down to a couple of masks, I took them in the pool and tested them. The mask I purchased would not have been even considered if I merely went by what is popular.
Remember, you have to live with what you buy so make wise choices.
But when it come to buying your gear, test drive as much as you can before you buy it.
For example, I recently purchased a new back-up mask. I tried on every mask in the store. After narrowing down to a couple of masks, I took them in the pool and tested them. The mask I purchased would not have been even considered if I merely went by what is popular.
Remember, you have to live with what you buy so make wise choices.