Hello from Maine with lots of questions

[H2o Diver]

Hello From Maine,
I am new to this board and to scuba diving. I took my ow course in May my husband is taking it this weekend. We are looking forward to many new experiences. We are going to Mexico this spring and then to Florida in Dec. 2004. We are in this for the long run. We plan to eventually go to Australia. But fight now we are looking for equipment and wondering if anyone has any suggestion. We will be doing both cold water and warm water so I really need something for both. Thank you for your help.

 

[Corregidor]

I'm researching gear too. I'm new to the board but an experienced diver.

I've been reading a ton of posts in the Diving Equipment section here. Lots of info there to help make the trip to the dive shop (or online) much easier.
So far I've settled on: Seaquest Balance BC, Atomic Z1 (or BI) reg, Mares X-Vision mask (feels great, with great downward vision). Mares Avanti Quattro fins, and Suunto Vyper computer. I'm still looking at gauges. The suit and boots I'll buy in the Philippines - things tend to fit me better over there because I'm on the thin side.

Jim

 

[RICHinNC]

Hopefully your lds has a pool....and allows potential buyers to try out the gear they carry....or at least the rental gear. you will find bp and wing guys here....deep tec guys here ....just once a year divers.....

some like back inflated style....some like vest style....buying gear depends on the type of diving you will do and the amount of money you are willing to spend. it is really a personal thing

the best thing is to try the gear first...see if it works for you....before you spend the big bucks.

search through all the threads here and you will learn a lot

 

[notabob]

Hi, H2o! Welcome to ScubaBoard and to diving! You're not alone, there're lots of us new englanders on here. Check out the New England Lobstah Divahs forum for a more "local" feel .

As far as your questions, Rich hit the nail on the head. It's mostly personal preference. The most important thing you can do is try things first before shelling out the $$. Your LDS can rent you different gear or, depending on the shop, even let you borrow something if they don't have it for rent. Trying it out in the pool is nice, but it's even better to try something out in open water. This is particularly important when it comes to your BC. You need to be comfortable in it. Same for a mask. Get one that seals well against your face. Also, the slimmer masks tend to give you a better field of vision. I've found the ones with the side windows cumbersome. Fins - just try different ones, see what works best. As far as a wetsuit - make sure it's nice and snug on you and seals well against your body. You don't want water to be flushing in and out. You'll freeze your butt off, especially up here! You will probably need a separate wetsuit for the warmer waters. You'll likely roast if you try to dive a 7mm suit in 80F water.

Where in Maine are you guys at? I go up there once every few weeks, we can get together for a dive or two one of these days, induct you all into NELD properly

-Roman.

 

[Arduous]

Welcome to the board from Massachusetts. I dive in Maine often. Have fun here and Daive Safe...............