Help with gear selection

[bellocchi]

As you can tell this is only my second post, so excuse my ignorance.

The Girlfriend and I are looking for assistance on gear selection.

so heres the stats:
Her,
5'8" approx 140
Runs 5 miles almost daily, strong legs.
shoe size: womens 6

Me:
5'6" approx 130
long time Moto rider, as of late havnt been to Physically active.
shoe size: 9

We're needing assistance picking up the basic gear to start IE; Fins Mask Snorkel

ive read through a few threads but have no idea when it comes to this equipment/sport.

so if you have any experience your comments or suggestion on brands or even specific models would be most helpfull.
Thanks,
Thean

If I posted this in the wrong forum, Mods please move!

Edit: Im interested in these:

http://www.leisurepro.com/Prod/CategoryID_956/Context_954/Sort_Stock/DescSort_0/CSBFGL.html?Hit=1

http://www.leisurepro.com/Prod/CategoryID_956/Context_954/Sort_Stock/DescSort_0/CSBFG3.html?Hit=1

http://www.leisurepro.com/Prod/CategoryID_956/Context_954/Sort_Stock/DescSort_0/CSBFPS.html?Hit=1

ive seen a bit of talk about the cressi stuff, and these obviously have a wide price range (although cheap) just wondering may be more suited to the newbies!

also:
http://www.leisurepro.com/Prod/CategoryID_956/Context_954/Sort_Stock/DescSort_0/MRSFVR.html?Hit=1

 

[DiveMaven]

A crucial thing to consider when purchasing a mask and fins is FIT. Brand and model mean nothing if it doesn't fit properly.

Masks MUST be tried on as there is a huge variety of styles and fit. You're much better off going to your dive shop and trying on everything they have in stock before choosing. The sales person should be able to show you how a properly fitting mask feels.

As far as fins are concerned, you likely won't know what you want until you've been in the water with them. The beauty of going to your local dive shop is that you should be able to try all the different styles in the water prior to purchase.

 

[*Floater*]

We're needing assistance picking up the basic gear to start IE; Fins Mask Snorkel

ive read through a few threads but have no idea when it comes to this equipment/sport.

so if you have any experience your comments or suggestion on brands or even specific models would be most helpfull.
Thanks,
Thean

If I posted this in the wrong forum, Mods please move!

Edit: Im interested in these:

http://www.leisurepro.com/Prod/CategoryID_956/Context_954/Sort_Stock/DescSort_0/CSBFGL.html?Hit=1

http://www.leisurepro.com/Prod/CategoryID_956/Context_954/Sort_Stock/DescSort_0/CSBFG3.html?Hit=1

http://www.leisurepro.com/Prod/CategoryID_956/Context_954/Sort_Stock/DescSort_0/CSBFPS.html?Hit=1

ive seen a bit of talk about the cressi stuff, and these obviously have a wide price range (although cheap) just wondering may be more suited to the newbies!

also:
http://www.leisurepro.com/Prod/CategoryID_956/Context_954/Sort_Stock/DescSort_0/MRSFVR.html?Hit=1

The first 2 are free diving fins, the last 2 are scuba diving fins. What type of diving do you plan to do?

For mask, I think it's best to try one on to make sure it fits well before buying, or ask if you can return it if it doesn't fit if buying online. Beyond that, I prefer basic low volume masks. A black skirt will block light from the sides, which some find distracting, though others prefer a clear skirt so they can detect movement in their peripheral view. I have two; one is a clear skirt no brand mask and the second is a TDL black skirt mask similar to the famous scubapro frameless. I like them both, it's the fit that counts.

A lot of divers, myself included, don't use the snorkel much anymore, so I'd recommend something cheap, a basic J. If I was buying again I'd get one that I could fold into my pocket.

For fins, I don't know the models you linked to, but I prefer adjustable (open foot pocket) fins because I like boots (warmer, more cushioning for the foot and more protection when walking on rocky shores). I use scubapro jetfins - you can get used ones off ebay for cheap. A lot of divers who mostly frogkick prefer them, but they aren't for everyone.

Whatever you buy, search for specific model first to see if you can find any feedback on it, and make sure you can return it if it doesn't fit.

 

[bellocchi]

Thanks for the info guys! im not shure wich will be more into, im assuming free diving(?) As we get into it more, maybe get certified & upgrade to tanks and deeper longer dives. since right now we are on and off a kayak! but it gets us to some cool places.

anyways Thanks for the info, reading through the posts here is amazing i thought diving was simple but apparently not, there alot of considerations for proper equipment selection and use.

Cant wait to get more envolved!

 

[wunat]

A crucial thing to consider when purchasing a mask and fins is FIT. Brand and model mean nothing if it doesn't fit properly.

Masks MUST be tried on as there is a huge variety of styles and fit. You're much better off going to your dive shop and trying on everything they have in stock before choosing. The sales person should be able to show you how a properly fitting mask feels.

As far as fins are concerned, you likely won't know what you want until you've been in the water with them. The beauty of going to your local dive shop is that you should be able to try all the different styles in the water prior to purchase.

There's no better way than to try them out yourself. Gear selections can get pretty subjective.