New England Dive shops

[BEM]

Seems that is a common thread with all divers – I’m still looking at the new and better stuff. I believe that regs are a very personal and important purchase (I didn’t like putting a “used “ reg in my mouth – I probably have more cooties than any one else, but they are mine). We bought fairly inexpensive regs to use until we decided to do more diving or not. After one year we got Apeks ATX200s and are very satisfied with them. There are lots of good pieces of equipment out there, so keep reading the reviews, personal comments and feedback of others - and try as many as you can.

I’m collecting more and more equipment and now want PST E-7 80 tanks, DUI drysuits, new wetsuits, a dive boat, and more warm water vacations.

 

[vetdiver]

Just wanted to say - hope you have a great time in your OW class. If you are really an equipment nut, I recommend that you do your best to stay patient and make decisions carefully...I got my first cert 13 years ago, and despite a basement full of dive gear, I still have a HUGE (and ever-growing) list of stuff (and certifications, for that matter) I want! It will be a few dives at least before you're past that, "Oh, my God, I'm underwater and I'm breathing" bit and can really appreciate the differences in various equipment, anyways. Plus - I'll come right out and say it - sometimes, the best way to learn what you DON'T like is by buying something in a rush...then you'll be stuck there underwater going, "Geez, I'm an impatient loser, buying this ____ that totally stinks it up..." Case in point - my first fins, mask...and wetsuit, if memory serves...

I am not sure what to tell you about your wife's bc rentals - I haven't rented one up here, but I can tell you that renting a women's drysuit 1 1/2 years ago for my course was a nightmare! My husband and I have been talking about heading up to Maine to dive Nubble at some point, and I am happy to lug up my jacket, back-inflate, and bp/wing setup for her to try them all if need be (all smalls, and I have both small and medium back-inflate bcs). Again - if she gets addicted, she will likely wind up with multiples at some point! (I have to say, I do really favor Seaquest bc's - I have a Diva and a Libra.)