If you are just starting out with diving and plan to enrol in the basic course (OWD), you are surely wondering: should I buy a complete set of scuba gear right away, or wait?
The answer is simple: some pieces of gear are worth having right away, but most are better bought after the course, when you have the basics, feel what suits you and know what you actually need.
Mask and snorkel, the first and most personal gear
If the idea of using gear someone else has worn bothers you, then the mask and the snorkel are the first and most logical choice to buy.
Mask
- It is important that it fits perfectly and does not let water in.
- It is best bought in specialised dive shops, where they can help you try it on.
- Buying online is not recommended, unless you already know exactly which model suits you.
Snorkel
- If you plan to use one, choose a simple model with a larger diameter and without extra valves.
- A snorkel can safely be bought online, because it is not as sensitive as a mask.
Fins, buy them right away or wait?
It is best to postpone buying fins until you finish the course, because only then will you know whether you will dive with:
- dive boots (open-heel fins), or
- socks (full-foot fins).
In recreational scuba diving almost everyone uses open-heel fins with boots, so if you decide to buy, go in that direction.
The suit, bought after the course
On the course you will most likely use a 5 mm thick suit. Only after a few dives will you know:
- Do you get cold easily?
- Do you need a thinner or a thicker suit?
- How does the cut of a particular model fit you?
Tip: Leave buying a wetsuit for after the course, when you know your needs and the thermal conditions you plan to dive in.
More advanced gear, once you have gained experience
A dive computer, a buoyancy compensator (BCD) and a regulator are the more expensive pieces of gear, and they are bought once you have at least basic experience and know that you will keep diving.
Dive computer
- More and more often you cannot borrow one at dive centres.
- When you plan to dive regularly, a computer is an extremely useful investment.
Buoyancy compensator and regulator
- They are bought after 15-20 dives, when you know what suits you.
- Your own gear gives you safety, control and a better feeling underwater.
The cylinder, last on the list
Buying your own diving cylinder only comes into play if:
- You dive more than 30 times a year.
- You have access to a filling station and know how to look after a cylinder (testing, servicing, transport).
For most recreational divers a cylinder makes no sense, because it is easily available at dive centres and calls for additional investment.
Recommended order for buying scuba gear
- Snorkel
- Fins + boots
- Suit
- Regulator
- BCD (buoyancy compensator)
- Cylinder (only when you are completely independent)
Conclusion: buy smart, you dive with experience, not just with gear
Having your own gear gives you more comfort, hygiene and safety. But do not rush, the right choice is made after your first diving experiences. That way you save money, avoid mistakes and in the long run enjoy every dive more.
