The Essential Guide to Scuba Diving Gear: 7 Must-Have Pieces of Equipment

The Essential Guide to Scuba Diving Gear

Simply put, experienced divers need to have a complete set of scuba diving gear. What does that look like? Here are the seven essential pieces of equipment you need in your kit.

1. BCDs

Your buoyancy compensator device (BCD) helps you move freely and securely above and below the surface. A quality BCD should be incredibly durable and corrosion-resistant. It should also give full control of your buoyancy and motion while you dive.

2. Regulators

Perhaps the most important aspect of your gear is your regulator. Your regulator links your scuba tank to your breathing tube and your BCD. Without it, you wouldn’t be able to breathe or easily maneuver underwater.

An ill-fitting regulator can add a lot of unnecessary discomfort to your dive. Getting a regulator for yourself is encouraged, particularly one that’s built to last. High-quality regulators should have anti-corrosive properties so you can use them for years to come.

3. Safe Second

The next item on the list is something we hope you’ll never have to use. A safe second is an emergency backup device you can use as a regulator, and while you may never need to use it, you should always have it in your gear in case your primary regulator fails.

4. Dive Computer

Your diving computer will operate as your heads-up display while you dive, letting you check your air levels, depth, dive time, and heart rate in an instant.

You may choose the traditional, large display that connects to your gear. Or you could opt for a dive watch, which is more portable and allows for better underwater mobility.

5. Snorkels

You want to save the air in your tank for when you need it. When you’re towed to the anchor line, waiting to descend, a snorkel lets you use the air around you. This lets you get more time with your air tank, letting you use it during the actual fun part of your scuba trip: diving!

The advice about getting a regulator applies to a snorkel as well: A better fit means a more enjoyable experience.

6. Masks

Scuba masks both protect your face and let you witness the wonders of the sub-nautical world. But while most of them claim to be one-size-fits-all, anyone can tell you how uncomfortable it is when their goggles are too tight or too loose. When you hunt for the right mask, you’ll find high-quality options that offer ultimate comfort and premium underwater visibility.

7. Fins

You’ll likely find the most variety in fins out of everything else on this list. A quality pair of fins can take many shapes, like:

  • Paddle fins
  • Split fins
  • Full-foot fins
  • Open-heel fins

The only way to know what fins work best for you is to experiment with some rental pairs. After a few trips, you’ll discover what kicking style you prefer, what fin weight you like, etc. Once you have this experience, then you should feel free to get your own pair.

Get Your Diving Gear Today

Before you plan your next scuba trip, make sure you can check off all of this scuba diving gear on your list. And, if you’re willing to make the investment, make sure it’s gear that’s built to last so you can scuba for as long as you like.