Ready to buy Scuba Gear? Heres what you need to know…
Andrew Simpson Jan 29, 2025
We know buying your gear is a big investment so we are here to discuss what to buy first, what to look out for and what will be best for you.
Why Buy when you can Rent?
If you are an infrequent diver or someone that only dives overseas on holidays you might be best to rent most of your dive kit but as we all know those rental charges soon mount up and there are some key items, like a mask for example, that can greatly improve your experience by having your own.
For those that plan to dive more often the benefit of buying means you can choose the gear that fits you best, rather than just what's available on the day. Using gear you're familiar with means you don't have to adjust or get used to different equipment each time you dive. It also means your more likely to dive more if you have your own kit.
Where to start?
MASK & SNORKEL: A mask is the first thing we recommend, usually along with a snorkel. Its something that you can also use for snorkelling and relatively small and easy to pack when going overseas.
The fit of the mask is really really important so we would always recommend heading into store and getting a proper fitting. If the mask doesn’t fit properly its going to leak and let water in and you will spend half your dive just trying to keep it clear! This is the main reason we recommend buying a mask – this can ruin your whole dive!
Prescription masks are also available so if you typically wear glasses we can usually match your prescription pretty closely, enabling you see more underwater.
FINS: Again another item that can be used for snorkelling so even if you don’t scuba that often it will still get plenty of use. There are lots of different styles so again we always suggest talking to us about your needs and also get a fitting! No one wants blisters ruining your holiday!
Got your basics but don’t know what to buy next?
So you have your mask, fins and snorkel and want to know whats next on the list. It will vary from diver to diver but here are some of our recommendations.
WETSUIT: Ask any female diver and they will tell you what a nightmare it is trying to find one that that is a good fit or the sweaty hell you go through trying different ones one when renting! Having your own means you avoid all of that!
You go into your dives knowing its going to keep you warm and bit comfortable in the water. Diving is no fun if you spend that last 20mins minutes of the diving wanting to get out because your cold!
COMPUTER: Diving with a computer is an absolute must these days and especially if you haven’t learnt tables on your dive course! Saying that not all dive operators overseas will give you one, having your own removes that concern and means your going to be able to keep yourself safe in the water.
It also makes it easier to keep a dive log you have all your dive info right there!
Top tips for buying scuba gear
1) Rent before buying
While using familiar equipment is best in the long term, renting gives you the chance to try different brands before you buy. Most dive shops, ourselves included, rent a lot of the same gear that we sell meaning you are able to test out products before committing to a big purchase.
2) It might have rave reviews, but is it right for you?
Got your heart set on buying a mask which gets top marks from professional divers? If it doesn't fit your face properly, it's money down the drain. Also what works great in the tropics might not be so good here in New Zealand, consider who is writing the reviews and who is paying for them. The diver that got given a free scooter will absolutely be raving about how good they are! Our advice is talk to lots of professionals and diver alike, take your time and try lots of different options before you settle.
3) Package deals offer great value...
You can make great savings by buying gear in a package - many dive shops will offer a mask, fin and snorkel package or regulator package for example, to help get you started.
4) ...but you don't need to buy everything at once.
It's better to invest in your gear slowly than buy packages which contain bits of kit you don't like or need. Don't be seduced by a bargain if it isn't right for you.
5) Buy quality, buy once.
When we are talking about regulators and BCDs, these are life support equipment and its really important that they are reliable. Second-hand gear might be a budget friendly option for some items but for the ones that your life depends on, its important to know its been serviced and looked after properly.
Another consideration is that cheaper regulator manufacturers often stop making service kits when they discontinue a model of regulator meaning even if you look after your reg you may have to stop using it after a few years because you cant get it serviced.
That’s why we recommend buying a brand of dive gear that you trust and has a proven track record.
6) Always buy from a store you can trust
Are the staff knowledgeable and clearly passionate about diving? Are they focused on your safety and comfort? Can they service and maintain your gear for you?
Browse for dive gear at the Global Dive online shop or better still, visit our Auckland dive shop for expert advice from our highly experienced team.
