How much should I pay for scuba gear?
I am taking a scuba diving class as a college course at my local dive shop in SW La. They have a special setup that is exclusive to college student taking the course. It includes mask, fins, snorkel for $95. I’m pretty sure that it’s scubapro gear, but I don’t know the model. I was wondering if this is too much. Also, I’m looking for a BCD to purchase in the near future. I dove in class with a scubapro so I know how that setup works, but I don’t know much about the different types. Any help on this would be greatly appreciated.
95 bucks is pretty cheap actually. My cheapest mask ( cressi Big Eyes) costs 130. That’s just the mask alone. Hey..if that 95 dollar special fits you properly, go for it.
Scubapro is a solid gear manufacturer. Whatever you buy made by them will be fine You’ll be popping another 350-650 bucks on your entry level BC. You don’t identify the Scubapro model BC you’re talking about so there’s really nothing further I can add other than if gear is sold in a reputable dive shop, it will be ok gear, no matter the manufacturer. They like returning customers. If you’re not happy or if you’re dead you don’t come back. That simple really.
95 bucks is pretty cheap actually. My cheapest mask ( cressi Big Eyes) costs 130. That’s just the mask alone. Hey..if that 95 dollar special fits you properly, go for it.
Scubapro is a solid gear manufacturer. Whatever you buy made by them will be fine You’ll be popping another 350-650 bucks on your entry level BC. You don’t identify the Scubapro model BC you’re talking about so there’s really nothing further I can add other than if gear is sold in a reputable dive shop, it will be ok gear, no matter the manufacturer. They like returning customers. If you’re not happy or if you’re dead you don’t come back. That simple really.
References :
Holy crap, $95 is a smokin’ deal for mask fins and snorkel. Typically these three items cost $200 – $250 altogether. It would be great if your store is offering SCUBAPRO – they’re one of the better brands.
If you can, try a few different BC’s before you buy. When I was a new diver I bought the cheapest BC I could. Looking back, I wish I’d spent the extra $50 – $75 to get a BC that really fit me and had the features I wanted.
I would recommend getting a BC with integrated weights and an Air2. Don’t skimp on either of these options. The integrated weights mean you don’t have to wear a weight belt and the Air2 means if/when you buy a regulator you won’t have to buy the extra second stage (aka buddy breather). Also it will make your gear more streamlined.
When you’re trying BCDs (if you can) try a back inflate and try a jacket inflate. Those are the two main styles of BCDs. Some people like the jacket because it "hugs" them and inflates evenly all around. Other people prefer the back-inflate style. The advantages to back-inflate is that it’s easier to stay in a horizontal position when diving. The dis-advantage is: some people feel like it pushes you forward when trying to float in a vertical position on the surface.
Other considerations when buying a BC:
* How heavy is it? Those airlines aren’t letting up anytime soon on their weight restrictions.
* Will you ever dive in a dry suit? If there’s even an outside chance be sure the BC you get is big enough and has enough lift.
* How does it fit? The BC should be snug. If you rotate your torso side to side it should move with you. At the surface it shouldn’t ride up.
Have a great class!
Either way, expect to pay about $400 – $800 for a BC. It seems like a lot – but it will last you for years.
References :
http://www.scuba.com/scuba-gear-2/Buoyancy-Compensators-Jacket-Vest-Style.html
http://www.scuba.com/scuba-gear-3/Buoyancy-Compensators-Back-Inflation.html