I am new to diving...I am actually doing my open water right now. I need to buy some basic gear, but I have now idea what brand/style to get. I actually found a mask that fits well, so I am going with it. Fins? I kinda liked the fit and feel of the Oceanic Vipers. I have no idea! Snorkels? Flexible, no flex? Help for the new guy!

Hi Pete, welcome. Since you are still in open water there is no reason to go overboard. The Viper is a great fin. Check out the Mares fins including the Superchannel, or the Aeris Mako. If you are looking at open heel fins as opposed to closed heel then getting a pair of booties would be a good investment. No need to spend a lot of money on a snorkel. What kind of mask did you settle on? I'm a big fan of the Mares Liquidskin. Depending on where you are diving a wetsuit might be a smart buy as well.

Adam

Hi Adam, I really dont remember the make of the mask. I tried on a bunch and it fit best to my face. I am pretty positive on the Viper fins. They felt the best to me with a boot on. The wetsuit is gonna be my next investment after my basic gear. Need to pace myself so I dont get in over my head and drain my bank account!

Pete

I feel you. Depending on how much you plan on diving i'd continue renting until you get a good number of dives under your belt. This will give you a chance to feel out different equipment.

Adam

What kind of BC is everyone using? There are so many out there, I am going crazy looking at them! My local shop sells Oceanic, Aqua Lung(I think), and Mares, but someone recommended Seaquest. Give me your opinions...good or bad!

I have a seaquest Aqua Lung Pro and found it to be very comfy and works well. They come up well in most reviews.

I've not heard much good about the oceanics durability. The School ones I have used has been OK functionally, but not a comfy.

I would say to go try them on as you can feel a difference.


I've not used the Viper fins myself, but the Mrs liked them.

All four of these brands are top quality names. Name is less of an issue than money. How much are you looking on spending? Bells and whistles = more $$$. Also to think about, what kind of diving do you do/plan on doing. Traveling?

Check out this LeisurePro on choosing a BCD.

Adam

Wow, didn't realize the video shows up in the post! I like!

Adam

I tried on a few yesterday and the Oceanic Excursion fit me the best. I still want to try a few more before I pull the trigger and get one!