Starting Out

[jaldrich]

So my wife and I just got certified and we love diving. The rental gear works well enough and all, but we are wondering what to buy first. We are going to have to gear up one piece at a time, so we'd like to hear some advice on what to get first. We are thinking of getting BCD's first. The rental stuff was okay, but my wife had some issues with the rental BCD - probably pretty standard women issues, but mostly owing to a short torso. Either way, any suggestions on what piece(s) of equipment should be first on our list?

[ertechsg]

I would rec getting your BC first that way you can get one that fit right...plus know where the weight dumps from in the mean time get a mouth piece a zip ties to use on the rental regs. with the BC get the weights you need there cheap. then reg ..comp...so on

[Zenagirl]

If you don't own your own wetsuits, that's always a nice first purchase.

Ironically when I was in the same position as you, I found that I couldn't decide what was most important, so I bought everything. However, I do agree that BC fit is sooooo crucial to skill development and comfort in diving, so that's a great first piece of gear to buy.

If I had to buy gear one thing at a time, I'd go: wetsuit, BC, computer, regs.

The reason I'd go with a computer over regs first is because *usually* regs are well maintained and there isn't that much of a difference in performance for recreational diving. However, a computer can extend your bottom time, will enable you to easily dive nitrox if you want, and as far as I'm concerned, makes my diving more fun. I'd hate to be limited by the tables for diving.

However, with the ability to create your own package or buy one of the great packages that ST has with such great prices, it's pretty affordable to just go for it all at once.

[Kingpatzer]

exposure suit (wetsuit or drysuit if you dive cold water), regs, bc.

I'd save the bc for last because, in my mind, it's the bit of gear where you have the most choices and the widest ranges of possibilities to choose from. Saving it to last gives you the chance to try quite a few before buying.

[Capt Hook]

Regs first, then wetsuit, then BC.

[Venio]

Originally Posted by Capt Hook

Regs first, then wetsuit, then BC.

I have to disagree. Wetsuit goes first. Just don't want to think about wearing something that has been peed in. Then I'll suggest for you to try renting different BCD types like jacket, back inflate and backplate/wing. The reason being that as new divers it's hard to make up your mind on what would work best for you. By trying different gear you'll find what will work for you rather than buying something and then having to sell it. I just sold my first BCD which lasted only 10 dives before I figured it's not what I want. Lastly you buy the regulator. All rentals will work for you especially if you rent from reputable place. You will not find much difference in the regulators as a new diver. However, with experience and greater depth you'll start needing a better regulator.

Good luck.

[Kokomo]

I think mask, fins, snorkerl, and wet suit first. Reg and bcd next. May want to rent reg and bcd for a while to try out different things and see what you like best.

[mitsuguy]

Originally Posted by Kokomo

I think mask, fins, snorkerl, and wet suit first. Reg and bcd next. May want to rent reg and bcd for a while to try out different things and see what you like best.

yup...

thats what I did... buying the reg next (and last of the big purchases)

[chip]

Is there a good package deal on the mask, fins and snorkel ?

[Foo2]

Originally Posted by chip

Is there a good package deal on the mask, fins and snorkel ?

If you have the cash...this one takes the prize. Here is another one, although I would recomend upgrading to a hard soled boot. Those are just examples of packages that they can put together. Just call ST and they'll get you hooked up. My personal recomedations: Apollo Bio-Fins or Mares Raptor Fin, Splash Snorkle, Tilos Hard Soled Short Boot, & the mask that fits you best. Just my oppinion.