U.S Divers Equipment at CostCo?

[rbraatz]

Hello,

Can anyone provide any feedback on this U.S. Divers equipment from Costco?

Grande Vista Snorkeling Set
Includes Mask, Snorkel, Fins, Snorkel Strap Cover, Hard Mask Case and Mesh Storage Bag - $59.99

Can this equipment be used for light diving (less than 100') as well?

How does it compare to the Snorkel Gear Pack offered by Scuba Toys? - $99.99

I need 2 sets of personal gear, we're headed to Cozumel for some snorkeling and diving as well and I'm trying to decide between these two sets of equipment.

Although Scuba Toys may be a little more expensive, I assume the quality is better. Additionally, being able to try the equipment on, select your own colors, and support Scuba Toys has mean leaning towards their package anyway.

Any comments or feedback regarding U.S. Divers equipment would be appreciated.

Thank you,
Randy

[Vercingetorix]

I used a U.S. Divers Mask and Snorkel kit ($25) for OW, AOW, and Rescue. I still use them.

[fisheater]

The problem is that the world's best mask will suck for you if it doesn't fit. There's no way to tell if the Costco mask will fit you (or the lucky recipient) while it's still in the hermetically sealed package.

[fire diver]

I used a kit like that when I first started diving. IT wasn't long befor eI had replaced everything. The fins were OK, but not great. The mask leaked alot, and I never used the snorkel after OW class. It's all sitting in it's mesh bag in my garage still.

[WaScubaDude]

Given you can always return stuff to costco, I say don't be afraid to buy it and open it and see how it all fits. If you can, try the masks on with a regulator in your mouth, or at least the snorkel. Make sure the fins are substantial and made for scuba. Many "snorkel" fins will be small and "noodley" and not provide the propulsion you will want while diving.

Look close at Scuba Toys fins to get an idea of what a real fin is.

Scuba Toys continues to be a great resource to me and my wife, call or e-mail and they will give you great advise. Often they can put a package together special for you at a fantastic price. You can return items to Scuba Toys as well.

Buy your own regs if you can swing it, often rental regs are sub par or plain suck. For the second year of tropical diving we would bring our reg only and use their guage set and octo. I brought a cresent wrench and allen so I could do the change out quick on the boat myself.

[Flatliner]

The fins are fine for snorkeling. But NOT for diving in my NSHO.

[comet24]

I used the fins in the first set before at a pool. They sucked. Very flexible. Would be OK for snorkeling but add a BC, tank and weight and your have trouble moving yourself around. A good mask a worth every penny you spend on it. Masks are not all the same. You really should do yourself a favor and try some. Some will fit different and some will give you a different field of view. No comment on the snorkel. I wear one when I have to (PADI DM) otherwise I leave it off.

[rbraatz]

Thanks for the feedback everyone! I stopped by Scuba Toys at lunch and they were very helpful, informative, and polite. They also advised against the U.S. Divers stuff for anything more than a little fun and light snorkeling.

Since I would like something that I can use for snorkeling and works equally well for diving, I should step it up from the $99 package they offer. I know what I want... I've just got to convince the GF that it's a good investment, and get her to to go to Scuba Toys with me. I really think she will enjoy diving, until she realizes how much it can cost. (I almost forgot).

Thanks again for the feedback!
Randy

[jbarben1]

I think for the extra few dollars, go to a scuba shop or instructor and get fitted. Comfort is great and will keep you going back into the water. The better the fit the better the performance and comfort. Remember - sometimes you get what you pay for.

[theyorkieterror]

I would buy a profesional mask/fins/snork. They cost more but work/last a life time. Where you are going you will want a full vision mask because you are goina want to climb the scuba ladder after your visit. This scuba is habit forming. Remember it never rains when your diving.