Scuba fashion faux pas?

[jac007]

I am new to the scuba community (about to start OW), but have been looking around on other forums. In these forums some experienced divers were putting down others for certain things. They were making fun of divers that had snorkels on in their pics and were saying that using PADI patches (OW, AOW, etc.) was bad. They were saying that the more patches a person were, the worse a diver they were and that PADI patches don't show accomplishments because you just basically buy them (i.e. PADI instructors pass almost everyone).

Do most divers feel this way and are their any other things that one should avoid?

[Cheddarchick]

Not here....It like home here. We might rib you, but only with love

[DougNR]

And which 'other forum' would possibly belittle members for such nonsense?

If that were so, you'd think members would be falling out in droves to join another, perhaps less hostile and BETTER forum wouldn't you!?!

hehehe

Doug

[hychang]

I didn't realize that the fashion police had jurisdiction here. Like you, I'm new to the scuba world and a relatively new member here. From my limited time here on this forum, I can't say I've seen criticism here regarding fashion. People here are great and want to help keep each other and scuba safe. Like DougNR said why would one stay where people are belittled for something insignificant? That's why I'm glad to be here and be a beneficiary of the this forum's great people. As I get more experience, I will follow the example of the others here, share knowledge and be supportive of the others here.

Originally Posted by jac007

I am new to the scuba community (about to start OW), but have been looking around on other forums. In these forums some experienced divers were putting down others for certain things. They were making fun of divers that had snorkels on in their pics and were saying that using PADI patches (OW, AOW, etc.) was bad. They were saying that the more patches a person were, the worse a diver they were and that PADI patches don't show accomplishments because you just basically buy them (i.e. PADI instructors pass almost everyone).

Do most divers feel this way and are their any other things that one should avoid?

[dallasdivergirl]

sometimes people just want everyone to be just like them. we all have different skill levels, training & gear. You don't have to assimulate.

[Zenagirl]

Some people think that if they look a certain way they're "better" than others. To me that's a very high school attitude, and having worked in a high school for over 10 years, I definitely know what a high school attitude is.

Then there are the rest of us who live and let live. We will certainly ask you questions about something if it seems unsafe or unwise, but if you want to plaster your dive coat with patches, wear a snorkel, etc., you're perfectly welcome to do so.

We're working hard to keep this board friendly and tolerant without any elitism attitudes.

[scubaculture]

using PADI patches (OW, AOW, etc.) was bad

Well screw them then

I am a huge badge collector, started with my Scuba diver patch and now my dive coat is covered in them. I like it so that is all that counts

Elitism is everywhere in this sport it seems, why we cant just all enjoy it and be happy that others share the same passion is beyond me.

[BouzoukiJoe]

Originally Posted by jac007

I am new to the scuba community (about to start OW), but have been looking around on other forums. In these forums some experienced divers were putting down others for certain things. They were making fun of divers that had snorkels on in their pics and were saying that using PADI patches (OW, AOW, etc.) was bad. They were saying that the more patches a person were, the worse a diver they were and that PADI patches don't show accomplishments because you just basically buy them (i.e. PADI instructors pass almost everyone).

Do most divers feel this way and are their any other things that one should avoid?

You might reconsider before its too late, both SCUBA and the ST forum can be quite addictive.

Seriously, Welcome to diving and welcome to the ST forum!

[thor]

Check out this site. They are pretty active over at SB and help to counteract an overdose of DIR Kool Aid.

Dork Divers Network

Here is one of their esteemed card carrying members

[TRACI]

Just do what you feel comfortable with, I think OW, AOW or any kind of certification is a great achievement, so show it off with pride.