Beginner equipment recommendations?

[jasondbaker]

Okay, back on track...

One of the biggest challenges is you will find people that swear by jacket BCs, or hogarthian rigs, or rebreathers. You need to get in the water and dive, dive dive. Try to buddy up with as many different people as you can. Check out the gear that they use and ask them why they chose that gear.

Now, here are a couple gear items that work for me. I like paddle fins. I believe I have more power with paddle fins than split fins. I've tried them both doing full dives. Whatever fin you choose remember to use the proper fin kick depending on your dive site. If you are playing around Square a couple feet off the bottom please use a frog kick. If you are swimming around an ocean reef use the flutter kick -- being careful not to kick the corals.

I prefer back-inflate BCs. I own a seaquest balance. I like the fact that my front chest area is less cluttered. I also own a backplate and wing. I love the toughness and customized fitting of the gear.

I use both integrated weights and a weightbelt. It's a tie. I prefer soft weights because they are more comfortable on my hips.

If you really enjoy night dives you will find yourself buying a bigger and bigger light every year until you finally buy a canister (HID or halogen).

Buy a dive flag with an attached innertube. The tube is more stable in the water.

Buy a slap strap or neoprene cover for your mask strap. The cover feels more comfortable and helps prevent the strap from getting tangled in your hair.

Replace your fin straps with spring straps. This is an easy, cheap replacement that eliminates broken fin straps and makes donning the fin easier.

Good luck with your quest. You have an open invitation to join us for some dives anytime.