Diving Equipment: Essential Gear for Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
When it comes to diving, equipment can be divided into two categories: light gear and heavy gear. Light gear refers to the mask, snorkel, and fins—the essentials for snorkeling. For scuba diving, heavy gear is also required, including the buoyancy control device (BCD), regulator, dive computer, and cylinder. There are countless styles and colors of diving equipment available, and you can choose based on the type of diving, your preferences, and body characteristics.
Mask—The Window to the Underwater World
When you try to open your eyes underwater, all you see is a blurry image. This is because water has a higher density than air, causing light to refract differently underwater. A diving mask creates an air pocket in front of your eyes, allowing you to see clearly. Unlike swimming goggles, a diving mask covers both your eyes and nose to balance the pressure in your nasal cavity.
A typical mask consists of tempered safety glass lenses, a rubber or silicone skirt that conforms to your face, and an adjustable strap to secure it in place. The tempered glass lenses prevent shattering into dangerous shards. Silicone skirts are preferred over rubber for their durability, comfort, and hypoallergenic properties. Some masks feature a purge valve, a one-way valve to clear water from the mask. The most important factors in choosing a mask are fit and comfort. An ill-fitting mask may leak or cause irritation, detracting from the diving experience.
To test the fit of a mask, place it gently against your face without using the strap and inhale through your nose. A properly fitting mask should create a seal and remain in place until you exhale. Also, ensure you can easily pinch your nose while wearing the mask. Masks come in various styles, including single lens, dual lens, and multiple lens configurations, with only the dual lens models typically accommodating corrective lenses.
Before the first use, it’s advisable to lightly scrub both sides of the mask lenses with toothpaste on a soft cloth to remove the protective film. After each use, rinse the mask thoroughly with fresh water and store it in a dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. If used in saltwater, soaking the mask in warm water for a few minutes can help remove corrosive salt deposits. If immediate cleaning is not possible, it’s best to store the mask in water, as dried salt is difficult to completely remove.
Snorkel—Easy Breathing
You might wonder why a snorkel is necessary when scuba diving, which already involves a tank and regulator. Firstly, when you’re at the surface resting or swimming, using a snorkel reduces the consumption of air from your tank. Secondly, in windy conditions with waves, a snorkel prevents water from entering your mouth because its opening is typically above the wave height. Thirdly, if you’re far from the boat or shore and running low on air in your tank, a snorkel can help you swim back with less effort, allowing your face to remain in the water naturally. Snorkels are essential for snorkeling, allowing you to stay submerged for extended periods without lifting your head.
A typical snorkel consists of a tube with a mouthpiece at one end. The upper half of the tube is usually a semi-rigid plastic, while the lower half with the mouthpiece is made of silicone. A good snorkel should have the right curvature (fitting your face shape), an inner diameter of around 2 cm, and a length of 30-35 cm. Besides being comfortable, a good snorkel should also allow for easy breathing. When trying it out, place the mouthpiece between your lips and teeth, position the tube against your left ear, and ensure the mouthpiece is comfortable without causing fatigue or irritation to your mouth, and the tube should rest straight in your mouth.
Fins—Powerful Propulsion
Fins provide powerful propulsion, allowing you to move without relying on hand movements and freeing your hands for other tasks. Fins are mainly divided into strap and full-foot types. Full-foot fins are commonly used in warm water or for snorkeling, while strap fins require the use of dive boots. Large, stiff fins provide speed but can lead to fatigue and cramping, while small, flexible fins lack pushing power.
Fins come in various materials, designs, and features. Designs include: ribs to increase stiffness and balance; drainage holes to reduce resistance and increase efficiency; and channels to guide water smoothly over the fin, increasing speed. When choosing fins, consider your body size, strength, and diving environment, prioritizing comfort and fit.
Buoyancy Control Device (BCD)
The BCD is a critical piece of heavy gear for scuba diving. It allows you to control your buoyancy underwater, enabling you to maintain neutral buoyancy, ascend, or descend at will. A typical BCD includes an inflatable bladder, a harness to secure it to your body, and integrated weight pockets to fine-tune your buoyancy. Choose a BCD that fits well and provides adequate lift for the type of diving you plan to do.
Regulator
The regulator is the device that delivers air from the cylinder to you at ambient pressure. It consists of a first stage, which attaches to the cylinder, and a second stage, which you breathe from. The regulator also includes an alternate air source, known as an octopus, and a submersible pressure gauge (SPG) to monitor air supply. When choosing a regulator, consider factors such as ease of breathing, reliability, and maintenance requirements.
Dive Computer
A dive computer tracks your dive time, depth, and nitrogen absorption, helping you stay within safe limits and avoid decompression sickness. Modern dive computers provide detailed information on no-decompression limits, ascent rates, and safety stops. Choose a dive computer with a clear display, user-friendly interface, and features that match your diving needs.
Cylinder
The Diving Equipment, or tank, stores the compressed air you breathe underwater. Cylinders come in various sizes and materials, with aluminum and steel being the most common. The choice of cylinder depends on factors such as dive duration, depth, and personal air consumption rate. Ensure the cylinder is regularly inspected and maintained for safety.
