1. Cleanliness

Wouldn’t it be more comforting to know you are the only person who has put your face in a mask, mouth on a regulator and body in a wetsuit? Maybe these things don’t concern you, but knowing that your gear is clean because you are the only one using it tops our list for why you should buy your own scuba gear.

2. Maintenance

The bottom line is if you own it, you know when it’s been serviced. This can give you confidence while diving that everything will work the way it should.

3. Fit

Much of your scuba diving experience stems from how comfortable you are in the water. This starts with your gear. When gear fits properly it makes for an even better dive. The last thing you should have to worry about is a fin feeling loose or mask leaking.

4. Familiarity

Don’t waste time learning how to use a different brand or style of BC on every dive vacation. If you’re familiar with your gear, you will be in the water quicker and there will be no question of how fast you can kick in those fins to catch up with the whale shark gliding by.

5. Long-term Cost

Sure, renting may be easier on your wallet in the beginning. But in time, rental costs can add up and you may have been better off purchasing your gear to begin with. If you are unable to buy a full kit all at once, we suggest saving up and buying a new piece of gear when you have the spare change. Maybe start by purchasing a BC or a wetsuit, and save up for that dive computer (assuming you have already purchased your mask, fin and snorkel during your certification course.)

Scuba gear can be purchased in dive stores, at other retail outlets, and through online dealers. You can also purchase used gear from a private party but note that it will need to be inspected carefully before use. Find your local dive shop with Go Dive Now's locator to get started.