Dive Mask and Snorkel
Dive masks creates a pocket of air in front of your eyes and nose
so you can see clearly underwater and equalize the pressure on your
ears and sinuses as you go deeper. Snorkels are breathing tubes that
allow you to inhale and exhale when you're swimming face-down on the
water's surface.
Tip : The snorkel goes on the left side of your head and attaches
to your dive masks strap.
Regulator / Octopus
The Regulator lets you breathe underwater. It connects to your tank,
delivering air to your mouth when you inhale. An octopus is a backup
regulator. It usually has a longer hose and a bright yellow body so
it's easy to find and can be used by others in an emergency.
Tip : Both regulators should be routed to the diver's right
side.
BC / Power Inflator
BC stands for buoyancy compensator. It fits like a backpack, and
supports the weight of your tank above water, but a BC's most important
function is to help you control your position in the water column.
By adding air to an internal bladder, you rise toward the surface;
by venting air from it, you sink toward the bottom. The control buttons
are part of the power inflator found at the end of the corrugated
hose on the diver's left side.
Tip : Quick-release buckles and adjustable straps make suiting
up easier.
SPG / Depth Gauge
This is your instrument panel. SPG stands for Submersible Pressure
Gauge, and it tells how much air is left in your tank. The depth gauge
tells you where you are in the water column.
Tip: Quick-release buckles and adjustable straps make suiting
up easier.
Dive Computer
Dive Computers monitors and displays your depth, how long you've
been under and how much longer you can safely stay. Some models will
also keep track of how much air you have left.
Tip : Computers may be used in conjunction with, or sometimes
as a replacement for, traditional gauges.
Scuba Fins
Scuba fins translate your kicks into smooth, efficient movement through
a medium that's 800 times denser than air. Full-foot fins go on your
bare feet; open-heel or adjustable fins require that you wear neoprene
booties for a proper fit.
Tip : Foot pockets should cradle your foot like a good pair
of shoes--not too loose, not too tight.
Wetsuit
Even warm water conducts heat away from your body 20 times faster
than air. Wetsuits provide insulation against this cooling effect.
Common options include 3mm-thick suits in both full and shorty (bare
arms and legs) styles for warm water; full-length 5mm or 7mm fullsuits
with a hood and gloves for cold water.
Tip : A properly fitting wetsuit is snug all over, but not
so tight that it restricts your movement or breathing.
