Basic Equipment- What Brands to buy?

[DizziDezi2]

As far as mask- snorkel and fins- Is there anything thats handsdown better than the general? I was going to buy a SHadow Oceanic mask (frameless) bc I have a small face- Anyone know anything about these? I need something that will last em a long time and I can use many different places.

 

[Reefugee]

The best mask is the one that fits you well and doesn't leak. One of the things I looked at in a mask is low volume. I was told that in scuba diving, it is easier to clear a low volume mask than a higher volume mask. When purchasing a mask, take a friend with you. Masks have two skirts. Make sure that the inner skirt is flushed against your face.

As far as fins - I don't think there is any "handsdown better" fin. First consider whether you want split fin or blade fin. I picked my split fins for scuba diving. My top two contenders were the Apollo Bio Pro and ScubaPro Twin Jet Split Fins. I ended up with the ScubaPro. There are other excellent fins out there. You might want to post what you want to use the fins for.

Minh

 

[Corruptor]

My wife had big problems finding a mask that would fit until she tried one that is made for children. Smaller overall frame, and about 1/2 the cost. Also, try each mask with a snorkel or regulator (or at least a regulator mouthpiece) in your mouth. This may (or may not, depending on your facial structure) change the way a mask fits. I learned this one the hard way...

For fin shopping, see if there's a local scuba shop with a pool. You'll be able to try out your choices and decide what's right for you. Most any quality fin will work for you, but some are bound to fit or feel better than others.

 

[Reefugee]

BTW, you can also check out the following forum. There's a lot of good infomation located there. It's like the RC of scuba diving.

http://www.scubaboard.com/forumdisplay.php?f=31