I have never SCUBA dove before....

[kmf507]

See, I'm so new I'm not sure if my subject should have said "SCUBA'd before"...

I'm a 27 year old guy in ST. Louis. I have been around water all my life (lifeguard, swim team, waterpolo, surfed in college) and I try to snorkel every vacation. Basically, I'm trying to say that I am comfortable in the water (and smart enough to know how dangerous it can be).

I have been dieing to take up SCUBA. The problem is I do not know where to start in terms of equipment recommendations, literature, etc.

I've looked at a couple websites for companies in STL that offer SCUBA training, and I imagine I will learn alot about equipment then.

Can anyone recommend a book or two, even catalogs? I'd like to read up before taking any classes.

Any other advice? I'm totally new and eager.

 

[David P]

there are some very good books about scuba, however they are geared towards already certified divers. Absolutely get certified! I honestly think it is the best thing I have ever done. Do you know any divers where you live? If so talk to them and ask where they got certified. Ask yourself some questions, such has how often do you plan to dive, if it is only once every other year on vacation somwhere tropical, you should be fine any just about any ol dive shop. If you think you will get serious and go diving at least twice a month, you may look for a little more indepth training. I feel too many agencies/shops are pushing the 2 weekend cert class. I help out sometimes at a shop that teaches this way, I speak with a freshly certified student and find MANY basic things were never even mentioned. Do not buy any gear untill you are in the class and even then rent as much as you can. There are places you can pinch a penny or two, but one place you do not skimp is a good fitting mask. If the scubapro framelss mask for $125 fits you best, then that mask is best, if the neon pink mask with side windos fits you best...go somewhere else! JK if teh neon pink mask fits you best, then that is the best mask. Masks are all about fit! If you buy a cheaper priced mask just becasue its cheaper and it leaks on you, you will have a very crappy dive experience. That said I like the scubapro frameless, Atomic masks, and the halcyon(good chance you wont find this mask...) you will need a snorkle,sure buy a bright colored one, it might help you find it WHEN you loose it... just buy a simple one dont get one with pingpong ball anti water arid ultra dry snorkle, just a plane jane simple snorkle. The only reason to spend any amount of money on a snorkle is if you get a cool flexy one like from Mares and you can fold it up in thirds and stick it in your pocket. If you want more info and personal opinions(both from personal use and from servicing points of view)send me a PM. I am not trying to sell you anything so when and if I steer you towards a higher price item, there is a reason for it wich is not personal wealth.