Affiliate Disclosure
Dive Otter uses affiliate links in select places to support the site. These links never influence reviews or gear recommendations, and they come from trusted sources I use myself.
Why Affiliate Links Exist Here
I don’t repeat product specs or marketing descriptions in my gear reviews because that information is already available elsewhere. Instead, I focus on what matters to real divers and how gear actually performs in the water, what I’ve learned from using it, and whether I’d buy it again. Linking to a shop that sells the gear is a helpful way to give you direct access to details, sizing info, and current prices without cluttering the review itself. If you make a purchase through that link, I may earn a small commission. It doesn’t cost you anything extra.
Who I Link To and Why
I only use affiliate links for shops I trust, regularly buy from, or want to support. Two examples:
- Dive Right In Scuba — They’re a local dive shop for me and run many Lake Michigan wreck charters I rely on. I want them to stay profitable and active in our regional dive community.
- Paragon Dive Group — I’ve bought a lot of gear from them, especially Halcyon equipment, and continue to use them as a go-to supplier. Their service and support have been excellent.
No Sponsors. No Spin.
I don’t accept free gear in exchange for coverage. I don’t do paid placements or sponsored posts. If I link to something, it’s because I use it or believe in it, Not because someone paid me to include it. Affiliate links never determine what I review, how I rate something, or whether I recommend it. If something doesn’t hold up, I’ll say so.
Supporting the Site
Dive Otter is ad-free and sponsor-free by design. Affiliate links are one of the few ways to offset the costs of running the site without compromising its purpose. If you choose to buy something through one of those links, thank you. If not, that’s fine too. I’m glad you’re here and hope the content has been useful.