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.
For brands like ScubaPro, Shearwater, Hollis, and Bare, I buy my gear locally from Crystal Blue Diving. They don’t have an online store, so I can’t link to them directly, but they’ve earned my trust by matching online prices, helping with setup, and supporting the local dive scene.
When I include affiliate links to those same brands, it’s to give readers a reputable online option if their local shop doesn’t carry the gear or they prefer to order online. Your own local dive shop will likely match prices and help with fitting or support for whatever brands they carry. I encourage you to check with them first if that’s an option. Honestly, I’d rather you support a good local shop than click one of my affiliate links. The dive community depends on strong local shops, and they’re worth keeping around.
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.