Gear Knowledge
No fluff. No gear worship. Just real-world insights on what actually matters when you’re underwater.
Whether you’re buying your first regulator or thinking about changing your configuration, this section focuses on practical, experience-based advice. Each topic tackles a specific piece of gear or setup choice — what it’s for, how it’s used, what can go wrong, and why the right choice might not be what you were taught in your first class.
Topics Covered
Do You Need a Snorkel?
A snorkel is required in most open water classes — but after that, the utility drops off sharply. Most experienced divers leave them behind, especially on boat dives. Learn when a snorkel makes sense, when it’s just a tangle risk, and what kind to carry if you do bring one.
Yoke vs DIN
DIN regulators have a more secure connection, higher pressure handling, and are standard in technical diving — but most rental tanks still use yoke. This section explains the difference, how to adapt, and why owning DIN with a travel adapter is often the best of both worlds.
SPG vs Air-Integrated Computers
Do you still need an analog SPG? Is wireless air integration reliable? This comparison looks at redundancy, failure modes, and practical pros/cons of each — including why some divers carry both, and why AI-only setups can be risky in certain situations.
Save-a-Dive Kits
A $1 o-ring or fin strap can save a $150 dive. This section covers what to pack, how to build a kit that fits your gear and dive style, and what most divers forget until it’s too late. Minimalist and full-kit options included.
Need a Pony Bottle?
Redundant air is smart, but not always simple. This topic walks through when you actually need a pony bottle, how to size and rig one, and alternatives like redundant valves or sidemount. If your only backup is your buddy, read this.
Integrated Weights vs Weight Belts
Nobody wants a weight belt unless they have to wear one. This section explains why integrated weight systems are the norm now, how to set them up for trim and ditching, and what to watch out for when diving heavy or using non-ditchable weight pockets.
Carrying Redundant Cutting Tools
One knife isn’t enough. Learn where to mount line cutters, shears, and backup tools — and why placement matters more than size. Includes tips for dealing with fishing line, kelp, and other real-world entanglements you won’t find in a training pool.
Long Hose vs Standard Octo Configuration
This comparison dives into donation protocols, hose routing, air sharing control, and why divers trained in both systems often switch to long hose. If you’ve ever fumbled with a clipped-off octo or had a buddy reach for your reg, you’ll see the logic here.
Mouthpiece Comfort and Replacements
The smallest part of your regulator can cause the biggest problems. Jaw fatigue, bad hose routing, cheap rental mouthpieces, and poor fit are all avoidable. Learn what to look for, what to carry, and why the fix costs less than lunch.
Bolt Snaps, Retractors, and Clips
Clipping off every gadget isn’t smart — it’s clutter. This section explains when to use bolt snaps, why cave line beats zip ties, why plastic clips fail, and when a retractor might be acceptable (like when you're learning to use a compass — briefly).