Complete: The Final Pieces For Your Dive System
Once you own the essentials, the next step is investing in gear that expands your comfort, capability, and independence underwater. Items like your own BCD, regulators or specialized exposure protection may not be mandatory, but they can make your diving smoother and more enjoyable. This list highlights the advanced dive gear worth considering once you are ready to invest.
Understanding the Pricing Options
| Option Level | Description |
|---|---|
| Higher Quality | Premium gear with outstanding performance and durability |
| Goldilocks | Practical choices that balance cost and utility |
| Lower Price | Affordable options that are effective and reliable |
Complete Kit Tier Totals
| Option | Must Own |
Should Own |
The Rest |
Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Higher Quality | $715 | + $2,170 | + $3,240 | $6,125 |
| Goldilocks | $500 | + $1,440 | + $2,515 | $4,455 |
| Lower Price | $260 | + $755 | + $1,530 | $2,545 |
Gloves
Gloves provide warmth and protection from sharp rocks, rusted ladders, or marine life. Choose thickness based on water temperature. In some warm regions, gloves are restricted to discourage reef damage from idiots touching things.
- Fourth Element 5mm Neoprene Gloves (~$120)
- Bare 3mm Ultrawarmth Gloves (~$100)
- Neo 5 Pinnacle 5mm Gloves (~$60)
Hood
A hood significantly reduces heat loss through your head. You might not need one for tropical diving, but in temperate or cold water, it becomes essential.
- KO1 5mm (~$165)
- H2 3/5mm Hood (~$100)
- Pinnacle 5mm (~$40)
BCD (Buoyancy Control Device)
Your BCD manages ascent and descent, trims you in the water, and supports your tank. Backplate and wing systems are more modular and preferred by many experienced divers.
- Halcyon Infinity (~$1,100)
- xDeep Zen (~$850)
- DGX Custom BP/W Setup (~$500)
Regulator Set
Regulators are your breathing interface. A well-tuned, properly routed reg makes diving easier, safer, and more comfortable. Buy a full set that includes primary, backup, and SPG.
- ScubaPro MK19 EVO / G260 (~$1,100)
- Scubapro MK17 EVO / S620Ti (~$850)
- DGX Gears D6 Set (~$450)
Air Integration Transmitter
Hopefully you purchased an AI capable computer. Now is the time to buy the matching transmitter now that you own your own regulator(s).
- Matching AI Transmitter (~$300)
Dive "Tech" Shorts
If your wetsuit lacks pockets, dive shorts provide secure storage for essentials like spools, markers, or wetnotes.
- Fourth Element Shorts (~$230)
- Halcyon Dive Shorts (~$190)
- Highland Tech Shorts (~$130)
Compass
You can't always follow the group. A reliable compass lets you navigate back to your entry, boat, or shore exit without guessing.
- Suunto SK8 (bungee mount) (~$150)
- Oceanic SideScan (~$90)
- Mini strap-on puck compass (~$40)
Slate or Wetnotes
Writing underwater lets you log data, signal complex thoughts, and document things that photos can’t capture. Always bring something.
- Halcyon wetnotes (~$75)
- Highland Deluxe wetnotes (~$35)
- Basic plastic slate (~$10)