Helping divers make informed choices about training, skills, safety, and gear.

Scuba Gear - Surface Support

Not everything happens on or in the water. I use various equipment before and after the dive to keep me safe, warm and protect my expensive gear.

This page reflects my personal experience and preferences based on my diving style, training, and the conditions I dive in. Gear selection is highly individual, and what works for me may not be ideal for everyone. If you're unsure about equipment choices, I always recommend testing different options in real diving conditions before making a decision.


DNA Nitrox/Oxygen Analyzer

Divesoft - DNA Nitrox/Oxygen Analyzer

Compact, reliable Nitrox analyzer that pairs via Bluetooth to your phone. Ideal for recreational divers who want accurate readings, fast calibration, and stable performance, as long as you are comfortable using a smartphone app and keeping spare coin cell batteries on hand.

Read Full Gear Review ( 8.9 / 10 )

See current pricing at: Dive Right In Scuba

Mask Defog

Stream2Sea - Mask Defog

My go-to anti-fog solution for both freshwater and saltwater dives. It outperforms spit and baby shampoo, holds up better if your mask floods or gets dunked, and is the only defog I trust to be safe for aquatic environments. Not cheap, but absolutely worth it.

Read Full Gear Review ( 8.3 / 10 )

See current pricing at: Dive Right In Scuba

Dive Flag

- Dive Flag

Large Fabric Changing Mat

- Large Fabric Changing Mat

See current pricing at: Dive Right In Scuba

Neoprene Mat for Changing

- Neoprene Mat for Changing

Large Dry Bag

- Large Dry Bag

Milk Crate

- Milk Crate

Small Dry Bag

- Small Dry Bag

Steel Duffel

Stahlsac - Steel Duffel

I use this as my go-to dive travel companion for carrying exposure gear, wet swimwear, and day-use items. It is sealed like a drybag using high-quality zippers, so the main compartment keeps contents dry even on wet boats or docks. I primarily carry it as a backpack, but it works well in all modes. I do not use the internal dry pocket often, but it is there if needed. After heavy use across flights, resorts, and boat dives, it is showing some corner wear but has not failed. I would buy it again without hesitation. It outperforms dry bags, laptop packs, and small suitcases in every way that matters.

Read Full Gear Review ( 9 / 10 )

DAN Rescue Pak

- DAN Rescue Pak

Stream2Sea Sting Relief

- Stream2Sea Sting Relief

Stream2Sea Sunscreen

- Stream2Sea Sunscreen

Philips HeartStart Defibrillator

- Philips HeartStart Defibrillator

Ear Beer

- Ear Beer

Hoodie - Human Diver

- Hoodie - Human Diver

SeaBag Weights

- SeaBag Weights

Hard Weights

- Hard Weights

Dry/Wetsuit Hanger

- Dry/Wetsuit Hanger

Folding Cart from Amazon

- Folding Cart from Amazon

BCD Hanger

- BCD Hanger

The Original Water Parka

SurfFur - The Original Water Parka

Delivers exceptional warmth and wind protection for divers during surface intervals, making it a reliable choice for cold or windy conditions. After two years of use it has proven highly durable, easy to put on over wet gear, and perfect for modest wetsuit changes. While bulky for air travel and unnecessary in warm climates, its comfort, build quality, and consistent performance justify the price, earning it a permanent place in my dive kit.

Read Full Gear Review ( 8.8 / 10 )


Written by Tyler Allison • Last updated July 3, 2025