My Gear: What I Use and Why
My approach to dive gear is based on simplicity, reliability, and modularity. I focus on high quality gear that performs well in real diving conditions, not just in a shop or pool. I prefer to own my gear but will rent certain items when it makes sense.
Because I dive often and can afford to invest in my setup, much of my gear tends to be on the higher end of the market. That does not mean you need to match it. One of my goals with Dive Otter is to show where spending more makes a real difference and where a budget or mid range option will serve just as well.
Direct Recommendations
If you are looking for direct recommendations, I maintain two resources designed for you:
- Just Tell Me What to Buy - a straightforward, no nonsense shopping list.
- Gear Tiers Guide - my curated picks at three levels: highest quality, Goldilocks, and lower price.
Renting from reputable dive shops is also a valid choice, especially when it makes financial or logistical sense.
My Standard Three Gear Configurations
I use three different gear setups depending on conditions and travel needs. Each setup is optimized for comfort, safety, and efficiency in its intended environment. Most of my core gear remains the same across all three, with only specific items swapped based on water temperature, weight, or packing restrictions.
My Gear Setups
Drysuit Dives
Used for Midwest cold water dives, including Lake Michigan and quarries.
A drysuit is the right tool when temperatures drop into the low 60s, and I own one because it keeps me warm when nothing else will. But I will be honest: I still prefer a wetsuit whenever I can get away with it. Drysuits add complexity, buoyancy management challenges, and extra maintenance. Comfort and simplicity usually win for me unless conditions demand the drysuit.
See Full Gear ListCold Water Wetsuit - Local Dives
Used for Midwest cold water dives in the summer (not Lake Michigan).
These dives fall in the 60°F to 70°F range, where a 5 mm or 7 mm wetsuit is comfortable and practical. This is where I am happiest: wetsuits are simpler, less fussy, and give me a better overall dive experience. A drysuit could work here, but for me the wetsuit is a more enjoyable choice.
See Full Gear ListWarm Water - Travel
Used for trips where flying is required and packing light is critical.
For these dives I streamline: a lighter backplate and wing, compact fins, and minimal extras. The goal is to maintain safety and trim while reducing bulk and baggage weight.
See Full Gear ListSurface Support and Spare Gear
Surface Support
When I have a vehicle, it is easy to bring extra gear or items that you cannot take on a plane. That includes emergency O2, an AED, a Nitrox analyzer, changing mats, warm jackets, and gear bags.
See Full Gear ListSpare Gear
Used scuba gear does not sell well, so much of what I purchased early on but later replaced ends up here. I rarely use these items, but I keep them as backups.
See Full Gear ListGear I Tried and Did Not Like
- Jacket style BCDs: I learned on them and still use them when I am divemastering with students so we are consistent. They work for what they are, but for my own diving I prefer the modularity, trim control, and simplicity of a backplate and wing system.
- Air integrated consoles: I prefer wrist mounted AI computers for better visibility.
- Mares Genius Computer: Functioned fine, but Mares abandoned firmware support. Too large on my wrist and no long term updates.
- Cheap compass: Unreliable, hard to balance, and not trustworthy for navigation.
Disclaimer
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 are unsure about equipment choices, I recommend testing different options in real diving conditions before making a decision.