Table of Contents
- ⏰ 1. When Should I Buy My Own Scuba Gear?
- 🤔 2. What Gear Should New Divers Buy?
- 🎒 3. Best Scuba Gear for Beginners
- ⭐ 4. Beginner Scuba Diving Gear Reviewed 2025
- ⭐ 5. Best Scuba Diving Accessories for New Divers 2025
- 📷 6. Underwater Photography for Beginners
- 💭 7. Final Thoughts on Best Scuba Gear For Beginners
Are you a new diver looking for the best scuba diving gear? Congratulations on your new adventure!
Diving can be an amazing experience, and with the right scuba gear, it can be fun and safe too. Just like new drivers don’t need Ferraris, new scuba divers don’t need expensive gear with all the bells and whistles. Scuba diving equipment can be of great quality, yet affordable and perfect for beginner divers.
In this post, we’ll share some of our favorite dive gear for beginner divers. Whether you’re just getting started or you’re looking to upgrade your dive equipment, read on for some great recommendations!
⏰ 1. When Should I Buy My Own Scuba Gear?
When it comes to diving, you’re not really supposed to spend a lot of money on scuba diving gear until you know that you’re going to stick with recreational diving.
But at some point, most scuba divers find themselves wanting their own set of dive gear, whether it’s for the convenience of having your own gear or the cost savings from renting.
So when should you make the investment and buy your own gear? Let’s take a look!
When You Are Intending To Dive A Lot
The scuba gear cost soon pays itself back if you are a new diver looking to dive frequently in the coming months. Most dive centers offer scuba diving gear packages but this can get into the hundreds a year, especially if you are intending to go scuba diving more than 20 times.
Rental equipment costs can really start to add up, so check your scuba package to find out how much gear rental is costing, and your calculations to figure out how long your own equipment will start to pay for itself.
When You Want To Feel Good In Your Scuba Diving Gear
Although most dive centers maintain their scuba gear impeccably, nothing beats having your own. Scuba gear rental equipment may not be as well-maintained as yours or feel as comfortable.
In addition, some like having the convenience of knowing exactly how to use each piece of equipment prior to every dive without having to learn their way around someone else’s diving masks, dive computers, or scuba fins.
Many divers also want to use their own regulators or alternate air source for hygienic reasons. There really is no substitute for a reliable first stage and primary regulator that fits perfectly and feels great when you breathe out of it.
It all boils down to budget and personal preference.
🤔 2. What Gear Should New Divers Buy?
So if you’ve decided that a trip to the dive store is upcoming, there’s no need to buy everything in one go. For simplicity’s sake, let’s break it down into a few groups:
The Basics
- The highly-personalized, first set of gear of mask, fins, wetsuit. This is the most basic scuba gear you’ll need for every dive and its addition to your life will make scuba diving way more enjoyable.
The Dive Computer
- Then, you can consider a big-ticket purchase – the dive computer. Choosing a dive computer is crucial to advancing as a scuba diver.
The Mechanical
- Next, you can consider a Buoyancy Compensator Device (BCD) and a regulator set that consists of a first stage, second stage, octopus, alternate second stage, and an SPG. We’re not going to lie, this is the more expensive stuff and you should definitely do way more research for these pieces of scuba gear.
Accessorize!
- Finally, add the accessories! Be careful how much you add, some gear is unnecessary and will only add to weight and drag. Some essential accessories include a surface marker buoy (SMB), a whistle, knife, weight belt, neoprene mask strap, and alternate air source clip or holder.
Intimidating huh? We know, we have all been beginner divers before. That’s why we try to help all our readers and students navigate the confusing world of new divers and take the guesswork out!
After extensive research (and heated debates!), here are our top picks for scuba diving equipment for the beginner diver.
🎒 3. Best Scuba Gear for Beginners
- Mask: Cressi F1
- Snorkel: Aqua Lung Impulse 3
- Fins: Mares Avanti Super-Channel Open Heel Fin
- BCD: AquaLung Pro HD
- Regulator: Aqua Lung Calypso Regulator
- Octopus: Aqua Lung Calypso/Titan Octopus
- SPG + Computer: Cressi Leonardo Computer Console
- Wrist Computer: Cressi Leonardo Wrist Computer
- Men’s Wetsuit: Cressi Morea 3mm Men’s
- Women’s Wetsuit: Cressi Morea 3mm Women’s
| Product | Details | |
|---|---|---|
Cressi F1 | Materials: Tempered glass, liquid silicone Mask Strap: 16 to 20 in. Versions: Clear silicone, black silicone | |
Aqua Lung Impulse 3 | Style: Semi-dry Tube: Contoured Mouthpiece: Comfo-bite Upper Feature: One way annular valve | |
Mares Avanti Super-Channel Open Heel Fin | Materials: Tecralene, thermoplastic rubber Blade Type: Non-vented Blade Length: 14.6 in. Fin Style: Open heel (0.9kg) | |
AquaLung Pro HD | Style: Weight-integrated jacket Inflator: Powerline Weight Capacity: 9 to 13.5kg (releasable), 4.54kg (non-releasable) Valves: 1 Cable activated pull, 2 over-pressure relief | |
Aqua Lung Calypso Regulator | Materials: Chrome plated brass, techno-polymer, polyurethane, silicone Technology: Non-balanced flow, downstream demand valve Nitrox Compatibility: Up to 40% O2 | |
Aqua Lung Calypso/Titan Octopus | Materials: ABS, polycarbonate, polyurethane, silicone Technology: Downstream demand valve Adjustable 2’nd Stage: Venturi dive, pre-dive knob Housing: Polycarbonate | |
Cressi Leonardo Computer Console | Operating Modes: Air, Nitrox, Gauge Memory Capacity: 70 hours (60 dives) Depth Display: 0 to 120m Altitude Adjustable: 3,700m max | |
Cressi Leonardo Wrist Computer | Operating Modes: Air, Nitrox, Gauge Memory Capacity: 70 hours (60 dives) Depth Display: 0 to 120m Altitude Adjustable: 3,700m max | |
Cressi Morea 3mm Men’s | Materials: Nylon II, I neoprene Seams: Glued, sewn Closure: Back zipper w/ pull tab leash Thickness: 3mm | |
Cressi Morea 3mm Women’s | Materials: Nylon II, I neoprene Seams: Glued, sewn Closure: Back zipper w/ pull tab leash Thickness: 3mm |
⭐ 4. Beginner Scuba Diving Gear Reviewed 2025
Mask: Cressi F1
| Materials | Tempered glass, liquid silicone |
| Mask Strap | Adjustable from 16 to 20 in. |
| Versions | Clear silicone, black silicone |
| Warranty | 2 years, limited |
| Price | $ |
The Cressi F1 is a silicone diving mask that is lightweight, comfortable, and comes in two sizes, small and large.
The small size fits up to 22 cm, while the large size fits up to 24 cm. Our dive team tested multiple masks and most of us fit!
The mask also features an adjustable mask strap which can be adjusted from 16 to 20 inches. The Cressi F1 also comes with an individual lens case that can be used as a storage container for your lenses.
Mask Cressi F1 is an ideal dive mask that you can use when you are looking for the best quality mask without compromising on comfort or performance.
Key Features
- Two mask sizes: small and large to suit most face shapes
- Soft grade silicone: for comfortable wear
- Low volume: for easy clearing
Best for: beginners looking for a super affordable mask and cannot fit standard sizes
? Pros
- It provides maximum protection from the effects of water pressure
- It has been designed with comfort in mind
- Lightweight and can be worn all day long without any discomfort.
- Wide point of vision
? Cons
- Even two sizes won’t fit all face shapes
- Keeps fogging if it doesn’t fit
Snorkel: AQUALUNG Impulse 2 Flex Snorkel
| Style | Semi-dry |
| Tube | Contoured |
| Mouthpiece | Comfo-bite |
| Upper Feature | One way annular valve |
| Warranty | 2 years, limited |
| Price | $ |
Aqua Lung Impulse 3 is an innovative, game-changing product that changes the way we breathe underwater. It does this by combining the best features of scuba gear and a snorkel.
The Impulse 3 is an upgrade from the 2, and a part of the popular “Impulse’ snorkel line which has been in production by Aqua Lung since 1989.
As with its predecessors, the Impulse 3 features a patented design, upper valve, Comfo-Bite mouthpiece, and a two-drain system.
Big waves? No problem! We tested this snorkel in high waves and found that the annular valve drains out the lower valve.
In the event you need to clear the snorkel, it takes an easy puff. Mouthpieces can even be removed and used on regulators.
Key Features
- Two-valve system: directs the water out of the way before it even reaches the mouthpiece.
- Smooth breathing: uninterrupted inhale and exhale through the snorkel
- Mouthpiece drain: even if the valve doesn’t seal properly, the water will drain out of the mouthpiece
- Reservoir below the bottom breather: helps to ensure suctioned-out water is not inhaled as you clear it.
- Optional smaller-sized comfort bite: available for customers that like a smaller size snorkel
- The flex-switch: allows the lower unit to be detached from the snorkel
? Pros
- Comfo-bite eliminates jaw fatigue
- Easy breathing
- Valves prevent water coming in
- Easy clearing
? Cons
- Mask clip design proved to be inconvenient for some users
- Snorkel size is too big for some
Fins: Mares Avanti Super-Channel Open Heel Fin
| Materials | Tecralene, thermoplastic rubber |
| Blade Type | Non-vented |
| Blade Length | 14.6 in. |
| Fin Style | Open heel (0.9kg) |
| Warranty | 2 years, limited |
| Price | $$ |
Mares Avanti Super-channel is one of the best open heel fins that are designed for natural finning with superior propulsion and stability. Whether snorkeling or diving, we found that these fins offered one-size-fits-all comfort.
The fin also has an adjustable strap that can be tightened to ensure a better fit, making it easier to wear over swimsuits or wetsuits.
Key Features
- Three channel “Super-Channel” blade: for superior propulsion
- Anatomical foot pocket: fits most dive booties
- Non vented blade: prevents loss of energy
- Bungee fin straps: easy putting on and taking off
- Tecralene and thermoplastic rubber: durability
Best for: Divers that want durable, open heel fins
? Pros
- The Super-channel heel offers a wide range of motion for the foot and prevents any overpronation or supination
- Provides lightweight support by keeping the foot in place without any pressure points
- The super-channel heel also provides an excellent fit since there are no seams
? Cons
- Heel might be too rigid
- Finning takes a lot of energy for some
BCD: AquaLung Pro HD
| Style | Weight-integrated jacket |
| Inflator | Powerline |
| Weight Capacity | Releasable: 20 to 30 lbs (9 to 13.5kg) Non-releasable: 10 lbs (4.54kg) |
| Valves | 1 Cable activated pull shoulder dump 2 Over-pressure relief/dump valves |
| Warranty | 5 years, limited |
| Price | $$$ |
Want to achieve neutral buoyancy? That’s a breeze with this revolutionary new product that is made from a proprietary material that provides unmatched buoyancy, durability, and comfort. This product has been designed for professional divers yet at an affordable, “beginner diver” price.
Aqua Lung Pro HD is the first self-righting buoyancy control device to offer the advantages of an inflatable BCD with the performance of a rigid BCD with integrated weights. We use this regularly with students and they love it!
Key Features
- SureLock II Mechanical Weight Release System: provides a safe, single-pull release.
- Traction pad: to reduce tank slippage
- Technologically advanced ResisteK material: resists fading and abrasion
- The low profile flat valves: reduce drag when moving through the water
- Fixed pockets on the tank band: increases weight capacity and helps provide proper trim in the water
Best for: Divers looking for a comfortable, durable buoyancy control device that will last many dives
Pros
- Durable and built to last for new divers
- Integrated weight system, you won’t need a weight belt!
- Built-in weight pockets for easy storage of weights
Cons
- Shorter warranty period
- Integrated weight system might not be for everyone
Regulator: Aqua Lung Calypso Regulator
| Materials | First stage: Chrome plated brass Second stage: Techno-polymer, polyurethane, silicone |
| Technology | 1st Stage: Non-balanced flow-by Piston 2nd Stage: Downstream demand valve |
| Nitrox Compatibility | Up to 40% O2 |
| Warranty | Lifetime, limited |
| Price | $$$ |
The Aqua Lung Calypso Regulator is one of the most popular regulators on the market. It is a high-performance regulator that provides a comfortable and efficient breathing experience. Even at depth, we found that it breathes easy.
The Calypso regulator has been designed to provide a high level of performance and comfort, which makes it an excellent choice for recreational divers as well as technical divers who often work in challenging conditions.
Key Features
- Compact and lightweight: for the traveling diver
- Easy breathing: even at depth
- Great for dive centers: plenty of reliable rental gear for beginner divers
- Nitrox ready: offer choices for gas blends
Best for: Traveling divers looking for a lightweight regulator
Pros
- Lightweight and compact design for easy carrying
- Comes with an affordable price tag
Cons
- Difficult to adjust the pressure settings on the regulator
- Cannot be used in technical diving
Octopus: Aqua Lung Calypso/Titan Octopus
| Materials | ABS, polycarbonate, polyurethane, silicone |
| 2nd Stage Technology | Downstream demand valve |
| Adjustable 2’nd Stage | Venturi dive, Pre-dive knob |
| Housing | Polycarbonate |
| Warranty | 5 years, limited |
| Price | $$ |
The Titan Octopus was designed with the needs of recreational divers in mind. It has a compact design that makes it easy to transport and store.
The Titan Octopus also features an ergonomic grip for easy handling and a low-profile design that allows for easier entry into the water.
In addition, we found breathing at depth was a breeze with this alternate.
Key Features
- Reliable Downstream Demand Valve
- In-Line Venturi Knob
- Silicone Mouthpiece for comfort
- Polycarbonate Housing for durability
- Easy Purge Front Cover
Best for: Divers that want a reliable, durable octopus
Pros
- Ergonomic knob prevents unwanted free flow
- Easy-to-read pressure gauge
Cons
- Only ships to the US
- Prolonged use might result in jaw fatigue
Alternate option: Aqua Lung Titan Regulator Bundle with Calypso/Titan Octopus Combo
Buy the Calypso regulator with the matching Octopus for an affordable bundle. Plus, you’ll get to service them together, saving you heaps of time and money!
SPG + Dive Computer: Cressi Leonardo Computer Console
| Operating Modes | Air, Nitrox and Gauge |
| Memory Capacity | 70 hours (60 dives) |
| Depth Display | 0 to 120m |
| Altitude Adjustable | 3,700m max |
| Warranty | 2 years, limited |
| Price | $$ |
The Cressi Leonardo computer console is the best scuba diving all-in-one console in a simple, functional design.
The single button interface makes it easy to toggle between air, nitrox and gauge modes. The Leonardo has a large, high-def LCD screen for easy reading.
Like most dive computers, the console is equipped with a submersible gauge with a luminescent dial that has readout from 0 to 5,000 psi to show you how much air you have.
Our student divers had no problems using this dive computer and some of our instructors love it as well.
Key Features
- Complete instrument console
- Computer & Pressure Gauge
- Single Button Interface
- Air, Nitrox & Gauge console
Best for: Divers looking for air pressure gauge and computer all-in-one
Pros
- Bluetooth technology and a diver log app
- Deep stop
- Nitrox mode
- 3-gauge computer can switch up to three gases from an underwater layout.
- Backlight makes it easier for it to be read in the dark
Cons
- Cressi algorithm can be conservative
- Bulky and might not suit divers that want a compact dive computer
Wrist Computer: Cressi Leonardo Wrist Computer
| Operating Modes | Air, Nitrox and Gauge |
| Memory Capacity | 70 hours (60 dives) |
| Depth Display | 0 to 120m |
| Altitude Adjustable | 3,700m max |
| Warranty | 2 years, limited |
| Price | $$ |
The Cressi Leonardo Wrist Computer is a dive computer that looks like a watch. It will provide all you need on depth, bottom time, no-decompression limits, and on the surface, help you plan your dives.
The touch screen provides most divers with all the information you need when scuba diving, allowing you to access crucial information through the dive. Even the bulkiness is surpassed by the ease of use by our instructors and students.
Key Features
- Simple & Functional Design
- Effortless Programming
- Single Button Interface
- Modes: Air, Nitrox & Gauge
- Large Numerical Displays
Best for: Divers that want an affordable, reliable dive computer
Pros
- 4 operating modes. Air, Nitrox, Gauge, Free Dive
- Changeable batteries
- High visibility LED lights
Cons
- Battery life can be short depending on how often you use it
- Bulky
Men’s Wetsuit: Cressi Morea 3mm Men’s
| Materials | Nylon II, I neoprene |
| Seams | Glued, sewn |
| Closure | Back zipper w/ pull tab leash |
| Thickness | 3mm |
| Warranty | 1 year, limited |
| Price | $$ |
Cressi Morea 3mm Men’s Jumpsuit has a unique design that offers excellent visibility and comfort, even when you’re wearing it for long periods like we do!
This perfect tropical diving wetsuit is constructed with Ultraspan nylon II on the arms and legs. With its anatomical cut and design allows for ultimate freedom whether you are scuba diving, surfing, or going for a snorkel.
Key Features
- Summer/ warm water exposure suit
- 3mm neoprene: warm water use
- Anatomically designed : optimum flexibility
- Rubberized neoprene chest: durability
Best for: The Cressi Morea 3mm Men’s is perfect for people who don’t want to spend too much on their diving gear but still want good quality gear.
Pros
- Quick-drying
- UPF 50+ sun protection
- It includes a durable material that provides extreme buoyancy.
- Easy-to-use zipper
Cons
- As with all suits, not everyone fits
- As with all 3mm suits, only suitable for tropics
Women’s Wetsuit: Cressi Morea 3mm Women’s
| Materials | Nylon II, I neoprene |
| Seams | Glued, sewn |
| Closure | Back zipper w/ pull tab leash |
| Thickness | 3mm |
| Warranty | 1 year, limited |
| Price | $$ |
The Cressi Morea 3mm Women’s jumpsuit is a women’s swimsuit made of high-quality materials that are designed to be durable and long-lasting. Our suits have lasted for years without too much compression.
The suit is a 3mm neoprene with a soft and smooth surface. It can keep its shape even after repeated use and washing. The suit also has an integrated silicone gripper for comfort and support.
Key Features
- Female specific fit and design
- Summer/ warm water exposure suit
- 3mm neoprene for warm water use
- Anatomically designed for optimum flexibility
- Rubberized neoprene chest for durability
Best for: Female divers that want a specific fit
Pros
- Lightweight, breathable fabric
- Excellent fit
- Quick-drying
- Comfortable
Cons
- Difficult to find in stores
- Sizing is not consistent
⭐ 5. Best Scuba Diving Accessories for New Divers 2025
While not mandatory equipment required, these accessories will make your diving safer and more enjoyable!
Surface Marker Buoy
| Materials | Cordura |
| Length | 45 in. |
| Color | Yellow, orange |
| Inflation Valve | Oral inflator |
| Warranty | 1 year, limited |
| Price | $ |
You really don’t want to dive in a boat traffic area without one! If you don’t use a Signal Tube Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) when diving, it’s time to start!
This dive signal tube is composed of robust Cordura fabric and comes in yellow or orange. Carrying the bag is simple and convenient thanks to the attachable gate snap clip.
Finger Spool
| Materials | Injection molded POM acetal plastic, stainless-steel |
| Line Length | 18.3m, 36.6m |
| Tensile Strength | 99.80kg |
| Warranty | 1 year, limited |
| Price | $ |
With every SMB comes a reel or spool! This finger spool has holes in the side, allowing for clipping in a double-ended snap anywhere along the perimeter of the spool to keep the line tight when not in use.
Dive Rite Finger Spools are made of corrosion-proof injection molded POM acetal plastic; finger spools are simple to use and virtually indestructible in the water.
The finger spool is available in 2-line lengths and 2-line colors of 60′ or 120′ (18.3m or 36.6m) in white or orange 0.073″ (1.86mm) diameter DuPont fiber braid #24-line or orange Dacron that does not stretch with breakage strength of 220 lbs (99.80kg).
Spools come standard with a large stainless-steel double-ended snap clip and can be attached to metal d rings.
DGX Titanium Tek Dive Knife w/Waistbelt Sheath
| Materials | Titanium |
| Tip Style | Drop point |
| Blade Type | Straight edge, serrated edge |
| Blade Length | 6 in. |
| Warranty | 1 year, limited |
| Price | $$ |
Entanglement is NOT what you want during your dive!
DGX GearsTitanium Tek Dive Knife w/Waistbelt Sheath – The DGX Gears premium quality { 6 in | 15 cm } Tek Dive Knife is made from titanium alloy. The two most useful properties of titanium are the corrosion resistance and the highest strength-to-weight ratio of any metal. The price also includes a hogarthian style sheath which fits on a webbing harness waistband and has been enhanced with a Velcro flap and pull tab that holds the knife securely while still allowing reliable one-handed usage.
Scuba Choice Diving Dive Diver Cylinder Tank Banger
| Materials | Plastic, Rubber |
| Type | Manual |
| Activation | Hand Pull |
| Warranty | 2 years, limited |
| Price | $ |
You’ll need a way to signal your buddy or your dive guide when underwater, and shouting doesn’t cut it! Use this banger sparingly, some divers get annoyed by too much noise.
The tank banger is the most basic and dependable attention getter for scuba diving. Simply stretch it over the base of your cylinder and you’re ready to go. If you’re right-handed, place it to the right; if you’re left-handed, place it to the left.
XS Scuba Compass Module
| Materials | Polycarbonate |
| Display | Luminescent |
| Rotating Bezel | 30-degree numbered increments |
| Warranty | 2 years limited |
| Price | $ |
Divers typically take compasses for granted, considering them just accessories to their overall gear. Navigation with an improperly functioning or poorly designed compass can be one of diving’s more frustrating experiences.
This Cressi Compass is a robust and precise underwater compass for navigation that ensures accuracy and durability for long periods of time.
With the convenient side window, you get large, easy-to-read bearing indicators with a luminescent display.
Even in cold water with thick neoprene gloves, the ratcheted bezel can be rotated easily by divers who prefer relative navigation. Compass direction can be easily determined with the luminous dial, designed with a half black / half luminous pattern.
📷 6. Underwater Photography for Beginners
GoPro HERO10 Black
| Photo Resolution | 23 MP |
| Max Video Resolution | 5.3K/60 fps |
| Processor | GP2 |
| Waterproof Depth | 33.0′ / 10.0 m |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Price | $$$ |
Wanna record your dive, or maybe film some cool underwater marine life? We use these as our rental cameras and they are totally built to last.
HERO10 Black is the most powerful GoPro yet, with all-out speed and simplicity like no other.
HERO10 Black shoots 5.3K video with double the frame rate, 23MP photos, improved low-light performance, and game-changing HyperSmooth 4.0 video stabilization in all modes thanks to the revolutionary new GP2 processor.
Key Features
- GP2 processor
- SD card and rechargeable battery included
- Advanced HyperSmooth 4.0 video stabilization
- Waterproof to 33ft
- Built to last
- Fits on over 30 mounts and accessories
Best for: Divers that want to record their dive and start underwater photography
Pros
- Automatically upload footage to the cloud when charging
- Advanced HyperSmooth 4.0 video stabilization
- TimeWarp 3.0 allows you to nail any shot
Cons
- Only waterproof to 33 ft (11 meters)
See our top 3 scuba GoPro picks in this guide
💭 7. Final Thoughts on Best Scuba Gear For Beginners
So, whether you’re a beginner just starting out or an experienced diver looking for some new gear, we hope our list of the best scuba diving gear for beginners has given you some good ideas.
And remember, if you’re ever in doubt about what to bring on your next diving trip, always check with your local dive shop – they will be able to help you choose the right equipment for your needs. Have fun and safe diving!
