Your own mask, snorkel and fins make every trip better, and they are the first pieces most divers buy.
Mask
Fit matters more than anything else. Hold the mask to your face without the strap and inhale gently through your nose; a mask that fits will stay in place. Tempered glass lenses are standard, and low-volume masks are easier to clear.
Snorkel
Dry and semi-dry snorkels have valves that keep splashes out at the surface, which helps new snorkelers.
Fins
Full-foot fins are worn barefoot in warm water. Open-heel fins are worn with neoprene boots for shore entries, colder water and scuba.
Scuba equipment
Regulators, BCDs, gauges and dive computers are life-support equipment. Get certified through a recognized training agency first, and have regulators serviced on the manufacturer's schedule.
