OCT 15, 2022
You will hear questions such as which is the best SCUBA fins in the market?
Which is the best mask for SCUBA Diving? Etc.
This topic is by far the most asked question and the most difficult to answer.
(from my personal experience and point of view)
And I dont even want to rant about my students who asked for recommendations and then went to purchase something totally different.
So here is my "worthless" and humble ("inferior" "ASIAN/CHINESE" SCUBA INSTRUCTOR") take on the topic.
In short, all dive equipments have no problem and can be used, regardless of how bad you think they are. They all work just fine. The cheapest regulator keeps you breathing, an ugly mask lets you see properly underwater.
Just like buying a mobile phone. A cheap mobile phone works just fine. You get my point?.
There is no "best" SCUBA gear for everyone. The best for me might not be necessary the best for you.
The best gear donned by a super cool looking "technical" diver might not be the best for you.
There are many criteria to consider when purchasing a SCUBA gear. For example, cold water/warm water diving? How often do you dive? What is your budget? What design/colour do you prefer? Etc.
I am 99% sure that anyone selling a certain brand or any brand equipment manufacturer will tell you that their gears are the best.
So how to choose which to purchase? You may follow my simple "non-proven" guidance below:-
1. What is your budget?
2. Does the equipment perform like what is should
and meets your minimum diving requirements?
3. Do you like the design / colour / shape ?
4. Does it fit you?
5. Does purchasing the equipment makes you happy?
6. Is there any existing quality issue?
It is always a good idea to ask your teaching/certifying instructor or a dive professional who knows your diving style well. Shortlist the gears that you think you might want to purchase before asking them for opinion.
I would say "most" dive professionals will give their honest opinion although some might recommend you to purchase the most expensive gear for maximum profit. You know your dive pro better than me.
At the end of the day, if you are super happy getting a pink colour wetsuit, just go for it.
Your happiness is what matters most.
Happy hunting.