How to Buy Scuba Gear with Confidence

A Guide for New Divers

By Mario Medarevic 

Why Buying Your Own Gear Matters

Buying your own scuba diving gear just makes sense—it’s an investment in both your safety and your dive experience. When you own your equipment, you’re not just getting a better fit and more comfort underwater—you’re also gaining consistency, reliability, and peace of mind. Unlike rentals, which vary in quality and condition, your personal gear is maintained to your standards and tailored to your body and dive style. Over time, it also saves money by eliminating rental fees, making it a smart long-term choice for any diver looking to grow in the sport.

The Importance of Fit

Properly fitting scuba gear isn’t just about comfort—it’s essential for safety, performance, and enjoyment underwater. A mask that fits well won’t leak and distract you during a dive, while fins that suit your kick style prevent fatigue and blisters. A BCD that hugs your body correctly improves trim and buoyancy control, helping you stay streamlined and relaxed. And perhaps most critically, having a regulator that matches your breathing style and is rated for the conditions you dive in—especially cold water—ensures smooth, reliable air delivery when it matters most. When your gear fits the way it should, everything works better—so you can focus on the dive, not the distractions.

 “What’s the Best Brand?” (Spoiler: There Isn’t One)

The best setup isn’t always a matching set. Experienced divers often mix and match gear from various brands to get the best of each.

Here is a list of core gear items and corresponding brands we recommend:

BCDs – Xdeep

Regulator – Poseidon

Dive computer – Shearwater

Wetsuits – Waterproof

Drysuit – SFtech

We sell these brands, we dive these brands, we service these brands and we stand behind every everything we sell.

If you would like to have a nuanced conversation about why we recommend each of these brands do not hesitate to stop by or give us a call.

Thinking About Buying Used?

Used gear can be a bargain—but it’s also a gamble.

Before you buy:

•  Bring the gear in for a free inspection

•  Let us check compatibility, condition, and service history

• We’ll give you an honest assessment—no pressure

Pro tip: Always consider how much servicing or replacement parts may cost. Sometimes, “cheap” used gear ends up costing more in the long run.

Why Warranties Matter

When you buy new through Dive World, your gear includes full manufacturer warranties—many with local or in-house support.

That means:

• Faster repairs

• Less downtime

• Peace of mind if anything goes wrong

Not sure if something is covered in Canada? Just ask—we’ll verify it for you.

Where to Start: First Gear Essentials

Here’s how to build your dive kit, step by step:

1. Mask, Snorkel, Fins & Boots

Your underwater experience starts with visibility and mobility. A mask that fits you makes all the difference.

2. Exposure Suit (Wetsuit or Drysuit)

Your thermal protection depends on your dive environment. Local divers? Start with a drysuit. Tropical travelers? A wetsuit is perfect.

3. Regulator or Dive Computer

Planning cold water dives? Go with a cold-water rated regulator. Traveling? A compact dive computer is often the best next step.

Questions? That’s What We’re Here For

The internet is full of opinions. Some good. Some… not so much.

Instead of guessing or Googling endlessly, come talk to us. At Dive World, you get:

• Hands-on advice from real instructors

• Honest feedback based on personal use

• Gear matched to your dive style and goals

No upselling. No pressure. Just solid advice.

Final Thoughts

Buying scuba gear isn’t about showing off—it’s about being prepared, safe, and in control every time you hit the water.

When you’re ready, we’re here to help.

Visit Us in Etobicoke

 Shop Online at DiveWorld.ca

 Questions? Call or Drop By—We Love Talking Diving.