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12 Best Scuba Diving Gear in 2023 (Guide & Review)

Having a hard time choosing what to add to your scuba diving gear? You’re in luck! We’ve rounded up the best scuba gear, tips on how to choose, and what you should know when buying.

Let’s dive in.

Our Top Picks

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Best Buoyancy Control Device
Aqua Lung Axiom Weight-Intergrated BCD (X-Small)
Best Regulator
Atomic Aquatics B2 Regulator Yoke Sealed Style
Best Dive Computers
Garmin Descent Mk2S, Smaller-Sized Watch-Style Dive Computer, Multisport Training/Smart Features, Mineral Blue with Sea Foam Silicone Band, (010-02403-06)
Feature 1
Adjustable chest strap for your personal comfort
Dual material second stage cover enables the entire front to be used for purge
Advanced, watch-style computer with a sunlight-readable 1.2″ color display 
Feature 2
Knife attachment points on the left lobe
Dual silicone mouthpiece with tear-resistant bite tabs for a comfortable fit 
Six modes and ABC sensors
Best Buoyancy Control Device
Thumbnail
Aqua Lung Axiom Weight-Intergrated BCD (X-Small)
Feature 1
Adjustable chest strap for your personal comfort
Feature 2
Knife attachment points on the left lobe
Best Regulator
Thumbnail
Atomic Aquatics B2 Regulator Yoke Sealed Style
Feature 1
Dual material second stage cover enables the entire front to be used for purge
Feature 2
Dual silicone mouthpiece with tear-resistant bite tabs for a comfortable fit 
Best Dive Computers
Thumbnail
Garmin Descent Mk2S, Smaller-Sized Watch-Style Dive Computer, Multisport Training/Smart Features, Mineral Blue with Sea Foam Silicone Band, (010-02403-06)
Feature 1
Advanced, watch-style computer with a sunlight-readable 1.2″ color display 
Feature 2
Six modes and ABC sensors

Listen to more gear tips on the Cast & Spear Podcast

Best Scuba Gear

1. Aqua Lung Axiom Scuba BCD

Best Buoyancy Control Device

Aqua Lung Axiom Weight-Intergrated BCD (X-Small)
  • The chest strap can be adjusted for personal comfort
  • Knife attachment points are found on the left lobe
  • Knife attachment points are found on the left lobe

Key Features:

  • Adjustable chest strap for your personal comfort
  • Knife attachment points on the left lobe
  • Right shoulder pull dump that is easy to locate and use
  • Rolled neck collar for comfort

Aqua Lung is a jacket-style BCD device that supports the weight system of your tank above water. And, its most important function is to help you control your position in the water column. Its knife attachments and shoulder pull dump are easy to locate, too.

It also has a round neck-designed collar for your ease and comfort. So, you would not feel uncomfortable while you’re in the cold water. 


2. Atomic Aquatics B2 Regulator Yoke Sealed Style

Best Regulator

Atomic Aquatics B2 Regulator Yoke Sealed Style
  • First stage materials are chrome-plated Brass and 316…
  • Atomic Jet Seat high-flow piston first stage
  • Nitrox ready for mixtures up to 40%

Key Features:

  • The first stage materials are chrome-plated Brass and 316 Stainless Steel. The second stage is all titanium, the same as Atomic T2
  • The total weight of the B2 is 9 ounces more than the T2
  • Nitrox ready for mixtures up to 40%
  • Dual material second stage cover enables the entire front to be used for purge
  • Dual silicone mouthpiece with tear-resistant bite tabs for a comfortable fit 

It has balanced diaphragm first-stage materials. Hence, it will let you have a free-breathing performance. It has an alternate air source.

Its lightweight B2, which is only 9 ounces, is a more viable one for your air bladder. You don’t have to worry about bite tabs as it has a dual silicone mouthpiece. 


3. Garmin Descent™ Hk2i Descent T1 Bundle

Best Dive Computers

Sale
Garmin Descent Mk2S, Smaller-Sized Watch-Style Dive Computer, Multisport Training/Smart Features, Mineral Blue with Sea Foam Silicone Band, (010-02403-06)
  • Advanced, watch-style dive computer with a sunlight-readable…
  • Battery life: up to 30 hours in dive mode, 7 days in…
  • Surface GPS for estimated entry and exit points and so you…

Key Features:

  • An advanced, watch-style computer with a sunlight-readable 1.2″ color display 
  • Six modes and ABC sensors
  • Surface GPS 
  • Battery life: up to 30 hours 

Technical divers and recreational divers usually use this type of dive computer. This can track your location. It also has a submersible pressure gauge to sense blood oxygen saturation. Thus, it is suitable for warm water diving and low-pressure ports.


4. Atomic Venom ARC Mask Single Lens

Best Scuba Mask

Atomic Aquatics Venom Dive Mask
  • Blending of Atomics SubFrame and Frameless Masks
  • Double feathered edge silicone rubber skirt with…
  • Uses Schott Superwhite glass which allows more light to…

Key Features:

  • Single-lens design 
  • Internal frame molded to the Silicone
  • Easy-adjustable strap buckles.

It features a single lens for clearer vision. An internal frame attached to its Silicone keeps it in place. It also has straightforward adjustable strap buckles and thermal protection for your comfort. 


5. Atomic Cobalt 2 Computer, T3 Titanium Regulator SS1 Titanium Air Source, Zeagle Ranger LTD BCD

Best Scuba Gear Package

Atomic Cobalt 2 Computer, T3 Titanium Regulator, SS1 Titanium Air Source, Zeagle Ranger LTD BCD, Scuba Gear Package
  • Package Includes:
  • Zeagle Ranger LTD BCD with Ripcord Weight System.
  • Atomic Cobalt 2 Dive Computer with QD and PC Download Kit

Key Features:

a. Atomic Cobalt 2 Computer

  • 330 feet / 100 meters maximum operating depth
  • wrist dive computer
  • 256K full-color LCD display
  • Rechargeable battery
  • 600-hour log memory
  • Automatic altitude adjustment
  • Includes zippered protective case

b. T3 Titanium Scuba Regulator

  • First and second-stage components are precision-machined from solid titanium billet.
  • Atomic jet seat with first stage high flow piston
  • up to 40% Nitrox ready 
  • Atomic Seat Saving Orifice
  • Atomic Automatic Flow Control
  • Atomic regulators service intervals are of 3 years or 300 dives.

c. Zeagle Ranger LTD BCD

  • Rear Inflate
  • 9.5 lbs / 4.31 kg Dry weight
  • It has a lift capacity of 44 lbs/19.96 kg.
  • Has a weight capacity of 36 lbs/16.31 kg
  • 8 Stainless Steel D Rings 

This can be an excellent choice if you want to have 4 different scuba diving equipment in one package! Most scuba gear packages don’t have this one.


6. Scubapro Dive N Roll Light Roller Diving Equipment Bag

Best Carrying Bag

Scubapro Dive N Roll Light Roller Diving Equipment Bag
  • Two-in-one design concept — one semi-rigid case plus one…
  • Non-rigid portion of the exterior is made from a combination…
  • The large main compartment holds lots of dive gear while…

Key Features:

  • A two-in-one design concept 
  • The non-rigid portion of the exterior is made from a combination of 420D Nylon NT, 450D Rip-stop, and 600D Polyester/PU 
  • Large storage capacity; few pockets
  • Coil double-slider zippers 
  • Detachable backpack 

With its 2-in-1 design concept, it enables you to have a hassle-free gear transport system. It is made from a combination of nylon and polyester to ensure its strength and durability. Also, it has a detachable backpack and integrated weight pockets.

These are great for technical diving. You can keep your most valuable gear with you throughout your journey. And it still works this way even if you become an experienced diver.


7. Cressi Frog Plus Open Heel Dive Fins

Best Scuba Fins

Cressi Sub Frog Plus Scuba Diving Open Heel Adjustable Fins
  • Cressi Sub Frog Plus Scuba Diving Open Heel Fins
  • Revolutionary Blade Three-Material Design
  • Dual Density Techno Polymer Blade Provides Power

Key Features:

  • Diving open foot fins and open heel fins
  • Revolutionary Blade Three-Material Design
  • Dual Density Techno Polymer Blade Provides Power
  • Low-pressure ports
  • Ultra-Durable and Nearly Indestructible foot pocket

These fins are perfect for those who are starting out in this underwater activity. These also work excellent for occasional divers who want to try doing long kicks. Its blades are made of materials that ensure fluid movements with less muscular effort. 


8. Greatever Dry Snorkel Set

Best Snorkel Set

Sale
Greatever Dry Snorkel Set,Panoramic Wide View,Anti-Fog Scuba Diving Mask,Professional Snorkeling Gear
  • AFTER SALES SERVICE:As long as you are our customers,since…
  • ANTI FOGGING AND NO LEAKING: Greatever snorkeling set use…
  • CLEAR LENSES AND PANORAMIC VIEW: This mask features a single…

Key Features:

  • Anti Fog and no leak
  • Clear lenses and panoramic view
  • Quality silicon material

Its lens surface has been designed to block fog and for leak protection. It is made from a soft transparent or food-grade silicone for user comfort. And it prevents allergies while using it.

It is also easy to clean and suitable to use for the long term. These dive accessories are usually used in dive schools and dive centers.


9. Sealskin Full Body Diving Suit

Best Scuba Wetsuits

Sale
Mens 3mm Shorty Wetsuit Womens, Full Body Diving Suit Front Zip Wetsuit for Diving Snorkeling Surfing Swimming (Men’s Fullsuit, X-Small)
  • This shorty wetsuit men is specially designed for water…
  • The mens wetsuit should fit snugly and tight to the body,…
  • Heavy duty YKK front zipper mens shorty wetsuit is easy for…

Key Features:

  • Wetsuit front zip 
  • Made of high-quality and durable material 
  • It also has integrated weights for the depth gauge.

Its wetsuit front zipper has UV protection to protect you from sea lice, jellies, and other biological irritants. It has 3 layers of fabric to keep the skin warm and comfortable. It has a few pockets and an integrated weight system.

We also have reviewed the best women’s wetsuits if you’re looking for one.


10. Gill Drysuit

Best Drysuit

Key Features:

  • Flexible YKK aqua seal waterproof zipper
  • Pre-marked glideskin collar and cuff seals for a customized fit.
  • Elasticated waist
  • Reinforced knees and seat
  • Internal adjustable elastic braces for a comfortable fit
  • Main fabric: 100% nylon, PU coated

This drysuit can be an excellent choice for active divers and watersports enthusiasts. It is breathable and waterproof, ensuring that you’re dry and comfortable in your movements. It also has a watertight seal, 4-layer fabric, and a water-resistant finish.  


11. Genwiss Scuba Diving Flashlight

Best Diving Flashlight

Genwiss Scuba Diving Flashlight Dive Torch 2000 Lumen Waterproof Underwater XM-L2 LED Submarine Lights Holder with Rechargeable Battery,Charger for Under Water Deep Sea Cave at Night
  • BRIGHT LED ILLUMINATION: Adopts LED to emit even, super…
  • SUPER BRIGHT: Powerful XM-L2 LED, 2000 lumens, Neutral White…
  • EASY TO OPERATE: to click the side magnet switch to turn on…

Key Features: 

  • Bright Led Illumination
  • Powerful XM-L2 LED, 2000 lumens, Neutral White light assists as you observe target 100 meters away.
  • Easy to operate
  • Powered by rechargeable 18650 batteries 
  • Made of Compact 6061 aluminum alloy case

It has a bright Led illumination for tech divers or beginner divers. These emit super-bright dive lights when fishing, hiking, camping, trekking, or emergencies. It is easy to operate powered by 18650 rechargeable batteries.

These are durable and quality made from compact 6061 aluminum alloy. Thus, making it shock resistance and crash-proof. 


12. Seac USA Hammer Dive Knife

Best Dive Knife

Key Features:

  • Knife with a stainless steel blade and featuring a built-in line cutter
  • 120-mm long blade with a straight edge on one side, a serrated edge, and a line cutter on the other
  • Grip over-molded with soft thermoplastic rubber 

It features a 120-mm long stainless steel blade and a built-in cutter for different purposes. Its soft thermoplastic rudder provides an anti-slip effect for a safe grip. You might need this when you don’t have dive gloves.


best scuba gear
Source: Canva Pro

How to Choose the Best Scuba Diving Gear

In choosing the best scuba diving gear, you should keep in mind the following attributes::

Lightweight

When diving, you should consider having portable gear to keep you comfortable under warm or cold water. This also applies when under high pressure. But you don’t want to be too buoyant. So, it helps to counteract your gear’s buoyancy with a weight belt.

Durability

The scuba diving equipment should keep you breathing and help you stay underwater. It is why you should choose durable and functional kits. Staying long underwater requires reliable gear for solid performance. 

Easy To Use 

When choosing a dive gear, you should prioritize easy-to-use gears. For instance, you should not have a hard time looking for the GPS with a dive computer. Otherwise, it defeats the purpose of tracking real-time location.

Cost

Buying a set of scuba gear would be too costly. So, better to figure out whether you would like to do it most frequently or just for recreational diving. In choosing the best gear, you should consider not too expensive dive gear but a quality one.

Here are a few more scuba accessories to have:

Frequently Asked Questions

What Dive Equipment Should I Buy First?

The first scuba gear most people buy are fins, a scuba diving mask, and snorkel. Those are the most essential equipment to have, whether you’re an experienced or a beginner diver.

What is the Best Brand of Scuba Diving Gear? 

When choosing the best brand for scuba diving, there are different brands in the market. To have in-depth knowledge about these brands, you could do your own research and try to compare those brands. 

How Much Does a Full Scuba Set Cost?

An introductory scuba divers’ gear set typically includes a mask, snorkel, fins, exposure suit, regulator, and BCD. A typical scuba gear cost would range from $1,000 to $1,500, not including a computer.

Conclusion

When choosing scuba accessories and gear, it makes sense to carefully think it through. After all, the fun and excitement underwater rely on your equipment. Plus, getting your first scuba gear can be a real life-changing experience. Once you jump onto this and learn more about this equipment, you might become an enthusiast for life. 

But, for now, take your new gear and get ready for your diving adventures!

Jon Stenstrom
Founder & Angler
Jon Stenstrom is a fishing enthusiast. He has over 25 years of fishing experience, and 6 years of spearfishing experience, and is currently learning how to boat. Jon has his Open Water PADI Certification and FII Freediver Level 1 Certification. Jon has traveled the world to fish and dive, most notably in the Great Barrier Reef, Baja Mexico, Thailand, and Malaysia. More Articles
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Articles » Gear Reviews » 12 Best Scuba Diving Gear in 2023 (Guide & Review)