The Scuba Gear Guru

Proper fitting scuba fins maximize each kick underwater, thus cutting down on fatigue. Typically, fins are either open-heeled or closed-heeled and correspond to men’s and women’s shoe sizes. When shopping for new scuba fins, make sure that you actually try them on. Do not assume that the shoe size you wear on land will be as comfortable underwater. You may want to go up or down a size.

Divers who use an open heeled fin may also want to invest in a pair of dive boots or neoprene socks. These will protect your feet underwater. If you opt to go this route, make sure to have the socks or boots on while trying on fins to get a true fit.

Evan Bozanic, 13, recently became the youngest diver to dive south of the Antarctic Circle. Considering the danger of the feat and the fact that he is so young makes it all the more remarkable. Bozanic got his first taste of diving when he was a four month old infant. His father, a marine scientist, submerged the infant in an open bell helmet that had been specially designed.

In recounting his first attempt at scuba diving, Bozanic said that he was terrified of anything hurting, so wound up going kayaking instead. Obviously, that fear wore off. For the Antarctic dive Bozanic had to wear scuba dive boots and a dry suit under his wet suit to help combat the cold. A chill still set in, but the teen accomplished his goal and is now looking for the next adventure.

I read a heartwarming story the other day about Tinley Park Police Sgt. Bill Devine who raises money for the Special Olympics through participating in a polar plunge. Sgt. Devine has been involved with the Special Olympics for 16 years, and it is all the more meaningful for him now since his four-year-old son was born with Down syndrome. In 2010 Sgt. Devine raised $9,000 for the Special Olympics Illinois by participating in the Super Plunge.

The Super Plunge is a Polar Plunge that takes place at Lake Michigan. Each participant jumps in the frigid waters once an hour every 24 hours in just their swimsuits and scuba boots. This year Sgt. Devine hopes to raise $10,000 for the Special Olympics. Sgt. Devine told reporters, “It’s fun, it’s cold, but it’s worth it.” Bravo Sgt. Devine!

Whatever the activity, wherever it takes place, a primary concern will always be safety. This is especially the case when it comes to enjoying the water. With a litany of potential hazards and pitfalls we can quickly find ourselves in unfavorable situations with little to no warning. When you’re under water your level of preparedness is that much more important as the slightest misstep could cost you, and your fellow divers, a lot more than anyone’s willing to risk.

One important piece of dive gear that many people often overlook is quality dive boots. A good pair of dive boots can mean the difference between just bumping into some coral or having its razor sharp edges shear through your footwear and directly into your skin. An accident like this can quickly turn into disaster so there’s no good reason to take the risk. If you’re a diver then take the time and spend the money to make your dive safer. Trust me, it’s worth it.

An essential part of the scuba gear that lets divers move under water with little effort is the fins. Good scuba flippers or fins will make your scuba diving experience more exciting and pleasurable.  You can use them to navigate more easily when you want to go underwater. They also protect your feet from sharp corral as you swim near the ocean floor. When scuba diving, look for fins that can be used in conjunction with dive boots for the highest level of comfort and protection.

Make sure that you get a pair of fins that fit you correctly. It may help to try on several pairs before making your decision. This way, you can test the feel of each pair of fins and find what works better for you. Always bear in mind that poorly fitted fins can give you blisters and cramps. If you’re a beginner, cramps can be a serious matter underwater. Take heed as it is very important to know such information before buying any scuba-diving gear.

When you’re preparing to take your maiden voyage into the world of scuba diving, don’t forget to bring the essentials. You’ll need a reliable breathing apparatus, a skin-tight suit to keep you warm and protected from underwater obstructions, and of course some flippers. Flippers are advantageous for the fledgling diver as well as the seasoned pro because they ad mobility to your progress under water.

If you desire the greatest possible range of motion, you’ll need open-foot fins that attach to scuba boots. These fins are designed to alleviate fatigue that might otherwise mount in your lower legs and feet during an extended dive. Lastly, check that your scuba diving flippers are equipped with channels in the blades. Flippers with a large central channel have been shown to offer the most propulsion potential as you glide through the water.

I thought I had experienced all that the scuba diving world had to offer until about a month ago, when a friend turned me on to the thrill of diving in currents. Such disparate forces as wind, temperature and gravitational tides can cause ocean currents, and these phenomena can offer divers an exhilarating ride. On my first dive in currents, I relaxed and allowed the water to guide me through a diverse blend of coral and fish.

While rapidly moving water is the home to a wide array of fascinating wildlife, there are many dangers present as well. Currents are no place for a novice diver, and even seasoned veterans should be clad in underwater “armor” including scuba dive boots, a wetsuit and a high-end mask. Stay alert while swimming in a current; the second you begin to sense danger, float upward where the water moves less rapidly.