All scuba diving equipment can be hired through a number of outlets and this may be a good way to try out various item before you decide to purchase your own.
When you start off diving you will probably hire some or almost all of the equipment but over time you will no doubt put together a kit of your own.
Basic Equipment
Diving Mask - make sure it fits well
Snorkel
Fins - must fit well
Suit - essential in colder climates, wet, semi-wet or dry
Weight belt and weights
Buoyancy compensator - get advice from you club
Watch
Depth gauge
Compass
Knife
Torch
Boots
Gloves
Whistle - great to use when you surface to attract attention
Catch bag
Hire or Buy
Tanks - Steel or aluminium. Both suffer from corrosion and need to be maintained. Steel being stronger than aluminium usually results in a lighter tank. Research has shown what a well maintained steel tank has a service life of 35 - 40 years or more, whereas an aluminium is considerably less, even as low as 15 - 20 years.
Regulator - There is a large range of regulators to choose from. Discuss the options with your club members. Visit a good dive shop that has knowledgable staff to talk you through the many makes and features. This is an expensive and extremely important piece of equipment, choose it carefully.
Optional
Dive computer - very accurate and a wide range is available. It is best to discuss a purchase like this with members of your dive club for advice and to discover any recommendation they may have. Always ask if they have any negative things to say about a specific model, you don't want to make a purchase you will later be dissatisfied with.
Once you have purchased your own dive equipment make sure it is well looked after and maintained.
When best to hire
When travelling long distances to dives where you don't want to lug all your own equipment along with you. Check out local hire facilities before arriving and book ahead of time to avoid being disappointed on arrival.
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