Best Scuba Diving Tanks 2019

Model	Water Capacity	Weight	Buoyancy
Faber FX Series 100 CF 3442 PSI	14 cf.	34.3 lbs.	3442 psi.	Check Price
Faber 149 CF Steel (Editor’s Choice)	101.4 cf.	46.9 lbs.	3442 psi.	Check Price
Faber Stealth HP117 Steel	100.1 cf.	37.6 lbs.	3442 psi.	Check Price
Faber 80CF Blue Steel 3442 PSI	15 cf.	28.6 lbs.	3442 psi.	Check Price
Sherwood 100 CF Aluminum	101.2 cf.	46.2 lbs.	3300 psi.	Check Price
Faber 85CF	103.5 cf.	46.2 lbs.	3442 psi.	Check Price
Luxfer 80 CF	77.4 cf.	31.5 lbs.		Check Price
Faber High Pressure	622 cf.	28.6 lbs.		Check Price
Catalina 80CF	625 cf.	34.7 lbs.	-1.3 psi	Check Price

Best Scuba Diving Tanks Over $320

Faber FX Series 100 CF 3442 PSI

Introduction

Unfortunately, there are still many divers out there, despite their years and vast experience in diving do not have the proper knowledge and are not trained in figuring out what to look for when searching for tanks of their own.

The first thing they should do when searching for a tank that they can invest in is to check for the PSI certificate. This is the organization that gives full-service and the appropriate training for divers and inspectors alike. When divers look for a tank that is PSI certified, they should also consult with a tank inspector that has this certification.

Since they are also a customer, they should ask lots of questions. They should be specific about what they are looking for. They must have clear and confident questions so that they can have the answers that can help them in their search for the ideal tank.

The Faber FX Series 100 CF 3442 PSI tank is considered one among the best in the line. This is regarded as an excellent steel tank that provides high pressure to the drivers. It is part of the FX series that has a DOT E-13488 specification, therefore overfilling is not allowed. Another advantage that this has compared to other tanks is that the cylinders are cleaned by oxygen and it is most appropriate for the use of Nitrox.

It has an inlet thread of ¾ inches and about 14 NPSM. It comes with a self-draining boot along with a DIN/Yoke valve that makes operating it much easier. It comes in grey and is resistant to corrosion because its finish is customized to make it more durable. This is a tank of very high quality that divers can expect to last a very long time.

Product Review

This tank introduces a new generation of its kind in cylinder technology. When compared to other tanks, it has high pressure that is incomparable with others, primarily due to its regulator. One of the perks that the consumers get upon buying this is that they get a VIP or what is regarded as the Free Visual Inspection of their tank. It also comes with a self-draining tank boot. It has a 3442 psi and is 40% compatible to Nitrox. This means it is quite apt for recreational uses.

Faber cylinders provide the consumers the performance and the quality that they expect from a scuba cylinder, especially the ones made of steel. Chances are, upon buying the product, they appreciate this real gem that they have. Faber cylinders has a wide range of tanks that they offer and provide recreational and professional divers alike the flexibility as well as the volume that they require especially when they are in the bottom of the ocean.

These consumers trust Faber, considering that they already have 35 years of experience in manufacturing, for their diving needs. They know that with the tanks that they acquire from Faber, they are sure to have an enjoyable and at the same time a safe excursion. Faber forms their products from high quality steel because these are deeply drawn from Chromium Molybdenum and then formed into the exclusively cleaned Phosphatized surface. It is also protected by zinc and epoxy and finished with polyurethane which makes it more durable when compared to other tanks.

Conclusion

A lot of consumers who have purchased this tank believe that the Faber FX series 100 CF 3442 psi is an excellent collection in terms of workmanship when set alongside the other steel tanks. This is also because it is made from spun steel that is exported all the way from Italy. It is also sold in reasonable prices and shipping is very convenient. These tanks are also compatible with any dry suit. Divers won’t have problem with the weight especially at the end of the dive, especially when they are in an open tank. This tank does not let them stay down because it does not add more weight to theirs.

Divers, however, are encouraged to ensure that the extender tube of the tank that is located beside the valve is tightened especially when it is installed. This is because the valve extender tube sometimes can be loose and fall into the tank especially when it is being used.

Just like the other steel scuba tanks, weights and diameters of the tank are all nominal. Weights and lengths are also not included in the boot and the valve. The buoyancy that is listed in the specification chart is only when the diver is in a tank and in salt water. All cylinders from Faber are oil free and sealed and is Oxygen cleaned.

Faber makes it also a point to ship to their patrons the latest hydro date possible for all their cylinders. A disclaimer though is that due to the high volume and quantity of manufacturing that are required to various models, the sales volume tend to fluctuate especially because of market conditions. This results to varying hydro inventory. Divers should know that the cylinders that are shipped within a year and 4 months from the manufacturing date is still regarded as “current hydro.”

Faber 149 CF Steel

Introduction

High pressure cylinders are popular nowadays especially because they offer more air compared to the other tanks out there. It is also quite convenient because they can also provide the same amount of high air but from a smaller tank. On average, aluminum cylinders have 3300 psi whereas steel cylinders have an average rate of 3180 psi. This provides a 10% of overfill and therefore a total of 3500 psi. There are other steel cylinders that have a permanent rating of 3500 psi.

Most would believe that more is better since this is an obvious brainer, but just like everything in life, there is no free lunch. Higher pressure also means more metal in the steel tank. The tank that has the high pressure is normally as big as the one with the lower pressure. And at times, it can be heavier.

Steel tanks has more advantage when compared to aluminum and regarding high pressure. The pressure in steel increases much more – on average, it is 32%. Faber makes 95 cubic foot tanks at a low pressure and 100 cubic foot at a high pressure. When set alongside one another, the size of both is pretty much the same. They have the same diameter and at the same time, the high-pressure tank is also half an inch longer. The difference that sets steel apart from aluminum is the buoyancy. It makes the actual weight of the tank with the high pressure less than eight and a half pounds.

This is why when manufacturing tanks, Faber 149 CF steel considers these factors that divers look into when purchasing this equipment. They also make sure that the DIN Valves, like the one in Faber 149 C Steel, has an adapter that fits the standard regulators on the first stage. DIN valves ten to trap water during the excursion and then blows these into the tank on the next fill.

The material or the steel plate of Faber tanks is carefully chosen and is also used depending on the conditions. It is tested alongside the mechanical, physical and chemical characteristics of the material when set upon the product. The design, on the other hand, is also created to meet the specified and calculated formula that is regarded as finite and elemental in the final linear analysis.

Product Review

Those who bought the Faber 149 CF Steel would all agree that is a great and efficient tank that gives divers double the time and less drag during diving excursions – all for a set of two 80s. The Faber 149 also weighs around 13 lbs. and that is more than the Luxfer 80 (the competition) but of course, as what most divers know, steel tanks are lighter or less buoyant compared to aluminum tanks.

Divers are also raving about this tank because it provides more air. Divers, when consumed in their excursions, tend to forget about the air left in their tank. There have been testimonials about this product that they can go through the whole dive without having to worry about losing air because they never did. Divers who own the Faber 149 CF Steel can definitely stay longer because there are no limits to the air and they rarely run out of supply even after surfacing.

This is highly recommended to recreational and professional drivers who wish to have more depth time and don’t want to carry spare air. Of course, it is still possible to run out of air when one stays long enough but this gives them more peace of mind because it can contain more than the others.

Conclusion

This tank can also give the diver the option to remove the excess weight. They do not have to be concerned and worried about the nitrogen levels. Diver who are interested in adding more time and enjoy every dive no longer has to check the nitrogen levels as much. Instead, they will find themselves committed to decompression stop and not worry about lacking air.

It may be too big at first glance but there is a reason behind the big tank. It may be heavier but the buoyancy sure reduces the weight during the dive. Divers need not be extremely muscular t have no issue. Even divers with average body-type can swim and have no issue whatsoever.

This is because the steel tank is as comfortable as they come, not to mention the incredible air capacity. It is definitely worth the investment of any diver. Safety comes first and with this regard, the amount of air is one factor that should be look into when selecting the right diving tank.

The Faber 149 CF Steel has also received the reputation of being the best cylinder that can beat all the cylinders out there. Customers are really pleased despite the only con to this product which is the weight. It is, in fact, 5 lbs. heavier than the other steel tank that Faber has manufactured. It is also longer but that like the weight is not an issue. Even air hog-types can finish the excursion with extra air.

The Faber 149 CF complies with the specifications that are listed by the International Bodies and Local Authorities. The same can be said about the other tanks manufactured by Faber. So, if the diver opts for the Faber 149 CF steel as the tank of his choice, then it is sure to have met the comprehensive range of guidelines expected from diving cylinders.

Faber Stealth HP117 Steel

Introduction

Those who are in the market for tanks that they can call their own must answer one question: should they go for steel or aluminum? Which one is better? There are various factors that can give the diver the answer to this question. For example, a Faber Stealth HP117 is made of steel and it sure is getting lots of positive feedback from the consumers.

For one, because it is made of steel, it weighs less. Aluminum may be lighter than steel but it is weaker, therefore, more aluminum is added to the tank, doubling the thickness of the wall. A steel tank, like that of the Faber Stealth HP117 Steel has a weight of 37.6 pounds when It is empty.

Steel tanks are also smaller. It is usually a couple of inches shorter than aluminum tanks but on average, they have the same diameter. As for buoyance, a steel tank is less buoyant. It is also less than a pound positive whenever it is empty. In comparison to an aluminum tank, the aluminum tank is on average 4 pounds heavy. That is 3 pounds immediately off the weight belt of the diver.

A number of steel tanks are stamped with “+” which means that there will be a 10% overfill five years after it has been manufactured. Interestingly enough, an aluminum that can have the same kind of overfill percentage is hard to find. Steel tanks can also last a long time when handled with proper care. Unlike aluminum tanks, steel tanks do not have cracking issues and neither are these susceptible to minor oxidation. The downside is steel tanks can have rust and that can also lead to a serious problem. Aluminum is softer when compared to steel but is susceptible to dents and dings on the outside.

But the difference that may affect the decision of the diver the most – the cost. The steel tank is more expensive than the aluminum tank. It costs at least two times as much.

Product Review

The Faber Stealth HP117 Steel was built in Italy and manufactured by Faber Cylinders. Faber Cylinders has 40 years of experience in manufacturing and cleaning tanks and their models usually have a pre-blended 40% of Nitrox. These are protected with zinc, epoxy and polyurethane and has a painted finish to make it more durable than average. It was also processed in steel made from Chromium Molybdenum Steel.

It comes with a premium valve that originated from the XS Cuba. It also has the PRO valve that goes exclusively with the black and exclusive Mil-Spec finish. It has an increased resistance to scratching and corrosion from salt water and the Spin-Out DIN can be inserted and removed with the safety handwheel. The high-pressure steel reminds divers of what they were missing before they invested in this tank.

Conclusion

This scuba cylinder has a tank boot that protects its lower surface from the damage. The steel cylinders also require a tank boot that can even out the round bottom design. The boot of the tank lets it stand up properly on a stable flat surface that makes it mount and adjust accordingly to the buoyancy compensators.

It also harnesses the systems as well as its regulators easily. The tank and its boots are made of from steel cylinders. These self-draining PVC foots are also easy to assemble and flexible to the steel tank and also provides a streamline profile that is appropriate for the tank. The boots come in multiple sizes and can easily fit the diameter of the Faber cylinders.

The valve has a black PVD finish and the standard yoke outlet also can spin-out the DIN that is inserted and converts this. It cleans the pre-blended Nitrox until it releases up to 40% of the oxygen. It also has handwheel rotations that can opt for completely on to completely off and the dip tube is included as well.

The standard yoke outlet has a spin out that is also clean for the pre-blended Nitrox along with the O-ring sealed bonnet. It has an easy grip handwheel made from rubber and the dip tube is included and is threaded. The usual service pressures of these kinds of tanks range from 2400 to 3442 psi. As for the Thermo DIN valve, it has a 300 bar that is dedicated to the DIN outlet and it is attached to the standard inlet threads. If there is a yoke outlet and a spin-out adaptor, this can be converted and modulated as long as the access plugs are included.

Because of its finishing, the Faber Stealth HP117 is long lasting and durable. It also has an exclusive and phosphatized and cleaned internal surface. The high quality and molded tank boot has a round ring and comes in various sizes for the diver to choose from.

Divers who purchase this must note that the corrosion resistant has also been established to make the material durable. The length of the cylinder has no valve as well. The weight and the diameters are nominal. The capacities of the cubic foot are also nominal and the actual volume is depended on the settle pressure. The temperature is obtained after it has been filled with gas.

Have your tank visually inspected and as required, it is the best insurance that a diver can take to prevent his tack from cracking, avoiding corrosion and premature demise of the tank. A good visual will also detect any minor corrosion and have this corrected when it heads to the downturn.

Good inspectors check the outside of the tank if it has accumulated dents, bulges, corrosions and cuts. He can also check the inside of the tank for the contamination or the corrosion. He also checks the threads with the galling and cracking. They also check the O-rings, burst disc, and the valve.

Best Scuba Diving Tanks $250 – $340

Faber 80CF Blue Steel 3442 PSI

Introduction

When choosing a scuba tank, there is this common believe that more air is the basis for which tank to get. However, customer must strike an intelligent balance among the following criteria which are physical size, capacity, buoyancy and weight. In other words, when not picked properly, the tank can be too big for the diver.

But how big is too big? This depends on the size of the diver. Most divers are bothered when the tank is too big. The proper size should be the ability to sit down and the tank does not push the BC over the diver’s head. If it is possible to carry the tank by the neck and the diver’s arm is not fully extended, then this prevents damage to both the tank and the diver’s back.

With that criteria being the basis, the Faber 80CF Blue Steel is ideal. It maybe a little heavier but it does have the right pressure that the diver needs during his adventures. The 80CF Blue Steel 3442 PSI tank is an excellent high-pressure steel tank and there is no overfilling based on its specs. All cylinders are also oxygen cleaned and very appropriate for Nitrox use.

Product Review

It is manufactured by Faber. Each cylinder is made from high quality Chromium Molybdenum steel and it is also thoroughly cleaned using the Phosphatized process that is also the proprietary of Faber. The cylinder is triple Zinc protected and also has a finishing of an internal epoxy coating alongside a durable external coating made from Polyurethane.

Every Blue Steel cylinder carried is also Nitro-ready but must be specified it is indeed intended for Nitrox use. All the cylinders are equipped with the conversion valve from Faber. Scuba cylinders are also filled to 500PSI and receives a VIP sticker that is current prior to its shipping.

Divers who have not been using steel cylinders must try and use this. They will eventually realize that they have been missing so much. Faber offers a comprehensive range of quality cylinders that are ideal for scuba diving. They produce and sell about 100,000 cylinders every year, specifically for scuba diving. Fact of the matter is, there’s no other tank manufacturer all over that can equal their capacity and breadth of this range. They are also on top of their game because Faber Tanks and the valves are nitrox ready.

The cylinders of this tank are equipped with a DIN/K kind of value and this makes it easy to convert back and forth but of course depending on the kind of its regulator at its first state that will also be used alongside the cylinder which increases the tank’s versatility. The tanks are also equipped with the valve from Faber.

Its construction lets the diver remove the weight from the lead in their weight belt and then integrate this into the weight system of the BCD. It also lets the diver distribute his or her weight by moving this to the rear of the BCD which gives the diver an advantage especially when wearing the back inflation style wing.

The valve is made of yoke or DIN, has a Heavy Duty Design as well as a Smooth Operating Valve Mechanism. It also has a high flow capacity value and a chrome plated marine brass.

As divers breathe air from the aluminum cylinders, it creates a positive buoyancy near or at the end of the dive. With the negative buoyancy of the steel cylinder, it lets the diver release the excess lead that is needed to keep him or her properly trimmed while diving into the aluminum cylinder. The HP cylinders of Faber all have round bottoms and are equipped with the cylinder boot.

It is also important to note that Faber cylinders meet the certified specifications of DOT or the US Department of Transportation.

Customers’ Reviews

“The Faber High Pressure Steel Tank is usually used for Night Diving, Cave Diving, Wreck Diving, Open Water and other dives. This tank is used by customers who regard themselves as casual, recreational, advanced and professional divers. This tank is also popular to the customers because it is lightweight, has large capacity and very easy to use.”

“Divers who have purchased this tank have been quite happy with its quality. Whether they use this occasionally or regularly, the fact that it is shorter than the steel 100 makes it very convenient for them. To top it off, using steel tanks reduces the weight that the diver uses. Steel tanks also last a very long time, compared to aluminum, therefore it is highly recommended to use 80 steel.”

“Its excellent buoyancy characteristics and the fantastic price on the tank makes the Faber 90CF Blue Steel quite a good investment for divers. These tanks are 80cf and hydro tested and has also been treated of its rust inhibitor. It goes through regular inspections so customers are assured that they are getting the value of their money. It also has a high quality HPA fill station that is quick for refilling and the DIN connector makes it easy to do so.”

“As for the DIN on the valve, it is easy to read and easy to twist on an off. The right pressure preferred by the diver can be released just like that, without harming the user. It is made from chrome plates, therefore making it durable and will totally last a long time. As for the USD thermos, it is made of steel and its neck is before its valve making it handy and easy to transport. This high-pressure steel tank is lightweight and can easily be handled. The pumps, cylinder and mount and burst disc all come with the tank and filtration canister is also constructed in such a way that makes it appealing.”

Sherwood 100 CF Aluminum

Introduction

A scuba tank is one of the most valuable possessions of a diver. If all the diving conducted is through the charter boats and resorts, the diver uses the supply tanks that are given to him. These usually have an aluminum of “80.” This is why most scuba divers make it a point to invest in their own scuba tanks and be knowledgeable of the more sophisticated process of choosing which tank is right for them.

When buying a cylinder, divers may notice that there are a couple of diving tanks that are smaller than usual. There are bigger ones but these tanks have unusual proportions. They have to know why the number of aluminum can be best for them, not just because of the price, but because different cylinders of different sizes also have different air consumption and buoyancy that can go well with their diving style. In a nutshell, all this information can make a huge difference.

Product Review

The Sherwood 100 CF Aluminum is the most used valve in diving. It is of reasonable price and they are slightly neutral in buoyancy as well. When the tank gets low, new divers have difficulty staying neutral at their safety stop but because it is a high-pressure steel tank, this won’t happen. This can hold the same amount of air and if cared for, if it is visually inspected every year and a hydro test is conducted every five years, then it can definitely last longer than normal.

It includes a pro valve-standard yoke as well as DIN compatible that goes well with any regulator. It also comes with a Free Visual Inspection Program (VIP). The Nitrox is ready up to 40%, which is the recreational limits of nitrox.

The Aluminum tanks of the Sherwood 100 CF Aluminum are cost-efficient, readily available and is also long lasting. This is also why it is the most in demand and common scuba diving tank in the world. It is also lighter than a steel tank so it makes it easier for the user to transport and swim with it, giving their shoulders as well as their arms breaks in between long treks.

Due to its light weight, the scuba tank can also begin to float toward the end of the dive and the oxygen supply reaches its full depletion. In order to combat this, it counter weights the aluminum dive tank with around 4 pounds. On the other hand, the ‘compact neutral’ aluminum tanks are made with thicker walls, which also increases the weight and helps in counteracting the buoyancy problems that may occur at the end of a dive.

Customers’ Reviews

“Sherwood products are used all over the world and has different kinds of products solely for commercial and recreational diving. Unlike most regulators, a number of divers keep coming back to the Sherwood 100 CF Aluminum Tank because it is lightweight and has easy breathing regulators. The controls are very easy to learn and the regulator is also the easiest and smoothest breathing experience that everyone has had the pleasure of using under water.”

“The purge was also easy to locate and easy to use. It is also easy to depress. It gives a progressive delivery of gas and also clears unwanted seawater from the diver’s mouthpiece. The mouthpiece is small and along with the lightweight, it does not strain the jaw muscles. This adds more to the comfort level of the product. The exhaust ports are narrow and sends bubbles away from the diver’s face.”

“The Sherwood 100 CF Aluminum is so durable because it utilizes thermoplastic polyurethane in the BC air cell. No matter how many dives it can survive the most minor wear and tear. It almost looks new due to its air cell and can easily retain its pristine condition.”

“It is made of excellent alloy which does not require current inspection. It has an impeccable record for dependability and safety. When purchasing a tank boot, it comes with the cylinder, the tank carrier and the valve protector which makes it quite a good deal for every consumer.”

“As for the inquiry of how many minutes can this particular air tank hold, it really depends on variables such as the depth, the diver’s conditioning and the dive activity. It can be calculated with the NAUI Scuba Dive Calculator and its Surface Air Consumption Wheel. As long as it is also current and the hydro date is filled, then it is of good service. For any concerns, the Sherwood 100 CF Aluminum can be taken to local scuba shops and have an expert look at the tank.”

“It is important to note, however, that sometimes a tank may not have enough air that you need to get back. This is why the average scuba tanks that are used by divers at any recreational depth is the Aluminum 80. Think of how much further an Aluminum 100 can take any diver.”

“This tank is highly recommended for pragmatic and divers who focus on safety. It is a good solid product and the aesthetics is nothing fancy. It is simple yet effective. It is a great tank for the customer’s money and simply outstanding. If there is one hiccup, there may be possibilities that when delivered the valve may not be included in the box with the tank. If that is the case, a phone call can easily fix this. The diver just has to make sure that there is the visual inspection sticker on the tank.”

Faber 85CF

Introduction

The positive and negative characteristics of factors that affect the decision making of divers to purchase a tank can affect which one to get. For example, buoyancy is a huge factor to consider. If divers do not look at this, then they will be lugging a humongous and heavy tank on their banks and make their dive so stressful, instead of it being enjoyable. Choosing a lighter tank which is also more buoyant may not be saving weight but instead allows the diver to shift this from the tank and to the weight belt.

This is why special tanks will not be discovered by divers unless they compare the specs of one tank to another. By far the most common rented and bought tanks worldwide are from Faber. For example, the Faber 85CF has received countless positive reviews and has been purchased by divers all around the world.

Why rent tanks when divers can invest in tanks of their own. Whether they use these regularly or occasionally, as long as they choose Faber, they will discover first hand that it is so durable that there will be no frays, nicks nor cracks. Renting tanks per dive can result to having gear that is cheap and has leaks and splashes water on the diver’s face. At least with tanks of their own, they are familiar with the pressure capacity of the tank and just in case the situation calls for it, then they can replace the part that needs replacing.

Product Review

Faber cylinders are known for its quality and performance and what the customers expect to get from the tanks, they usually get. They appreciate the effectivity and efficiency of steel scuba cylinders that Fabers come up with. Faber is known to have a wide range of tanks for the diving market and they offer the much-needed flexibility and volume for these divers to maximize their bottom time.

It has a carbon fiber cylinder that is made of new material that has been developed in recent years. It is known for its light weight when compared with the other steel cylinders. It can be used for a long time because its average service life is 15 years. It can also be used for various purposes because it has a positive pressure respirator and can also reduce the weight of the equipment over all.

Its high strength aluminum and alloy liner is fully wrapped and comes with a superior glass fiber that makes it shock resistance, creep resistance as well as corrosion resistance. This series does not allowed overfilling and all the cylinders are cleaned by oxygen.

The finish on the tank is a hot dipped galvanized cylinder and it may not be aesthetically appealing for some. This is what gives the Faber 85CF an industrial look. There are also chances that there may be blemishes and it is more noticeable especially when the cylinder is shiny and new. However, after a number of usage and the effect of a couple of dives, the zinc darkens and the blemishes that were apparent before becomes less and less noticeable.

Customers’ Reviews

“The 80CF Steel tank has excellent high pressure. No overfilling is allowed in this specification. The oxygen is cleaned and is suitable for the use of Nitrox. However, the tank does come with an unsightly rubber base and it has cross-diagonal legs and not the usual rounded and flat ones. This might irk a couple of customers in the aesthetics aspect but if it’s functionality that they prioritize, then it is not much of a problem. This is also the ideal tank for Nitrox dives because of its quality.”

“Faber 85CF gives its customers the high-quality performance that they expect from the tank and also appreciates its effectiveness considering the fact that it is made of steel. It also has a self-draining boot and the DIN/Yoke valve is included as well.”

“The Faber85CF is one of the tanks that were created during the beginning of a revolution in the technology in cylinder area. The Prime Drive tanks are also more suitable because of its professional valve-usual yoke and DIN self-draining tank boot that is incorporated into the 3442 PSI. It is also sturdy and resistant to corrosion due to the Chromium Molybdenum Metal.”

“With over 35 years of the manufacturing experience of cylinders, Faber assures divers that their diving experience will be an enjoyable and safe one. They have the highest quality tanks from their deep drawn steel made of Chromium Molybdenum which also comes with an exclusive cleaned internal surface that is made of Phosphatized. It is also protected by zinc and epoxy and has a polyurethane finish to make it more durable and one of the best that Faber has to offer.”

“When purchasing a scuba tank, it is very important to check the hydro stamp as well as the VIP sticker. These are requirements in United States, Australia, Canada and New Zealand but not necessarily in other dive destinations. Foreign operators can also inspect the tanks and document this obtained information into a log book, instead of relying on the stickers. There is no need to panic if one is not seen. Almost all the danger of the tank is done during the filling of nitrogen and presumably somewhere else.”

“Divers should check the valve when it is hard to turn. They should also check the sticks and the slips. If it needs more service because there is a leak, then there is nothing to worry about because Faber can instantly check the tank and replace it with one that has no leaks when need be. If the tank looks dinged, battered, scratched and bruised, then chances are it was mishandled. Therefore, the first thing that a diver must look at when buying a tank is if it comes in good form. If yes, then there is no need to call Faber to replace it.”

Best Scuba Diving Tanks Under $250

Luxfer 80 CF

Introduction

Scuba diving is starting to be one of the most popular water sports of today. It has started to be known worldwide hence the increase in demand of different stylish scuba diving suits and gears in the market. For many who preferred scuba diving as a hobby, a recreation, or a sport, the activity entails a deep understanding of the essentials – scuba diving rules, lifesaving techniques underwater, species to avoid underwater, emergency tactics, first-aid, and much more.

Scuba diving is not just a typical sport but it also suffices a lot of knowledge and learnings especially marine life and ocean conservation. For more people, this has been their way of life – that scuba diving is not just for photography and leisure exercises but an activity that has a bigger purpose.

In this regard, any individual who would like to pursue scuba diving must know how scuba tanks work. Scuba tanks serve as the life support of anyone underwater. It requires know-how, proper usage, care and maintenance to operate.

Thus, choosing a dependable scuba tank is not only preferred thing to do but it is a must. In this regard, one of the recommended scuba tanks in the market today is the Luxfer 80 CF. It is an 80-cubic foot aluminum tank with Pro Valve, capturing scuba divers’ heart with terrific and attractive colors.

Product Review

Luxfer scuba tanks were first introduced in 1988 by its developer Luxfer Metallurgists. Luxfer was known for its aluminum alloy 6061-T6 that aims to provide corrosion-resistance and highly dependable performance underwater even in the most demanding deep diving activities.

Luxfer gave birth to Luxfer 80 CF that is made up of aluminum alloy 6061-T6 construction, that is rust-resistant and retains its quality for a longer period even in frequent usage hence making it durable. Its promise is its heavy-duty valve with high flow capacity that retains life support even in the most demanding underwater environment.
Aluminum alloy 6061-T6 is unsurpassed in the scuba diving gears industry. It has an outstanding record of safety, security, and dependability making Luxfer the preferred choice of commercial and technical divers globally, as well as the military.

The Luxfer 80 CF 11.1 liters cylinder capacity has become a staple specification in any diving industry. It is often used in various scuba diving classes and charter boats in the world because of its dependability and promptness.

Its Pro Valve capability serves as one of the highest scuba cylinder valves offered in the market today. Moreover, the Luxfer 80 CF is convertible efficient with Yoke or DIN regulators. Its Pro Valve is designed to be heavy-duty entitled with a smooth operating mechanism and additional multi-ported disc plugs for safety and security.

The Luxfer 80 CF is also one of the top preferred scuba tanks by stylish scuba divers because it comes in a variety of colors. Colors available are purple, black, yellow, candy red, bright green, pink, candy blue, natural, shot blast, white, and brushed. These colors make the scuba diving activity more exciting and light. It also attracts different marine organisms perfect for more discovery and underwater photo capturing.

Luxfer as an overall brand has certificated its specifications by the United States Department of Transportation with DOT-3AL specification, and by Transport Canada Safety and Security (TC) with TC-3ALM specifications. The Luxfer 80 CF is evidently safe and recommended to use in Canada and United States.

Luxfer revolutionized under water diving activity and since then welcomed prominent and safe to be used scuba diving tanks for many.

Conclusion

The Luxfer 80 CF comes with a heavy-duty design ideal for extreme underwater conditions and activities – deep diving, cold water diving, wreck diving, night diving, and much more. Its dependable performance is its unique selling proposition making divers enjoy more their scuba diving activities whether for leisure, sports, and military purposes.

The Luxfer 80 CF is also known to be an all-around scuba tank best use for underwater exploration and recreation exercises. It is secured to use underwater because of its crack-resistant ability that sure to have a very long service. The secret of this is none other than its aluminum, magnesium, and silicon formula exclusively made by the brand.

All Luxfer scuba tanks or cylinders were tested in a 100,000-cycle to check its service pressure. Hence, it has a minimum burst pressure of 2.5 times without any failure recorded – making it one of the most dependable scuba tanks ever made today.

In choosing a scuba tank brand, it pays to have a look at the brands that are out there in the market for quite a long time like Luxfer. Years in quality service made them known in the global market and became a preferred brand to any scuba divers.

Faber High Pressure

Introduction

Scuba diving is one of the rising underwater activities that many swimmers and diving enthusiasts love today. For some, scuba diving is considered to be high-maintenance activity because of the gears you need to perform such interest.

Though, many can still find scuba diving worth to try and pursue because of the new discoveries it can bring whilst underwater. In this regard, aside from learning the scuba diving basics, a walkthrough to the activity’s gear is a must.

Scuba diving cannot be done without the scuba tank. Scuba tanks are popular diving cylinders that provide air to divers underwater. There are several types of tanks that divers can utilize depending on their actual need. Usually, these tanks are categorized either low-pressure or high-pressure one.

Faber High Pressure Tank, a type of steel tank for diving is commonly used for night diving, open water diving, cave diving, and wreck diving to name a few. It is recommended for advanced or professional divers because of its large capacity and progressive function.

It has a durable finish that is ideal for any of extreme underwater adventures. Thus, it is perfect for a long-time use. It provides a longer underwater time for divers.

Product Review

Faber cylinders are all certified by the US Department of Transportation (DOT) and Transport Canada (TC). It has a permit to be used and recommended for professional divers and aspiring ones. Faber High Pressure Tanks are Nitrox ready up to 40 percent and can be easily converted from DIN/K type valve.

It also supports the optimum distribution of weight and composes of deep drawn chromium molybdenum steel. These grant the diver to easily remove lead weight because of its existing integrated weight system. This also allows the diver to distribute his/her weight whilst underwater.

Faber made cylinders offers a supreme quality and flexibility to support and maximize any diver’s underwater time. This type of tank is cost-efficient and demonstrates value for money of any diver or purchaser. It is sure of safety, protection, and security, especially during the activity.

Faber High Pressure Tank has a great buoyancy characteristics from -2.42 lbs. to -9.41 lbs. or -1.1 kg to 4.3 kg when full; and -1.2 lbs. to 2.35 lbs. or -0.54 kg to 1.1 kg when empty. It is also equipped with cylinder boot and a 3442 psi (237 bars) working pressure. It also has a REE function of 68 cc, 86 cc, 100 cc, and 113 cc respectively.

Faber High Pressure weighs 6.6 lbs. to 46.9 lbs. or 3 kg to 21.27 kg, has a diameter of 3.94” to 8.02” or 10 cm to 20.37 cm, and has a height of 14.17” to 29.53” or 36 cm to 75 cm. Its valve has a heavy-duty design with smooth operating valve mechanism, high flow capacity, and is made of chrome plated marine brass.

Overall, Faber High Pressure Tank is considered to be one of the best tanks in terms of weight and cubic feet capacity. Thus, it carries less weight because it of its special buoyancy characteristics both works even if it’s full or empty. It carries well on the surface because of its optimal volume and supports divers to swim easier underwater.

The Faber High Pressure Tank is also suggested even to small divers. It is optimal because of its polyurethane and epoxy finish that offers durability which just means more underwater adventures for divers. It also leaves a reserve air when needed keeping divers worry-less about their underwater activity.

Moreover, Faber High Pressure Tank is the perfect choice because of its great diving characteristics.

Divers are also commenting about the Faber High Pressure tank and how it has been beneficial for them:

Conclusion

When choosing a diving tank, it is suggested to know more on the specifications and match it to your needs as a diver. If you are inclined to a more extreme diving activity, it is recommended to keenly observe and review the product specifications before purchasing.

To maximize the tanks full potential, choose the one that is durable and has an optimal volume/weight. This is so you won’t have a hard time bringing it to the surface and/or underwater. Scuba tanks are also considered to be a crucial gear in diving because it serves as your life extension underwater. Hence, it pays to get a scuba tank that is efficient and dynamic to use.

Faber High Pressure Tank is one of an ideal scuba diving tank that is efficient and has value for money. Its advanced features and/or specifications are advantageous for divers to prolong underwater time and convenience even on the surface.

Catalina 80CF

Introduction

In scuba diving, most aspiring divers would ask ‘how deep can you go?’ The truth is, any diver can go all the way to the bottom of the ocean yet it is advised to stop at around 130 feet. Going into deep scuba diving requires reliable gears that will act as a life extension of the scuba diver.

A lot of athletes or even hobbyist would like to try out scuba diving as a form of recreation and relaxation. Self-discovery towards the wonder of the ocean is imminent and exciting. In every scuba diving activity, a need to be oriented with the technicalities, rules, safety precautions and gears to use is a must.

One of the most important gear in scuba diving is the scuba tank. It acts as the diver’s life support under water, thus making him possible to prolong his stay and discover more about the marine life. Scuba diving is regarded safe given the proper orientation and attention to detail.

In choosing an ideal scuba tank, its valve that gives life support is one of the most important details to consider. Catalina 80 CF Scuba Tank, a neutrally buoyant aluminum tank has perfected by its pro valve that has a high flow capacity making it ideal for any aspiring scuba divers.

The Catalina 80 CF has been certified by the United States Department of Transportation and Transport Canada Safety and Security making it certified safe for scuba diving usage and deep diving adventure.

Product Review

Catalina 80 CF is a neutrally buoyant 80 cu. ft. or a 10-liter aluminum cylinder that is perfect for any aspiring scuba divers. It is corrosion resistant, has a convertible K valve, Yoke or DIN, has a multi ported burst plug assembly, a high capacity valve, and chrome plated marine grade brass finish.

Its impressive K Pro Valve is considered to be the highest flowing cylinder available in the market today. What makes it more special is its convertible K valve that works best with Yoke or DIN regulators.

The Catalina 80 CF’s cylinder is made up of aluminum alloy design that does not rust compared to steel tanks. They just oxidize, by which, oxidization generates a protective coat that prevents corrosion. Catalina 80 CF is the best choice is you are looking for a more compact cylinder system that can be utilized for a longer period. Moreover, this scuba tank unit is nitrox ready of up to 23.5% and has a promise of smooth operating valve mechanism leaving divers worry-free of glitches and nerve-wracking scenarios while at it.

With its certification from the United States Department of Transportation and Transport Canada Safety and Security, divers can ease their minds in getting Catalina 80 CF as their choice for their diving escapade. It is also being used and certified with international standards to be regulated. All specifications are deemed useful, admirable, and most importantly – safe.

Moreover, this scuba tank professes durability because its aesthetics do not react with salt water and has a strong valve mechanism perfectly made for deep diving activities. Catalina 80 CF is starting to become a staple scuba tank for any type of scuba diver because it is also negative buoyancy when empty capturing convenience and starting to be known for various extreme sport diving activities.

The Catalina 80 CF is most commonly used for cave diving, open water diving, recreation, wreck diving, and even during night diving. This type of scuba tank is preferred by beginners and recommended by professionals and/or advanced scuba divers.

Conclusion

The Catalina 80 CF regards high buoyancy characteristics by which has become the popular choice to divers when they go deep diving and long dives. Its heavy duty designed valves also make it possible for the tank to have a smooth operating mechanism and the promise of safety and security during the diving activity.

Choosing a reliable scuba tank is a must to fully enjoy underwater activities and marine life discovery. It is one of the most sought gear in scuba diving that requires a lot of research, testing, observation, and reviews before purchasing. A reliable scuba tank like Catalina 80 CF display efficiency at both service and cost.

The Catalina 80 CF is one of the most preferred scuba tanks in the market that works well with any type of diver – whether beginner, professional, or advanced. Any diver can maximize its full potential and thus, safe and secure to use in any type of scuba diving activity.

Eminently, the Catalina 80 CF is a working-class hero for any aspiring divers and practicing ones. It puts a high regard for safety and security, thus, it also captures the perfect specifications needed to minimal to extreme diving exercises. It follows international accreditation standard that gives its timely effort to support any divers out there.

 

Scuba diving is an immensely popular sport, among young and old alike. One of the most addictive factors of diving is the sense of tranquility one experiences in the water.

But having the best scuba diving fins is very important for helping you achieve this serenity. If your equipment isn’t optimal for your diving style and water conditions, it can make for an unpleasant dive. Which nobody ever wants. Scuba diving fins are without a doubt one of the most essential pieces of the puzzle.

Fins allow us to enter and interact with the marine world by providing ease of propulsion. Your legs do almost all of the hard work in keeping yourself moving when you’re submerged.

What fins do is extend your legs and increase the surface area, optimizing your kicks so that you can travel more efficiently without having to expend too much energy. Needless to say, some fins do this better than others.

But with the increase in diving’s popularity has come a wide range of available fin models. Being spoiled for choice can be confusing sometimes, especially when you have to wade through reviews when you’d much rather be wading into the water!

To help get you started (and get you away from the computer and into the water), we’ve done the heavy lifting for you.

Here’s our list of what we, and the majority of the diving community, believe are the best scuba diving fins available in 2019.

Best Scuba Diving Fins 2019

Model	Comfort	Full or Open Heel	Ease of Movement
ScubaPro Seawing Nova		Open Heel (full foot model also available)		Check Price
Oceanic Manta Ray Open Heel		Open Heel		Check Price
Tusa Hyflex Switch (Editor’s Choice)		Open Heel		Check Price
Mares Avanti Quattro Plus		Open Heel		Check Price
Atomic Aquatics X1 Open Heel Blade Fin		Open Heel		Check Price
Atomic Aquatics Full Foot Split		Full Foot		Check Price
ScubaPro Unisex Jet Sport Open Heel		Open Heel (full foot variant also available)		Check Price
ScubaPro Go		Full Foot		Check Price
Cressi Reaction Pro		Full Foot		Check Price

Best Scuba Diving Fins Over $200

ScubaPro Seawing Nova

Gone are the days where a simple fin was considered satisfactory. Divers today are looking for cutting edge technology for every piece of their equipment, and the ScubaPro Seawing Nova provides exactly that. Here you get the security of ScubaPro’s authoritative name and reputation in the industry, as well as the unique ScubaPro thrill of innovation.

The classic ScubaPro fin technology is still apparent, but it’s effortlessly blended with a modern, hydrodynamic design and innovative use of materials. As one user put it, “There’s no such thing as a fin that suits all diving types and water conditions. That said, ScubaPro managed to prove me wrong.” After all, with the Seawing Nova, you get the comfort, efficiency, and effortless speed characteristic of split fins combined with the superior power, acceleration, and maneuverability offered by paddle fins.

The design boasts an articulated joint to improve propulsion, affording you an easy speed, agility, and comfort. This is another great example of biomimicry in scuba diving fin design, taking its cue from dolphins. The natural structure of a dolphin’s tail bends as it speeds through the water, almost as if it were on a hinge, which provides the remarkable power that allows dolphins to breach the surface. This same biological science has been applied in the design development of the articulated joint.

Another way in which the Seawing Nova nods appreciatively toward the dolphin is in its variable blade geometry. The tips of a dolphin’s tail curve inward with its upstroke, creating a more streamlined surface for reduced drag. With the downward stroke, the tips flatten out, generating a huge amount of power and thrust. The variable blade geometry mimics this occurrence to create a relatively comparable thrust force without expending extra energy or having to combat unwanted resistance.

With the two features combined, the articulated joint allows the entire blade to contribute to this thrust by pivoting it. This pivot control technology, in the form of ribbing, ensures that your downward stroke is made with the blades at the most efficient angle, regardless of how soft or hard your kick.

To get the most out of this already impressive innovation in design, ScubaPro has elected to use high-tech Elastomer Monoprene construction in developing the Seawing Nova. This makes the fins more flexible and stronger than what you’re ever likely to need them to be. Is it overkill? From a certain perspective perhaps, but the results speak for themselves!

The bungee heel strap negates the use of clumsy clasps, which are a source of great frustration for divers with thick neoprene diving gloves on (and just about impossible to use with the even thicker dive mitts). You’ll also never have to cinch down your fins’ heel straps either! Slip the strap over your heel, and get into the water—it’s really as simple as that.

And the ERGO2 Super Ergonomic Foot Pocket doesn’t only help reduce drag, they’re super comfortable as well!

Features

• Innovative hydrodynamic design with high-tech Elastomer Monoprene construction for maximum strength, maximum flexibility, and minimal resistance
• Variable Blade Technology bio-mimics the action of a dolphin’s tail for both the upstroke and downstroke, further reducing drag and improving thrust power
• Articulated mid-point joint further bio-mimics the action of a dolphin’s tail to achieve the sturdy flexibility required for generating increased kicking power conversion
• Variable pivot control ribbing to ensure the most efficient angle is achieved by the variable blade technology
• ERGO2 Super Ergonomic Foot Pocket for reduced resistance and maximized comfort
• Easy to use bungee heel strap for quick and efficient donning and doffing
• Five size variants, ranging from XS to XL
• Six solid color options, including the stealthy black favored by technical divers and spear fishermen

If, like us, you’ve got a soft spot and professional interest in true design innovation, then the ScubaPro Seawing Nova is sure to satisfy your needs. With its dolphin inspired bio-mimicry design that incorporates Variable Blade Technology, and articulated mid-point joint, and variable pivot control ribbing, you can be sure you’ll never have difficulty achieving maximum thrust potential – no matter how hard or soft your kicking power.

The innovative hydrodynamic use of Elastomer Monoprene affords the Seawing Nova a superior strength and flexibility. Resistance and drag are further reduced by the ERGO2 Super Ergonomic Foot Pocket, which also affords you as a diver the maximum comfort levels you deserve. This also includes the bungee heel strap, which makes for quick and easy donning and doffing.

We’ve reviewed the open heel model specifically, but ScubaPro has also released a full foot version that includes a Power Plate footplate with a Co-molded Thermo Plastic Vulcanizate for a slip-free walk on wet surfaces.

No matter what you’re looking for in your diving fins, the ScubaPro Seawing Nova won’t disappoint you!

Oceanic Manta Ray Open Heel

Oceanic is yet another big name in the scuba diving fin industry, and they’ve wowed us with yet another remarkable design. The Manta Ray fins boast a revolutionary design, based on true biomimicry—the incorporation of nature’s designs and human technology. In this case, it’s (somewhat obviously) the simulation of the shape and biomechanics of marine animals.

Three advanced materials are used to achieve this effect to the minutest detail.

An advanced Techno-Polymer Blade mimics the strength of bone, maximizing power, speed, and efficiency. There isn’t the unwanted weight of true bone, of course. The Techno-Polymer allows for a lightweight yet durable blade.

A revolutionary Power-X System material optimizes the diver’s propulsion during the down stroke by flexing, and prior to the upstroke released the stored energy. In this way, the system acts as both a tendon and a joint. Due to the unique positioning, maximum power is delivered to the blade. Fatigue is vastly reduced by distributing pressure evenly over the foot.

The final touch is the flexible center Power Channel, which provides the elasticity of the skin. In this way, your thrust is improved by directing water flow off the blade’s back.

But there’s one more feature the Oceanic Manta Ray fin blades boast: Winglets. These are inspired by technology used by aircraft designs and can be found along the length of the blade. In this way, efficiency and maneuverability are increased further.

Of course, not everything in the Manta Ray design is based entirely on nature: the soft-pad heel straps, for example. These are marvelously ergonomic, and incorporate a large finger loop to allow you to easily don and doff the fins, even with thick neoprene diving gloves on.

The spring feature improves comfort levels dramatically by automatically compensating for different foot sizes, and (by extension) the size of your diving boots. This is best appreciated when diving through varying pressure levels (based on your depth). As the thickness of your boots alters in reaction, the springs compensate by compressing accordingly.

Oceanic have also replaced the standard buckle attachment points with their new Easy Buckle Adjustment system. This allows for over two inches of precise adjustments, giving you a custom fit without the need for any tools.

Whether you’re expecting rough surf and demanding currents, a long surface swim, or a lengthy dive, the Oceanic Manta Ray promises to deliver quality performance.

Features

• Advanced Techno-Polymer blades that mimic the strength of marine animal tail bones, for maximized power and improved speed, efficiency, and durability, without compromising on the lightweight design
• Power-X System mimics tendons and joints, optimizing your propulsion by flexing on the down stroke and releasing stored energy immediately before the upstroke. This allows for maximized power to be delivered to and channeled through the blade, and reduces fatigue by evenly distributing pressure over the foot
• Power Channels, the final piece of marine biomimicry, acting as an elasticized skin to direct water flow off the blade’s back for an improved thrust
• Winglets along the length of the blade, which are inspired by aircraft technology to enhance efficiency and maneuverability
• Soft-pad heel spring straps, which include a large finger loop for easy donning and doffing, even with thick neoprene diving gloves on
• Spring strap design automatically adjusts based on the size of your foot and diving boots, as well as compressing to compensate for the effect of your depth on the thickness of your boots
• Easy Buckle System allows for more than two inches of precise adjustments, for customizing your fit without any tools
• Wide, non-vented blade design
• Four sizes available (XS, S, Regular, and XL)
• Four color variants

Noticeably inspired by nature, this 23.5-inch beauty promises optimal performance no matter what your diving style or water conditions. The impressive incorporation of biomimicry makes the Oceanic Manta Ray Open Heel a cut above the rest for many divers, thanks to the innovative Techno-Polymer blades, Power-X System, and elastic Power Channels.

Packing a lot of punch in terms of power as well as maneuverability, whether you love this fin or not is largely up to your preference in terms of flexibility.

Divers with a preference for fins with a stiffer blade have given the Manta Ray glowing reports. This is well-balanced by lower ratings from those who favor a more flexible design.

Tusa Hyflex Switch – Editor’s Choice

When a group of divers was asked to test the Tusa Hyflux Switch, all of them initially thought that it was too flexible at first. We were inclined to agree. But once we got them in the water, everyone changed their minds.

The speed results alone were highly impressive. A surprisingly small amount of effort is required to cut through the water fast with the Hyflex technology, which utilizes top quality PuRiMax polyurethane.

At just 23.5 inches, it’s a compact design, but thanks not only to the highly supple Hyflex design but also the 20-degree angle to the foot pocket it packs a hefty punch. A series of six Vortex Generator ripples placed along the bottom of the blade also assist in building speed by reducing drag significantly.

The Comfort Foot Pocket is also well-designed to be as supportive as possible and has a high comfort level too (hence the feature’s name). In fact, most test divers voted it the most comfortable fit of 2017!

This is, in part, due to the bungee strap system, which also includes five adjustment points. Without any need for tools or additional parts, you’ll be able to optimize the strap’s fit to suit your needs.

The foot pocket also assists in improving your experience in the water by optimizing the transfer of kicking power from your legs and feet to the fin blade, thanks to the multi-compound build.
Another notable feature regarding the foot pocket is that it can be removed by unbolting the blade.

This allows for easy storage, cutting the length down to 16 inches – which we’ve found can be invaluable when packing for your travels to exotic new scuba diving spots.

Furthermore, the heel pad and finger loop make for easy donning and doffing. Test divers voted this feature at far above average, and the word “excellent” was oft heard.
Overall, it’s a consumer-rated favorite, and we agree.

Features

• Top quality PuRiMax polyurethane based Hyflex blade design, which optimizes speed capabilities
• Six Vortex Generator ridges found at the bottom of the blade to reduce drag and further increase speed
• Short blade design set at a 20-degree angle to the foot pocket
• Highly supportive, multi-compound Comfort Foot Pocket with a high comfort level and optimized kick power transfer from the diver’s legs and feet to the fin blades
• Blades can be unbolted from the foot pocket, cutting the 23.5-inch length down to just 16 inches for convenient storage and travel package
• Highly adjustable bungee strap system, which includes five adjustment placements for customizing your fit to suit your needs
• Heel pad design with finger loop allows for better than average ease in donning and doffing your Tusa Hyflex Switch
• Four sizes available, including an L-XL option
• Three color variants

As we stated in our introduction, when a lot of professional and respected members of the diving community give favorable reviews for a piece of scuba equipment, you can rest assured that it’s definitely one of the best. The Tusa Hyflex Switch proves this beyond a doubt.

Not only were the reviews overwhelmingly favorable (without bordering on the “too good to be true” side of things), they were very nearly unanimous. Many professional divers have found a new favorite in the Hyflex Switch thanks to its innovative polyurethane based design, remarkable speed, and comfort levels.

Who knows – maybe we’ve helped you find a new favorite too?

Best Scuba Diving Fins Over $100 – $200

Mares Avanti Quattro Plus

When it comes to big names in the scuba diving fin production industry, Mares is one of the best – no doubt about it! They have a reputation for durability, and quality is second nature to the brand. This is especially true of their Avanti Quattro Plus open heel/paddle fin.

The original design (minus the “Plus”) is well-known and still much loved for its stiff blades, which are favored by many divers for its speed and maneuverability. The good news for these divers is that the newer Plus model retains its rigidity.

So what has changed?

Well, Mares has included a more flexible material to the blade’s composition, primarily at the tip. This shaves some of the edges off in terms of stiffness, but you’ll appreciate the difference when comparing the two models. This new flexibility is felt markedly when kicking especially, as it affords the fin an extra propulsive snap.

If speed is what you’re looking for primarily, then look no further than the Mares Avanti Quattro Plus. It beats every other fin design in speed tests, without compromising on stability.

The visual differences between the older and newer versions are very minimal. One noticeable change is the lack of strengthening bars from the front of the foot pocket, which was necessary for the stiffer Quattro. The more flexible Avanti Quattro Plus allows for the same strength without these, so Mares dispensed with the now less necessary feature.

This removal also makes the fins far more responsive.

But the first difference you’ll notice is the heel strap, which now features a rubber bungee cord and large rubber suction. This also allowed for the inclusion of a large thumb loop, making donning and doffing the fins as quick and easy as one could hope for.

It’s a marked improvement on the original design, which featured a buckle system that many divers found to be too fragile, with the locking mechanism breaking far too easily. Thankfully, you won’t have to worry about that anymore.

And if you find the strap a little too tight, don’t despair—Mares have included some spacers for easy adjustment in the strap length.

The softer rubber foot pocket, with a little more elasticity, that the older version, is also a vast improvement in terms of comfort.

Thanks to this speed and maneuverability, the Avanti Quattro Plus is a highly versatile fin suitable (and highly effective) no matter what your kicking style.

Features

• Improved flexibility with a softer rubber incorporated into the blade composition, allowing for enhanced speed and maneuverability compared to the older Avanti Quattro design
• Increased comfort levels, thanks to the softer rubber also being used for the foot pocket
• Rubber bungee and suction heel strap, which also includes a large thumb loop for easy donning and doffing
• Spacers are provided to lengthen the strap for improved comfort and fit
• Three available sizes (small, regular, and extra-large)
• Six color variants

Whether you’re looking for power or maneuverability, the Mares Avanti Quattro Plus is an attractive option. The older model was renowned as top-of-the-range about fifteen years ago and held that position for longer than most.

But with the vast improvements in scuba diving fin technology and design since then, the model has backslid near to the bottom of the range. This made many divers who held the original Avanti Quattro as a dear favorite rather disappointed, as there was no true alternative.

Until now, that is. The Avanti Quattro Plus is a roaring success, catering for those divers who favored and miss the original design while keeping pace with more modern developments.

If we had to use one word to describe the Avanti Quattro Plus, it would be speed. As mentioned earlier, it’s consistently beaten every competitor in every speed test—and it manages to do so without compromising on comfort or maneuverability.

Atomic Aquatics X1 Open Heel Blade Fin

Atomic has boldly displayed the words, ‘Before Atomic Aquatics, there was no “best” in scuba diving’. And although they’re not always our first choice, we do feel that any true “best scuba diving fins” list would be incomplete without featuring at least one Atomic Aquatics product. It’s their X1 Open Heel Blade Fin that has us excited today, and I think you’ll agree with us on this one.

The X1 Blade Fin is fully capable of maneuvering in tight spaces. You’ll certainly appreciate its ease of control, which makes it perfect for alternate kicking styles, such as frog, flutter, backward, helicopter, and scissors.

The asymmetrical design attribute of the fin improves your alternate kick style form even further, as it contributes to the control and maneuverability. You’ll never have to worry about your fins folding on you under heavy load with an Atomic Aquatics X1 Open Heel Blade Fin.

It’s aesthetically pleasing but most importantly functional. Fins traditionally have taller side rails, which contribute to tracking and bending strength. But with the X1 Blade Fin, Atomic Aquatics have opted for a shorter, stiffer blade with rigid-low profile side rails. This contributes greatly to the fin’s maneuverability, making turning as well as pivoting a lot easier. Because there’s less resistance, you’ll also be able to rotate and even spin more efficiently.

The X1 Blade Fin also features a unique monocoque structural engineering design and power plate. This allows the power exerted by your legs and feet during your kicks to be transferred to the rails better than ever before, meaning you can go for longer.

The last thing we want to point out about the design is the vertical stabilizers, or “strakes”. These add further stability and help keep your fin tracking straight as a Roman road by lowering drag. This method of straightening the fin doesn’t add any significant side drag, which tall side rails have a tendency to do.

You can expect an all-around smoother dive with the X1 Blade Fin on your feet.

Features

• Rigid low-profile side rails, which reduce side drag and overall resistance, making the X1 Blade Fin more maneuverable
• Asymmetrical design for improved control using alternate kicking styles
• Unique monocoque structural engineering design and power plate, which transfers your kicking power to the rails better than other designs and increase duration/distance you can travel
• Vertical stabilizers, or “strakes”, improving stability further and acting as a fin straightening method in lieu of taller side rails
• Four size options, ranging from small to extra large
• Six color variants

No matter what your kicking style, or the water conditions you dive in, the Atomic Aquatics X1 Open Heel Blade Fin is a very appealing choice.

With its innovative design for improved functionality all-around, the X1 Blade Fin is sure to please every diver. It’s very difficult to think of anything to complain about here. Dive further, faster, smoother, and never worry about your fins folding under heavy load again.

Atomic Aquatics Full Foot Split

There’s a lot of innovation, bio-mimicry, and versatility to be had in the scuba diving fin product range. In general, the most common fin style today is the split fin. If you spend some time taking a look at the other divers around you when you go for a shallow dive at the beach, or hop on the charter boat, you’ll quickly realize that more and more divers are making the switch.

You probably have noticed this already, and you’ve probably questioned it a dozen times (but maybe just the once out loud). The reason for the booming popularity of the split fin design is simple: they work well without requiring that you work hard.

The bio-mimicry is still there, if not to the same extreme extent as with the ScubaPro Seawing Nova. Split fin designs are an effective combination of a whale’s tail and a boat’s propeller.

With each kick, your blades twist to create a propeller-like surface. This, in turn, increases your propulsion as well as your life. It takes some getting used to, as it often feels as if the fin lacks the necessary power to keep you moving as quickly as what your full bladed fin did. But if you were to do a proper comparison, you’d realize that you’re actually covering the same amount of distance in the same amount of time. The major benefit? You’re expending less energy to achieve the same results.

As we mentioned earlier in conjunction with their X1 Open Heel Blade Fin, Atomic Aquatics have a penchant for boldly proclaiming their superior quality. Their Full Foot Split Fin most certainly lives up to this claim (which is why it’s the only one we’ve included in our definitive guide to discovering the best scuba diving fin available in 2019).

We’re not saying that Atomic Aquatics invented the split fin design. But we have to admit that they seem to have perfected it.

The Atomic Aquatics Split Fin offers reduced drag, increased thrust, and as a result (and as mentioned) requires less effort to achieve the same results a full bladed fin affords you as a diver. Their split fin isn’t only a unique design, though.

The latest Composite Plastic Polymer Materials technology used has been specially formulated to allow the Split Fin all of its benefits while remaining remarkably lightweight. This also makes it a great fin to pack in when traveling, as it won’t weigh you down.

Extensive research and development, as well as rigorous testing, have yielded this perfect formula, which gives the Split Fin its characteristic combination of flexibility and rigidity. Highly resilient power rails act as a backbone, storing energy with every upstroke and releasing this power with every down stroke.

The soft Elastomeric blade is set with Semi-Ridged Flex Battens, further optimizing thrust and reducing drag by controlling the precise wing shape. Pivoting, turning, and alternate kicking styles are also vastly improved by the larger surface area.

Between these Semi-Ridged Flex Battens, you’ll find strong, highly flexible Hinge Points. These allow the Split Fin to react quickly and efficiently to every kick, no matter how slight or strong.

The Anatomically Contoured Full Foot Pocket boasts a comfortable fit devoid of stress points. It also features a large heel pull-tab, which makes for an easy don and doff action (although not as optimal as the finger loop).

Features

• Split fin design that combines bio-mimicry of the whale’s tail with the engineering design of a propeller for reduced drag, increased thrust, and reduced energy expenditure
• Composite Plastic Polymer Materials technology aids in optimizing the above benefits while keeping the weight down, making for an ideal travel fin
• Characteristic combination of flexibility and rigidity
• Highly resilient power rails store energy with every upstroke and release this power with every down stroke
• Soft Elastomeric blade set with Semi-Ridged Flex Battens, further optimizing thrust and reducing drag by controlling the precise wing shape
• Highly flexible Hinge Points for improved reaction time, even with softer kicks
• Anatomically Contoured Full Foot Pocket without any stress points, boosting comfort levels and reducing fatigue
• A large heel pull-tab allows for an easy don and doff action
• Six size options, ranging from US size 4.5 to 14, making them ideal for everyone from young divers to those with larger feet
• Two color variants: stealthy black and vibrant yellow

Whether you’re on a tight budget for financial reasons or because you’re just getting started and don’t want to spend too much, the Atomic Aquatics Split Fin allows you to get the best features at a bargain price. And as split fins become ever increasingly popular, you can be sure to attract some appreciative glances from professionals and casual divers alike.

With the whale bio-mimicry and propeller-like propulsion, you can enjoy increased thrust, reduced resistance. If you’re still building your kick strength as a beginner or recovering from an injury, you’ll certainly appreciate being able to keep up with stronger divers without having to expend as much energy. The Elastomeric blade, set with Semi-Ridged Flex Battens, aid in this greatly. Thanks to this, you’ll enjoy less fatigue and a notable reduction in your air consumption, which will increase your diving time exponentially.

Weighing in at less than half the weight of many open heel scuba diving fins, you’ll notice a huge difference after spending just half an hour in the water compared to full blade fin designs.

The Composite Plastic Polymer Materials technology optimizes the fin’s performance while helping to keep the weight down as well. Coupled with the Anatomically Contoured Full Foot Pocket (which also negates stress points for improved comfort), this reduction in fatigue will further cement the Atomic Aquatic Split Fin as a fast favorite no matter your skill level, kicking style, or diving conditions!

Best Scuba Diving Fins Under $100

ScubaPro Unisex Jet Sport Open Heel

Some divers look for maneuverability, and others seek after power, depending on the water conditions they’re used to diving in. If you tend to favor choppy conditions and currents (or find yourself in those conditions more often than not), the power is going to be a very important factor when you choose a fin.

And if it’s power you’re looking for, then the ScubaPro Unisex Jet Sport Open Heel is one of our top recommendations. The maneuverability is pretty impressive too!

If you’re impressed by dual material designs, then you’ll certainly approve just as much of the Jet Sport’s tri-material makeup.

The large, slightly stiff blade includes soft rubber panels, which are framed in semi-stiff plastics. Thin side rails flank the blades, making the fins sturdy without losing out on flexibility. Resistance is further reduced, for both the up and down strokes of your kick, thanks to the drag reducing vents.

The combination of these factors is what gives the Jet Sport such a high propulsive kicking power generation. Additionally, it also provides improved stability. Frog and dolphin kicks are noticeably more efficient as a result.

And, as we mentioned earlier, it’s remarkably maneuverable too, which is what you’d expect from a short fin. Turns, as well as backing out of tight, rocky crevices, are wonderfully easy. It’s somewhat surprising that ScubaPro managed to incorporate both maneuverability and power into one design.

Usually, when a product really excels in one factor, the others suffer somewhat. But having mastered the blend of power and maneuverability has not caused ScubaPro to compromise on comfort in the least! Your feet will be held comfortably and securely in the rubber foot mold.

Features

• Tri-material blades, with soft rubber panels, semi-stiff frame, and thin side rails to optimize flexibility and kicking power
• Drag reducing vents, substantially decreasing your resistance on up and down strokes alike
• Large blade further improves kicking power, as well as improving stability and maneuverability
• Ergonomic foot mold for increased comfort
• Five sizes, ranging from XS (ideal for younger divers) to XL
• Three color variants

Scuba diving is an incredibly tranquil sport, but the ocean can also be unpredictable. Unexpected eddies are exactly that – unexpected. When they hit, or you get caught in a strong current, then it’s propulsion power that will get through to the other side safely.

On the other hand, when you’re diving around coral reefs, shipwrecks, and rocky crevices, maneuverability is far more important than kicking power.

While most designs favor either kicking power or maneuverability, ScubaPro has succeeded in developing a fin that caters for both. This places the Jet Sports model very high in our books!

Oh, and did we mention that there’s also a full foot variant for the Jet Sports fin? Whether you prefer open or covered, there’s an option for you.

ScubaPro Go

As an avid diver, you probably live close to the sea, so you don’t have to travel very far for a dive. Except maybe you don’t live that close to the shore, and you have to sit in an hour’s worth of traffic. Or, if you’re anything like us, you like to dive in different locations rather than just one spot every time.

And needless to say, you want to go diving on your vacation, right? ScubaPro understands the diver’s need to travel. The ScubaPro Go is designed especially for easy transport, weighing in at just a little more than 1.25 pounds each. They’re also remarkably compact, with the medium-large measuring at 20.5 inches long. To help take up even less space when you’re packing, you can also bungee the fins together with the nifty clip on the blades!

The ScubaPro Go isn’t just great for traveling with, though; they’re even better in the water. Although the full footed fin has a short blade, the design allows it to work the same way a larger fin would. The blade is wider than most short fins and has deep rails and ridges. Angled at a steep 25-degrees to the foot pocket, the ScubaPro Go allows for great kicking (whether you use flutter, frog, or alternative kicking styles), as well as acceleration.

Comfort levels are satisfactory as well, and there are five sizes available ranging from 3XS to XL. There’s also a convenient self-adjusting strap (bungee heel), which allows you to easily don and doff the fins in addition to increasing comfort levels.

Features

• Short, full foot design (length 20.5 inches on medium-large)
• Lightweight (combined weight 2.6 pounds for the medium-large)
• Nifty clip to bungee the fins together
• Wide blade design
• Deeps rails and ridges in the fins
• Self-adjusting strap (bungee heel) to easily doff and don
• Steep 25-degree angle to the foot pocket

Five sizes, ranging from 3XS to XLCombining the easy-fitting benefits of the open heel fin with the barefoot imitation freedom found on full foot designs, the ScubaPro Go is a versatile model.

Thanks to the wide blades, with their deep rails and ridges and a 25-degree angle to the foot pocket, this short blade fin mimics the kick of longer fins. In fact, most divers have remarked that they forget it’s a short fin when in the water!

Designed for travel convenience, our only disappointment is that the sizing seems a little small. Divers with large feet might struggle to find the ideal fit, with the XL, sized somewhere between an L and true XL.

Cressi Reaction Pro

Cressi is a scuba diving fin company known for their quality, and the Reaction Pro lives up to this reputation. The Cressi Reaction Pro is a very versatile full foot fin design and can be used effectively no matter what diving style you prefer. Boasting an additional 20% of surface area, the increased length makes it an incomparable asset in boosting your propulsion capabilities in the water.

Because of the variable thickness in the blade design, the fins are highly responsive. This allows you to expend less effort in cutting through water and shows us exactly why Cressi decided to name it the Reaction Pro. You’ll be especially grateful if you tend to spend a lot of time submerged, as you’ll be able to travel further while using the same amount of energy.

The control level of the Reaction Pro is highly commendable as well. Cressi has achieved this with the use of a dual material design for the blade. The bulk of the blade is made of Techno-Polymer Polypropylene, while the channels are silicone based.

If you’re concerned that all this functionality compromises on comfort, then rest easy! The Thermo-Rubber Elastomer foot pockets allow your feet to sit securely, and make for an incredibly comfortable fit.

Features

• Longer full foot design
• Lightweight build, combined weight 4 pounds
• 20% increased surface area
• Highly responsive variable thickness blade design
• Variable thickness blade design for increased responsiveness
• Dual material blade design, with Techno-Polymer Polypropylene webbing and silicone based channels for improved control
• Thermo-Rubber Elastomer foot pockets for a secure, comfortable fit

Whether you’re a hardcore scuba diver or like to indulge in a snorkel dive from time to time as well, the Cressi Reaction Pro is a desirable option. Enjoy unrivaled control and propulsion thanks to the variable thickness, dual material design, with 20% increased surface area.

If you tend to dive in troublesome waters, with strong currents and surprise eddies, then these are the fins for you. However, their maneuverability around corals and tight rocky spaces will leave you wishing you had a split-fin or short fin design if you favor these conditions.

And thanks to the Thermo-Rubber Elastomer foot pockets, you won’t be limping ashore with chafed ankles either.

Scuba Diving Fins Buyer’s Guide

The best diving fin is paramount to ensuring that you enjoy that addictive tranquility experienced underwater. Along with your mask, fins are arguably among the most important purchase you’ll be making with building up your equipment. Just as getting salt water in your eyes from an ill-fitting, leaky mask is highly unpleasant, having the wrong fins will make you tire a lot quicker and ruin the experience for you.

Not to mention that having the wrong fins for the water conditions of your dive can be dangerous. You don’t want to find yourself stuck in a strong current or unexpected eddy without enough power to get yourself out of there safely.

And let’s be honest – whether you’re spending $75 or $250 on your fins, you don’t want to come out of the water with damaged blades (and possibly a few scrapes and bruises) because you didn’t have the enough maneuverability for the coral reef or tight, rocky crevices. So you’re going to want to put a lot of thought into choosing the right fins.

As is the case with scuba masks, many beginners find this out the hard way. If you’re given the opportunity to rent equipment when starting out, jump at it. This allows you to get a proper feel for the sport before investing a lot of money into the equipment.

It is worth mentioning at this point (and definitely important to do so regardless) that in order to partake in any scuba diving activity, you’re going to require a license. As part of the course, you’ll likely get a feel for the sport and decide whether or not it’s something you want to pursue. Take this opportunity to find a gear you can rent and test in a safe environment.

And if you’re not sure what you personally prefer in terms of design and function, then look for opportunities to test various types before making a decision. If push comes to shove, most retailers have a 30-day returns policy. Just be sure to read up on their terms and conditions first!

Whether you’re just starting out or you’re looking to replace your old fins, the nine models we’ve listed are the best 2017 has to offer. And that’s really not just our humble opinion—it’s the general consensus of the community, conveniently condensed into one review article.

Something else you should always keep in mind when looking to buy scuba diving fin: it doesn’t matter if you have the best money can buy if you don’t know how to use it properly. You’ll receive a lot of instructions when working toward your diving license, but learning is an ongoing process. We’ve set out to help you select your equipment. It’s up to you to invest at least as much time in reading up on how to use your fins properly.

Here’s a bit of extra information for you—just because we enjoy going the extra mile for our readers!

PS – if you’re already an experienced diver, you can skip through some of the following sections. We highly recommend novices give it a full read.

What Do Scuba Diving Fins Do and What Should I Look For?

Water is around 800 times denser than air, and the deeper you go, the greater the pressure. Humans are biologically engineered for traversing through the air, but that doesn’t mean we don’t enjoy being in the water, too.

What fins do is translate the power exerted by our leg muscles into water-specific motion. Fish have fins, so it makes sense that we should don a pair when we join them.

We totally understand that the sheer amount of reviews aren’t the only thing that’s overwhelming when you’re doing the research for your first pair of fins. Once you’ve narrowed it down to a few models, each one you read may appear better than the one you’ve checked out before it.

And when you’re in the shop, the wide range and varying specs can be visually overwhelming too. Think about it: have you ever gone to the grocery store without any clear idea of what you want or need to buy?

Eventually, you grab the first couple of things that look appealing to you in the moment, only to arrive back at home and end up realizing you forgot something important, or you got the wrong brands.

So it’s important to know what to look for in a pair of fins, to help you narrow your search down a little more.

Two words: comfort and efficiency. When you’re trying a pair of fins on, you want to make sure they’re a snug fit. Your toes mustn’t be pinched, and if you’re opting for a full foot fin then you don’t want the pocket binding the arches of your feet. A good rule of thumb is to try wiggle your toes: if you can’t, the fins are too small for you. Of course, you shouldn’t be able to wiggle them too much either, because then the fins are too big. Practice in your shoes for a while until you know how much wiggle room is the right amount.

Size, stiffness, and design are the three major factors that determine a fin’s efficiency rating. If you have strong hip and leg muscles, then bigger, stiffer fins can be used efficiently. Divers with a slighter frame will benefit from smaller, more flexible models.

There are exceptions to every rule, based on the water conditions you’ll be exposed to and some of the other specs, and there are some models that give you the best of both worlds. But as a general rule of thumb, the bigger and stiffer the fin blades, the stronger and more conditioned your leg muscles need to be.

Once you’ve narrowed it down even further with the suggestions above, it’s time to look at the straps. Bungee cord straps are a lot easier to use, especially with diving gloves on. But that doesn’t necessarily mean you should avoid buckles, as long as you’re comfortable with using them!

While pull-tabs are great for donning and doffing your fins with ease, if you opt for a model that features one, make sure it’s big enough to use. As a general rule, large finger loops are easier to use—not to mention quicker. And trust me, once you’ve had a taste of the sport you’ll want to get in the water as quickly as possible!

You’ll find a couple of models that tick all the right boxes for you, so your final deciding factors are going to be personal taste and budget. We can’t speak for your personal taste, but we can guarantee that you’ll find something within the $75 to $250 price range. This is obviously where your budget will come into play!

Typically, you don’t want to opt for the cheapest pair of fins available just because they’re cheap. While you can get great fins like the Atomic Aquatics Full Foot Split Fin for really cheap, if your budget allows you to spend $120 dollars on a different pair and you’re only choosing the $89 option because it’s cheaper, then don’t.

Price doesn’t necessarily denote quality, but the most durable and versatile models are going to cost more. Opt for something that’s as close to your budget threshold as possible while sticking to everything else we’ve said.

Full Footed vs. Open Heel

If you’re not sure whether you should opt for a full footed or open heel fin, bear the following four points in mind. They might help you make up your mind.

• If you frequent warm waters and don’t want to spend extra on dive boots, then a full foot fit is what you’re looking for.
• Open heel fins often have highly adjustable straps, which you can set according to the different dive boots you wear. If you’re sharing a pair with a family member or close friend, or want to be able to pass your fins down to your children at some point, this adjustability will count for a lot.
• Open heel fins also tend to be a lot easier to don and doff, as these designs generally favor the finger loop rather than a pull-tab, which are more commonly found on full foot fins.
• If you’re using an open heel fin for scuba diving, then dive boots (or booties as they’re also called) are going to be a requirement. While this does mean you’ll have an additional purchase to budget for, the upside is that they afford great foot protection and comfort, both in the water and when walking.

Shopping for Scuba Diving Fins Online

Shopping online for your scuba diving fin is a sweet temptation. In many ways, it’s more convenient than going to a brick-and-mortar scuba shop. You save time, gas, and don’t have to struggle to find parking either – simply fill out a form online, select “check-out”, and wait for delivery! And sometimes shopping online is cheaper than going into a shop too.

But when it comes to fins (and masks, for that matter—we made this same point in our buyers guide for the Best Scuba Gear 2017 masks review), shopping online has a nasty catch that can absolutely negate all the convenience.

When you’re looking to purchase your first set of fins or want to upgrade to a new model out, we highly recommend that you head to a physical shop. While manufacturers do give a general indication of the fin’s foot pocket size in relation to shoe size, there’s no set standard.

And as you’ve probably noticed, a shoe size 12 might fit you comfortably for one brand, but is hopelessly too big (or small) in another brand! If your fins don’t fit comfortably on your feet, then you’re going to get cramps and fatigue a lot quicker.

Shopping for fins online is best left for when you want to replace your old set with the same model (or something in the brand’s same range at the very least—such as upgrading from the Mares Avantti Quattro to the Quattro Plus). One notable exception — what we feel should be the only exception — is when you find an online retailer that has a truly amazing returns policy.

After all… if your fins don’t fit or aren’t comfortable, then you’ve wasted anywhere between $75 to $250 (and shipping) if you can’t return them.

Our Choice for the Best Scuba Diving Fins in 2019

We’ve reviewed nine amazing fins in our definitive buyer’s guide for the best scuba diving fin. Narrowing it down from a list of hundreds was no mean feat, and narrowing it down even further to just one is no easier.

But of course, it has to be done. We only have two feet each, and even if we had the money to buy one of each model we’ve reviewed we’d still only be able to wear one at a time! It wouldn’t be fair to us to not give you our editor’s pick either, of course.

After a lot of consideration (and some considerable back and forth), we’ve decided to go with the Tusa Hyflex Switch. The top quality PuRiMax polyurethane blade with six Vortex Generator ridges on the underside makes for truly high-speed capabilities with low resistance. Comfort is guaranteed with the Comfort Foot Pocket heel pad and adjustable bungee strap.

Part of what clinched the deal for us is the 23.5-inch length, which already makes for a compact transport size. The ability to unbolt the blades for storage and travel package at the incredibly short length of just 16 inches was the absolute cherry on top.

After all – we all like to visit new diving spots, and a compact fin is a lot easier to take with you on a long car trip or flight!

What to do now?

Final Words

There are no marine life forms that have a pair of legs unless you want to count the mythological Greco-Roman god Poseidon or Neptune. Even so, some accounts portray the sea god as a merman rather than a biped.

 

Whether you’re new to the sport or looking to upgrade, finding the best scuba gear can be an overwhelming task.

Scuba diving is a popular pastime. Young and old alike are equally entranced by the act of exploration. Shipwrecks and coral reefs, trenches and hidden caves. The beauty of life underwater is undeniable, from the exotic fish to the kelp forests. Deep sea divers especially testify to the addictive nature of the tranquility they feel. For most scuba divers, the biggest question is “where next?”

Because scuba diving is such a popular sport, there are a lot of different brands producing gears. Being so spoiled for choice can make finding the best scuba gear a challenge. You can spend hours reading through hundreds of reviews for a single item to find the right equipment.

This can be frustrating. We know, because we’ve been there! To make things easier for you, we did the research—so you can spend more time in the water, and less in front of your PC.

In our experience, if loads of professionals are all giving favorable input on a piece of equipment, chances are it’s the best scuba gear. There are always going to be ratings that exaggerate just how good (or bad) something is. But that type of review is a minority, so we were able to filter them out for you.

We read thousands of reviews in preparation. That’s why we’re confident that the following items are some of the best scuba gear available in 2019.

Best Scuba Diving Masks 2019

Model	Comfort	Adjustability	Visibility
Atomic Aquatics Venom Mask				Check Price
ScubaPro Synergy 2 Trufit Twin Mirrored Lens Mask (Editor’s Choice)				Check Price
Hollis M1 Frameless Mask				Check Price
Cressi Nano Mask with Corsica Snorkel				Check Price
Mares X-VU Liquidskin Sunrise Mask				Check Price
Oceanic Shadow Frameless Mask				Check Price
Mares I3 Sunrise Scuba Mask				Check Price
Sherwood Onyx Mask				Check Price
Phantom Aquatics Panoramic Scuba Snorkeling Set (Editor’s Choice)				Check Price

Best Scuba Diving Masks Over $100

Atomic Aquatics Venom Mask

Atomic Aquatics has featured favorably on several authoritative review sites, and users speak highly of their products. It’s no wonder that their Venom Mask is considered one of the best scuba gear items available!

The Venom mask is a blend of Atomic’s SubFrame and Frameless mask designs. The relatively low profile of the Frameless mask is there, but so is the SubFrame’s internal frame molded beneath the silicone rubber skirt for reinforcement.

The single lens window also references the Frameless design, while also incorporating the tear-drop shape and high bridge of the dual-lens SubFrame.

Where the Venom mask does differ from its predecessors is in the lens construction. Both the SubFrame and Frameless designs boast Ultra Clear glass technology, which we’ve also seen in some of the other masks reviewed here. Ultra Clear is aptly named, of course, but the Atomic has managed to go the extra mile with the Venom. Schott SuperWhite Glass, imported from Germany, is of even higher quality. These allow for even better light penetration, without increasing reflection and glare (provided you opt for a darker tone).

As with other mask designs, the Venom brings the lenses closer to the user’s eyes. This broadens the already impressive field of vision and enhances clarity even further. It also allows for the easy integration of a one-hand nose well for ear pressure equalization.

Atomic have kept to the tried and trusted tradition of the double-feathered edge silicone rubber skirt. The Venom also sports a wide-split strap, and the combination allows for a better fit and perfect seal. Easy-squeeze buckles have been soft-mounted on the skirt, which makes for easy adjustments and increased flexibility.

Features

• SubFrame / Frameless hybrid design
• Wide field of view
• Low-profile
• Wide-split strap design
• Easy-squeeze buckles
• Optical quality Schott SuperWhite Glass single lens
• Double-feathered edge silicone skirt
• One-handed ear pressure equalization nose well
• Mask box
• Limited lifetime/1-year warranty

Undoubtedly one of the best scuba gear options on our prestigious list, the Atomic Aquatics Venom Mask is sure to make almost any diver a very happy owner. While it lacks a true equivalent to the Tri-comfort technology of the Mares i3 or the ScubaPro Synergy 2 Trufit Twin Mirrored Lens Mask Trufit comfort design, the hybrid SubFrame / Frameless integration does offer a superior fit. Thanks to the German import Schott SuperWhite Glass optical lens, the Venom certainly does boast possibly the best visibility specs. The limited lifetime warranty on the frame, and limited 12-month warranty on the strap and silicone skin are also very appealing.

The only real let down is that the lenses fog very easily, even when proper cleaning methods have been used. This is partially due to the close proximity to the eyes. However, the fogging does improve over time with consistent and proper cleaning.

ScubaPro Synergy 2 Trufit Twin Mirrored Lens Mask – Editor’s Choice

ScubaPro is one of the top names in scuba gear for a reason. Their new Synergy 2 Trufit Twin Mirrored Lens Mask is an innovative example of why the brand is so popular. The trademark Trufit ultra-soft skirt incorporates a unique rigidity that has been technically developed. This allows the mask to not only fit comfortably on every face shape but also ensures a perfect seal. The Trufit technology achieves this by using a single high-quality silicone rather than two separate materials. Two varying thicknesses are used instead.

Near the mask’s frame, the silicone is thicker and firmer to provide support and rigidity and sports a matte finish. Where it contours the diver’s face, the silicone is thinner. This gives it a softer feel and allows the double-feathered skirt to mold itself against your face for a unique fit and perfect seal.

Similar to the Mares’ Tri-comfort design, ScubaPro’s Trufit technology is easily identifiable by the unique ribbing texture. The ScubaPro Synergy 2 Trufit Twin Mirrored Lens Mask’s perfect seal is also achieved with the help of the wide-split style silicone rubber strap. An easily adjusted swivel buckle system makes finding the perfect fit even easier.

For increased comfort, the one-hand nose pocket is easy to reach, allowing divers to equalize their ear pressure—even when wearing thick gloves.

Where the ScubaPro Synergy 2 Trufit Twin Mirrored Lens Mask really stands out above most scuba gear is, of course, the lenses. The dual tempered glass in traditional reverse teardrop design was chosen specifically for increased vision and light intake.

Ultra-Clear Mirrored Glass, which is a pioneering innovation in optical quality lens material, provides almost unparalleled clarity and a high light transmission. The green tint caused by iron impurities in standard glass has been removed, and as a result, the Trufit’s color rendition rivals that of the Hollis M1 Frameless Mask.

Because the lenses are also mirrored, they provide added protection against glare when at the surface. Light reflection can be even further minimized by opting for a darker color scheme for the frame.

Features

• Trademark ultra-soft Trufit technology for maximum comfort and seal
• Double-feathered silicone skirt
• Wide-split silicone rubber strap for improved seal
• Swivel buckles allowing for improved micrometric regulation
• Easy-squeeze nose well allows divers to relieve ear pressure without difficulty
• Dual tempered glass lenses
• Reverse teardrop design, which allows for improved visibility
• Ultra-Clear optical lenses
• Reduced light reflection and color distortion

The ScubaPro Synergy 2 Trufit Twin Mirrored Lens Mask is indeed one of the best scuba gear options available. Trufit technology, combined with the double-feather silicone design, rivals the comfort provided by Mares’ Tri-comfort technology. The Ultra-Clear Mirrored Glass optical lenses match the color rendition abilities of the Hollis M1 Frameless Mask. And because the lenses are mirrored, if you opt for a darker color the Trufit possibly exceeds the glare and reflection reduction of the Sherwood Onyx Mask and Snorkel.

Hollis M1 Frameless Mask

The Hollis M1 Frameless Mask has been hailed as providing everything a diver could ever want or need. While we feel this is a little overly optimistic, we have to agree that it’s a very attractive buy.

The single-lens design allows for an uninterrupted field of vision. Optical Saint-Gobain Diamant Crystal Clear Glass has been used. Compared to standard glass, the Saint-Gobain Diamant has a lowered iron content. This allows for better light filtering by removing the green tint found in cheaper models, increasing visibility. Thanks to the Saint-Gobain Diamant lenses, the Hollis M1 also has a reduced color distortion, allowing divers to experience true color representation.

The double silicone skirt sits comfortably on your face, and users with wider faces have reported that they’ve felt no need to sync the straps to prevent water leakage. Some users have also said they’ve been able to use the Hollis M1 Frameless without any defog. As long as you remember to give it a quick rinse before use, the mask doesn’t fog very easily.

While not a low-profile mask (it does look a lot larger than most), the Hollis M1 does boast a reduced weight. The low internal volume also frees divers to spend less time equalizing ear pressure.

Features

• Single-lens design for an uninterrupted field of vision
• Optical Saint-Gobain Diamant Crystal Clear Glass
• Improved visibility and color rendering
• Soft double silicone skirt
• Reduced weight
• Low volume design

Whether you’re looking for a new mask or not, we would certainly recommend giving the Hollis M1 Frameless a look. It’s become a go-to for many professional and casual divers alike, especially those with a wider face.

Best Scuba Diving Masks Over $80 – $100

Cressi Nano Mask with Corsica Snorkel

The Cressi Nano mask sports a frameless design, ideal for both scuba diving and advanced free diving. The mask’s shape is incredibly compact, allowing for extreme hydrodynamics so you can easily cut through the water and maneuver in small areas.

Internal volume is minimized to the point where intentional equalizing is no longer strictly required. Some divers report not needing to equalize their ear pressure at all!

The anatomical strap is designed to fit the around the head comfortably. Swivel buckles allow for improved micrometric regulation, allowing you to adjust the strap perfectly. Thanks to the angled, tempered glass lenses, visibility is crystal clear.

The Cressi Corsica snorkel is a new design dedicated specifically for deep fishing and free diving, incorporating high technological innovation. The snorkel tube’s characterization is largely created by the unique use of special polymers. These have an excellent shape memory, allowing the tube to bend against objects as necessary and easily spring back into place.

Any feeling of discomfort is minimized greatly thanks to the special anatomical shape of the mouthpiece. Thanks to the hypoallergenic silicone used, the snorkel can be comfortably used for longer than most other models. The dry top also prevents water intake.

The mask itself is also ideal to keep as a backup if you’re not ready to replace your current one. The Cressi Nano mask fits perfectly into BC pockets for easy, convenient storage.

Features

Nano Mask:

• Frameless design, ideal for scuba and free diving
• Maneuverability in small spaces and hydrodynamics are greatly enhanced by the compact design
• Intentional equalizing almost entirely unnecessary thanks to the minimal internal volume
• Anatomical strap
• Swivel buckles allowing for improved micrometric regulation
• Angled, tempered glass lenses
• Slim design allows for convenient storage in a BC pocket

Corsica Snorkel:

• Special polymer feature allows the tube to bend against obstacles and bounce back into place
• Special anatomical mouthpiece shape
• Hypoallergenic silicone mouthpiece can be used comfortably for longer than most models
• Dry top prevents water intake when submerged and on the surface alike

If you’re a diver that enjoys and appreciates innovative technological design, then the Cressi Nano Mask and Corsica Snorkel are certainly among the best scuba gear 2017 has to offer. All in all, it’s a great option for anyone looking to keep a backup mask conveniently stored in your BC pocket. Whether it’s because you’re not quite ready to let go of your old mask yet, or because you enjoy your Cressi Nano so much you bought a second one, the compact design is sure to satisfy your desires.

Mares X-VU Liquidskin Sunrise Mask

Mares makes a second appearance on our list of the best scuba gears of 2017 with their X-VU Liquidskin Sunrise Mask. Like the i3 Sunrise Mask, the X-VU Liquidskin is dedicated to the Asiatic target market but is suitable for anyone with a wide face structure. Mares’ R&D and Design sections conducted several computer simulations to study facial shapes to optimize the design.

Designed after the X-vision model, the X-VU is a pioneering two-lens scuba mask incorporating Liquidskin technology. The natural comfort of the Liquidskin skirt is supplemented by an additional silicone layer injected into the nose area. This acts as an anti-shock bumper, similar to the i3’s tri-comfort design but using a different method. The tri-comfort factor does feature, with horizontal ribs molding the frame around the forehead.

The X-VU Liquidskin scuba mask also incorporates Mares’ innovative two-button buckle. These are attached to the skirt, generating superior hydrodynamics. The already impressive field of vision is expected to be enhanced even further with optical lenses by the end of the year.

The bi-silicone exclusive Liquidskin technology allows for a firmer support structure, while the skin allows for 45% softer contact. This also results in 270% increased elasticity, for improved comfort. Because of the buckle placement, pressure against the face is further reduced by directing the strap’s tension to the skirt rather than the frame.

The double feathered skirt edge makes for an improved seal, and the easy-squeeze nose well allows for one-handed ear pressure equalization.

Features

• Two lens scuba mask with tempered glass lenses
• Liquidskin technology improves comfort with soft padding as an anti-shock bumper around the nose area
• Tri-comfort skirt design, which absorbs and redistribute pressure against the face for improved comfort levels. This is achieved with the use of extra silicone injections in the forehead area
• Bi-silicone technology allows for 45% softer contact and 270% increased elasticity
• Double-feathered skirt seals the mask
• Easy-squeeze nose well allows divers to relieve ear pressure without difficulty
• Ergonomic two-button strap buckle design makes it easy to adjust and secure your strap
• Strap can be efficiently adjusted even when wearing thick diving gloves
• Buckle placement allows the strap tension to act on the skirt rather than the frame
• Hydrodynamic design
• The skirt’s special geometry makes it particularly suited for wider faces

Mares have kept themselves at the fore in scuba gear design and technology. Serious divers will most certainly appreciate the ergonomic design and improved comfort of the Mares X-VU Liquidskin Sunrise mask. While the visibility is already quite impressive, if you prefer optical lenses you may want to wait for the end of the year.

Similar to their i3 Sunrise Scuba Mask, the X-VU Liquidskin is dedicated to those with a wider face structure. Designed particularly for Asians, the target market is somewhat exclusive. However, anyone finding other scuba masks too narrow for comfort would certainly benefit from the i3’s design.

Oceanic Shadow Frameless Mask

The Oceanic Shadow scuba mask range is well-known as a favorite among reviewers and professional divers. Thanks to the all-silicone skirt and sleek frame, the Oceanic Shadow Frameless Mask adapts to the shape of the user’s face over time for maximum comfort. The open design creates a wide field of vision.

Because the glass lenses are also placed closer to the eyes, improving general visibility. Users have mentioned that the model tends to fog up easier than other scuba masks for this very same reason. However, we were also able to find the best way to prevent this!

Features

• No-frame design allows for reduced weight and a wider field of vision
• Reduced distance between the glass lenses and the user’s eyes create improved visibility
• Slap-strap design gives users the ability to make quick adjustments for maximum comfort
• Crystal silicone (the highest grade available) improves comfort levels further
• Sleek frame adapts to your face over time
• Designed for medium to large faces
• Reduced glare and reflection make the Oceanic Shadow Frameless Mask ideal for photographers and spear fishermen especially
• Easy to store; ideal as a backup mask that fits into your BC pocket

Whether you’re a casual or professional diver, the Oceanic Shadow Frameless Mask is an ideal fit. The shortcoming of becoming easily fogged is circumnavigated by proper washing. Using a soft scrub, wash rigorously for 1-2 minutes 6 or seven times. Coat the inside of the lenses with baby soap, and leave to dry. Before diving, pour some fresh water over the lenses. Swirl until the baby soap streak have been smoothed out, and you’ll have no fog!

Best Scuba Diving Masks Under $80

Mares I3 Sunrise Scuba Mask

The Mares i3 Sunrise Scuba Mask supplements the company’s trademark Sunrise design with Tri-comfort technology. This assists in absorbing and redistributing the natural pressure exerted by the mask to boost comfort levels.

Smaller side panels compliment the wide central lens, mimicking a panoramic vision field. The strap is also designed to be easily adjustable, thanks to two-button buckles. Even if you’re diving with thick gloves, the ergonomic design allows you to secure your strap efficiently. Comfort is once again assured thanks to the x-shape of the strap.

Features

• Tri-comfort skirt design, which absorbs and redistribute pressure against the face for improved comfort levels. This is achieved with the use of small, horizontal ribs between the skirt and frame surrounding the nose area
• Ergonomic two-button strap buckle design makes it easy to adjust and secure your strap
• Strap can be efficiently adjusted even when wearing thick diving gloves
• X-shaped strap designed for comfort
• The skirt’s special geometry makes it particularly suited for wider faces

While many diving masks are best suited for slimmer faces, the Mares i3 Sunrise Scuba Mask is dedicated to those with a wider face structure. Designed particularly for Asians, the target market is somewhat exclusive. However, anyone finding other scuba masks too narrow for comfort would certainly benefit from the i3’s design.

Sherwood Onyx Mask

Have you ever wondered why professional scuba divers usually stick to black? Lighter colors tend to reflect surface light on the inside of the lens, which can distract the diver. Darker tones don’t have this same problem. This is especially important for spear fishermen.

Sherwood Onyx is known for their low-profile design and matte black finish, making their range perfect for the professional diver. With a great field-of-vision and clear lens, as well as the unique push-button buckle strap, you’ll wonder why you didn’t buy one sooner!

Sherwood Onyx has also brought back the classic J-style snorkel design. The contoured tube will hug the shape of your head for improved hydrodynamics. When you switch from snorkel to scuba regulator, the corrugated lower tube falls away from your face. The snorkel keeper is easy to attach and detach as you desire.

Features

Mask:

• Stealthy matte black finish to prevent glare from surface light
• Low-profile design
• Dual tempered glass lenses
• Low volume, easy to clear
• Improved field-of-vision
• High-quality double-feathered edge black silicone rubber skirt
• Easily accessible one-hand nose pocket for ear equalization
• Wide-split silicone rubber mask strap
• Unique push-button buckle strap system for easy adjustments
• Protective mask box

Snorkel:

• J-style design
• Corrugated lower tube drops away from your face when you switch from snorkel to scuba regulator
• Contoured design hugs your head for improved hydrodynamics and reduced resistance
• Easily attachable (and detachable) snorkel keeper

Sherwood Onyx knows what professional divers are looking for in a mask and snorkel. Their range aims to meet every desire, and are a pleasure to wear. If you’re a spear fisherman especially, you won’t go wrong opting for this set!

Phantom Aquatics Panoramic Scuba Snorkeling

The Phantom Aquatics Panoramic Scuba Snorkeling set forms part of the new Panoramic View Metallic range. Enjoy a crystal-clear view through the patented single-lens design, with seamless side windows. The double-sealed silicone skirts allow for comfortable wearing for long periods.

The Phantom Aquatics Dry Snorkel incorporates innovative designs to help keep water out of your tube, both on the surface and when submerged. The hypoallergenic silicone mouthpiece makes for a comfortable fit, and the bottom purge valve clears water from the bottom well. Thanks to the flexible tube design, you can enjoy resistance-free swimming for hours!

Features

Panoramic Mask:

• EZ Equalize nose pocket
• Patented single-lens design
• Seamless side windows for a panoramic vision
• Double-sealed, crystal-clear silicone skirt, for superior fit and comfort
• New lower-volume styling for a snug fit
• Over-molded frame design

Dry Snorkel:

• Completely dry top prevents water from entering snorkel while submerged
• Unique splash-guard reduces water entry when in use on the surface
• Corrugated end piece, with a smooth interior, holds the snorkel away from your mouth when diving
• Flexible tube design reduces resistance when swimming
• Water collection well
• Large exhaust and elliptic purge valve at the bottom, for easy clearing of water
• 100% hypoallergenic silicone mouthpiece
• Innovative and patented production technology used in the design and manufacture

If you want to have an uninterrupted view of the aquatic life and scenery, then the Phantom Aquatics Panoramic Scuba Snorkeling set is the best scuba gear for you! When it comes to comfort and functionality, Phantom Aquatics Products have outdone the rest.

Scuba Gear Buyer’s Guide

Having the best diving gear will always enhance your experience underwater. Your mask is arguably the most important element to consider when gathering your equipment. You’re going to want to put a lot of thought into choosing the right mask, regardless of whether you prefer snorkeling or scuba diving.

Many beginners find this out the hard way. When you’re starting out, it’s a good idea to rent equipment first. This allows you to get a feel for the sport before investing a lot of money into it. The downfall to renting equipment is that they’re not often of the best quality. You end up with a leaky mask more often than not, which results in a disrupted dive.

No matter how tough you think you are, having salt water seep into your eyes is uncomfortable. That’s why we built this list, after all—to help you decide on the best scuba gear to match your price range. Whether you’re starting out or looking to replace your old mask, the nine we’ve listed are the best money can buy. And that’s not just our opinion—it’s the general consensus of the community!

Something to keep in mind though: it doesn’t matter if you have the best gear if you don’t know how to use it properly. We’ve set out to help you select your equipment, and we’ll give you some general guidelines too. But it’s up to you to invest time in reading up on how to use your specific model properly.

You may also want to consider buying additional straps as a backup. Try to get a different style to the one your mask comes with, in case you decide you need it. Some scuba masks come with a protective box already, but if yours doesn’t you should definitely get one. The box will keep your mask safe from scratches when you’re not using it.

What Are the Different Types of Masks?

If you are starting out, then it’s also helpful to understand the different types of masks available on the market. There are several, and they typically differ the most in terms of design and features.

We’ve listed both framed and frameless masks above (as well as the hybrid Atomic Aquatics Venom mask), but what are the advantages of either?

Frameless

As the name suggests, a frameless mask doesn’t have a thick frame. This allows the lenses to be placed closer to your eyes, which can greatly enhance visibility. The only downfall in this is that they do tend to fog easier, unfortunately. But if you’re looking for a lightweight, low-profile mask, then frameless is certainly the way to go.

Due to the lack of a frame, the silicone rubber skirt is attached directly to the lenses. This also makes it easier to fold them up, whether for storage or as a backup. Some of the masks we listed are able to fit right in your BC pocket!

Framed

Framed masks, on the other hand, are far more rigid, and the lenses are further from your eyes. While this little bit of distance can impair visibility slightly, it also makes the lenses less likely to fog up. Many experienced divers say that a framed mask will fit your face with better stability and security than frameless designs. If you find yourself struggling to find a mask that fits your face well, experts suggest narrowing your search down to framed designs only.

Hybrid

And then, of course, there’s the hybrid SubFrame/Frameless design offered by the Atomic Aquatics Venom mask. As discussed earlier, this innovative model gives you the best of both. You’ll benefit from the low-profile and low-volume advantage of a frameless mask, without losing the stable, secure fit of the framed.

Single Pane vs Double Pane vs Quad Pane

Another way in which masks are distinguished is by the number of lens panes they have.
Single lens masks have one pane without any separation (or, as is the case with the Venom, a deep bridge that cuts into the pane without separating it totally). This can have the advantage of an increased field of vision, but this is largely decided by the angle of the lens. One thing you should be aware of is that because there is more glass present, single pane masks tend to be heavier than their double pane alternatives.

Double pane lenses are almost like wearing a pair of glasses. Two separate panes are divided where your nose is. Most designs use this advantageously, utilizing reverse teardrop shapes set at an angle for a wider field of vision. A badly designed double pane mask might give you a ghost blind spot in the middle, where your nose forms a semi-transparent barrier in your field of vision where your eyes cross slightly. So, if you do opt for a double pane design, make sure it’s one of the best! One major advantage a well-designed double pane scuba mask typically has over the single lens is its decreased volume.

The third option is a quad pane design. This is similar to the Phantom Aquatics Panoramic Scuba mask, except that instead of a single lens with two side panes you have four windows. In basic terms, it’s a double pane design with two side panes. This allows you to look ahead, left, and right without having to turn your head. As is the case with the Phantom Aquatics mask in our list, this affords you a much wider panoramic field of vision.

Nose Well vs Purge Valve

The third way to distinguish masks is whether they have a purge valve or not. Many mask designs have a simple silicone rubber nose well, which—depending on the lens setting—often allows you to equalize your ear pressure. You can still do so with a purge valve design, of course. The main difference is your exhalation point. Without a purge valve, you’ll have to expel air through your mouth.

A purge valve, on the other hand, is a feature placed at the bottom of the nose well. This allows you to exhale through your nose, without breaking the seal.

Whether you opt for a model with or without the purge valve is largely up to personal preference and level of expertise.

Full-Face Snorkel Masks

A new mask design has emerged recently that engulfs the entire face. A dry snorkel is fixed at the top. This is known simply as the full-face snorkel mask. While popular with some snorkel divers, it isn’t a viable option for anyone wanting to do scuba diving. As a result, they do not feature on our list, but they’re worth a mention regardless.

Choosing the Right Mask

The full-face snorkel mask notwithstanding, there’s no fundamental difference between the snorkel and scuba mask. When deciding on a model, what you want to focus on rather is quality and durability.

With snorkeling, you’re not very likely to dive too far below the surface. The mask is not going to experience any real pressure as a result. This means that technically speaking, you can get away with less durable masks. Of course, you should always opt for the most durable model nevertheless. But our focus is on scuba diving, and therefore on scuba masks.

With scuba diving, there are added risks involved that don’t come into play with snorkeling. One of these is the amount of pressure your mask will be subjected to. A tough frame will go a long way in protecting your face should your mask sustain any damage, and will handle the increased pressure a lot better than a snorkel mask. This isn’t to say that frameless masks aren’t as suitable, of course.

One necessity that certainly isn’t up for debate is the glass used for the lenses. If it isn’t tempered, don’t even consider making a purchase! Tempered glass will handle deep water pressure well. Even if you do suffer damage to your mask, the tempered glass will withstand a lot better than cheaper variants.

There are a few common rules that you should follow no matter the type of mask you buy. Regardless of whether you opt for a scuba or snorkel mask, the most important factor is how well it fits your face.

A mask that fits poorly isn’t going to have a decent seal. You can expect to have water seeping in. As we mentioned earlier, a leaky mask is very disruptive to your dive. You’ll be returning to the surface to drain your mask, and have to contend with the discomfort of having salt water in your eyes. Simply put, if you have a leaky mask you may as well not be wearing one at all!

This is why it’s so important to have a well-fitting mask. You should measure your facial structure and make comparisons to the measurements companies and resellers provide. Where possible, you should test the mask’s fit before making your purchase (see below). Every brand and company have their own means of sizing, so avoid making a decision based on the S, M, L, etc. label. These aren’t universal measurements. If you have more than one mask, you’ll likely have noticed that they have different size labels—even though they have the same (or similar) measurements.

The skirt is another important factor to consider when choosing a scuba mask. Silicone skirts do cost a little more, but the benefits are well worth the price. They provide better comfort levels, last a lot longer, and will most certainly create a better seal. This is why companies like Mares and ScubaPro have gone to such great lengths developing their Tri-comfort, Liquidskin, and Trufit technologies!

Finally, you want to take a look at the mask’s straps and buckles. You’ll be dealing with these quite regularly after all. A wide-split strap, or an x-fit design like that of the Mares i3 Sunrise, will be far more comfortable and secure. Even more importantly, is the buckle system, which should allow you to make necessary adjustments in the water with ease. Slap-straps, push buckles, and swivel buckles each have their own merits, so find one that works for you.

How to Test a Mask’s Fit Before Making Your Purchase

Scuba masks come in a wide variety of designs, colors, and styles. Don’t just go for the one that fits your style though—go for the one that fits your face.

All jokes aside, we’ve already mentioned how important it is that your scuba mask fits properly. There aren’t any universal sizing standards between different manufacturers. Besides which, no two faces are exactly alike. No one mask is one-size-fits-all. Even the Oceanic Shadow Frameless Mask in our list, which adapts to the shape of your face over time, comes in different sizes.

Most masks have a skirt that ranges from four and a half to five inches in width between the temples, but their shapes differ considerably. You might need something a little smaller, or a little bigger perhaps. What this all boils down to is the same as we said earlier. Where possible, you should test the mask’s fit before making a purchase. This requires some careful undertaking.

Before we run through the steps you should follow, there is one prevalent myth that needs to be dispelled first. The old method of inhaling does not work. All it does is create an artificial vacuum that won’t be replicated in the water. Even a mask that is hopelessly too big for you will have a near-perfect seal with this method! So, what are the steps to properly fitting a mask?

How to Find a Well-Fitting Mask in the Shop

1. First off (and this is very important) remember to take your regulator with you when testing a mask’s fit. A snorkel will suffice as a substitute if you don’t want to carry your regulator around with you when shopping for a mask. Basically, you need something to see how well the mask will fit when you have a mouthpiece in. The regulator or snorkel will change the shape of your face and distort the mask somewhat. You’ll have your mouthpiece on when in the water, so your mask should fit comfortably and provide a proper seal with it in.
2. Ideally, you should find a mask that has a nose well. This goes without saying, of course, but the nose compartment should give you enough room for your nose between your eyes and the lenses. As far as possible, opt for a mask that allows a little extra space, so you can exhale through your nose when necessary. The nose well is also used for equalizing your ear pressure. This helps you to alleviate and avoid facial and/or ear squeeze when diving. Ideally, the nose compartment should be easily accessible for this reason.
3. Before you even put the mask on, inspect the silicone skirt. If you have a smaller face, with close-set eyes, nose, and mouth, a low-profile mask will suffice. These have a smaller skirt. On the other hand, if you have a larger face, with wide-set features, the larger skirt of a high-profile mask would be a better fit. It’s worth mentioning that there are exceptions to the rule, but it’s a good rule of thumb to bear in mind. Always remember to take into consideration your cheekbones.
4. Take off the strap, or make it as loose as possible. You’ll want to test the strap later on for comfort and adjustability, but in terms of the fit and seal it isn’t immediately necessary. When you’re submerged, the water pressure is what should force the seal, rather than the strap itself.
5. You’re ready to make contact! Making sure that no stray hairs are getting trapped beneath the skirt, and then wiggle the mask until all edges of the skirting are making contact with your skin. If it feels comfortable and centered, you’re ready to move on to the next step.
6. With the regulator (or snorkel) in, inhale slightly through your nose. As mentioned earlier, don’t inhale too hard. Doing so will distort the silicone skin and provide a false seal. Inhale gently and let go of the mask. If it’s a good fit and has a proper seal, it’ll stick to your face.
7. Leave the mask on for about a minute, then give it a gentle tug. If the seal has formed properly, then it won’t pull away too easily. You might want to repeat this step (and step 6) a couple of times with a varying degree of force behind your tug to make sure you aren’t pulling too softly—or too hard, for that matter. If you feel the mask is indeed coming away too easily, then you should repeat steps 2-7 with another mask.
8. On the other hand, if you feel the seal is sufficient after step 7, then it’s time to adjust the strap again. Pull it close, but not tight. The mask should be held in place against gravity, but only just so. Repeat steps 6 and 7.
9. Time for some vanity! Take a look at yourself in a mirror while wearing the mask. You’re not looking to see whether it matches your style or if you look particularly dashing in the mask, though. What you are looking out for is how well the mask fits your face structure. The first thing to check is to see how far the silicone extends beneath the nose well. If it’s too close to your upper lip, it’s likely to be uncomfortable. Even if it’s not immediately uncomfortable (you’ll have already picked up on that anyway), too much silicone between the nose and upper lip will most certainly cause some discomfort the longer you wear it.
10. Still looking into the mirror, check how well the silicone skirt covers your cheekbones. A well-fitted mask won’t stop short or extend past them. If there’s extra skirting, the seal won’t last underwater, and you’ll be diving with a face full of salt water.
11. If either step 9 or 10 reveal that the skirting is a little (or a lot) too long for your face, it’s time to start from step 2 again. This time, look for a shorter scuba mask, or one that’s roughly the same size and shape but has a lower profile.

So, your chosen mask made it past step 11? That’s great! There’s just one more step. Still, in front of your mirror, start making faces. You’re not going to be diving with a deadpan expression, are you? Smile, make a surprised face, pull your features the way you’re likely to do underwater. If the skirt doesn’t make any gaps above your mouth when making normal facial expressions, then it’s time to head to the counter with your new mask.

Of course, it doesn’t end with your purchase. When you get home, clean the mask properly to get rid of the manufacturing residue that causes the lenses to fog easily. Put it on, and jump into the pool!
There’s no better way to test a mask’s true fit than to properly mimic the way you’ll be using it. Some shops do allow you to return the mask for a refund or replacement if you’ve bought it recently and it hasn’t been used in salt water.

Shopping for Scuba Gear Online

Shopping for scuba gear online is convenient. It saves you time, it saves you gas, it saves you the frustration of having to find parking. Sometimes, it’s even cheaper. But when it comes to masks (and flippers, for that matter), shopping online gets a little complicated.

If you’re buying your first mask, or want to try a new model, head to a physical shop. As we’ve said a few times already by now, the fit is the most important element you should consider when making a purchase. How are you going to test the seal online?

Online shopping for scuba masks is best left alone unless you want to replace your current mask with the exact same model. The only other exception should be when shopping online with a site that has an amazing returns policy! After all, if it doesn’t fit and you can’t return it, you’ve wasted money.

How to Use Your Dive Mask

You’ve decided on a mask, it fits, and now you’re ready to dive. If you’re a first-time diver, you’re not quite ready yet. First, you need to figure out how to use your mask properly. After all, the best equipment is no better than the worst if you don’t know how to use it. While individual models might have some specifics, here are some general tips on how to properly use a scuba mask.

Mask Fog

Remember how we’ve mentioned your new mask is likely to fog easily underwater? This is especially true of frameless mask designs where the lenses are closer to your eyes. It’s true of any new mask, however.

This is because there is a thin film of separation agent left from the manufacturing process. It’s a common occurrence and is due to silicone residue. There are a few mask models that leave the production line with defog pre-applied. For everyone else, it’s best you take a look at the following tips on how best to treat your mask before first-time use. If you don’t, your mask will fog up no matter how much anti-fog product you apply!

Treating Your New Scuba Mask to Prevent Fogging

1. Toothpaste, believe it or not, one of the best ways to remove the silicone residue. Use the simplest toothpaste you can find, preferably one without bleaching agents or confetti strips. Airline toothpaste is probably the best, but you’re not going to book a flight just for the toothpaste. Simply squirt some onto the inner lens and scrub gently with a clean finger or soft cloth. Do this for a few minutes, then leave it overnight. In the morning, use a clean, soft cloth and fresh water to rinse it off.
2. Flaming your lenses is the absolute best method, but it’s a lot trickier than the toothpaste trick. Blacken the glass of your inner lens by running the tip of a flame over it. Using a lighter or tapered candle is easiest, and probably the best option too. This burns the film of separation agent away. Once you’ve got the glass completely black, let the mask cool and wipe the soot off with a soft cloth. You’ll have to repeat the process two or three times. When it becomes difficult to turn the glass black, your work is done. The difficulty comes in making sure you don’t heat the glass up too much. You also need to keep the flame away from the soft silicone skirt, which will melt with very little heat. Needless to say, you don’t want to try this trick with plastic lenses! If you’re nervous about damaging your mask with the flame method, rather play it safe and use toothpaste instead.

Now your new mask is ready for use!

However, you’ll notice that your mask still fogs from time to time, especially on longer dives. Don’t rush back to the candle or your toothpaste tube though. As long as you’ve followed the instructions above, the manufacturing residue will be completely removed.

Any mask will fog from time to time. Why? Simple physics.

The fog is caused by condensation, plain and simple. There’s water vapor in the air, even inside your perfectly sealed mask. When this meets with the cooler glass of the lens, microscopic water droplets are formed.

The surface tension on your mask lenses, the humidity inside your mask, and the water temperature determine the likelihood of fogging. Surfactants (anti-fog or defogging solutions) reduce the surface tension and smooth out the droplets forming on your lens. By creating a uniform layer of moisture, the surfactant ensures the condensation is less visible. So, what are your surfactant options?

Treating Your Used Scuba Mask to Prevent Fogging

1. Commercial defog products, also known as “mask defog”, are available at almost every diving shop. They do vary in price but generally, stick within the $6-$10 range. Quality and efficiency are the major deciding factors in the cost. Don’t feel bad splurging on one of the best. Defog products typically come in two-ounce bottles, but you’ll be able to use it hundreds of times because you only need small drops every time. A good mask defog can last you two or three dives. If you get the chance to buy a more expensive product, go for it—you’ll save money in the long run.
   • All you need to do is apply a single drop onto the inner lens of a dry mask. Using dry, clean fingers, rub the defog evenly across the lens. You can rinse it in either fresh or salt water, but be careful not to rub or touch the inner lens again during or after rinsing. This will remove the surfactant (defog)—as will sunscreen residue on your fingers during application. Best you do this step at home before heading to the ocean.
2. Spit is a quick and easy alternative. Some find it disgusting, others are nonplussed about it. At the end of the day, what works, works. Except using saliva as a surfactant isn’t all that effective. It’s not nearly as long-lasting as a commercial defog solution, for one thing. For another, spit dries out fairly quickly, so if opt for this technique you’ll need to do it shortly before hitting the water. There are a few other points that should be mentioned before we show you how to go about it.
   • First of all, saliva carries a lot of bacteria. Reports of eye infections that are associated with diving are admittedly rare. But those bacteria slowly build up in the hard-to-reach confines of your mask. Secondly, if you are going to use the spit method, take a bottle of water with you for rinsing. Under no circumstances should you use the dive boat’s rinse bucket! These buckets are reserved for those using commercial defog agents only. Some dive boats have a specific product they prefer. If even one diver uses the spit method while sick, or shortly after recovering from illness, and then uses the rinse bucket, everyone could get sick as a result. Rather be considerate and bring a bottle of water.
   • So, how do you use the spit method? Work up some saliva in your mouth and plant it on the inner lens of your dry mask. Rub it around with a clean finger or soft cloth (same as a commercial defogger), then rinse briefly. You don’t want to rinse all the saliva off. Again, don’t touch the lens during or after rinsing. You can use either salt or fresh water.
3. Baby shampoo is another alternative to commercial defoggers. The ratio needs to be one part baby shampoo to one part water. For this reason, many divers keep a bottle of premixed solution with the rest of their scuba gear. The application is exactly the same as commercial surfactants. The reason you want to use baby shampoo rather than standard is because it’s specifically formulated to be hypoallergenic. It’s also far less irritating to the eyes, which is an important consideration. If your mask leaks, the water will likely carry the defogging agent into your eyes. As an added benefit, baby shampoo also smells a lot better than spit.
4. Watered down glycerin soaps and dishwashing liquids can also be used, in the same way as baby shampoo. The main deterrent here would be that these chemicals tend to burn your eyes. Even without a leak, you might find yourself tearing up if you’ve used too much. Another issue is that some of these products aren’t biodegradable. If you have to use them, be careful not to dump any non-biodegradable solutions into the water.
5. Our last tip is something of a diving urban legend. Some say it works, others say it doesn’t. But you may want to test the theory out for yourself next time you have a potato and a knife at hand before you dive. That’s right—rub a cut potato on the inside of your mask lens and briefly rinse! The starch acts as a surfactant. The only problem is if you don’t rinse enough the starch will leave a smudge across your field of vision. And if you rinse too much, you’ve basically wasted a perfectly good potato and will have to contend with a foggy mask.

It’s important to note that for all five of the above defogging methods, you need to make sure your mask is completely dry first. If not, the surfactant won’t bind to the glass, and you’ll end up with a foggy field of vision.

Preventing Fog While Submerged

Even after you’ve applied the best surfactant correctly, your mask is still likely to start fogging at some point during your dive. This is especially true for longer dives.

This is where your breathing patterns come into play.

Chances are, you’re exhaling through your nose every so often while submerged. Whether it’s out of pure habit, or an intentional attempt to equalize your mask, it’s going to happen. But with each occasional puff, more airborne water vapor gathers in your mask. This vapor collects on your lens, where your surfactant disperses it.

The real issue comes into play when you’re exhaling through your nose too often. More and more water vapor is gathering, raising the humidity levels inside your mask. Chances are high that the water you’re in will be a lot colder, so condensation levels will rise accordingly. Eventually, the amount of water vapor in your mask will be so high that it washes away the surfactant.

You may as well have a leaky mask as this point, or a tiny fog machine aimed at your lenses.
So, focus on your technique. Practice inhaling and exhaling through your mouth only.

The Proper Fit

You’ve found the right mask, you’ve treated your lenses, and you’ve practiced your breathing technique so much you sometimes forget you have nostrils. Remember how we showed you to test the seal before making your purchase? Well, you’re going to repeat some of those steps every single time you go diving. Make sure your mask is properly centered on your face, and that it’s comfortable, before tightening the strap.

Don’t make the strap too tight, though. It’s a very common mistake, but it increases the chance of leakage. You want your mask to sit firmly on your face, but it shouldn’t be overly flush against your head. Strap placement is also an easy one to get wrong. Unless you’re using an x-shaped strap like the Mares i3 Sunrise’s, you want the strap to go straight around the middle of your head. If it’s lying to high or too low, you may as well be praying that the water pressure is consistent enough to keep your mask in place. Besides with, you’d be distorting the silicone skirt—which, again, leads to leaking.

Once you’re confident you’ve got your mask on properly, take a deep breath and dip your head under water. This helps you make focused adjustments based on whether or not there’s even the slightest leak or discomfort. Sure, you’ll look like a duck. But if you’re with a group of professionals, you won’t be the only one who does. As you get better over time, you’ll be so practiced that you may not need to do a preliminary dip anymore.

Our Best Scuba Gear Choice

It’s difficult to prescribe the best scuba gear choice. Everyone’s tastes and requirements differ, and what’s best for one diver isn’t necessarily the best for another. We’ve also featured standalone masks as well as sets that include a snorkel. So, to be fair, we’ll give you two editor’s picks.

Editor’s Pick: Mask and Snorkel Set

We almost didn’t do an editor’s choice for the set, because all three have their own unique attractions. It was a difficult decision to make.

In an ideal world, we’d like the panoramic field of vision offered by the Phantom Aquatics Panoramic Scuba Mask, the Sherwood Onyx Mask’s unique push-button buckle system, and impressive glare reduction/color enhancement, and the Cressi Corsica Snorkel’s features special polymer bounce-back shape memory.

We’re not living in an ideal world, however. While such a set may yet come into existence, for now, we have to contend ourselves with one of the three sets. Taking everything into consideration, we opted for the Sherwood Onyx Mask and Snorkel Set. It may not boast the Phantom’s panoramic field of vision, but you’d be hard-pressed to find anything to complain about regarding visibility. The unique push-button buckle system is also a very attractive feature. And while the Sherwood Onyx Snorkel doesn’t have quite the same flexibility as the Corsica, its hydrodynamic J-style design is nothing to be scoffed at.

It was a close call between the Sherwood and the Cressi, though. The latter also boasts enhanced visibility features that reduce reflection and improve color rendition. As referenced above, the Cressi’s Corsica Snorkel is also superior. And the Cressi also boasts a similar buckle strap system.

In the end, comfortability was the deciding factor for us. The Sherwood’s low-profile design allows for a snugger fit than the Cressi, which we felt provided only average comfort.

Editor’s Pick: Mask

If you thought choosing one of three sets was difficult, try picking one out of six masks. Again, each mask offers unique value that puts it ahead of the competition in one way or another. We went back and forth between a few of them trying to single out what we considered the best. Once again, we tried to look at the overall merits. The best mask for one diver is not necessarily the best mask for another, after all.

In the end, we decided to go with the ScubaPro Synergy 2 Trufit Twin Mirrored Lens Mask. The Trufit technology used offered a superior comfort rivaled almost exclusively by the two Mares masks, the i3 Sunrise, and X-VU Liquidskin Sunrise. Mares’ Tri-comfort and Liquidskin technology made it a tough choice, so we had to turn to other factors in narrowing it down from three to one.

All three offered impressive buckle systems allowing for improved micrometric regulation, even with thick gloves on. One wasn’t necessarily better than either of the others.

But where the ScubaPro Synergy 2 Trufit Twin Mirrored Lens Mask stood out for us was in the lenses. It’s included in the model’s name for a reason! The Ultra Clear optical lenses equal the best that the Mares X-VU has to offer, even with the optical upgrade due later this year. What put the Synergy 2 ahead for us was the mirrored lens technology.

With the superior color rendition and glare reduction of the mirrored lenses, it was a clear choice in the end. Pun intended.

Final Words

So, we’ve given you our list of community-based choices for the best scuba gears. If you’re just starting out in following your passion for diving, you now also know the different types of masks available. Hopefully, you’ve also learned which designs are best suited to their respective applications. We’ve also explained how and why a mask fogs, and how to deal with it. And just because our readers mean so much to us, we’ve given you a condensed “how to” guide for using your mask!

Whether you’re a first-timer or a veteran, we hope you’ve learned something. Even if it’s only the new technology and designs coming into play in the best scuba gear 2017.

No review is complete without an editor’s choice. We strive to stay ahead at all times, so we’ve given you two! But at the end of the day, what really matters when buying a mask is how you feel. No two divers will have exactly the same needs and preferences, even if they overlap a lot.

Take what we’ve given, and make it your own. Find the best scuba gear for you, using our reviews as a guide. Happy diving!

Best Scuba Diving Back BCDs 2019

Model	Lift Capacity	Pockets	Valves
Zeagle Ranger (Editor’s Choice)	44 lbs.	2 zippered utility	1 shoulder dump & 1 rear lower valve	Check Price
Scubapro Knighthawk	44 lbs.	2 rolled up and zippered	2 pull dumps & 1 shoulder pull dump	Check Price
Aqua Lung Lotus	33 lbs.	2 zippered down	2 dump valves & 1 shoulderpull	Check Price
SEAC Sherpa	38 lbs	2 utility	3 with pull commands	Check Price
Cressi Air Travel 2.0	36 lbs.	1 roll down	2 shoulder pull & 1 rear relief	Check Price
Mares Bolt SLS BC Vest	46 lbs.	1 roll down cargo	3 pull dump valves	Check Price
Cressi Travelight	36 lbs.	2 zippered	1 shoulder dump & 1 rear lower valve	Check Price
SEAC Icaro 2000	39 lbs.	Optional weight pocket	3 pull dump valves	Check Price
Zeagle Scout	44 lbs.	2 zippered utility	1 shoulder dump & 1 rear lower valve	Check Price

Best Scuba Diving Back BCDs Over $600

Zeagle Ranger

Introduction

The Zeagle Ranger BCD can be described in three words—versatile, rugged and comfortable. These qualities have made this BCD a highly-recommended diving gear to intermediate and expert divers.

Zeagle is a brand known for the design and durability of its products. It once again showcases that good reputation with the Ranger, which is a very tough, adjustable and versatile BC. It is one of the first BC to combine rear flotation, weight integration and topnotch construction.

It also features Zeagle’s patented Ripcord system which lets users to release weights from both side with just a single pull and the manufacturer’s Personal Fit System (PFS) modular sizing.

This is a great BCD for divers who want more than a recreational buoyancy compensator device. It can last for a long time and complement almost all types of diving.

Product Review

Versatility is one of the strongest characteristics of the Zeagle Ranger. This BCD would work for almost all types of diving, whether the user is into tropical diving, cold water diving or in wet or dry suit. This is due to the modular construction of the BCD that even allows it to have up to 38 kilograms of lift with optional bladder assemblies. It can even hold dual tanks, making it an excellent choice for novice and intermediate divers who look to expand their diving capability.

Moreover, it is compatible with different bladders, pockets and accessories. The standard bladder is equipped with a 20-kilogram lift capacity. The waist closure is of a single buckle with elastic waist panels. The two zippered utility pockets are deep and spacious enough to store items like dive lights, reels and gloves. It has six stainless and angled-D rings on the shoulders, two of which are adjustable. Another two are placed on the vest for accessory attachments.

This BCD is also made to last. It is made of reinforced Cordura 1050 ballistic denier nylon. Further boosting the durability and strength of the unit are radio frequency welded seams and urethane internal lamination of the inner bladder.

In terms of comfort, the Ranger is built with the brand’s Personal Fit System (PFS) modular sizing that allows users to custom build it. The PFS is one technology that has made Zeagle very popular among divers. With it, users can have their buoyancy

Aside from fitting the waist and chest sizes, the system allows adjustment of various components. There is a dual position and adjustable sternum strap and shoulder straps adjustable at the torso level. The waist strap also has an adjustable elastic cummerbund. All these have squeeze-style side release buckles for quick and hassle-free donning.

Then there’s the patented ripcord system that Zeagle BCDs have become very popular for. Designed after the release system used by skydivers, it remains the only weight release system that immediately releases weights with a single pull. Unlike other weight release systems that require two hands for operation, the one-handed operation of the ripcord system is very quick, simple and most importantly, effective.

The integrated ripcord system has a 46-pound capacity. Divers can release 36 pounds while the remaining 10 pounds are non-diver releasable for enhanced weight distribution and balance.

Reducing buoyancy is also easy with the two dump valves in this BCD. The shoulder dump valve and the rear lower dump valve are both cable activated.

The Ranger is equipped with the BX Power Inflator System of Zeagle. There’s a 3/8 inch threaded low pressure hose that is quick to connect/disconnect. It has a threaded lower mechanism that lets quick attachment of a garden hose for easy rinsing of the bladder.

Conclusion

Divers who want to invest in a durable, quality and comfortable BCD should have the Zeagle Ranger in their shortlist. This is the type of BCD that novice and expert divers will love to have. It is more than a recreational BCD what with its impressive combination of top-notch features, superior design and spotless assembly.

The bulk and weight of the Zeagle Ranger BCD are the two biggest areas of concern with this product. But it is not exactly marketed as a travelling BCD thus those two issues are to be expected.

Scubapro KnightHawk

Introduction

Only a few buoyancy compensators are as highly-regarded as the Scubapro Knighthawk. This low-profile BC has been a top choice for both technical and recreational divers for quite a while. It is very durable, easy to use, comfortable and well designed.

A back inflation BCD, the Knighthawk has been on the market for nearly a decade. Newer and more sophisticated BCs have eventually caught up with it in terms of features, but it remains a good BC for novice divers due to its design, build quality and comfort.

Budget-conscious divers will also appreciate its very competitive price. With a good combination of design, comfort and durability, it is not surprising that the Scubapro Knighthawk has remained in the market even if its other competitors have been pulled out or modified by their manufacturers.

Product Review

The Knighthawk may not be the newest BC but when it comes to comfort, this product can compete with the best BCs. Its low profile design maximizes comfort. For starters, the air cells are placed behind the user. This minimizes clutter in front of the diver and lessens the drag that is typically experienced with inflated BCs. It also provides enough room for movement of the shoulders.

There is also a molded handle that is built into the inside of the product. Located under the collar, this handle makes it easier to carry the BCD even with the tank and other dive gear adding weight to it. There are also lots of padding in the hard back plate of the BC, including around the collar.

The BC also has numerous straps and buckles that tighten from one side. This makes it easier for divers to synch down everything before they go under water. There is also a metal buckle and strap for keeping the tank steady. It’s a tried-and-tested way of securing the tank although users have to undo it first before adjusting the strap’s grip on the tank. Thus, users have to be sure that the tank is in the right position and well secured before they hit the water.

This BCD has a backpack style harness that provides superior comfort and support. There are rotating and quick release buckles on the shoulder straps. Users should be able to find the right strap orientation depending on their preferences.

The harness of the Knighthawk has four stainless steel D rings which are also pre-bent. Most divers would find the number of D rings sufficient for attaching additional gear. Two of the D-rings are placed on the harness straps while the other two are located on the waist. There are also two more D-rings made of plastic located on the buckle strap.

The integrated weights make the BCD very stable. The Knighthawk can offer about 34 to 46 pounds of lift. These are stored in zippered pouches and tucked into the front sides of the waist. These are secured by a quick-release buckle system.

The said zippered pouches can store up to 5 kilograms of weight. There are also two releasable weight pockets with capacity of 10 pounds found on the back of the BCD. The cargo pockets are also separate from the weight compartments thus users won’t lose their gear should they release the weights.

The air bladders are tough enough to resist punctures. There are also three valves integrated into it, giving the user more options to control the buoyancy from different positions. These valves also have different shapes, thus users will be able to distinguish them even in the dark.

Conclusion

Durability could be the most important trait of the Knighthawk. Made of superior quality denier nylon that doesn’t break down easily, the Scubapro Knighthawk is the type of BCD that divers can use for the rest of their lives. It also doesn’t hurt that the manufacturer backs it up with a lifetime warranty.

Aside from durability, the Knighthawk gets good scores for ease of use, comfort, and functional design.

While it has its share of shortcomings like small storage pockets and its weight and bulk, the bottom line is that the Scubapro Knighthawk is a durable, comfortable and stable BCD.

The BCD provides superior comfort and stability that it practically becomes an extension of a diver’s torso once he or she is underwater. It won’t fall apart even with regular use. It also has features that give it growth potential for those divers who want to get into tech diving one day.

If users are able to go past its two real negative points, the bulk and weight, this can be a very good choice for divers, both for novice and experts.

Aqua Lung Lotus

Introduction

The Aqua Lung Lotus is a back inflation BCD especially designed for women divers. It is the follow-up to the best-selling Libra , a weight integrated and back inflation BC that was designed for all types of diving and multiple exposure suits.

The Lotus features the manufacturer’s patented Wrapture Harness System that hugs the contours of a female’s body with well-designed curved shoulder straps as well as side lobes for a more secure fit. The SureLock II mechanical system holds in place integrated weights.

The Lotus even has a couple of drop-down cargo pockets which aren’t exactly a fixture of back inflation BCDs. There are also eight D-rings for various accessories as well as an octo pocket and a hook-and-loop flap located on the left side of the unit. The weight and trim pockets of the Lotus can manage up to 30 pounds.

Product Review

Comfort is one of the strongest suits of the Lotus. The Wrapture harness system integrated into this back inflation BCD that make it very comfortable to wear even after hours of diving.

With the patented swivel shoulder buckles and super-thin backplate, this patented harness system not only provides excellent comfort but also stability. It particularly prevents the buoyancy compensator from riding up on the surface.

It also keeps the tank close to the center of gravity whenever the user is out of water. By transferring the weight to the hips, the harness allows the user to stand up straight with a tank that is perfectly vertical.

As a result, lady divers will feel that the tank is extremely close to their body. There is also a good chance that they will experience zero tank wobbling while in the water.

The low profile and flat valves of the BCD also minimizes drag while the user moves through the water. The padded lumbar as well as the neoprene neck roll enhance the comfort and make the tank’s weight almost a non-factor. The shoulder straps also have a swivel that aids in directing the strap under the arm while the tank valve strap serves as a carry handle. The latter likewise minimizes the impact of the tank to the jacket.

Aqua Lung also equips this BCD with its patented SureLock weight system. It makes use of a very simple single-pull release. With this feature, users can easily insert the weight pouch. They can also hear a “click” sound once the weights are secured in the BCD. The weights can be released with a pull of the handle.

There are eight D-rings in this BCD. Four are made of stainless steel while the other four are made of plastic. One of the four plastic D-rings is located inside the left pocket. With that many D-rings, users will have plenty of options for their accessories. There are also knife attachment points located on the left lobe that can be used for knives. These knife attachment points are all easy to access.

There are also two drop-down pockets in this BCD. The easy-to-access pockets are located on either side of the Lotus. There is also an octo-pocket found on the right lob which secures the octopus and keeps it visible and accessible while the user is under water.

Lotus users can also opt for extra accessories like reflector kit, squeeze lock knife and Aqua Lung’s Airsource, an inflator, tracker and hose that eliminates the need for an octopus and allows the diver to streamline her entire system.

Conclusion

The Lotus is designed to make lady divers comfortable. It features several of the proprietary technologies of the Aqua Lung like the Wrapture integrated harness system that makes it follow the contours of the female body while staying securely in place. The SureLock II system also keeps the integrated weights of the Lotus in place.

Its low profile design and flat valves also reduce drag while it has its share of safety functions like adjustable and removable chest strap, non-removable weight pockets and right shoulder dump.

All in all, the Aqua Lung Lotus is a great BCD for lady divers. While it has its share of issues like the lack of space in the pockets and its inflator mouthpiece coming off easily, it cannot be denied that its strengths outweigh its weaknesses. It is not surprising why it has become one of the top rated buoyancy compensator devices for female divers today.

Best Scuba Diving Back BCDs Over $400

SEAC Sherpa

Introduction

Hybrid buoyancy compensator devices or BCDs are currently the toast of the diving world. It combines the simplistic, clutter-free design of jacket-style BCDs with the flat horizontal position that back inflated or wings BCDs allow. Hybrid BCDs give divers the opportunity to enjoy the best of both worlds, so to speak.

There are several hybrid BCDs available in the market today. But when it comes to features, comfort, design and built quality only a few models can match up well with the SEAC Sherpa.

SEAC is one of the more reputable names in the diving industry. More than 40 years since it was established by Marco Arata, the firm is known for its well-designed and high-quality diving gear.

It once again showcases the superior design and manufacturing of its products with the Sherpa BCD. Packed in features, it is designed with the diver’s comfort and safety in mind.

Product Review

Hybrid BCDs are preferred by many divers because it allows them to be comfortable underwater. The SEAC Sherpa accomplishes that very well.

It features a padded backplate with an extended lumbar support. This relieves stress on the shoulders by transferring the weight of the tank onto the hips. Not only does this padded backplate reduce stress on the shoulders; it also gives more comfort and flexibility to the diver.

It is also easy to get the right fit with this BCD. It has an adjustable harness system, a proprietary feature of SEAC that allows the user to adjust the harness for a more custom fit. There is also a simple adjustable chest strap right in the middle of the chest. It can be moved up and down with a pinch clip release.

A long and extended dump valve is also placed over the right-hand shoulder of the BCD. The second D-ring is placed here as well.

There are also some standout features in the SEAC Sherpa. One is the 3D air cell with wings that drape tightly around the tank cylinder. This is designed to improve weight distribution and keep the tank streamlined whether it is empty or inflated. It prevents the tank from moving and helps the user achieve more natural dive.

The 3D air cell provides around 55 pounds of lift. There is a nylon webbing band that also keeps the tank in place.

Another impressive feature of the SEAC Sherpa is its lift ability focused in the back of the BCD. Regardless of the backside lift positioning, the BCD still allows enough power around the waist for the user to be comfortable while floating.

The SEAC Sharpa’s integrated weight system also features a latching mechanism appropriately positioned on the outside which allows users to easily spot and reach for it.

As for the storage, the Sherpa has several pockets that have enough space for the essential weight systems that divers often need. The left side pocket also has a couple of knife grommets where a dive knife can be mounted.

There are also stainless D-rings with a couple of extras on the shoulder straps. These D-rings are also adjustable to suit the needs of the user. The said rings are pre-bent and slightly lifted away from the shoulder pads to make it easier to clip onto it.

Over the left-hand shoulder is a traditional low pressure inflator hose. At the bottom of it is the Seac inflator with a nice and easy to use inflator button. The oral inflation valve is opposite the deflator which is located at the tip of the hose.

At the back of the left hand and right hand shoulders are streamlined pull-dumps. Both are easy to locate and use. In the middle these is a big webbing handle which can be used in carrying the unit in and out of the water.

With numerous features, the Seac Sherpa will easily stand out. It will appeal to divers who want to get the most out of their hard-earned money. Those who have tried it, however, say that the Sea Sherpa more than lives up to its good reputation.

Divers who have tried this BCD give it high scores for its remarkable stability, quick adjustment, superior comfort and ease of set up.

Conclusion

Seac Sherpa could be one of, if not the best, hybrid BCDs right now. Equipped with plenty of features, a smart design and made of durable materials, the Seac Sherpa not only looks good on paper. It also performs well under water which is what many divers, seasoned or otherwise, would want from a buoyancy control device.

Cressi Air Travel 2.0

Introduction

Baggage allowances in airlines have become more and more frugal that travelling divers are now putting a premium on weight and size in choosing dive gear like buoyancy compensator device. This is the reason why many BCDs are no longer built like a tank and weigh a lot less than what their predecessors used to in the past.

The Cressi Air Travel 2.0 is a lightweight travel gear that also happens to be the newer and better version of Cressi’s popular BCD that was released a few years ago. The name alone gives divers an idea of what to expect from this BCD— an extremely lightweight scuba diving gear that makes a great choice for the travelling diver.

Weighing 5.5 pounds, this lightweight BCD also compresses neatly into a carry bag. This could be the best BCD for the travelling diver.

Product Review

The design of the Cressi Air Travel 2.0 was drawn from its predecessor, the Cressi Air Travel BCD which is acknowledged to be a pioneer in the travel BCD range.

It is slightly lighter than the older Cressi model with it weighing 5.5 pounds compared to the 5.6 pounds of the Cressi Air Travel. It is not only lightweight but also amply padded; allowing users to comfortably lift it.

There are five different sizes available for this BCD, giving users a wide range of sizing choices for the best comfort.

The Cressi Air Travel 2.0 BCD is built from 420 Denier nylon which is known to be very durable. The BCD features elastic bungees that are designed to retract the bladder when it is deflated. It lacks a solid black plate. In its place is a semi-rigid, soft-padded and mesh-covered back section that allows users to be comfy when they have it on their backs.

There are padded shoulder sections in the harness. The adjustable sternum strap, meanwhile, features three height connections plus clip connections at the joints. The weights have been incorporated into the waist-belt complete with push-ups. The lack of Velcro fastenings is also a welcome design variation.

Under water, the BCD offers enough padding in the right places. There are some issues, though on the weight-pouches located on the waistband as its corners can dig into the hips and cause some discomfort especially after an hour of immersion.

For storage, users will get one large, roll-down type cargo pocket. It is smartly placed at the bottom of the waist belt. It can be deployed to take an auxiliary kit. When not in use, there are Velcro tabs to hold it in place.

The zipped weight-pouches can secure up to 6 kilograms per side. Users will also find the adjustment of the BCD easy with the placement of the D-rings located at the end of the main straps.

A standard cambad sits low on the BC and is designed to hold the BC in place on the tank. There is also a secondary strap that is secured by Velcro to provide more stability, as well as a webbing loop that sits over the tank-valve and also doubles as a carry-handle.

There are three release valves in this BCD. There’s a pull-tab on the right shoulder that lets them dump air from the top. When the diver is in an inverted position, a pull-tab at the right kidney area will prove to be handy. Dumping air in any orientation is easy with this BCD thanks to the long cords and round toggles that were easy to find. It also helps that the three valves are well positioned.

Then there’s the streamlined power inflator which is a better version of the previous model. This ergonomically designed power inflator also features very responsive buttons.

Once the diving is done, the BCD can be easily squeezed down and folded up. There’s another Velcro strap that users can turn to for holding it in place.

Conclusion

There is no getting away from it – if you travel abroad to dive and would like to spend your hard-earned money on a few beers or an extra dive or two, rather than hand it over to the smiling assassins at check-in, you’ll need to lighten the load.

This little BC from Cressi is just the ticket. It’s not a compromise either – the build quality is excellent, because the makers haven’t skimped on materials to reduce the overall weight.

It’s just a no-nonsense, very well thought-out and executed product that does exactly what you need – it saves weight and dives great.

Mares Bolt SLS BC Vest

Introduction

The Mares Bolt SLS BC is a comfortable, versatile and durable wing-style back-inflation buoyancy compensator device. It provides loads of lift and can handle even double tanks. Despite that, it is surprisingly compact enough for travel.

The SLS refers to the “Slide and Lock System” weight system that Mares integrated in this BCD. This weight design displays a green indicator when it is latched. To load, users have to slide the pocket in and press a red tab found on the end of the handle. Some divers say it’s a bit fussy but most users find it easy to use once they got the hang of it.

The Mares Bolt SLS provides a solid and comfortable fit without being restrictive. Its harness with full back plate and cummerbund gives nice a nice support to the lumbar area. There are also enough from for accessories with its roll down and zippered cargo pocket and six stainless D-rings that are all well-placed.

Product Review

The Mares Bolt LC BC Vest is nice and lightweight which makes it great for travel. It is also well put together and has almost all the things that advanced divers need from a BCD.

On the left shoulder is a traditional low pressure inflator hose. The corrugated hose leads down to the ergonomically designed inflator. Divers simply have to grab and pull it down to activate the pull down over the left hand shoulder. Underneath the low pressure inflator hose is a pre-bent D-ring which is designed for easy and quick clipping of accessories.

Right in the middle of the BCD is the chest strap that is adjustable. It also features an emergency whistle, which can prove useful for divers when they need to catch someone else’s attention.

Over the right hand shoulder is a small plastic D-ring. It can be used to attach accessories like gauges. The placement is very good as it keeps the accessory close to the diver and thus quick to access.

The Mares Bolt SLS has a nice padded backplate. It is made of quick drying material and comfortable enough for carrying the unit even if the diver is on the surface. Around the waist and hip area is a Velcro cummerbund that keeps the unit in position and prevents the BCD from twisting and moving around. There’s a double adjustment hinge clip up front.

At the lower right side of the unit is the Slide and Lock integrated weight system. It makes use of a mechanical system holding the pockets in place, ensuring that divers will only fall out when they pull the handle.

There’s also a visual indicator on this system which is important especially in low lighting. When the visual indicator is colored green, it means that the system is latched and that those weight pockets aren’t coming out. To remove the weight pocket, the diver simply has to grab hold of the handle and give it a good tug. To bring it back, users can hold to a little D-ring on the inside and then push in a red button at the end to lock the system in position.

Divers need not worry as these weight pockets are easy to slide into the Mares Bolt even when they are wearing thick gloves. The SLS is considered as the safest weight system. It comes in weight capacities of 9 and 13 pounds.

Storage won’t be a problem with this BC. Underneath the weight mechanism is a roll down cargo pocket with a zipper on top. This is a good place to store small items. You can also make use of the six stainless steel D-rings for accessory attachments.

The Bolt may be compact and lightweight but it has loads of lift. It can handle one or two tanks which make it a great choice for technical diving.

Made of tough Cordura material, this BCD can hold up to the test of time. This is one comfortable, lightweight and practical BCD that many divers will appreciate.

Conclusion

Divers will be hard-pressed to find a BCD that is as feature-rich, comfortable, versatile and lightweight as the Mares Bolt SLS BC Ves.

The patented SLS weight system is an outstanding feature of the BCD. It also gets good reviews for its padded backplate that makes the unit comfortable enough for carrying and Velcro cummerbund that keeps it in position and prevents twisting and moving around. Moreover, it is surprisingly light for such a feature-packed buoyancy compensator device.

Best Scuba Diving Back BCDs Over $300

Cressi Travelight

Introduction

Most travelling divers want a lightweight, comfortable and feature-rich jacket style BC. It’s the diving gear they need the most when they go to a tropical destination and be the fish they’ve always been. With a lightweight BC, divers don’t have to worry about airline restrictions. And when they’re done diving, they can fold their BC and pop it in their bags quickly.

The Cressi Travelight, as its name suggests, is the ideal companion for the travelling diver. With a dry weight of 6 pounds, this is the type of BC that packs well for travelling. It can provide good balance while the diver is on the surface. And when it is time to go home, divers can fold it in seconds and into its small carry bag.

The Cressi Travelight may be lightweight and compact but its manufacturer didn’t scrimp on features. It is made of light and durable 210 denier nylon. It has contoured shoulders, numerous strap adjustments and plenty of padding to enhance comfort. It comes with its own integrated lock aid quick-release weight system capable of holding up to 9 kilograms (4.5 kilograms in each pocket) and a couple of extra rear, non-releasable trim weight pockets for increased stability in the waters.

Product Review

The Cressi Travelight can be described as lightweight, compact, durable and highly adjustable. There are also numerous places in this BC where extra accessories can be attached to. It also fits snuggly in most divers.

As a backgrounder, the design of the Cressi Travelight was based from Cressi’s Flex which is considered by many as the first BCD designed for worldwide travel.

With a dry weight of six pounds, this BC features a soft pack design that lets it be folded in seconds. It can then be stowed in its own carry bag. The lightweight frame of the BC all begins with the 210 denier nylon which is as light as a feather but durable enough to last for a long time.

While it is very lightweight, the Cressi Travelight is comfortable enough for most divers. Its contoured shoulders provide superior comfort while the back is amply padded. The padding at the back is not only designed to increase comfort levels while diving but also prevents the BC from sliding around on the diver’s back. There are also a couple of cylinder cam bands designed to provide superior back protection and tank security.

It is equipped with the Lock Aid integrated weight system of Cressi that lets divers store up to 20 pounds or 9 kilograms of weight up front and another 10 pounds or 4.5 kilos in the non-releasable back pockets. The integrated weights are very secure and won’t pop out once they’ve been audibly chipped in. These are easy to load and deploy.

Since the Travelight is designed to be compact and lightweight, Cressi made a lot of efforts to trim the weight of the BC. The D-rings are made of light alloys instead of the usual stainless steel with the aim of keeping the BC’s weight down.

There are two large side pockets for storage. The pockets are big enough to store items like strobe, snorkel, diver sausage, firefly lights and small knife. There’s even enough room for divers to store stuff they may pick up on the dive.

It is also fitted with features like valves located in the right shoulder and left shoulder as well as one in the rear. The Cressi power inflator fits well in hand while the shoulder and rear exhaust valve toggles are placed forward thus divers will easily find and access them when needed.

The harness system features traditional and reliable squeeze-style and quick release buckles. There are also adjustable straps found in the chest, waist and shoulder areas for precise adjustment and fit.

This BC also has a 3/8 inch low pressure hose. It can provide up to 36 pounds of lift. It is available in various color options and five sizes. The manufacturer backs it up with a 24 month limited warranty.

Conclusion

The Cressi Travelight is a lightweight BC that lives up to its name. With a dry weight of just 6 pounds, this is the type of BC that travelling divers would want for their next diving expedition. Aside from being lightweight, it also folds and fits in small carry bag. It is also packed in features which is quite surprising for such a lightweight and compact BC.

Comfort and fit aren’t affected by the lightweight design of the Cressi Travelight. There is also enough space for storing items. And while it doesn’t provide as much lift as other BCs, the Cressi Travelight remains one of the top rated travel-friendly BCs today.

SEAC Icaro 2000

Introduction

What happens when a buoyancy compensator device that’s well-rated is further improved? The classic Seac Icaro was a wing-style BCD that won a lot of hearts with its function, design and durability. But it was not the lightest buoyancy control device available which made some divers think twice about using or buying it.

Enter the Seac Icaro 2000. It is an upgraded version of the Icaro, a popular and timeless buoyancy compensator device (BCD). It has a new aluminum back plate, a back-plate cover that’s designed to be more comfortable, and two extra D-rings for a total of six. And while it is rugged and well-built, the Seac Icaro 2000 is surprisingly lightweight. It is also easy to adjust and can provide a customized fit.

Make no mistake about it; the Seac Icaro retains some of the features that made the Icaro very popular. It still has the double bladder found in its predecessor. The same goes for the Quick Adjusting System that is a proprietary feature of SEAC. However, with a dry weight of around 2 kilograms, this is the type of wing-style BCD that appeals to most divers who are concerned about airline restrictions. It is so small when packed that it would easily fit in a carry-on bag.

Product Review

The design of the Icaro 2000 can be described as minimalistic but performance oriented. Every part’s size, shape and location is well-thought of and placed. Moreover, the BCD has all the essential features a diver would want from a buoyancy compensator.

Take for instance, the small back plate and a more functional compressible air chest that give it a more compact and travel-friendly size compared to its predecessor. Because of its design, it can be comfortably packed into a small bag for travel. It is also lightweight enough to be carried to the beach for a dive.

This BCD also has a nice buoyancy lift of 35 pounds which is enough for any diver in need of buoyancy at any point. Even the most demanding and experienced diver will find the buoyancy lift satisfying, as they can wear heavy accessories and cylinders without any problem.

As in the case of the old Icaro, the Icaro 2000 has a frame to back system that alllows anchoring of shoulder straps directly to the back plate. This causes the expansion of the bag to have no impact at all on the straps. In turn, divers will find the Icaro 2000 more comfortable to use. It also makes the BCD adapt to various body shapes.

Aside from the frame to back system, there are other features in the Icaro 2000 that are noteworthy to mention. There’s the sternum adjustment that is very helpful in getting the right fit. It can be positioned at two various heights. It also has a practical buckles that allow a better fit for different body types as well as posiiton of the drysuit valve.

The Seac Icaro 2000 is not only designed to provide a superior fit to users; it is also intended to keep them comfortable even after hours of being under water. There’s soft padding on the back plate, which gives it more points for comfort. There are also adjustable straps which can be accustomed even during an operation.

The BCD should be kept securely in place while the diver is underwater thanks to features like breast and crotch strap apart from a cummberband.

Durability is also a key characteristic of the Seac Icaro 2000. The outer bladder is made of Cordura 1000 D fabric. Coats of polyurethane provide double security to the outer blade, giving it more resistance to wear and tear. The inner blade, meanwhile, is also made of polyurethane.

There are three dump valves attached on the lower back, shoulder and inflator area. These valves also come off easily. The patented “Quick Adjusting System” of Seac facilitates quick fine-tuning of the valves for fit.

As for the accessories, the Seac Icaro 200 has six aluminum D-rings that are placed on different areas on the wing. It is designed to customize capacity for various accessories. The cam belt also has enough space for attaching cam weights that can’t be dumped or released.

All these features are packed in a BCD with a dry weight of around 4.4 pounds although this does not include the extras like integrated weight pockets. It’s really surprising that a lightweight BCD has all these features.

Conclusion

The Seac Icaro 2000 has retained the good qualities of its predecessor while improving on perhaps the Icaro’s solitary weakness – weight. This BCD is comfortable to use even for extended diving expeditions. It is also easy to find the right fit with this BCD.

The Seac Icaro 2000 has gotten a lot of favorable reviews for improving what was already a great design in its predecessor, the Seac Icaro. There are only a few BCDs that can match it in terms of features and compact design. And with the quality diving gear that Seac is known for, it is not surprising that many divers novice and experts alike are heaping praises on this BCD.

Zeagle Scout

Introduction

What makes an excellent entry-level buoyancy control/compensator device (BCD)? Is it the fit? Is it the ease of adjustment?

Should a novice diver put premium on durability? Should the BCD be lightweight? Or should it have numerous features?

Novice divers will likely have different answers to this question. Some prefer a BCD that is easy to adjust while others prefer a lightweight stab jacket. Others may even say they like a BCD that’s reasonably priced.

The Zeagle Scout has most of the qualities that appeal to neophyte divers. It is comfortable and easy to adjust. This low-profile, back inflated BCD is also easy to transport. It’s an excellent buoyancy compensator for beginners who are into warm water diving. It also helps that it is low cost, making it a great choice for individuals who are just getting into the hobby.

The Zeagle Scout isn’t as feature – packed as the other BCDs in the market but it’s something one can expect from low priced product. Its minimalist design still more than makes up for the lack of features and make it a practical choice for beginners.

Product Review

Many new divers would want a BC that’s comfortable and fits well. This is what exactly the Zeagle Scout is. It comes with a wide range of adjustment possibilities, enabling users to find the best fit for them. It has a thick lumbar pad, waist strap and wide shoulder straps. All these straps are adjustable. Its Velcro cummerbund can also be adjusted to increase overall comfort of the user.

As the lightest and most compact model from Zeagle, the Scout is really designed for divers looking for a BCD that’s easy to move around with. It has a dry weight of 6.7 pounds, which makes it easy to carry.

In a day and age where every diver would want things that can be folded and stored in their bags, the Scout folds down quickly into a compact package. Divers can travel with just one suitcase when they bring in the Zeagle Scout. And because of its size, this BCD is also easy to put into the dive bag while the boat is in motion.

This back inflated BCD is also ideal for beginners because it improves buoyancy and maneuverability. There are no inflatable bladders up front or on the sides that can prove to be a nuisance. This style leaves the chest area of the diver free of clutter save for the chest straps. New divers, thus, should be comfortable underwater using this BCD.
This back inflated BCD also allows better trim, in effect making the diver more streamlined under water due to the minimal drag created by the BCD.

Divers will also be able to maintain a better horizontal body position underwater when they use this BCD. The low profile single bladder positioned in the back is responsible for this. The latter can also help in propelling the diver forward.

This BCD also features the Bx Power inflator system of Zeagle. The said feature is a standard on all buoyancy compensator devices of the manufacturer. It’s easy to use as well, making this BCD all the more ideal for novice divers.

Equipped with a 3/8 inch low pressure hose, the inflator also offers a fast disconnect mechanism. Users will be able to easily attach it to the first stage regulator.

The Bx Power inflator system hooks up to a standard garden hose. This is designed to make cleaning of the bladder of the BC easy and hassle-free. To do so, unscrew the BX coupler then screw on a garden hose. Turn the water on and this would in turn rinse and clean the inner bladder of the BC.

The two zipper utility pockets are also spacious enough for divers to store their accessories like dive lights and gloves.

If those pockets are not enough for their stuff, divers can also turn to the four D-rings of the BC. There are two D-rings placed on the shoulders and another two located on the waist. These D-rings are sturdily built thus users will be able to attach any type of dive accessory that they might need to bring.

Conclusion

The Zeagle Scout will not be in the list of the most feature-packed buoyancy compensator devices. But that won’t deter many divers, especially those who are learning the ropes so to speak, from shortlisting this product.

This BCD is lightweight and compact; two qualities that appeal to novice and even seasoned divers. It is also easy to find the perfect fit with this BCD given its numerous adjustments. The minimalistic design also means more freedom for users to move underwater when using this BCD.

The Zeagle Scout may be a very basic buoyancy compensator device yet it offers the essentials for a safe and fun diving expedition.

 

Across all age groups, scuba diving is an increasingly popular leisure. Whether it’s a fun sport for you to partake in or one of the functions of your job, if you’ve spent some time in the water then you already know how tranquil life can be under the ocean’s surface. In fact, many divers swear that this sense of tranquility is possibly the most addictive part of the dive.

But as all the most experienced divers will also testify to, if you want to achieve that tranquility then you want to have the best diving gear. No matter what your diving style or the water conditions you’re diving in, you can easily end up having a bad experience in the water if your equipment isn’t optimal.

A bad dive is like the bends: you don’t want it, and you wouldn’t wish it on your worst enemy either.

Your wetsuit is undoubtedly one of the most important items of gear a scuba diver needs. Because let’s be honest—as much as we absolutely love it, humans simply aren’t biologically equipped for spending long periods of time underwater.

We know that sounds rather like the joke about the pilot standing in the airport terminal delivering a fire and brimstone sermon on how “if God meant for humans to fly, he’d have given us wings”.

But think about it for a moment. Marine mammals such as dolphins, whales, and porpoises all have a thick layer of fat called blubber to keep them insulated in the water. Even the amphibious ones, like seals, have this built-in insulation.

Humans lack that biological insulation. And as any lifeguard or sea captain will tell you, when our bodies are exposed to the often frigid water temperatures for too long, we go into shock. Hypothermia is no joke—it may even be worse than the bends. All you need to do is think back on James Cameron’s 1997 film The Titanic to see exactly what we mean.

Even if the hypothermia doesn’t kill you, you still run the risk of losing some body parts to frostbite. Doesn’t sound very pleasant, does it?

A wetsuit is an absolute necessity if you plan on doing any diving, even in the warmer waters of the Pacific or Indian Oceans. After all, scuba diving doesn’t mean staying close to the surface. You want to go deeper, and the deeper you get the colder it gets too.

Wetsuits act as an insulation layer, keeping our bodies warmer for longer by trapping the heat we generate so it can be recycled.

Needless to say, some wetsuits do this better than others. With the rising popularity of scuba diving as a sport, a wide range of available wetsuit brands and models have risen too. While the friendly competition is highly beneficial in forcing companies to constantly improve their wetsuit technology, being spoiled for choice can be somewhat overwhelming for the consumers.

As a diver, we know that you’d much rather be wading into the water than wading through the thousands of reviews online. We understand just how frustrating it can be, and we want to help you find the best scuba diving wetsuit as quickly as possible.

So to help you get your gear and away from your computer (back into the water), we decided to sift through those thousands of reviews for you. And we’re very happy to present you with the results: our community-based list of what we believe are the best wetsuits available for scuba divers in 2019.

Best Scuba Diving Wetsuits 2019

Model	Comfort	Thickness	Best Suited For
Hollis Gears NEOTEK Semi-Drysuit		8/7/6mm	Waters as cold as 40 F.	Check Price
Bare 3mm Reactive		3mm	Warm to cool water	Check Price
SEAC Komoda 5mm		5mm	Colder waters and deep dives,	Check Price
ScubaPro EverFlex Steamer 3/2mm		3/2mm	Warmer waters, shallow dives	Check Price
Fourth Element Proteus II 3mm		3mm	Warmer waters 73 F. and up	Check Price
WaterProof USA W3 3-3.5mm (Editor’s Choice)		3-3.5mm	Cold to tropical	Check Price
O'Neill Heat 4/3mm 3Q		4/3mm	Warmer waters, shallow to deep dives	Check Price
SEAC Sense 3mm		3mm	Warm waters 70 - 85 F.	Check Price
Cressi Playa 2.5mm Shorty		2.5mm	Warm waters, shallow dives	Check Price

Best Scuba Diving Wetsuits Over $350

Hollis Gears NeoTek Semi-Drysuit

If you frequent frigid waters, then the Hollis Gears new NeoTek 8/7/6mm Semi-Drysuit is exactly what you’re looking for. Constructed from a unique compression super-stretch neoprene (resistant nylon 2) with the Hollis exclusive ThermaSkin inner lining. With a front neck bib and a horizontal front zipper (revolutionary G-Lock), the NeoTek allows for an easy don and doff action. The front neck dam bib is mirrored by internal dams on the arms and legs, and all seams are butt-joined with blind stitching as well as quadruple glued, covered by Hollis Gears’ distinctive liquid seam. Both thighs sport generous gusseted pockets so you can easily store your accessory items. Built for cold water and quick drying, the Hollis hooded NeoTek 8/7/6mm is available from Small to XXL, including a Large Short and Extra Large Short option.

Features

• Unique compression resistant nylon 2 super-stretch neoprene
• Hollis exclusive ThermaSkin inner lining
• Front neck dam bib
• Revolutionary G-Lock horizontal front zipper
• Quadruple glued, butt joined, blind stitched seams covered with a distinctive liquid seam
• Generous gusseted thigh pockets
• Internal dams on the arms and legs
• Quick drying
• Available from Small to XXL, including Large Short and Extra Large Short

The Hollis Gears NeoTek hooded 8/7/6mm Semi-Drysuit is perfect for divers who frequent cold waters and enjoy storage space for your diving accessories. The unique compression resistant nylon 2 super-stretch neoprene construction is beautifully matched with the Hollis exclusive ThermaSkin inner lining to provide superior insulation.

A front neck dam bib and internal dams on the arms and legs work together with the quadruple glued, butt joined, blind stitched seams covered with a distinctive liquid seam to effectively combat water exchange. The horizontal front zipper (revolutionary G-Lock) makes for an easy don and doff action, and the quick-dry function allows for comfortable multiple dives.

Bare 3mm Reactive

Bare has built a name for themselves producing quality wetsuits, and our review of the best suits available in 2019 would be incomplete without giving them a mention. Today, it’s their 3mm Reactive full suit.

The Reactive boasts Bare’s highest warmth, stretch, and comfort rating to date thanks to the Elastek FullStretch nylon 2 neoprene, which Bare have combined with Celliant Infrared technology fabric. This is how the Reactive gets its name: the Celliant technology converts wasted body heat into infrared energy for superior insulation. The Reactive’s lining has been enhanced with no less than thirteen thermo-reactive minerals to achieve this. By weaving these minerals into the wetsuit’s fabric, Bares have created a wetsuit that reflects your own body heat back to you in a unique way, stimulating improved blood circulation to further increase your warmth.

Seamless underarms further add to the Reactive’s comfort levels, and thanks to the 360 hook and loop adjustment GlideSkin collar system with a booklet-style cover, you won’t have to worry about snags and pilling anymore either.

Donning and doffing is made considerably easier with the 21-inch extra-long S-Lock2 back zipper, which features an offset tooth design and polyurethane coated tape guards with a skin-touching sealing zipper flap (double internal). These also improve the wetsuit’s reduction of water engagement by preventing intake and trapping your body heat better than many other designs. The zipper also boasts a full-length pull tab with silicone print to make for an easy, comfortable grip when self-fastening. To further aid the donning and doffing process, Bares have also added 11-inch extra-long heavy duty zippers on the ankles. These are supported by skin-in fused cut seals, which can also be found on the wrists.

To protect the high-wear knee area, highly flexible, durable, and abrasion resistant 3D ArmorFlex 2.0 pads have also been added. The comfortably contoured 3D anatomical fit is held together with glued and taped seams, bolstering the suit’s strength and durability.

Available in stealthy black with either blue or red details, the Bare 3mm Reactive has an impressive size range.

Features

• Elastek FullStretch nylon 2 neoprene
• Celliant Infrared technology fabric
• Thirteen thermo-reactive minerals
• Seamless underarms
• 360 hook and loop adjustment GlideSkin collar system
• Full-length pull tab with silicone print and grip
• Extra-long 11-inch heavy duty zippers on the ankles
• Polyurethane coated tape guards with a skin-touching double internal sealing zipper flap
• Extra-long 21-inch S-Lock2 back zipper with offset tooth design
• Skin-in fused cut seals on the ankles and wrists
• Abrasion-resistant 3D ArmorFlex 2.0 knee pads
• Contoured 3D anatomical fit
• Glued and taped seams
• Stealthy black with either blue or red details
• Size range: Small, Medium, Medium Tall, Medium-Large Short, Medium-Large, Medium-Large Tall, Large-Short, Large, Large-Tall, Extra Large Short, Extra Large, Extra Large Tall, XXL-Shorter, XXL, XXXL, XXXXL

If you’re looking for a heavy duty wetsuit that can withstand the cold without compromising on mobility and you have the budget, the Bare 3mm Reactive is one for you. With the Elastek FullStretch nylon 2 neoprene Celliant Infrared technology fabric, woven with thirteen thermo-reactive minerals, the Reactive provides a unique, superior insulation.

The don and doff action is vastly improved with the 21-inch extra-long S-Lock2 back zipper with offset tooth design, full-length pull tab with silicone print and grip, as well as the extra-long 11-inch heavy duty ankle zippers. Glued and taped seams, skin-touching double internal sealing zipper flap, GlideSkin collar system, and skin-in fused cut seals on the ankles and wrists help to keep the heat in and the water out.

SEAC Komoda 5mm

SEAC makes a well-deserved second appearance on our definitive listing of the nine best scuba wetsuits of 2019 with their Komoda 5mm.

The Komoda is a B rated wetsuit, which makes it far warmer than most other 5mm wetsuits. Made with Yamamoto Neoprene, developed using natural limestone, and a special honeycomb structure, the Komoda is firmer than other wetsuits without compromising on flexibility and mobility. Their unique manufacturing process makes Komoda wetsuits superior in terms of their thermal properties but remain ideal for travel by being surprisingly lightweight. Yamamoto 38 rubber forms a super-elastic ExtrFlex nylon outer lining, while a dry fiber for added warmth forms the inner lining.

The Komodo’s wrists and ankles boast dual cone in smooth skin seals and YKK zippers for easy donning and doffing. Another YKK zipper makes up the rear entry zipper, with a convenient pull tab leash and an additional water barrier system to help keep the water out and the heat in. For improved strength and durability, all seals are glued and sewn, and the knees and elbows are well-reinforced with anti-abrasion polyurethane. Available in stealthy black, the men’s model comes in medium to extra-large and small to large for women.

Features

• B Rated 5mm SuperElastic ExtraFlex Yamamoto 38 nylon 2 neoprene rubber, made using natural limestone, making the Komoda far warmer than other 5mm wetsuits
• Special honeycomb structure for a hard-wearing yet flexible suit
• Unique manufacturing process that produces superior thermal properties
• Lightweight frame, making the Komoda ideal for travel
• Dry fiber inner lining for improved warmth retention
• Dual cone smooth skin wrist and ankle seals with YKK zippers
• YKK rear entry zipper with a convenient pull tab leash
• Additional rear zipper water barrier system to help keep the water out and the heat in
• Anti-abrasion polyurethane reinforcement on the knees and elbows
• Stealthy black color scheme favored by technical divers and spear fishermen
• Available in medium to extra-large (men) and small to large (women)

SEAC’s Komoda 5mm boasts their SuperElastic ExtraFlex Yamamoto 38 nylon 2 neoprene rubber, which is made with natural limestone in a special honeycomb structure. Combined with a unique manufacturing process that produces superior thermal properties, the Komoda is without a doubt a far warmer 5mm wetsuit than the vast majority of its competition.

Dual cone smooth skin wrist and ankle seals with YKK zippers and an additional rear YKK zipper water barrier system helps to make donning and doffing easy as well as keeping the water out and the heat in. Anti-abrasion polyurethane reinforcement on the knees and elbows keep you protected, and the stealthy black color scheme helps you keep a low profile in the water.

Best Scuba Diving Wetsuits Over $300 – $350

ScubaPro EverFlex Steamer 3/2mm

As the name suggests, ScubaPro is among the scuba brands that produce gear of the highest quality. No matter the product, you can expect ScubaPro to feature favorably in every review!

Their EverFlex range has always been one of our favorites, and with the new design for an even better fit with improved freedom, the EverFlex 3/2mm Steamer has earned its place on our definitive list of the best wetsuits of 2019. In addition to same tried and tested features, the Steamer also boasts a more natural preformed anatomical cut. The EverFlex Steamer truly feels like a second skin once you’ve fully donned the suit.

ScubaPro doesn’t waste their time with the typical materials that make up a wetsuit either. The EverFlex Steamer is made with their exclusive X-Foam nylon 2 neoprene, a superior strain developed by ScubaPro themselves. Its formula is the only one known to date that complies with the very strict Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (P.A.H.) testing requirements. (P.A.H. can be found in a number of non-diving specific items, such as petroleum-based products). The X-Foam neoprene blend offers superior protection to divers, and ScubaPro is understandably proud of their creation.

To improve protection levels further, and adding to the comfort and insulation factors as well, the Steamer’s torso boasts a heliosphan lining. Power Tex abrasion resistant seat and shoulders help guard your body, as do the TATEX thermoplastic rubber (TPR) knee pads, which have been applied without the need for further glue or stitching.

The outer seams have been glued and double-blind stitched, and the inner seams have been single-blind stitched as well. This makes for a virtually water-tight suit at every point to boost your comfort and the suit’s already remarkable durability.

For easy self-don and doff action, the back zipper includes a strong metal slider. A nylon webbing thumb loop at the zipper’s base as well as the pull tab leash make for a convenient style. Best of all, the zipper function is encased in a compression-molded zipper flap/spine pad combined, further reducing water entry and improving protection to your back.

ScubaPro doesn’t overlook the importance of wrist instruments such as depth gauges, compasses, and dive computers, and neither should you. To better accommodate the use of such tools, they’ve added safe-straps on both arms of the EverFlex Steamer.

Both the men’s and woman’s models are available along the impressive size range of small to triple-XL (the extra-small woman’s option has been discontinued). The Steamer comes in the stealthy black with gray details color scheme favored by technical divers and spear fishermen alike.

Features

• Preformed natural anatomical cut, which makes the EverFlex 3/2mm Steamer fit like a second skin
• Exclusive X-foam nylon 2 neoprene construction, the only formula adhering to the strict P.A.H. testing requirements
• Heliosphan lining in the suit’s torso for added protection, comfort, and insulation
• Power Tex abrasion resistant seat and shoulders
• TATEX thermoplastic rubber (TPR) knee pads, which have been applied without the need for further glue or stitching
• Virtually watertight seal all around, with a double-blind stitched and glued outer seam and single-blind stitched inner seam
• Strong metal zipper slider
• Nylon webbing thumb loop at the zipper’s base as well as the pull tab leash make for a convenient don and doff action
• Compression-molded zipper flap/spine pad for improved water exchange reduction, comfort, and back protection
• Safe straps on both arms, for attaching wrist accessories such as your diving computer, compass, or depth gauge
• Available in Small to XXXL for both men and women
• Stealthy black with gray details, the preferred color scheme of technical divers and spear fishermen

With its superior, ScubaPro exclusive X-Foam nylon 2 neoprene anatomical fit, heliosphan torso lining, Power Tex abrasion resistant seat and shoulders, and TAPEX thermoplastic rubber knee pads, the EverFlex 3/2mm Steamer is a wetsuit that promises comfort, warmth, and protection against the elements.

From the double-blind stitched and glued outer seal, single-blind stitched inner seam, and nylon webbing thumb loop with pull tab leash for convenient donning and doffing with the heavy-duty back zip housed in a compression-molded zipper flap and spine pad, to the safe strap features on both arms, ScubaPro have considered and catered to every convenience with the Steamer’s design. If you spend most of your time in warmer waters, no matter what your sport, then the EverFlex 3/2mm Steamer is the wetsuit for you.

Fourth Element Proteus II 3mm

Fourth Element, like O’Neill, is a much-beloved brand. Especially by surfers. But Fourth Element recognizes that there’s more to the ocean than surface sports, and their Proteus wetsuit range is especially suited for divers and surfers alike.

The Proteus II is the new and improved 3mm model, with a warmer lining and range of seals that provide better insulation than most 3mm suits.

A new Hexacore plush lining provides improved insulation over your core section than the original Proteus, and helps to trap water, preventing water exchange. You’ll appreciate the thermal performance offered, especially when spending a lot of time in the water. The wetsuit’s drying speed is also greatly enhanced by the honeycomb pattern, making the Proteus II perfect for multiple donning and doffing for a second and third dive.

Spreading through the remainder of the suit is the soft Fourth Element Thermoflex lining, which not only assists in providing superior insulation but also contributes to the suit’s flexibility to improve mobility in the water without compromising on comfort. Mobility is further supported by the UltraStretch knee pads.

A vast array of seals found across the suit inhibits water ingress. Fourth Element’s signature Hydrolock inner neck seal prevents water exchange around the neck, as well as through the zip. Both wrists boast Glideskin, which aren’t merely comfortable, but also stop water from flushing through the cuffs and up your arms. These are matched by the internal ankle seals. A further improvement on the original Proteus design is the new double-glued, blind-stitch, and taped seams.

All in all, the Proteus II is a very worthy successor to Fourth Element’s pioneer design and is set to redefine insulation standards in the 3mm wetsuit class. Although it’s easily one of the most expensive wetsuits featured in our definitive review of the best scuba wetsuits available in 2019, both surfers and professional divers will truly appreciate this innovative design. The Proteus II is available in black with dark grey details, and ranges in size from medium to XXL. Fourth Element recommends a minimum temperature of 73 degrees Fahrenheit.

Features

• New Hexacore plush lining, providing improved insulation for your torso
• ThermoFlex thermal lining
• Blind-stitched, double glued, and taped seals
• Internal ankle seals
• GlideSkin wrist seals
• UltraStretch knee pads
• Hydrolock neck and zipper seal
• Stealthy black color scheme with dark gray details favored by technical divers and spear fishermen

Here to dispel the stigma that Fourth Element is a surfers-only wetsuit brand, the Proteus II offers an impressive thermal insulation rating considering it’s only a 3mm suit. With the new Hexacore plush lining, your core body temperature will remain optimal for longer, and the suit dries remarkably quickly, allowing you to don and doff for several dives in one day if you wish. The Hydrolock neck and zipper seal keeps the warmth in and the water out, as do the internal ankle seals and GlideSkin wrist seals. Thanks to the ThermoFlex lining, you can enjoy improved mobility and stay warm in water ranging from 73 degrees Fahrenheit and up.

WaterProof USA W3 3-3.5mm – Editor’s Choice

WaterProof wanted to give divers something special to celebrate their 25th anniversary and decided to go big by packing it all into their USA W3 3-3.5mm full suit.

They started with their standard Gender Specific Fit and Sharp Scandinavian Styling and built it up from there. The USA W3 also boasts a superior 3D anatomical construction, sculpted to match human movement. Additionally, the anniversary edition design also includes features from WaterProof’s heavier range, such as the rash guards on the wrists and ankles, and relief zippers in the neck.

WaterProof appreciate the fact that for many divers in the US, the Arctic Circle is our backyard. Shortcuts never pay off when you dive in colder waters up north, especially if you also visit the warmer tropical waters to the south, so WaterProof have developed a premium design capable of handling both conditions equally well. The USA W3 is made with microcell CR nylon 2 neoprene rubber to ensure maximum comfort and insulation along a broad spectrum of temperatures.

A full gusset neck zipper relieves stress on the neck when you’re on the surface and is supported by a comfort front neck zipper. The superior gender-specific anatomical design also boasts a Hex-Tex inner plush lining with a unique, dense hexagonal knitting pattern to restrict water exchange and improve your comfort levels.

The devil’s in the details, as they say, and so it is with the WaterProof USA W3 wetsuit. Thermal plastic urethane (TPU) economic molded hook teeth fit only to their specifically assigned loop tabs. Neoprene double-seals with added zippers adorn the arms and legs, adding warmth and aiding with a fluid donning and doffing action. A hard-core durability back zipper actions along a bronze slider to provide ease of operation made even smoother with a pull tab leash. Stretch panels along the zipper grant improved flexibility.

Every seal is glued and sewn, with no.4 seam crossings, knotted ends, and double thread stitching. Elbows, shoulders, and seat have a polyurethane embossed grip and reinforcement, boosting the suit’s anti-slip and abrasion protection. From the knees down to the shine, further polyurethane reinforcement bolsters the suit’s strength and durability. Wave flex panels in the arms, legs, and back enhance your flexibility and mobility in and out of the water.

The WaterProof USA W3 3-3.5mm wetsuit comes in a stealthy black design and is available in a truly impressive size range.

Features

• Gender Specific Fit and Sharp Scandinavian Styling
• Superior 3D anatomical construction, sculpted to match human movement
• Rash guards on the wrists and ankles
• Microcell CR nylon 2 neoprene rubber
• Fully gusset neck zipper, supported by a comfort front neck zipper
• Hex-Tex inner plush lining with a unique, dense hexagonal knitting pattern
• Thermal plastic urethane (TPU) economic molded hooks and loop tabs with specific partnership
• Neoprene double-seals with added zippers on the arms and legs
• Hard-core durability back zipper with a bronze slider and pull tab leash
• Stretch panels along the zipper
• Polyurethane embossed grip and reinforcement on the elbows, shoulders, seat, and from the knees down to the shine
• Wave flex panels in the arms, legs, and back
• Stealthy black color scheme favored by technical divers and spear fishermen
• Size range: 2XS, Extra Small, Small, Small Tall, Medium, Medium-Large, Medium-Large Tall, Medium Tall, Large, Large Plus, Large Tall, Extra Large, Extra Large Tall, XXL, XXL Plus (on special order), and XXL Tall

No matter where in the USA you’re based, or where along our coasts you dive, the WaterProof USA W3 wetsuit’s 3-3.5mm microcell CR nylon 2 neoprene rubber will comfortably insulate you in the water. The Gender Specific, superior 3D anatomical fit, and Sharp Scandinavian Styling make for a perfect match to human movement patterns. With a full gusset neck zipper and comfort front neck zipper, you can quickly and easily relieve stress on your neck on the surface as well as while submerged. The unique, dense hexagonal Hex-Tex inner plush lining help reduce water exchange while boosting comfort levels even further. Thermal plastic urethane (TPU) economic molded hook teeth fit only to their specifically assigned loop tabs, while double-seals with added zippers adorn the arms and legs to add warmth and make for a fluid donning and doffing action.

The hard-core durability back zipper actions along a bronze slider to provide ease of operation made even smoother with a pull tab leash. Stretch panels along the zipper grant improved flexibility. Polyurethane embossed grip and reinforcement on the elbows, shoulders, seat, and from the knees down to the shine, providing anti-slip and abrasion protection as well as increasing the suit’s strength and durability, and wave flex panels in the arms, legs, and back enhance your flexibility and mobility in and out of the water. The rash guards on the suit’s wrists and ankles are also an appreciated feature, as is the truly impressive size range.

Best Scuba Diving Wetsuits Under $300

O’Neill Heat 4/3mm 3Q

O’Neill wetsuits are a favorite among surfers, but that doesn’t mean the brand doesn’t cater for divers as well. In fact, their Heat 4/3mm 3Q is designed especially for surfers who also enjoy scuba diving.

Without a doubt, the Heat 3Q is one of O’Neill’s high-end wetsuits, with its 100% UltraFlex neoprene, lumbar seamless design (LSD), a double-seal neck enclosure, and a re-engineered blackout covert zip.

The Super Stretch UltraFlex DS neoprene boasts a 150% stretch factor, giving users total freedom of movement while diving or surfing. It’s a lightweight design with sharp style lines and clean graphics adorning the anatomical, soft and comfortable fit. The covert blackout back zipper, which comes with a pull tab leash, features off-set teeth and an interlocking zipper for an improved seal to prevent water exchange at your entry point.

This superior water seal is further aided by the lumbar seamless design (LSD). The double-seal neck closure sits comfortably against your throat to prevent water entry without constricting your breathing. O’Neill’s Heat 3Q has strategically eliminated the need for seams under the arms and paddle zones. Where there are seams, they’ve been triple-glued and double-blind sewn (GBS), enhancing the suit’s watertight integrity, strength, and durability.

The water wicking, smooth skin X-Type UltraFlex Firewall insulation on the back and torso keeps you warm and moisture free, while the Krypto knee pads protect your kneecaps from abrasive surfaces. Another fantastic design feature is the external key pocket. Granted, it’s more likely to come into use when surfing rather than diving, but it’s still a mark of sincere consideration on O’Neill’s part.

With a sleek and stealthy black design and dark gray details, the O’Neill Heat 4/3mm 3Q is bound to attract technical divers, spear fishermen, casual divers, and surfers alike. Available in an impressive array of size options, there’s a Heat 3Q for everyone.

Features

• 100% Super Stretch UltraFlex DS neoprene, which boasts a 150% stretch factor and gives users total freedom of movement while diving or surfing
• Lightweight design with sharp style lines and clean graphics
• Soft, comfortable anatomical fit
• Covert blackout back zipper with a pull tab leash and off-set teeth and an interlocking zipper for an improved seal
• Lumbar seamless design (LSD)
• Double-seal neck closure
• No seams under the arms and paddle zones
• Triple-glued and double-blind sewn (GBS) seams, enhancing the suit’s watertight integrity, strength, and durability
• Water wicking, smooth skin X-Type UltraFlex Firewall insulation on the back and torso
• Krypto knee pads protect against abrasive surfaces
• External key pocket
• Stealthy black color scheme with gray details favored by technical divers and spear fishermen
• Impressive array of sizes: 2XS, Extra Small, Small, Small Tall, Medium Short, Medium, Medium Tall, Large Short, Large, Large Tall, Extra Large Short, Extra Large, Extra Large Tall, 2XL Short, XXL, 3XL, and 4XL

Despite being typically more popular with surfers than divers, O’Neill hasn’t forgotten about us. Their Heat 4/3mm 3Q full-body wetsuit is ideal for fans of both sports, with its superior mobility thanks to the lightweight 100% Super Stretch UltraFlex DS neoprene anatomical design with a 150% stretch factor. Every consideration has been made for keeping the warmth in and the water out, with a covert blackout back zipper boasting off-set teeth and an interlocking zipper, the lumbar seamless design (LSD), double-seal neck closure, seamless underarms and paddle zones, triple-glued and double-blind sewn (GBS) seams, and water wicking X-Type UltraFlex insulation on the back and torso. The Krypto knee pads will appeal to divers and surfers alike, while the external key pocket is aimed more toward the latter (but is a nice feature for divers to have too).

SEAC Sense 3mm

SEAC has made a name for themselves with their quality wetsuits, and the Sense 3mm is a true testament to their reputation. With its advanced anatomical fit and super-soft neoprene materials for improved comfort levels, this one-piece men’s wetsuit affords divers a super stretchy insulation suit ideal for multiple sports. Whether you prefer sticking to scuba diving, or enjoy indulging in the occasional snorkel, surf, or water-skiing trip, the SEAC Sense is an ideal solution.

The new-generation, extra flex nylon 2 neoprene construction cuts into a preformed anatomical fit that hugs the shape of your body like a second skin, allowing for improved mobility. A plush inner lining makes sure that the close fit is a comfortable one. This is further boosted by the supratex-reinforced shoulders and seat. Contoured, flexible knee pads ensure maximum agility in and out of the water.

Both the wrists and ankles boast toroidal rings in the skin to add warmth and prevent water exchange. For improved strength, durability, and warmth, all the seals are both glued and sewn. With a YKK zipper on the back, with a pull tab leash for ease of use, you can easily step in and out of your SEAC Sense.

SEAC recommends the Sense 3mm for water temperatures ranging from 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and we couldn’t agree more!

Features

• Superior anatomical fit
• Soft nylon 2 neoprene construction for better comfort levels
• Super stretchy, new-generation extra-flex design
• Contoured, flexible knee pads
• Plush inner skin
• Supratex-reinforced shoulders and seat
• Toroidal rings in the wrists and ankles to increase warmth and decrease water exchange
• YKK back zipper with a convenient pull tab leash for easy donning and doffing
• All seams are sewn as well as glued for strength, durability, and warmth
• Black with blue sleeve and collar details
• Four available sizes, ranging from medium to XL

SEAC cater for men looking to scuba, snorkel, water ski, and surf in warmer waters with their highly comfortable full-body one-piece Sense wetsuit. With an improved preformed anatomical cut, plush inner skin, contoured knee pads, supratex-reinforced shoulders and seat, and toroidal wrist and ankle rings, you get maximum warmth, comfort, and durability.

The super stretchy, new-generation extra-flex nylon 2 neoprene construction improve mobility in and out of the water. Donning and doffing your suit is made easy with the YKK back zipper on a convenient pull tab leash.

Cressi Playa 2.5mm Shorty

Cressi is well-known in the scuba diving community for producing quality gear, and they certainly don’t disappoint on the wetsuits front.

For when you’re diving in warm water but want a little more warmth, the Cressi Playa 2.5mm Shorty is your best friend. The anatomical fit is easy to swim in and helps deliver superior core-warmth retention. Made with nylon 2 neoprene, and featuring high-stretch ultra-span neoprene seals on the arms and legs, water exchange is vastly minimized. The heavy-duty YKK front zipper makes getting in and out of your wetsuit as easy as one, two, and three!

Ideally, the Cressi Playa Shorty should be used for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing. But if you’re not planning on diving very deep—for example, around coral reefs—then it’s a highly convenient solution for scuba divers as well. The suit provides light protection from the wind, sun, water spray, and cold.

The Cressi Playa Shorty gives you the freedom of movement characteristic of thinner wetsuits. If you are planning on diving into deeper, colder waters, it’s also perfect for layering under a thicker suit to boost your thermal protection without compromising too much on mobility.

All the Playa Shorty’s seams are not only sewn, but also glued for improved strength and durability. The suit is popular with casual and professional divers alike, as it affords you a high comfort level and dries quickly.

The Cressi Playa 2.5mm Shorty is available for both men and women and comes in four sizes ranging from extra-small to large for ladies. For men, an additional two sizes (extra-large and XXL) are also available. Both come in black, with pink details for the ladies and red for the men. As an added benefit, for every ladies suit sold at selected outlets, $10 is donated toward breast cancer research.

Features

• Nylon 2 Neoprene rubber construction
• 2.5mm thickness, making it ideal for warmer waters and use in other water sports such as surfing
• Anatomical fit, helping to deliver superior core-warmth retention
• High-stretch ultra-span neoprene seals on the arms and legs to reduce water exchange
• Heavy-duty YKK front zipper
• Light protection from the wind, sun, water spray, and cold
• Available in four sizes for women (extra small to large) and six for men (extra small to XXL)
• Black with pink details for the ladies, red details for the men

If you’re looking for a suit that will add that little bit of extra warmth when diving in typically warm waters or to boost the superior warmth of a thicker suit, then the Cressi Playa 2.5mm Shorty is the suit for you. With its nylon 2 neoprene rubber body and high-stretch ultra-span neoprene seals on the arms and legs supplementing the anatomical fit, your comfort is guaranteed.

Whether you focus exclusively on scuba diving or like to mix it up with the occasional snorkel or surf, this is a suit that promises to give you just the right amount of protection against the elements. And we really like that certain retailers will donate $10 of the purchase price for the woman’s model to breast cancer research.

Scuba Diving Wetsuit Buyer’s Guide

As many experienced divers have testified, one of the most addictive aspects of scuba diving is the sense of tranquility you experience in the water. But without the best diving gear, that serenity can easily become replaced by discomfort.

Just as an ill-fitting mask can result in getting salt water in your eyes, or the wrong fins tire you out quickly, having the wrong wetsuit can lead to some uncomfortable conditions. If the seal isn’t perfect, cold water will seep into your suit and drop your body temperature rapidly (besides the obvious discomfort). Having a wetsuit that’s too thin can also result in an icy dive, and one that is too thick will make you uncomfortably warm.

The most basic function of a wetsuit is not to keep you dry, but to keep you comfortably warm. It mimics the blubber found in marine mammals, which even the amphibious seals and sea lions boast. We lack this natural insulation, without which our bodies can easily go into shock from prolonged exposure to the often icy waters of the ocean’s depths.

An uncomfortable dive is like the bends: hypothermia might be even worse. Even in the warmer waters of the Pacific and Indian Oceans, a wetsuit is an absolute necessity for diving. Too thin a wetsuit won’t do a good job of keeping you warm, but overcompensating can lead to humidity and sweat, which can result in your catching a cold once you breach the surface and off your suit.

Whether you’re spending $100 or $500 on your wetsuit, if it’s the wrong thickness or doesn’t fit properly (which compromises the seal), then you may as well be diving in your board shorts. And no matter how much you’ve paid for your suit, if it doesn’t have decent reinforcement then you’re going to come out of the water with bloody and bruised knees, or even shoulders.

Just as you don’t want to spend your time wading through thousands of reviews to find the right wetsuit, you also don’t want to waste time with a suit that can’t be donned and doffed quickly and efficiently either. Models that have a convenient pull tab leash for the back zipper, or a front zipper, can leave you struggling to get in and out of your wetsuit while your group waits impatiently for you.

So when you’re looking for the right wetsuit, you’re going to want to put a lot of thought into the decision-making process.

Some of us have learned this the hard way when starting out. If you’re ever given the opportunity to rent or borrow a wetsuit as a beginner, take the opportunity with both hands and a grateful heart. Doing so will allow you to get a proper feel for the style, thickness, and design that best suit you—as well as giving you an opportunity to get a proper feel for scuba diving before investing a lot of money on your equipment.

Regardless of whether you’re still testing your water wings or looking to replace your old wetsuit, we’re confident that the nine models we’ve listed are truly the best available in 2019. We’ve pored through hundreds of contemporary and community-based reviews in making our decision, which is why you know you can trust our opinion—always!

One last word of caution we’d like you to bear in mind when you’re on the lookout for a new diving wetsuit.

If you don’t know how to use your equipment properly, then it doesn’t matter if you have the best wetsuit money can buy. In fact, you may as well have opted for a cheaper, substandard suit. Wetsuits are fairly standard when it comes to proper care and use, but some models boast features that require special attention. We can only point you in the right direction: it’s up to you to invest time in learning how to properly use your gear.

The New Debate: Front Zipper or Back Zipper?

Okay, so this is actually a debate that’s been raging for a couple of years. We thought we’d weigh in on it and give our take on the front zipper vs. back zipper wars waging on the scuba (and surf) forums.
Traditionally, wetsuits feature a rear zipper. Back then, there were three major disadvantages this presented:

1. Firstly, zips simply don’t stretch. By putting the zipper on your back, a rigid no-stretch zone is created between your shoulders, which is where you need a lot of flexibility. After all, this area is stretched and contorted considerably when swimming, especially if you’re using deep, powerful strokes.
2. Secondly, older wetsuits typically made use of a velcro to seal the zipper pouch and neck. Without taking considerable care, that same velcro would tend to snag on the nylon coating each time you donned and doffed your suit, or even made adjustments to it. This limited the lifespan of the nylon-coated neoprene, and could cause irritation at the neck if too tight. If you loosened it up too much to relieve the scratchy sensation at your throat, you risked increasing your water seepage.
3. Thirdly, without a decent full-length pull tab leash (and sometimes even with!), it’s not very convenient or comfortable to struggle with a back zipper on the beach, on the charter boat, or in the parking lot. Especially not if you had to don and doff your suit without any help, and you had cold hands or thick neoprene diving gloves on!

This made front zipper designs a very welcome innovation in wetsuit design when it was first introduced, as placing the entry point to the front resolved all of the above issues. Often the front zipper featured alongside a scalloped opening, which allowed you to climb into and out of your suit through the top because there was enough stretching leeway to make it easy. After slipping a flap over your head to zip neatly shut across your chest, your wetsuit was ready for the water—no uncomfortable velcro necessary.

But in recent years, back zipper designs have taken a huge step forward. Many divers still consider a rear entry point easier for donning and doffing, so improving the zipper design and seal has allowed for the back zipper to reign once more.

By using superior SuperStretch technology (and other equivalents), the issue of a no-stretch zone has been largely mitigated by improving the mobility range and flexibility of the wetsuit’s material construction. In this way, the larger back zipper no longer inhibits motion in any way. To protect one’s spine against the hard edge of the heavy-duty zips and rails, most modern wetsuits also feature additional padding in this area.

Polyurethane coated tape guards with a skin-to-skin double internal sealing zipper flap, such as the one found on the Bare 3mm Reactive, have replaced the older velcro method of sealing the zipper area to prevent unwanted water exchange. Off-set zipper teeth designs have also vastly improved the seal in this regard.

With a high-quality YKK zipper, and especially with a superior bronze railing such as that of the WaterProof USA W3 3-3.5mm wetsuit, working the zipper action has been made easier, promoting a fluid motion. Full-length pull tab designs have also been vastly improved, with silicone prints making for an easier, more comfortable grip when self-fastening.

All in all, with today’s innovative designs, deciding between a front zip and rear zip model is largely up to personal preference in terms of convenience. Your choice of wetsuit should much rather hinge on other factors, such as the insulation levels and seal type, as well as comfort. At the end of the day, your wetsuit is exactly that—yours. You have to decide whether you prefer a front zipper or rear, and no one can reasonably try to sway your opinion one way or the other.

Shopping for Scuba Diving Wetsuits Online

Online shopping is a modern convenience that we’ve come to rely on, as so many different options are available for us. You can even order your groceries online today!

Doing the same for your wetsuit is a temptation most of us simply can’t resist. Instead of spending time and money on driving to a shop and finding parking, you can simply browse the catalog, select your size and color preference, choose a payment method, and select “check-out”. As easy as that!

Sometimes, you’ll even find that shopping online offers you special deals, saving you even more money. But shopping for a wetsuit online has a nasty catch that can easily negate everything that makes it better.

You’ve probably noticed before that one shirt brand’s medium fit is another brand’s large. The same is equally true of wetsuits, and even though many online retailers provide a handy size chart, nothing beats trying your suit on for size before making a purchase.

This is especially true for models that include the -Short and -Tall variants. You may be considered tall in your hometown, but where your suit was manufactured and sized you may be of average height. Again, you don’t want to rely too heavily on the size charts provided.

The simple truth of it is that if your wetsuit doesn’t fit properly, you could end up with increased water seepage or insufficient insulation—or both. Neither makes for a good dive, and you’ll find yourself wishing you’d taken a different size.

Shopping for most diving suits is best left for replacing an old piece of equipment with the exact same model. At the very least, you should be upgrading to a new version in the same range, such as replacing your Fourth Element Proteus with the new Proteus II.

In our opinion, the only exception to this rule is when you manage to find a scuba-oriented e-commerce store that has an amazing returns policy that allows you to replace or refund an ill-fitting suit. Just be sure to read all of the fine print! Many retailers won’t take a wetsuit back if you’ve been in salt water with it. Just to be on the safe side, test the fit and seal in a pool before heading to the ocean.

After all: if you end up with an ill-fitting wetsuit where the thermal insulation factors are reduced or the seal is leaky (or even if you find you struggle to don and doff it), it doesn’t matter whether you only spent $100 plus shipping. If you can’t return the suit for a refund or replacement, you’ll find yourself wishing you’d bitten the bullet and sat through the traffic to visit your nearest brick-and-mortar scuba gear shop.

Our Best Scuba Diving Wetsuit Choice

We’ve done the heavy lifting by going through thousands of peer and community reviews to select the nine best scuba diving wetsuits available in 2019. Narrowing it down even further to one editor’s pick is a tough task because there are so many factors to consider. Not least is the thickness of the suit, considering different water temperatures require varying insulation factors—which are largely decided by this simple feature.

Considering the fantastic suits we’ve reviewed—many of which can be used for surface water sports as well—we went back and forth between a few of them when trying to pick what we feel is the best all-around wetsuit for 2019. After some serious debating, we finally settled on the proudly American WaterProof USA W3 3-3.5mm.

America is blessed with two long shorelines that stretch from the lower Arctic to the warmer tropics down south. Straddled between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, we’re truly spoiled when it comes to our range of water temperatures—which is why we feel it’s important to have a wetsuit that can keep you comfortably warm on as wide an arc of the spectrum as possible.

With its Gender Specific, superior 3D anatomical fit, Sharp Scandinavian Styling, and 3-3.5mm microcell CR nylon 2 neoprene rubber, the WaterProof W3 makes for an improved insulation choice without compromising on mobility, agility, or flexibility. The full gusset and comfort neck zippers allow you to easily relieve stress on your throat and neck area, both on the surface and in the water. Seepage is vastly reduced by the unique, dense hexagonal Hex-Tex inner plush lining, which also boosts your comfort levels considerably.

We especially like the thermal plastic urethane economic molded hook teeth, which are designed to stick only to their assigned loop tabs. Donning and doffing your suit has never been easier either thanks to the hard-core durability back zipper with a bronze slider and full-length pull tab leash, as well as the added zippers found on the arms and legs.

The polyurethane embossed grip and reinforcement, wave flex panels, and rash guards serve not only to protect you but to cement the WaterProof USA W3 as our chosen wetsuit for 2019. And with a truly impressive size range, you’re sure to find the perfect fit no matter your body shape and proportions.

Final Words

Whether you believe in the existence of DC Comic’s Aquaman or not, the simple fact is that humans simply aren’t built to last in the depths of the ocean. As much as we love exploring these depths, and wouldn’t give up the chance for a dive for almost anything in the world, we have to accept that we lack the necessary biological insulation of marine animals.

Dolphins, porpoises, whales, and even seals have a thick layer of fat or blubber that keeps them warm. We humans have to be satisfied with a wetsuit.

If you enjoy diving as much as what we do, then your wetsuit is your best friend, keeping your body heat trapped against your skin and the icy water out. So why waste your time on a substandard model?

The best wetsuits will keep you drier and warmer better and longer than lower models. It makes sense to opt for the best quality you can afford when it comes to your wetsuit, as it can literally save your life by keeping hypothermia at bay!

Whether you favor warmer waters and the chance to indulge in the occasional surface sport or prefer the cool depths of our Arctic backyard, there’s a wetsuit for you. We’ve taken the edge off of the long search by compiling a definitive list of the best best scuba diving wetsuits available in 2019, no matter the temperature of your diving territory, or your budget.