www.njscuba.com/

Google-bot review

NJ Scuba.com - Scuba Diving Gear, Scuba Vacations, Snorkeling, Swimming, and Other Water Sports

Dive Watches

Dive Watches
Privacy Policy
Home
Terms and Conditions
Contact

Amazon.com Widgets

Top Dive Watches

Aeris XR1 Air Dive Computer, Scuba Wrist Dive Watch
Suunto Vector Wrist-Top Computer Watch w/ Altimeter, Barometer & More
Oceanic Geo Dive Computer Wrist Watch
Cressi-Sub Archimede II Wrist Computer
Oceanic ATOM 2.0 Full Featured Air-Integrated Dive Computer
Tusa Element Wrist Dive Computer
Suunto Observer SR Wrist-Top Computer Watch with Altimeter, Barometer
Tusa Zen Wrist Dive Computer (IQ-900)

Choosing The Best Dive Computer

 

If someone asked you which piece of scuba diving equipment is the most important, how would you respond, and why? When it comes right down to it though, it's truly hard to rank the individual pieces of scuba diving gear in order of importance. After all, when in use, they all operate together as one single unit to keep you alive and well during your underwater adventures. Your mask keeps the water out of your nose and eyes, your regulator provides you with fresh air to breath and your fins help you to swim through the water efficiently. But what about your dive computer?
Dive computers have come a long way in the short span of time that they have existed. Early dive computers consisted of little more than a compass, air pressure gauge, and a timer of some sort to let you know how long you've been in the water. You can still buy sets of these simple gauges. In fact, there are many divers who prefer the rugged simplicity of such a setup.
As technology advanced and the sport of scuba diving became more popular, dive computers advanced as well. Today's scuba diving computers are essentially mini-computers. They have so many different features and provide so much information to the user that it can actually be a bit overwhelming.
Modern dive gauges or computers come in two distinct styles. There are those gauges that are assembled in a pod that float in the water next two you while you are diving. These pods are attached to your wetsuit via a cable that delivers such information as air pressure to the gauges. When you need to reference the information you simply look to your side to see the status of your dive. Analog dive gauges typically range from $100 to $300, depending on brand and style. Digital dive gauges typically range from $200 to $500.
The second type of diving gauge is worn on the wrist, like a watch. Some people even refer to them as dive watches or dive computer watches. These wrist computers are usually digital since they have to pack so much information into such a small space. Air pressure information is usually relayed to the watch via a remote sensor. Prices for these dive computer watches typically average between $200 to $500 each.
So, which style of computer or gauge should you choose? Which one is right for you? Ultimately, it's a personal decision for each individual. It comes down to several factors including how much information you want, how you want to receive that information, and of course, what your budget is. If you are on a budget or are new to scuba diving, a simple but effective analog set of gauges is really all you need. Many divers enjoy their analog gauges for many years before moving up to a higher end model. If you are an advanced diver, however, you will almost certainly want to go with a digital dive computer, whether in a pod or worn on your wrist.
Although it's very convenient to order a scuba diving computer from an online retailer, it's always advisable to visit a dive store to check them out in person before making a purchase. This way you can get a chance to check the equipment out in person to make sure it's exactly what you want and has the features you are looking for. If visiting a dive shop isn't possible, ordering online is still fine. Just be sure you place your order with a reputable company and be sure you are familiar with their return and exchange policy before making a purchase.
Definitely take your time and shop around before purchasing any scuba diving equipment. Remember, when you are 60 feet underwater, your life depends on your equipment not letting you down.
 
 

Wetsuit Shorts

 

One of the most versatile wetsuit pieces one can own is wetsuit shorts.  This garment has the appearance of skin tight shorts and are made out of neoprene, the same material traditional wetsuits are made from.  They are comfortable, warm, flexible, and attractive in appearance.  They are perfect for a variety of water sports activities, not just scuba diving.  They are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, wake boarding, and others.  These shorts can even be worn in other activities that are situated near the water such as volleyball and others.  These comfortable shorts are  so versatile that they should be included in everyone's dive gear collection.
Neoprene shorts are not expensive at all.  They retail from $30 to $70, depending on what brand and features you are looking for.  Don't think you have to spend a lot of money to get a great product though.  In many cases the lesser expensive brands are just as nice as the more expensive brands.  They are available for both men and women alike and even kids have plenty of brands to choose from.
Neoprene shorts are not to be confused with other wetsuit styles such as the shorty wetsuit or farmer john wetsuit.  The shorty wetsuit is a full torso wetsuit that also covers the upper arms and upper legs.  The farmer john wetsuit covers the upper and lower legs and most of the torso.  The farmer john wetsuit gets its name because it resembles the bibbed overalls worn by farmers.
A high end example of the garment is the 2mm O'Neill Hammer Wetsuit Shorts, which retail for $59.95.  This brand and style is very comfortable since the neoprene is only 2mm thick.  Full wetsuits typically use 5mm neoprene.  The O'Neill Hammer is perfect for warm weather water activities or even for use as an extra layer of insulation beneath a wetsuit.  Brands such as the O'Neill Hammer make excellent swimming wetsuits and can be worn by itself as swimming apparel or beneath men's swimming trunks.
An affordable example for women is the Liquid Peace 3mm Neoprene SuperStretch Wetsuit shorts.  These great neoprene shorts retail for only $23 and feature 3mm neoprene, seven panels for high mobility, and an adjustable waist drawstring.  This just goes to show that you don't have to spend a lot of money to find great, durable water sports apparel.
Clearly, neoprene shorts are perfect for a wide variety of outdoors and water sports.  And since they are so affordable, you might want to consider buying more than one.

Light Up The Murky Depths With A Glo Toob

 

If you are looking for a great way to inexpensively light up the night, forget those old-fashioned chemical glow sticks.  You know, the kind you break, shake, and then enjoy an eery neon colored glow for a few hours.  Those things are old news.  Although they work great, they're terribly expensive.  And let's face it, since you can only use them once, they aren't all that great for the environment either.  So, if chemical glow sticks are out, what is the alternative?
A much better alternative is the glo toob.  This device does the exact same thing that chemical glow sticks do but they are reusable since they are battery powered.  They let you glow in the dark for about 1/50 as much as the chemical glow sticks.  You can turn them on or off whenever you want.  You don't have to worry about letting them burn out in a few hours like you would with a chemical light stick.
An electronic light stick is perfect for many different activities such as safety lights, bicycle lights, camping lights, and others.  But one thing that they work extremely well for is scuba diving.  Because they are waterproof, they can be submerged in deep water and continue to work without any risk of damage.  These electronic light sticks make  excellent additions to your dive gear.  If you strap one or more of these little lights onto you while diving, they can be an excellent safety feature since your dive buddies can easily spot you in murky or dark water.  All they have to do is look for the light.
Most glo toobs have long lasting LED lights.  Not only will one of these bulbs last for decades under normal use, but the use very little power.  This means you can turn one of them on and it will run for hours on a fresh battery before running out of power.  They also come in a variety of colors, just as chemical glow sticks do.  Color options include green, blue, pink, yellow, and even white.
Electronic light sticks are extremely rugged and are submergible to depths many times deeper than where even the most advanced scuba divers go.  They are powered by one single LR23/A23 type 12 volt battery, which is common in remote controls and other small electronic gadgets.  Prices range from $10 to $30, depending on the size you are interested in.
A glo toob is an excellent addition  to any scuba diving gear collection.  Not only is it a great way to shine a little light on your subject, it's also a cheap and effective safety gadget.

Save Money On Tank Refills With A Diving Compressor

 

If you've been scuba diving for any length of time, you've probably wondered how and if you can refill your own scuba tanks.  After all, having to go to your local dive shop and pay a fee to have your tanks refilled is a major aggravation.  Wouldn't it be great if you could simply refill your own tanks in your garage or even use a portable unit to refill them at the dive site?  Not only is it possible to do this, but it's very easy to implement and not as expensive as you might think.
First, you need to realize that you are only compressing air.  Unless you are into deep diving where mixed gasses are used, you will only be breathing air, the same air you breath every day while you are on land.  The process of refilling your scuba tanks is simply compressing and filtering the air around you and putting it in your tank.
If you are refilling scuba tanks for personal use, and you're not interested in refilling tanks on a commercial level, a small diving compressor is all you need.  You can get one of these units with either a gasoline or electric motor.  It really doesn't matter which you decide to go with.  It's really just a personal preference.  There is always the possibility, however, that if you are using a gasoline powered model, that you could inadvertently end up with some of the engine's exhaust fumes in your tanks, so you will have to be very careful when refilling your tanks with a gasoline engine powered unit.
One example of a portable unit is the Max Air 35 Standard Scuba Compressor.  Portable air compressors such as this unit are great for filling up your tanks either at home or at the dive site.  This gas powered unit only weights 85 pounds and has large carry handles for easy handling.  With the Max Air 35 is reasonably quick.  You can fill an 80 cubic foot scuba tank to 3,000 PSI in only 20 minutes.  The Max Air 35 is available with either an 5.5 HP Honda gasoline engine or a 3-phase 115v/230v electric motor and retails for $3,415.
If the thought of shelling out $3,415 for a brand new unit doesn't sound enticing, you might want to consider purchasing a used one.  You can check with your local dive shop or even online for a used unit and realize a substantial savings.
A good quality diving compressor is very handy to have if you are an avid scuba diver.  The ability to refill your own tanks and to know that it was done right is very comforting.

Dive Bags Are Great For Storing Dive Gear

 

If you've taken up the fascinating and richly rewarding sport of scuba diving, chances are strong that you've started to purchase your own scuba diving equipment.  And if you're like most people, you probably bought a piece here and a piece there, instead of buying a complete set all at once.  After all, even though scuba diving is a very affordable sport, most people don't have enough cash to drop on a full set up scuba diving gear up front.  After you've collected a few nice pieces of scuba diving gear, however, you probably quickly realized that you need a way to transport your equipment to and from the dive site.
What you need is something that is large, heavy duty, easy-to-clean, and dries quickly to transport your scuba diving accessories.  It may sound like a tall order to fill but it's really not.  There are several companies that make scuba gear bags that have been specially designed to haul all of your heave scuba diving gear around.  These specialized bags come in a variety of designs and styles.  There's definitely one for you.
One of the most basic styles of scuba gear bag is the mesh design.  This type of scuba bag is one of the simplest you can get, but don't let its simplistic design turn you off.  Mesh scuba gear bags are lightweight due to the thousands of small holes in the material.  These holes are also great for throwing your wet dive gear into and letting it drip dry right in the bag.  Another great benefit of the mesh bag is that they are usually very affordable.  For example, the Stahlsac 36” Mesh Duffel Dive Bag retails for only $30.95.
Scuba gear bags are also available in backpack style.  Such a durable bag can be worn on your back just like a traditional backpack and is a great way to take the strain off of carrying your gear by hand.  A great example of a scuba backpack is the Akona Roller Backpack Bag, which retails for $249.95.  It measures 31” x 21” x 14,” plenty of room for all of your scuba diving accessories.
Dive bags are even available in a hard shell format, which is great for protecting your dive gear while traveling.  Hard shell scuba bags often come with wheels so you can easily roll your luggage through airports and hotels.  A great example of a hard shell container is the IST Hard Shell Dive Bag, which retails for $199.99.
Scuba bags should not be an afterthought for your dive gear.  A great bag can last many years and provide a great way to organize your gear for quick use.

Selecting The Best Tri Suit For Your Next Triathlon Event

 

The triathlon is one of the most demanding sporting events there is.  The triathlon involves incredible endurance and a very high degree of physical fitness.  In addition, the athlete must be well-trained in swimming, cycling, and running, since the event combines all three sports into one event.  There's no doubt about it, winning a triathlon requires incredible focus and training.  There is one thing the athlete should pay special attention to in order to gain an advantage.... his or her triathlon gear, particularly the tri suit.
This garment, which is also known as the triathlon suit, is typically a one piece skin tight garment that is made from Lycra and covers the entire torso, the shoulders, and upper thighs.  They are typically very different from  wetsuits, which are usually made from neoprene and are designed to help the diver or swimmer retain body heat while in the water.  These garments are primary designed to be comfortable form-fitting garments that are also streamlined for swimming fluidity.  The idea behind them was to create one suit that would be suitable for all three events without the athlete needing to change between events.  Even though they are designed specifically for triathlons, there's no reason why you couldn't wear them for casual scuba diving, swimming, surfing, and other water-related activities.
Tri suits are not expensive at all.  They tend to retail for between $80 to $250, depending on which brand you decide to go with.  And really, when it comes to these garments, there really is no one brand that stands out more than another.  Which one you decide to go with really comes down to personal preference based on appearance and style.
One popular brand is made by Orca.  Orca makes a variety of these garments including the Orca Men's Core Race Tri Suit which features a three-tone color scheme, a 22cm inseam, a lockable zipper that is easily accessible from the front, and comes in sizes from XS to XL.  This particular garment is tight fitting, lightweight, comfortable, and retails for approximately $115.
One of these garments will typically last many years.  And if you buy one in a style and color scheme that is not faddish, you won't have to worry about it going out of style for a long time.  A good color choice that will still be in style many years down the road is one that is all-black.  Buying a good quality outfit for running, biking, and swimming is much different than purchasing a regular outfit, it is an investment that will last a long time.

Shopping For Ladies Wetsuits

 

Scuba diving, snorkeling, and other water sports are just as popular with ladies as they are with men.  After all, what other sport will let you see and experience all of the beautiful natural aquatic animals and geological formations that are hidden from most people's view?  And that's just to start.  There are also many exciting shipwrecks to explore and maritime treasures to be retrieved.  Clearly, diving and snorkeling are sports that can be equally shared by the entire family.
Picking out a wetsuit for women is not the same as picking out wetsuits for men.  For starters, ladies wetsuits are very different from wetsuits for men or youth.  They are made to accentuate  curves and to de-emphasize traditional problem areas such as hips and thighs.  Because wetsuits are always form-fitting, women have to be extra careful when shopping for a wetsuit to make sure they are able to find just the right one.  Shopping for a one of these garments is really no different than shopping for other women's apparel.  You have to try several on to see which one you are going to look the best in.
Ladies wetsuits are typically worn over bathing suits.  They come in a variety of styles as well, such as the shorty wetsuit.  The shorty wetsuit covers the entire torso, upper arms, and thighs.  It is perfect for those diving conditions that require body heat to be stored but the arms and lower legs are still exposed to allow for ease of mobility and comfort.  One great example of women's wetsuits is the Body Glove wetsuit.  For example, the Body Glove 2/1 Arc Springsuit Womans Shorty Wetsuit retails for only $79.95 and features 2mm neoprene, attractive styling, and flat stitching to prevent skin rash.  You can clearly see that a great wetsuit does not have to be expensive at all.
Another thing to consider when it comes to ladies wetsuits is whether you will need a full wetsuit or not.  The amount of coverage you will need while in the water depends on several factors, water temperature and dive depth being the most important.  If you are going to be diving or snorkeling in shallow, tropical waters, for example, you may not need a wetsuit at all.  A simple rash guard may be all you need.  However, if you are diving deep in cooler waters, you will definitely want a full wetsuit, to hold as much body heat as possible.
Wetsuits for women comes in a wide variety of styles and features.  There's definitely a wetsuit for you that will make you look great while offering all of the diving protection you need.

Selecting The Best Swim Fins For You

 

When it comes to scuba diving accessories, there are some accessories that are essential and there are some accessories that are optional.  One thing that you will definitely want to have in your scuba diving gear is swim fins.  These water sports accessories are definitely essential, as they are necessary to propel you through the water during your dive.  A scuba diver attempting to dive with a good pair wouldn't get very far at all.  In fact, attempting to dive with scuba diving fins could even be considered dangerous as it could put the diver in a position where he or she is unable to swim to safety in a situation of urgency.
Swim fins are available in a variety of prices and designs.  There are some diving fins, for example, that are made from a vary rigid plastic, while others are made from softer material and are semi-flexible by design for comfort.
One example of rigid scuba fins is the Mares Quattro Power Full Foot Fins.  This brand is designed to entirely enclose your foot, come only in black, and come in sizes 6.5 through 10.5.  The Mares Quattro Power Full Foot Fins retail for $150 per pair.
An example of semi-rigid fins are Force Fins.  Force fins are flexible for comfort and are also designed to give you extra propulsion with less effort.  One thing that makes Force fins so much better than rigid fins is that you can actually walk on dry land while wearing them.  This is very difficult to do with rigid fins.  Force fins retail for $180 per pair.
When it comes to this critical piece of equipment, don't think that the kids are left out.  There is a wide variety of fins available for children that are much more affordable than adult versions.  Fins for kids are great for regular swimming as well as for snorkeling.  And you don't even have to go to a scuba retailer to find a great pair.  Swimming accessories for kids are commonly found at the big box retailers such as Wal-Mart, Target, K-Mart, and others.
An example of a great set of swim fins for kids is the FINIS Shark Tail Swim Fin.  This great accessory features an adjustable strap that allows kids with different size feet use them as long as their feet are size 1 – 7.  The brand typically retails for $29.99 per pair.
Regardless of whether you are scuba diving, snorkeling, or just enjoying a good swim, there's a flipper for you that will greatly improve your water sports activities.

A Shortie Wetsuit Is Perfect For Many Diving Environments

 

When it comes to wetsuits, there are several different styles you can choose from.  Depending on what type of diving you are interested in doing, you will want something that runs from a simple rash vest for warm tropical diving in shallow water to a full-body 5mm wetsuit for diving in colder water.  If you are looking for a good general purpose wetsuit though, you should certainly take a good look at the affordable but capable shortie wetsuit.
This type of wetsuit is a one-piece garment that only covers your torso as well as your shoulders and upper arms and your thighs.  Your forearms and everything below the knees are left exposed.  There are certain advantages to this arrangement.  Because your arms and legs are much less constrained in this type of garment as opposed to a full-body version, you have much more freedom of movement in the water for swimming, diving, and other water-related activities.  The small neoprene design helps you to retain your core body heat without restricting movement.  Overall, it's a very comfortable wetsuit to wear for various recreational pursuits.
A good shortie wetsuit does not have to be expensive at all.  For example, the Neosport Men's 2 mm Shorty Wetsuit comes in at only $50 and is a great suit not only for diving but for surfing, rafting, snorkeling, and swimming too.  They are so versatile that they can be used for a wide variety of activities.
If you want a little more protection from the elements, the wetsuit style can also be worn over top of a rash vest for added protection.  A rash vest, which is also known as a rash guard or a rashie, is a very thin, form-fitting, light weight suit made from either spandex or polyester to prevent chafing from a surf board, scuba gear or other water-related sports gear.  A rash vest doesn't really do much to help you retain heat but it can increase your overall comfort level while you are in the water.
Another great example of the design is made by Body Glove Wetsuit.  The 2009 PRO3 2/1 MM shortie is a popular design that retails for only $70.  It features an interior key pocket, a heavy duty zipper, a velcro neck closure, and a smooth skin collar for extra comfort.  Regardless of which water activity you are pursuing, the Body Glove brand is always a good choice.
The lightweight wetsuit design is a highly versatile wetsuit style that can be used for a variety of applications.  This is one piece of dive gear that you should definitely have in your collection.

Choosing The Right Scuba Cylinder For Your Diving Needs

 

The big, heavy tank we strap on before going on a scuba diving excursion is commonly referred to as a scuba cylinder or scuba tank, although the correct term is cylindrical pressure vessel.  There are several different manufacturer of these scuba accessories that make them with almost identical features.  This makes choosing one brand a confusing process.  Divers have a choice of dive tanks that are made from either aluminum or steel.  Also, different brands have different air capacities as well.  The capacities typically range from 50 to 150 cubic feet.  Also, they have different pressure ratings as well, ranging from 2,400 to 3,500 PSI.  With so many different features to choose from, it's no wonder they can be so confusing.
Deciding whether to go with a tank made from either aluminum or steel is a choice that many people get stuck on.  If you are planning on diving in the ocean, you must keep in mind that both steel and aluminum tanks can corrode in seawater.  So, basing your decision on the corrosion factor is really a moot point.  Contrary to popular belief, steel scuba tanks are actually lighter than those made from aluminum.  The reason for this is due to the fact that steel is much stronger than aluminum.  And since you can make a stronger tank with less steel than aluminum, the steel versions end up being slightly lighter.  A typical tank that holds 80 cubic feet of air will be 30 pounds in steel and 35 pounds in aluminum.
Steel tanks tend to have a longer service life than those made from aluminum.  Steel versions will last up to 40 years while most dive shops will refuse to refill an aluminum version that is older than 15 years.  The only thing that aluminum has over steel is price.  Aluminum tanks are usually more affordable than those made from steel.
One type of scuba cylinder that is increasing in popularity is the scuba pony tank.  This small scuba tank holds very little air and is strapped onto the diver to be used in an emergency.  The pony tank is very small and lightweight and usually has just a few minutes of air, just enough to get a diver out of a bad situation and safely to the surface.
When you do decide to go ahead and purchase your own scuba cylinder, you might want to consider going with one made from steel.  Even though they are slightly more expensive than aluminum, those made from steel are typically preferred by professional divers.

Dive Watches Can Be Both Practical And Stylish

 

If you had to rank the components of your dive gear from the most important to the least, you would probably list your regulator, buoyancy control device, and tank right at the top.  Next on your list would be your dive computer, mask, and so forth.  But how much thought have you ever given to your dive watch?  As it turns out, dive watches are among the most important scuba components you can own.   If you think about it for a moment, it makes sense.  This one small device keeps up with mission critical information... the length of time you have been underwater.  And if you have been diving in even a modest depth, you will need this information to know when to surface so that you don't needlessly experience the effects of nitrogen narcosis.
The good news is that there are many different companies that make these aquatic time pieces with a variety of features for both men and women in both the traditional and analog formats.  You are probably already familiar with the companies that make these watches such as Citizen, Seiko, Pulsar, Swiss Army, Luminox, Rolex, TAG Heuer, and others.  The prices for these watches vary a great deal, depending on what brand and features you are looking for.  You can buy an inexpensive one for $30 or a more feature-rich watch for $300.  The choice is yours.  There truly is a version for each individual.
Many dive watches are indistinguishable from regular watches and, in fact, many people do wear them everyday as their regular watch.  That's understandable as many of them are very stylish and would go just as well with a formal suit as they would with a wetsuit.  Many womens versions, for example, come with beautiful stainless steel finishes and bands or even crocodile bands.  Mens versions can be either sophisticated in appearance for a night out on the town or sporty for use either in the water, in the gym, on the tennis court, or anywhere else you are active.
Professional models are truly in a class of their own.  These time pieces are packed with features and  typically cost hundreds of dollars each.  Professional models often have built in dive computers, dive logbooks, and other features.
Finding the best dive watches is a challenging task since there are so many great options to choose from.  Ultimately, it's a very personal decision for each individual.  It depends on the style and features you are looking for, and of course, how much you are willing to invest.  When you realize what a big deal it is to have a good waterproof time piece and how important it is to safe diving, you will definitely want to make getting one of these valuable tools a high priority.

Protect Your Child With A Child Wetsuit

 

The great thing about the sport of scuba diving is that it can truly be a sport that is shared by the entire family.  Depending on the agency you receive your training through, the lower age limit for training can be 10-12 years of age.  This means that the entire family can enjoy many of the same underwater adventures and scenery while creating family memories that will last a lifetime.  And if you have children who are old enough to enjoy this sport, you will definitely want to look into getting them their own child wetsuit.
Finding a great wetsuit for your son or daughter is not difficult.  There are many great designs and brands that can be purchased for very little money.  Also, there are many reasons why you would want to get your child his or her own wetsuit, even if you plan on renting your dive gear while on vacation.  The first reason is probably obvious..... sanitation.  If you rent your dive gear, you don't always know if it's been cleaned properly after its previous use.  Also, these garments for kids are so versatile that they can be used for a wide variety of fun, outdoor activities, not just scuba diving.  For example, child wetsuits are also great for swimming in slightly cool weather, wake boarding, surfing, and many other activities.  And since these junior swim garments are so inexpensive, you could easily replace them every season, if necessary.
Another type of child wetsuit you might want to consider if you have very young children, is the toddler wetsuit or even infant wetsuit.  Most people don't even realize that these garments even exist, but they certainly do, and for good reason.  If you have a baby or toddler, a neoprene swim suit is a perfect way to make sure they stay warm while splashing around in the baby pool.  In addition, a neoprene swim gament for your little one is also a great way to keep the sun's rays off of her while she is enjoying her time in the water.
A child wetsuit will cost between $40 - $80.  Youth versions come in a variety of exciting colors and designs that children will want to wear.  The Body Glove brand is a great example that kids are sure to want to wear.  The Body Glove Wetsuit - Kids Arc 2/1MM Shorty Spring, for example, is only $49.99, and is made from 2MM neoprene.
A neoprene swim garment is perfect for many different types of water activities.  This inexpensive aquatic attire can keep your child warm and safe while in the water.

Make Your Diving Adventures Last Forever With A Waterproof Video Camera

 

When you are diving with a group of friends in any number of amazing dive spots around the world, you are certain to see some truly remarkable sights.  The ocean is teaming with amazing and colorful animals and plant life.  In addition, there are so many shipwrecks and other archaeological artifacts to explore that you could never get tired of visiting them to see what mysteries they will reveal.  There's no question about it, scuba diving is an exciting sport and you are sure to create some incredible memories from your underwater adventures.
But how do you go about sharing those incredible memories with your friends and family who couldn't be there with you?  Sure, you can tell them about it, but does that really convey the sense of “being there” that you're looking for?  If not, you might want to add an extra dimension to your story telling.  You might want to seriously consider adding a waterproof video camera to your collection of dive gear.
Just like regular video cameras, a version that can withstand water can come in a variety of configurations, video formats, and prices.  And contrary to popular belief, these cameras are not all prohibitively expensive.  For example, the Kodak Playsport Camcorder records video in 1080P and in 5.0 mega pixels.  This model retails for only $119.  The only drawback to the Kodak Playsport is that it is only waterproof to a depth of 10 feet.  This means that for most scuba diving excursions it simply won't work out.  It is still a great choice for snorkeling and swimming.
Sanyo makes an excellent model for shallow diving or snorkeling.  its aquatic camera, the SANYO Xacti VPC-WH1, retails for $345 and features advanced color reproduction for low light situations, a 30X optical zoom, and records video at 720P.  It uses common SD and SDHC memory cards for easy video storage.  Aside from the fact that this model is only waterproof to a depth of 10 feet, the only other drawback is that it is a hand held unit, meaning that  you will have to try to coordinate swimming and recording video at the same time.  It's not an impossible task but could prove distracting.
If you are looking for a hands free underwater video camera, you will certainly want to consider the Liquid Image 320 Scuba Dive Video Mask.  This unit is a scuba diving mask with a waterproof HD video camera built in.  It records video in 720P, 5MP and comes with 8GB of SDHC memory.  This unit retails for $249 and is waterproof to a depth of 130 feet.  The Liquid Image 320 is perfect for deep dives as it allows you to record video completely hands free.
There are many great memories and experiences that are made beneath the surface of the water every day.  Don't let those moments get away from you without recording them to share with friends and family for years to come.

Choosing The Right Wetsuit Gloves For Your Dives

 

When it comes to the components of your scuba diving wetsuit, wetsuit gloves are probably the component that you think about the least.  It's completely understandable why you might not think about them, after all, many divers prefer to dive without them because they believe they limit their ability to grasp things and control their buoyancy control device (BCD).
But these special gloves are definitely an important component of your neoprene wetsuit.  Just as you can lose body heat through your head without a wetsuit hood or through your feet without wetsuit boots, you can just as easily lose body heat through your hands by ignoring hand protection and diving in cold water unprotected.
The rapid loss of body heat while scuba diving can lead to hypothermia.  This is a condition where your body temperature falls below what is required for normal metabolism.  And it's not as low as you think.  Hypothermia begins when the body's temperature falls to only 95 degree Fahrenheit.  So, even if the water doesn't feel too cool, that doesn't mean that you aren't susceptible to hypothermia.  Considering this, don't fall into the trap of thinking the water is too warm for wetsuit shoes, gloves, and a good dive hood.
One popular brand is made by Body Glove.  Body Glove is a reputable wetsuit brand that has been around for a long time.  A popular wetsuit glove that the company makes is the 2009 EXO 3MM, which retails for about $48 a pair.  The 2009 EXO 3MM is made from durable 3 milometer neoprene and features vaporlock seams, kevlar palms and fingertips for grip protection, an elastic wrist cinch to keep excess water from entering the glove, and an anatomic pre-bent design.
If you find the 2009 EXO 3MM model to be too expensive, you might want to consider the 2009 EX3 glove, which is similar in appearance.  This glove features vaporlock seams, anatomical pre-bent design, and adjustable wrist closures.  The primary difference in this model from the 2009 EXO 3MM model is the absense of the kevlar palms and fingertips.  Whether you need this feature or not is debatable.  It all comes down to whether or not you believe you will be handling anything that could penetrate your neoprene gloves and potentially cut you.
Don't overlook your need for wetsuit gloves, regardless of the type of diving you are doing.  You don't want experience hypothermia and with today's stylish and comfortable models, you don't have to.

Not All Wetsuit Boots Are Created Equal

 

Wetsuit boots are usually not something that we spend a lot of time thinking about.  But if you do take a few minutes to contemplate it, these special shoes really are something that deserves extra attention.  And for good reason.  Neoprene boots take a lot of punishment.  We walk around on land in them in between dives.  They provide warmth and physical protection for our feet while we're in the water.  Also, they are what we typically attach our swim fins to while in the water.  As you can see, scuba diving boots serve several important tasks.  As such, we should consider them to be a very important component of our scuba diving wetsuits and should get only the best for our feet.
The first thing you want to consider is whether your wetsuit shoes have a good, durable sole that can support both your weight and the weight of your scuba gear.  When you are walking around on the shore, both before and after your diving excursion, you want to make sure that your dive boots will hold up to the punishment an unimproved surface can give them.  You also want to make sure the sole is tough enough to resist puncture from an unseen nail, glass, or other hidden dangers that lurk on the shores.
Another thing you want to think about is whether you have wetsuit boots that will keep your body warm while you are in the water.  Even if you are diving in warm, tropical waters, wearing good quality boots with thick, 5MM neoprene is advisable since people tend to lose a lot of body heat through their feet.  Sometimes people can even lose a lot of body heat through their feet without even realizing it.  When it comes to scuba wetsuits, you will always want to go with boots made from thick neoprene for maximum protection.
Another thing you will want to consider is the level of comfort, both on the shore and in the water.  You will want to find a boot model that has a thick but soft sole for ease of walking on the shore as well as flexibility while in the water.  To find the most comfortable model for you, you will definitely want to try several different brands on before making a purchase decision.
As you can see, there's a lot to consider before buying a new pair of wetsuit boots.  Definitely take your time to consider the features of different brands before making an investment.

Rash Vests Make For More Comfortable Dives

 

A rash vest, also known as a rash guard or rashie, is a one piece outfit that is made from either spandex, nylon, or polyester.  These unique garments are skin tight and cover the torso, upper arms, and upper legs.  They are usually secured to the wearer with a zipper that goes up the front.  They were originally created as a lightweight skin covering that is used to prevent chafing in water sports such as surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, wake boarding, kayaking, and others.  Unlike wetsuits, rash vests were not designed to provide warmth to the wearer, only skin protection.
In addition to offering protection from chafing, these garments are an excellent way to protect yourself from sun exposure while engaged in water sports.  You can even get one in long sleeves  for extra protection, if needed.  Of course, you will definitely want to use sunscreen on those parts of your body that the garment does not cover.
Rash vests are perfect for scuba diving in warm, tropical waters.  In a warm environment, you don't always want to wear a wetsuit, especially if you are diving in fairly shallow waters.  They can also be the perfect thing to wear underneath you buoyancy control device and other dive gear to prevent chafing and improve the overall comfort of your dive.
As you might imagine, they come in a variety of sizes and colors and are available for men, women, and children.  A typical ladies model is usually indistinguishable from one for men, except for the size and colors.  In fact, some of them are unisex by design and can be worn by either gender.  Kids versions are very easy to find and even come in more vibrant colors and designs that are more suitable for children.
Rash vests are not expensive at all.  Adult models average between $25 to $50.  Children's models are available from as little as $5 to $30.  The affordable prices of these garments make them an ideal addition to your dive gear or swim gear.
A rash vest can make a significant difference in the comfort of your swimming, scuba diving, snorkeling, wake boarding, surfing, and other water activities.  They are so versatile that you are sure you get your money's worth out of one if you are someone who enjoys a variety of water related activities.  You will definitely want to add one of these versatile garments to your dive gear collection.
 

Selecting A Good Quality Dive Torch

 

One of the most useful tools you can add to your scuba diving equipment is a good dive torch.  It doesn't matter if you are diving in shallow water or deep, a good high quality waterproof lantern can literally shine some light on the subject and help you see where you are going and what you are doing.
Waterproof flashlights come in a variety of sizes, configurations, and light intensity.  Of course, all underwater lights are waterproof, so you shouldn't have to worry about getting water in your light, as long as you purchase one that is designed specifically for use underwater.
Some of the most basic scuba diving lanterns are very small and are really only intended to shine a little extra light on something you are trying to see.  A basic dive torch such as this may only use two “AAA” batteries and have either a halogen or LED lamp.  In fact, instead of halogen lamps, more manufactures are making the LED version since it uses less power and conserves your batteries.
A great example of a compact but powerful waterproof flashlight is the Pelican Nemo 1960 LED, which retails for about $30.  This LED light is powered by two “AAA” batteries and is rated at 24 lumens, perfect for spotting those small creatures that like to hide under rocks and between crevices.  A great feature of all of Pelican's scuba diving lights is that they are guaranteed for life.  Pelican's claim is “you break it, we replace it.....forever.”  Since Pelican's waterproof flashlights are very rugged, your chances of breaking one are very low.
If you want more candle power from your dive torch, you can also purchase a more powerful model, such as the Princeton TEC Shockwave LED Light, which retails for about $140.  This powerhouse has the ability to cut through even the darkest areas of the depths with its 400 lumens of light intensity.  The Princeton uses eight “C” batteries and has a powerful but long-lasting LED lamp that is rated for 10,000 hours of use.
Regardless of what kind of diving you intend on pursuing, whether shallow or deep, there's a model for you at a great price.  Since these tools are so versatile and inexpensive, you will definitely want to add one to your scuba diving equipment collection.

Get A Great Deal On Scuba Gear At A Wetsuit Outlet

 

If you are like most avid scuba divers, you probably keep a close watch on the scuba diving gear market for some good equipment sales or discounts.  Of particular interest to many who enjoy the sport is finding a good wetsuit sale since these neoprene garments can easily become torn or tattered from regular use.  The best way to keep an eye out for these great sales by searching a wetsuit outlet online.
A wetsuit outlet or general dive gear company typically has a large assortment of these garments and other scuba equipment in a variety of brands, sizes, and features.  Thankfully, finding affordable equipment online is not that difficult.  Shopping for them online lets you quickly compare prices so the great deals will be readily apparent.
One thing to keep on the lookout for while checking out an online retailer is the winter sale.  The winter months are traditionally a time when the scuba diving sport is not as active in the Northern Hemisphere.  Unless you live in Central American or the Caribbean, the business really slows down during this time of year.  This is also the time when the dive gear companies come out with new models.  To make room for the new models, a retailer will place its old inventory on sale to quickly make room for the new inventory.  A clearance such as this is what you want to be on the lookout for.  Many great water sports garments can be bought at deep discounts when these sales occur.
Buying discount equipment doesn't have to be limited to searching an online outlet.  You can also find great deals on lightly used equipment by searching the listings on E-Bay and Craigslist.  Many people take a scuba diving class and then go out and buy a lot of equipment, only to go diving once or twice.  The realities of working a job and taking care of a family get in the way of their aspirations, so they end up putting perfectly good snorkels and other dive gear for sale.  You can take advantage of this by snatching up great gear at very low prices.  Just because something is listed for sale as used doesn't always mean that it's junk.
As you can see, timing the sales at a wetsuit outlet is just one great way to find a really nice wetsuit at an affordable price.  Don't be too quick to discount a used wetsuit just because it's not new.  It's a great way to get some nice scuba gear at a really great price.

How To Find And Buy Cheap Wetsuits

 

Finding a great wetsuit at a great price is not as difficult as you might imagine.  The market for these garments is very dynamic and new models and styles come out every single year.  The companies that sell scuba diving gear have to bring in new inventory to keep up with their competition.  The good news for you is that they have to quickly get rid of their old inventory to make room for the new inventory.  This old inventory is often sold at a substantial discount for a quick sell.  The scuba diving retailers win by being able to get rid of their old inventory without losing money and you win by being able to pick up great wetsuits at closeout prices.  Yes, cheap wetsuits really do exist.
The first thing you can do to find affordable wetsuits is to look for a good wetsuit sale.  These sales are very easy to find.  Just about any scuba diving gear retailer will have a website where they sell dive gear as well.  You can do a simple search for “wetsuits” on one of these websites or go to the wetsuit section and more often than not, you will see wetsuits that are on sale.  These are the affordable wetsuits you are looking for.
Buying used is another way to find a great wetsuit at a great price.  One place you should definitely look for such discounts is E-Bay.  The online auction site E-Bay is the largest auction venue in the world.  Many scuba divers put perfectly good dive gear for sale on E-Bay every day for a variety of reasons.  Some people simply grow out of their wetsuits from eating too many cheeseburgers.  Others give up the scuba diving sport for a variety of reasons and need a way to get some quick cash from their equipment.  You can take advantage of all of this great gear for sale on E-Bay at heavily discounted prices and end up with a nice collection for very little cash.
There's also a lot of new scuba equipment for sale on E-Bay as well.  It's not all used.  Many retailers put stock that they haven't sold on E-Bay to quickly make room for new stock.  Great deals such as these on affordable wetsuits and other dive gear happen all the time on E-Bay.
Although there's really no such thing as a wetsuit outlet where you can shop in one place for that perfect cheap wetsuit, you can see that finding great deals on wetsuits is not that difficult.

Bestselling Dive Watches

Luminox Men's 3901Original Navy SEAL Dive WatchThis is a great looking dive watch! Plus, it's the original Navy Seal dive watch!

Casio Men's AMW320R-...
Stylish enough for the boardroom but rugged enough for the wakeboard,...
Amazon.com/Casio Men's AMW320R...

Luminox Men's 3001 Original...
Prized for its durability and unique illumination system, the Luminox...
Amazon.com/Luminox Men's 3001...

Casio Men's MDV102-1AV...
This Casio Sea analog illuminator watch offers all the convenience and...
Amazon.com/Casio Men's MDV102...

Recent Articles

Choosing The Best Dive Computer
Wetsuit Shorts
Light Up The Murky Depths With A Glo Toob
Save Money On Tank Refills With A Diving Compressor
Dive Bags Are Great For Storing Dive Gear
Selecting The Best Tri Suit For Your Next Triathlon Event
Shopping For Ladies Wetsuits
Selecting The Best Swim Fins For You
A Shortie Wetsuit Is Perfect For Many Diving Environments
Choosing The Right Scuba Cylinder For Your Diving Needs
Dive Watches Can Be Both Practical And Stylish
Protect Your Child With A Child Wetsuit
Make Your Diving Adventures Last Forever With A Waterproof Video Camera
Choosing The Right Wetsuit Gloves For Your Dives
Not All Wetsuit Boots Are Created Equal
Rash Vests Make For More Comfortable Dives
Selecting A Good Quality Dive Torch
Get A Great Deal On Scuba Gear At A Wetsuit Outlet
How To Find And Buy Cheap Wetsuits
Choosing A Great Snorkel Set

Related Sites
Scuba Dive Asia The Dive Travel Experts

Citizen Men's BJ2000-09E Eco-Drive Aqualand Stainless Steel Black Rubber Dive Watch
Invicta Men's 8926 Pro Diver Collection Automatic Watch

Citizen Men's BN0000-04H Eco-Drive Professional Diver Black Rubber Strap Watch
Casio Men's AMW320R-1EV Marine Ana-Digi Dive Watch

Copyright © 2010 NJ Scuba
· All Rights Reserved