PURPOSE: Improve Your Comfort On A Ride

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Yes

PRICE RANGE: $30 – $100

LOOK FOR: Quality Chamois Padding And Friction-Less Stitching

OUR MEN’S PICK: Pearl Izumi Men’s Elevate

OUR WOMEN’S PICK: Pearl Izumi Women’s Elevate

BEST MODELS: Top 10 Mountain Bike Shorts

PURPOSE: Protect Hands From Friction, Vibration And In Crashes

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Yes

PRICE RANGE: $9 – $30

LOOK FOR: A Good Fit, Easy Removal

OUR MEN’S PICK: Fox Men’s Ranger Short Gloves

OUR WOMEN’S PICK: Specialized Grail

BEST MODELS: Top 10 Mountain Bike Gloves

PURPOSE: Snag-Free Sweat-Wicking Top Layer

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Yes

PRICE RANGE: $20 – $120

LOOK FOR: Blended Fabrics, Good Zippers, Useful Back Pockets

OUR MEN’S PICK: Pearl Izumi Quest

OUR WOMEN’S PICK: Zerobike Short Sleeve

PURPOSE: Eye Protection From Rocks And Sun

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Yes

PRICE RANGE: $20 – $100

LOOK FOR: Polarized, Shatterproof, Replaceable Lens

OUR PICK: Tsafrer Polarized Sunglasses

PURPOSE: Keep Feet Comfortable And Dry

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Yes

PRICE RANGE: $8 – $20

LOOK FOR: Wicking Fabric, Good Fit

OUR MEN’S PICK: Pearl Izumi Ride Elite

OUR WOMEN’S PICK: DeFeet Aireator Joy

PURPOSE: Secure, Stable Riding On Clip Or Flat Pedals

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Yes

PRICE RANGE: $60 – $200

LOOK FOR: Snag-Free Lacing And A Good Fit

OUR MEN’S PICK: Giro Grynd

OUR WOMEN’S PICK: Pearl Izumi X-Alp Seek

BEST MODELS: Top 10 Mountain Bike Shoes

PURPOSE: Wayfinding, Route Planning

ESSENTIAL ITEM? Depends On Area Knowledge

PRICE RANGE: $80 – $600

LOOK FOR: Good Battery Life, Easy To Use

OUR PICK: Garmin Edge 520

BEST MODELS: Top 10 Mountain Bike GPS

PURPOSE: Wayfinding, Route Planning

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: No

PRICE RANGE: $18 – $25

LOOK FOR: Color Maps, Detailed Descriptions

OUR PICK: Mountain Biking Moab

PURPOSE: Protects Your Head

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Yes

PRICE RANGE: $80 – $100

LOOK FOR: Comfortable Straps And Buckles, Air Vents

OUR MEN’S PICK: Giro Montaro Mips

OUR WOMEN’S PICK: Giro Montaro Mips Women

BEST MODELS: Top 10 Mountain Bike Helmets

PURPOSE: Make Your Bike And Trail Visible

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Yes At Night

PRICE RANGE: $20 – $350

LOOK FOR: Brightness, Settings, Battery Life

OUR PICK: NiteRider Pro 1800

BEST MODELS: Top 10 Best Mountain Bike Lights

PURPOSE: Protect Joints In Crashes

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Only For BMX Or Hardcore Trail Riders

PRICE RANGE: $25 – $200

LOOK FOR: Rigid Yet Comfortable Protection

OUR PICK: JBM BMX Pads

PURPOSE: Protect Hands From Friction, Vibration, Cold Weather, And Crashes

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Depending On Temperature

PRICE RANGE: $15 – $20

LOOK FOR: Good Fit, Warmth

OUR MEN’S PICK: Troy Lee Designs XC

OUR WOMEN’S PICK: Troy Lee Designs XC Women

BEST MODELS: Top 10 Mountain Bike Gloves

PURPOSE: Keep Rain Off Your Core

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Depending On Weather

PRICE RANGE: $150 – $250

LOOK FOR: Ventilation, Water-Proofing

OUR MEN’S PICK: Showers Pass Men’s Elite 2.1

OUR WOMEN’S PICK: Showers Pass Women’s Elite 2.1

BEST MODELS: Top 10 Mountain Bike Jackets

PURPOSE: Keep Shoes Dry

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Depending On Weather

PRICE RANGE: $20 – $40

LOOK FOR: Fit

OUR PICK: Bikeroo Shoe Protectors

PURPOSE: Keep Core Temperature Warm

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Depending On Weather

PRICE RANGE: $30 – $100

LOOK FOR: Warmth, Fit, Good Zippers

OUR PICK: Wolfbike Fleece

PURPOSE: Keep Feet Warm

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Depending On Temperature

PRICE RANGE: $50 – $60

LOOK FOR: Warmth, Fit

OUR PICK: Endura MT500

BEST MODELS: Top 10 Mountain Bike Jackets

PURPOSE: Convenient Access To Water Or Sports Drink

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Yes

PRICE RANGE: $25 – $75

LOOK FOR: Easy To Wear, Proper Capacity For Your Trip

OUR PICK: Camelback Hydrobag

BEST MODELS: Top 10 Mountain Bike Hydration Packs

PURPOSE: Bigger Snacks While Riding

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Yes

PRICE RANGE: $1

LOOK FOR: Flavor, Calorie Quantity

OUR PICK: Clif Energy Bar Value Pack

PURPOSE: Stave Off Hunger And Fuel Up On The Trail With Quick Bites

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Yes

PRICE RANGE: $1

LOOK FOR: Flavor, Calorie Quantity

OUR PICK: Clif Bloks Energy Chews

PURPOSE: Fix Common Bike Problems

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Yes

PRICE RANGE: $30 – $50

LOOK FOR: Useful Wrenches And Variety

OUR PICK: Topeak Alien

PURPOSE: Inflate Tires After Flat

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Yes

PRICE RANGE: $20 – $40

LOOK FOR: High-Pressure And Small Size

OUR PICK: Mini Bike Pump

PURPOSE: Cover Up Puncture Holes On Innertube

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Yes

PRICE RANGE: $6 – $9

LOOK FOR: Easy Adhesive

OUR PICK: Oumers Inner Tube Repair Kit

PURPOSE: Carry Bikes On Top Of Vehicle

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: No

PRICE RANGE: $50 – $100

LOOK FOR: Easy Installation And Secure Carrying

OUR PICK: Swagman Upright Roof Rack

BEST MODELS: Top 10 Mountain Bike Racks

PURPOSE: Carry Bikes Behind Vehicle

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: No

PRICE RANGE: $30 – $60

LOOK FOR: Easy Setup And Removal

OUR PICK: Allen Sports 2-Bike Trunk Mount

BEST MODELS: Top 10 Mountain Bike Racks

PURPOSE: A large bag carrying everything needed for an extended day hike

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: No

PRICE RANGE: $150 – $400

LOOK FOR: A comfortable fit and quality materials

OUR PICK: Osprey Atmos (50L)

BEST MODELS: Best Hiking Backpacks of the Year >>

PURPOSE: A lightweight and comfortable bag for all your hiking essentials

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Yes

PRICE RANGE: $20 – $240

LOOK FOR: Lightweight materials and plenty of pockets

OUR PICK: Osprey Daylite

BEST MODELS: Best Day Hiking Backpacks of the Year >>

PURPOSE: Keep your gear dry during wet weather

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Depends if there is a chance of rain

PRICE RANGE: $20 – $50

LOOK FOR: Durable material and sized to fit your pack

OUR PICK: Sugoi Zap Pack Cover

BEST MODELS: Best Backpack Rain Covers >>

PURPOSE: Keep your electronics, books or other items dry

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Depends on your needs

PRICE RANGE: $15 – $60

LOOK FOR: Seam seals and roll-top closure

OUR PICK: Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Sack 20L

PURPOSE: Lightweight shirt to protect you from the elements while keeping you cool

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Yes

PRICE RANGE: $15 – $100

LOOK FOR: Comfort, fit, and a quick-dry fabric (wool or synthetic)

OUR PICK: Columbia Plus Tamiami II Long Sleeve Shirt

BEST MODELS: Best Hiking Shirts of the Year >>

PURPOSE: Lightweight pants to protect you from the elements while keeping you cool

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Yes

PRICE RANGE: $20 – $100

LOOK FOR: Comfort, fit, and a quick-dry fabric (wool or synthetic)

OUR PICK: Outdoor Research Men’s Ferrosi Pants

BEST MODELS: Best Hiking Pants of the Year >>

PURPOSE: Keep you warm in cool weather

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Yes

PRICE RANGE: $80 – $200

LOOK FOR: Breathable materials and weight appropriate to your use

OUR PICK: Outdoor Research Men’s Ferrosi Hoody

BEST MODELS: Best Softshell Jackets of the Year >>

PURPOSE: Prevent sunburn on your head and prevent glare

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: No

PRICE RANGE: $10 – $50

LOOK FOR: Quick drying, breathable material with a broad brim for maximum sun protection

OUR PICK: Tilley Endurables LTM6 Airflo

BEST MODELS: Best Hiking Hats of the Year >>

PURPOSE: Keep your lower body warm and dry

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Yes

PRICE RANGE: $20 – $100

LOOK FOR: Comfort, breathability, quick-dry material

OUR PICK: Craft Men’s Active Extreme

BEST MODELS: Best Long Johns of the Year >>

PURPOSE: Keep your upper body warm and dry

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Yes

PRICE RANGE: $30 – $120

LOOK FOR: Warmth, breathability and quick-dry fabric

OUR PICK: Tasc Performance Men’s Level B

BEST MODELS: Best Base Layers of the Year >>

PURPOSE: Keep your lower body warm

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Yes

PRICE RANGE: $40 – $200

LOOK FOR: Comfort, warmth and breathability

OUR PICK: Outdoor Research Men’s Cirque

BEST MODELS: Best Hiking Pants of the Year >>

PURPOSE: Keep your upper body warm

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Yes

PRICE RANGE: $50 – $200

LOOK FOR: Comfort, warmth and breathability

OUR PICK: The North Face Men’s Denali 2

BEST MODELS: Best Fleece Jackets of the Year >>

PURPOSE: Keep your hands warm

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: No

PRICE RANGE: $20 – $150

LOOK FOR: Goof fit, warmth and dexterity

OUR PICK: Outdoor Research Men’s Alti

BEST MODELS: Best Hiking Gloves of the Year >>

PURPOSE: Prevent heat loss and keep you warm

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: No

PRICE RANGE: $20 – $75

LOOK FOR: Comfort, breathability and warmth

OUR PICK: Mountain Hardwear Dome Perignon

BEST MODELS: Best Hiking Hats of the Year >>

PURPOSE: Keep your upper body warm

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: No

PRICE RANGE: $80 – $400

LOOK FOR: Comfort, fit, warmth, and weight of down

OUR PICK: Patagonia Down Sweater Hoodie

BEST MODELS: Best Down Jackets of the Year >>

PURPOSE: Keep your lower body dry and protected from the wind

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Yes

PRICE RANGE: $40 – $300

LOOK FOR: Good fit, breathable, sealed seams, and ability to be put on over boots

OUR PICK: Patagonia Torrentshell

BEST MODELS: Best Hiking Rain Pants of the Year >>

PURPOSE: Keep your upper body dry and protected from the wind

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Yes

PRICE RANGE: $50 – $400

LOOK FOR: Good fit, breathable, sealed seams and a hood

OUR PICK: Marmot Men’s Minimalist

BEST MODELS: Best Hiking Rain Jackets of the Year >>

PURPOSE: Protect your feet and provide stability

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Depends on the type of hiking

PRICE RANGE: $75 – $300

LOOK FOR: Sturdy, comfortable boots that fit well and aren’t too heavy

OUR PICK: Salomon Men’s Quest 4D 2 GTX Hiking Boots

BEST MODELS: Best Hiking Boots of the Year >>

PURPOSE: Protect your feet while providing excellent flexibility

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Depends on the type of hiking

PRICE RANGE: $50 – $300

LOOK FOR: Comfortable fit

OUR PICK: Scarpa Men’s Crux

BEST MODELS: Best Approach Shoes of the Year >>

PURPOSE: Cool, lightweight footwear that still protects against the elements

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Depends on the type of hiking

PRICE RANGE: $40 – $200

LOOK FOR: Comfortable fit, sturdy construction, toe protection

OUR PICK: KEEN Men’s Arroyo II

BEST MODELS: Best Hiking Sandals of the Year >>

PURPOSE: Keep your feet warm, cushioned and dry

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Yes, if not wearing sandals

PRICE RANGE: $10 – $30

LOOK FOR: Cushioning, appropriate cut for your shoes

OUR PICK: Darn Tough Vermont Men’s 1/4 Merino Wool Cushion

BEST MODELS: Best Hiking Socks of the Year >>

PURPOSE: Protect your lower legs from vegetation and snake bite

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: No

PRICE RANGE: $40 – $150

LOOK FOR: Comfortable fit, secure fastening and tough, waterproof material

OUR PICK: Outdoor Research Crocodile

BEST MODELS: Best Hiking Gaiters of the Year >>

PURPOSE: Immediate treatment for minor injuries

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Yes

PRICE RANGE: $10 – $30

LOOK FOR: A kit containing essential items that isn’t too bulky

OUR PICK: Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight and Watertight Medical Kit .9

LEARN MORE: How to Make a First Aid Kit for Hiking

PURPOSE: Light a fire or stove

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: No

PRICE RANGE: $5 – $10

LOOK FOR: Compact, waterproof

OUR PICK: Zippo Emergency Fire Starter

PURPOSE: Provide illumination at night or in dim conditions

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: No

PRICE RANGE: $10 – $50

LOOK FOR: Good fit, excellent battery life and a high lumen light

OUR PICK: Black Diamond ReVolt

BEST MODELS: Best Hiking HeadLamps of the Year >>

PURPOSE: A handy tool for cutting, snipping or actions

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: No

PRICE RANGE: $20 – $100

LOOK FOR: Critical functions that matter to you, lightweight

OUR PICK: Victorinox Swiss Army SwissChamp

BEST MODELS: Best Survival Multi Tools of the Year >>

PURPOSE: Protect your skin from harmful UV rays

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Yes

PRICE RANGE: $5 – $15

LOOK FOR: High SPF rating, long lasting, and waterproof

OUR PICK: NO-AD Sun Care Sport Sunscreen Lotion

PURPOSE: Provide emergency services personnel with your location in the event of an emergency

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Depends on the terrain and remoteness of your hike

PRICE RANGE: $75 – $200

LOOK FOR: High quality materials, waterproof and compatible with local emergency services teams

OUR PICK: SPOT 3 Satellite GPS Messenger

PURPOSE: Protect your eyes from harmful UV rays and physical damage

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Yes

PRICE RANGE: $30 – $300

LOOK FOR: Good fit, sufficient physical protection and UV filtering

OUR PICK: Oakley Men’s Flak 2.0 XL

BEST MODELS: Best Hiking Sunglasses of the Year >>

PURPOSE: Keep yourself hydrated on the trail

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Yes

PRICE RANGE: $5 – $30

LOOK FOR: Strong, lightweight material with a secure opening

OUR PICK: Nalgene Tritan 32oz Wide Mouth BPA-Free Water Bottle

PURPOSE: Allow you to stay hydrated while on the move

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: No

PRICE RANGE: $20 – $40

LOOK FOR: High quality materials and sized to match your pack size and hydration needs

OUR PICK: CamelBak Crux Reservoir Set 2L

PURPOSE: Purify water in an emergency

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: No

PRICE RANGE: $15 – $50

LOOK FOR: Compact, effective construction

OUR PICK: LifeStraw

BEST MODELS: Best Water Filters of the Year >>

PURPOSE: Assist you in navigating off-trail or in poor conditions

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Depends on your style of hiking

PRICE RANGE: $10 – $30

LOOK FOR: Quality materials and lightweight

OUR PICK: Suunto A-10 A10 Recreational Field Compass

BEST MODELS: Best Hiking Compasses of the Year >>

PURPOSE: Prevent you from becoming lost

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Depends on your style of hiking

PRICE RANGE: $15 – $40

LOOK FOR: Clear markings, right region, water resistant paper

OUR PICK: Depends on the location of your hike

PURPOSE: Protect your map from the elements

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Depends on whether you take a map or not

PRICE RANGE: $5 – $20

LOOK FOR: Waterproof construction and clear materials

OUR PICK: SealLine Map Case

PURPOSE: Confirm your location in remote areas

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: No

PRICE RANGE: $50 – $300

LOOK FOR: Good reputation, waterproof design, accurate indication and good battery life

OUR PICK: Garmin eTrex 30

BEST MODELS: Best Hiking GPS Units of the Year >>

PURPOSE: Notify others of your location

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Yes

PRICE RANGE: $5 – $15

LOOK FOR: Compact size and loud whistle

OUR PICK: HEIMDALL Safety Whistle

PURPOSE: Provide you with information such as time, altitude and barometric pressure

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: No

PRICE RANGE: $50 – $500

LOOK FOR: Quality, waterproof construction and a good fit

OUR PICK: Garmin fēnix 3 Sapphire

BEST MODELS: Best Hiking Watches of the Year >>

PURPOSE: Storage of waste, for disposal on your return

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Yes

PRICE RANGE: $5 – $10

LOOK FOR: Sturdy materials

OUR PICK: Base CampSource Odor-Barrier Bag

PURPOSE: Capture memories of your hike

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: No

PRICE RANGE: $200 – $2000

LOOK FOR: Compact size, high quality and preferably weather resistant

OUR PICK: Sony Alpha a6300

PURPOSE: Protect your skin from being bitten or stung by insects

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: Depends on the location of your hike and time of year

PRICE RANGE: $5 – $15

LOOK FOR: Trusted brand, preferably with a high proportion of DEET

OUR PICK: Repel 100 Insect Repellent

PURPOSE: Observe animals, birds or other natural features at a distance

ESSENTIAL ITEM?: No

PRICE RANGE: $30 – $100

LOOK FOR: Good zoom, compact size, weather resistant

OUR PICK: Bushnell 138005

BEST MODELS: Best Compact Binoculars of the Year >>

PURPOSE:  Control Bouyancy Underwater & Keep You Floating At Surface

PRICE RANGE:  $250 – $800

LOOK FOR:  Comfort, Fit, Accessory Clips

OUR LOCAL DIVING PICK:   Aqualung HD Pro 

OUR TRAVEL PICK:  Cressi Travelight BCD

LEARN MORE:  How To Choose A BCD >>

BEST MODELS:  Best Scuba BCDs Of The Year >>

PURPOSE:  Makes It Possible To Breath From Tank

PRICE RANGE:  $150 – $1,300

LOOK FOR:  Ease of Breathing, Quality Materials & Construction

OUR LOCAL DIVING PICK:   Atomic Z3 Regulator 

OUR TRAVEL PICK:  Apex Flight

LEARN MORE:  How To Choose A Diving Regulator >>

BEST MODELS:  Best Diving Regulators Of The Year >>

PURPOSE:  In Case You Need To Share Air With Your Buddy

PRICE RANGE:  $150 – $900

LOOK FOR:  Ease Of Breathing, Quality Materials & Construction

OUR LOCAL DIVING PICK:  Atomic Z3 Octo 

OUR TRAVEL PICK:  Mares Instinct Octo

LEARN MORE:  How To Choose A Regulator >> 

BEST MODELS:  Best Regulators Of The Year >>

 

PURPOSE:  Measure Remaining Air In Tank And Your Depth

PRICE RANGE:  $80 – $150

LOOK FOR:  Compact Design & Quality Build

OUR LOCAL DIVING PICK:  Cressi Sub 200 

BEST MODELS:  Best Scuba Gauges Of The Year >>

PURPOSE:  Allows You To See Underwater

PRICE RANGE:  $50 – $250

LOOK FOR:  Fit To Face & Comfort

OUR LOCAL DIVING PICK:   Scubapro Synergy Trufit Mask 

LEARN MORE:  How To Choose A Diving Mask >>

BEST MODELS:  Best Diving Masks Of The Year >>

PURPOSE:  Allows You To Move Underwater

PRICE RANGE:  $50 – $300

LOOK FOR:  Efficient Design, Comfort & Fit

OUR LOCAL DIVING PICK:  Mares Avanti Quattro Plus Fin 

OUR TRAVEL PICK:  Mares Wave Fin

LEARN MORE:  How To Choose Diving Fins >>

BEST MODELS:  Best Diving Fins Of The Year >>

PURPOSE:  Calculate No Decompression Limits, Dive Time and No Flight Time

PRICE RANGE:  $200 – $1,500+

LOOK FOR:  Accuracy, Ease Of Use, Readability 

OUR PICK:  Shearwater Research 

OUR BACKUP COMPUTER PICK:  Suunto Zoop Novo

LEARN MORE:  How To Choose A Dive Computer >>

BEST MODELS:  Best Dive Computers Of The Year >>

PURPOSE:  Carry All The Gear You Need To Survive On The Trail

PRICE RANGE:  $150 – $400

LOOK FOR:  Comfort When Carrying Heavy Loads & A Good Fit

OUR SOFT WEIGHT PICK:  Sea Pearls Soft Mesh Weights 

OUR HARD WEIGHT PICK:  Vinyl Coat Lace Through Weight

OUR WEIGHT BELT PICK:  Riffe Rubber Weight Belt

 

PURPOSE:  Carry Air Underwater

PRICE RANGE:  $150 – $400

LOOK FOR:  Quality Materials & Construction

OUR ALUMINUM PICK:   Luxfor Brush Aluminum Tank 

OUR STEEL PICK:  Faber FX Steel Blue 

BEST MODELS:  Best Dive Tanks Of The Year >>

PURPOSE:  Keep You Warm While Underwater & Protect Skin 

PRICE RANGE:  $80 – $500

LOOK FOR:  Comfort, Quality Neoprene, Strong Zippers

OUR 3MM PICK:  Cressi Lido Shorty 

OUR 5MM PICK:  ScubaPro Everflex

OUR 7MM PICK:  Xcel Polar Thermoflex

LEARN MORE:  How To Choose A Diving Wetsuit >>

BEST MODELS:  Best Diving Wetsuits Of The Year >>

PURPOSE:  Alternative To Wetsuit For Cold Water Diving

PRICE RANGE:  $800 – $2500+

LOOK FOR:  Comfort, Fit, Accessory Clips

OUR DRY SUIT PICK:  DUI Drysuit 

BEST MODELS:  Best Diving Drysuits Of The Year >>

THERMO LAYERS:  Best Drysuit Thermo Layers Of The Year >>

 

PURPOSE:  Keep Hands Warm Underwater

PRICE RANGE:  $15 – $50

LOOK FOR:  Warmth & Quality Construction

OUR PICK:  NeoSport Gloves 

BEST MODELS:  Best Dive Gloves Of The Year >>

PURPOSE:  Keep Feet Warm Underwater

PRICE RANGE:  $20 – $60

LOOK FOR:  Comfort & Quality Sole

OUR PICK:   NeoSport HiTop Zipper Boot 

BEST MODELS:  Best  Dive Boots Of The Year >>

 

PURPOSE:  Add Extra Layer Of Warmth 

PRICE RANGE:  $80 – $150

LOOK FOR:  Fit & Quality Of Neoprene

OUR PICK:  Aqualung Aquaflex Vest 

 

PURPOSE:  Breath With Head Underwater At The Surface

PRICE RANGE:  $20 – $50

LOOK FOR:  Easy Breathing & Quality Mouth Piece

OUR PICK:  Cressi Alpha Snorkel 

BEST MODELS:  Best Dry Snorkels Of The Year >>

 

PURPOSE:  Night Diving & See Into Cracks

PRICE RANGE:  $80 – $500+

LOOK FOR:  Beam Angle, Material Construction

OUR PICK:  Bigblue 1000 Lumen

BEST MODELS:  Best Dive Lights Of The Year >>

PURPOSE:  Cut Away Kelp Or Nets If You Become Entangled

PRICE RANGE:  $50 – $300

LOOK FOR:  Quality Material & Best Blade For Your Needs

OUR PICK:  Atomic Aquatics Ti6 Knife 

BEST MODELS:  Best Dive Knives Of The Year >>

PURPOSE:  Navigate Underwater

PRICE RANGE:  $50 – $150

LOOK FOR:  Easy To Read & High Tilt Compensation

OUR PICK:  Suunto SK7 Compass 

BEST MODELS:  Top Dive Compasses Of The Year

PURPOSE:  Replace Broken Parts Fast

PRICE RANGE:  $20 – $50

LOOK FOR:  Quality Replacement Pieces

OUR LOCAL DIVING PICK:  XS Scuba Save A Dive Kit 

 

PURPOSE:  Make Gear Repairs

PRICE RANGE:  $50 – $150

LOOK FOR:  Quality Tools & Organizing Case

OUR LOCAL DIVING PICK:  Deluxe Diver Tool & Repair Kit 

PURPOSE:  Hang Gear To Dry & Store

PRICE RANGE:  $20 – $50

LOOK FOR:  Non-Corroding & Strong

WETSUIT HANGER:  XS Scuba Folding Hanger 

BCD HANGER:  Underwater Kinetics BCD Hanger

ACCESSORY HANGER:  XS Scuba Accessory Hanger

PURPOSE:  Clean Algae, Bacteria, Chlorine, and Salt FromWetsuit & Drysuit 

PRICE RANGE:  $5 – $15

LOOK FOR:  Safe To Use On Neoprene

OUR PICK:  M Essential Wetsuit Shampoo 

PURPOSE:  Protects Wetsuit From Sand and Dirt and Keeps Car Clean

PRICE RANGE:  $20 – $30

LOOK FOR:  Converts To Wet Bag

OUR PICK:  COR Wetsuit Changing Mat 

 

PURPOSE:  Makes It Easier To Slide Mask On & Off

PRICE RANGE:  $5 – $10

LOOK FOR:  Comfortable

OUR PICK:  Mask Strap Wrapper 

 

PURPOSE:  Prevent Mask From Fogging Up

PRICE RANGE:  $5 – $10

LOOK FOR:  Non-toxic, Biodegradable & Alcohol free

OUR  PICK:  McNett Sea Drops 

 

PURPOSE:  Keep Track Of Dives

PRICE RANGE:  $10 – $30

LOOK FOR:  3 Ring Binder

OUR  PICK:  Diver Down Flag Dive Log 

EXTRA DIVE LOG PAGES:  Dive Log Refill Pages

 

PURPOSE:  Get Your Dive Buddies Attention

PRICE RANGE:  $3 – $10

LOOK FOR:  Quality Build

OUR PICK:   Trident Tank Banger 

 

PURPOSE:  Signal To Boats Where You Are Underwater

PRICE RANGE:  $20 – $100

LOOK FOR:  Easy To Use, Bright Color & Long

OUR PICK:   Scuba Choice 6′ Marker 

BEST MODELS:  Best SMBs of the Year >>

PURPOSE:  Attaches To SMB So It Can Be Deployed Underwater

PRICE RANGE:  $10 – $100

LOOK FOR:  Stainless Steel Carabiner, Sufficient Length

OUR LOCAL DIVING PICK:  Scuba Max Dive Reel 

OUR DIVE TRAVEL PICK:  Compact Finger Spool

 

PURPOSE:  Signal To Boats Where You Are 

PRICE RANGE:  $5 – $20

LOOK FOR:  Made To Be Used When Wet

OUR PICK:  Scuba Choice Whistle 

 

PURPOSE:  Small Injuries Or Stabilize Until Medical Care Arrives

PRICE RANGE:  $20 – $60

LOOK FOR:  Sufficient Supplies & Waterproof Container

OUR PICK:   Waterproof First Aid Kit 

 

PURPOSE:  Signal To Boats That You Are Underwater

PRICE RANGE:  $80 – $150

LOOK FOR:  Compact Design & Quality Build

OUR PICK:  Diver Below Inflatable Float 

 

PURPOSE:  Extra Air 

PRICE RANGE:  $200 – $300

LOOK FOR:  Fill Adapter, Connects To BCD

OUR PICK:  Spare Air 3000 Kit 

 

PURPOSE:  Communicate With Nearby Boats & Call For Help

PRICE RANGE:  $300 – $500

LOOK FOR:  Transmit Your GPS position & Summon Help

OUR PICK:   Nautilus Lifeline GPS Device

 

PURPOSE:  Carry All You Need For Diving

PRICE RANGE:  $50 – $400

LOOK FOR:  Sufficent Space & Quality Materials

OUR PICK:  Cressi Moby 

BEST MODELS: Best Dive Bags Of The Year >>

 

PURPOSE:  Protect Your Regulator While Traveling

PRICE RANGE:  $20 – $50

LOOK FOR:  Padding & Quality Materials

OUR PICK:   Akona Regulator Bag 

PURPOSE:  Protects Your Dive Computer & Instruments While Traveling

PRICE RANGE:  $20 – $50

LOOK FOR:  Padding & Quality Materials

OUR PICK:  Cressi Instrument Bag 

 

PURPOSE:  Carry & Store Your Weights

PRICE RANGE:  $20 – $60

LOOK FOR:  Strong Materials & Sufficient Space

OUR PICK:  Akona Weight Bag 

 

PURPOSE:  Protect Your Mask While Traveling

PRICE RANGE:  $20 – $40

LOOK FOR:  Padding & Compact Size

OUR PICK:   Akona Mask Bag 

 

Unlike a wetsuit that traps a bit of water in the suit, then uses your body heat to warm the water, a dry suit does the opposite, it seals you off from the water. These suits are certainly more expensive than a wetsuit and will keep you warm and comfortable underwater. If you plan to dive a lot in cold water, seriously consider investing in a dry suit.

Fit is extremely important to make sure you’re comfortable in the suit and is one of the top factors when choosing one. DUI drysuits offer more size and style options than any other manufacturer. They aren’t cheap but a good quality drysuit will last you for years, making it a worth while investment.

Best Drysuits of the Year >>

The drysuit keeps water out but it’s only a shell, like a rain jacket. To make sure you stay warm, you’ll need to layer up. Fourth Element’s Xerotherm base layers are made using a special material which was originally developed for NASA, the base layer traps a layer of air (a much better insulator than water) next to the skin, keeping you drier and more comfortable.

Best Drysuit Undergarments of the Year >>

Drysuit gloves work by forming a seal against the wrist seals of the dry suit. Most gloves use a ring system to attach the gloves but some companies have developed their own way to do it. For those diving with a DUI suit, your drysuit has a ZipSeal system which means you can use DUI ZipGloves to keep your hands warmer and drier than any other dry glove system.

A diving hood prevents you from loosing heat from your head which is especially important in very cold water. There are hoods that are specifically designed to be worn with a drysuit.

Many drysuits come with an attached soft sock that’s designed to be worn with a rugged overboot. For walking on rocky shores as well as slippery docks, a good pair of drysuit boots is a must. It’s also much cheaper to replace the boot than it is to repair a puncture in a drysuit.

It’s possible to dive comfortably in cold water, but you’ll need a good wetsuit. I personally use an Xcel Thermoflex 7/6which has a TDC (Thermo Dry Celliant) inner lining that recycles your body heat into infrared energy for greater warmth, increased endurance and faster recovery. It also has drylock wrist seals that keep more water out and form a snug, comfortable seal.

Best Diving Wetsuits of the Year >>

Gloves are a small piece of gear that can make a big difference when it comes to staying warm underwater. Warmth and dexterity are the main factors you’ll be concerned about when you decide to buy. Fourth Elements gloves use stretch neoprene with glued, stitched and welded seams to give a close fit that almost eliminates the entry of water, whilst maximizing flexibility and warmth.

Best Diving Gloves of the Year >>

For cold water, booties are a must! If you do a lot of shore diving, look into getting a pair that has a thick sole so you won’t feel the sharp rocks when you get in and out of the water.

Best Diving Boots of the Year >>

One of the best ways to add warmth to your wetsuit set up is a hooded vest. The 6mm Aqua Lung vest is made with various thicknesses of super-stretch neoprene to provide maximum insulation in high heat-loss areas, while making the vest easy to put on and take off.

In extremely cold water, the scuba regulator air valve can freeze when the moisture in the diver’s breath touches the cold regulator, causing it to free flow. To be sure this doesn’t happen to you, use a regulator that is specifically designed for cold water diving. The Atomic M1 regulator uses state-of-the-art metals specifically chosen for extreme diving situations.

An issue that’s common with cold water diving is that your air runs out quicker than it would in warm water. Having a safety back-up air supply is the best way to avoid this dangerous situation. Spare Air is the smallest redundant SCUBA system available with enough air to get you to the surface in an out-of-air emergency. It’s always nice to have some added peace of mind!

 

We use and recommend Cressi’s Travelight, it’s light but still has all the features of a traditional BCD. Other great options are the Aqualung Zuma and the ScubaPro X-One. All of these options fold down small, saving you lots of room.  

Best Scuba BCDs of the Year >>

Aqualung’s Mikron, Apex Flight and Atomic Aquatics T3 are all great travel regs because they are lightweight all while maintaining high quality and durability. Braided hoses also help cut down on weight and are more flexible, which allows them to pack easier than traditional hoses.  

Best Diving Regulators of the Year >>

Full gauge consules can be very bulky and heavy. Traveling with a small pressure gauge like this Cressi Mini SPG can save you some serious weight.

Best Scuba Gauges of the Year >>

Aqualung Hot Shot and Hollis F2 fins are designed to fit into carry on sized luggage.

Best Diving Fins of the Year >>

If traveling to a warm water destination you can consider taking full foot fins and leaving your booties behind. For longer trips, especially in cold water, booties help keep you warm and prevent the painful blisters that full foot fins can give you.

Best Dive Boots of the Year >>

If you are planning on renting most of your gear I do recommend you consider getting your own mask. A poorly fitting rental mask that leaks or cases you pain can ruin a dive.

Best Diving Masks of the Year >>

Best Dry Snorkels of the Year >>

A dive computer is another one of those pieces of gear it’s just so much better to have your own. You don’t want to be guessing what some alarm or setting means while you are underwater. Many companies are designing watch style computers such as the ScubaPro Meridian.

Best Dive Computers of the Year >>

Best Air-Integrated Dive Computers of the Year >>

If you are planning in diving in strong currents, gloves can save your hands from getting torn up while hanging on to rocks.

Best Diving Gloves of the Year >>

Traveling with a wetsuit can be a pain because of the bulkiness of it. However, it can be worth it to have the peace of mind that you have a suit that fits you well and will keep you warm when it comes time for your dives.

Best Diving Wetsuits of the Year >>

Surface markers and whistles help the boat captain find you if you need to before the rest of your group.

Best Diving SBMs of the Year >>

If you are planning on night diving it’s best to bring your own light.

Best Dive Lights of the Year >>

To transport your gear from to the dive resort or boat it’s handy to have a mesh bag like this ScubaPro Mesh Backback Sack Bag.