Scuba diving creates opportunities for people to view the marvelous realms beneath the sea by using specialized diving equipment. With snorkeling, the equipment involved is much less, as in most cases, you do not venture very far beneath the surface of the water. Basic snorkeling gear consists of a snorkel mask and fins. The snorkel mask is used for underwater breathing. It should fit snugly around your head comfortably, and enable you to breathe easily when under the water. If you wear prescription glasses, you can obtain a specialized snorkel mask to compensate for your prescription. Snorkeling fins should also fit snugly, without causing pain or discomfort to your feet. Fins which are too big will only slip off in the water and those that are too tight may cause cramps during your snorkeling venture. Some people also invest in a defogging product to keep the mask from fogging in the water, such as gel products, baby shampoo, etc.

Diving requires the use of much more extensive equipment than snorkeling, as you will be swimming further beneath the surface of the water for longer time periods. Scuba equipment helps your body to adapt to your underwater environment so you can enjoy your experience to the full while getting the protection you need. Without proper diving equipment, this sport would not be possible. Recreational diving equipment may consist of a scuba mask, snorkel, dive unit (regulator, tank and buoyancy device), wetsuit, fins, signaling device, dive light, etc. More advanced divers may include additional equipment such as dive watch, dive computer, weight systems, underwater digital photo system and more.

The most important piece of equipment for scuba diving is your dive unit which consists of a diving regulator, tank and buoyancy devices. Your scuba unit not only enables you to breathe effectively under the water for long time periods, but will facilitate your movements when diving. The buoyancy devices control your going down into the water, rising back up to the surface or merely floating in one spot as the need arises. A dive mask will provide good vision while under the water. A good wetsuit will help your body retain body heat underwater as well as protect you from scrapes and cuts during your dive. Safety accessories such as signaling devices and dive lights can be useful in the event of diving emergencies.

The more experience you gain in both of these sports, the more knowledgeable you will become about the equipment that you need. Scuba gear may vary depending on the environment where you dive. Your choice of scuba gear also will depend on your own personal preference. Tropical diving gear is best suited for warm water diving while cold scuba gear is designed for cooler water temperatures. Once you have established the kind of diving you want to do, you will be in a better position to invest in the appropriate gear to meet your need.