Between the nineteen fifties and nineteen seventies when diving began to become more and more popular scuba diving equipment was basically hand crafted out of materials by the enthusiasts that loved to dive. As the love has grown it is now considered a sport and equipment is made for the scuba diver. The pioneers set the pace and current divers are reaping the benefits.

To effectively dive you will need to basic equipment that is basic. You can rent this equipment for a local or resort diving experience or you could fall in love with the sport and buy your own equipment to use whenever you want to. Here are some basic items that you will be geared with for the new diver.

A regulator, a console and the depth gauge are the first three items you will be shown. Each of these three items works together and you will be shown in detail how to use each component. You can also expect your instructor to show you how to use all of this.

You will also be using a dive tank cylinder. You will not only learn how to use you cylinder but also how to hook up the other equipment previously learned about and how the gauge and the regulator all work together now that you have learned about their separate functions. This is the basics of the monitoring equipment when you are under water and you will learn more specifically about them with training.

Next is the dive mask and it is essential in your dive equipment. The mask allows you to see under water. Without it you cannot see at diving depths. It should fit very snug around your head that no water gets in the mask.

Lastly you will be fitted with a wet suit. Depending on where you live, or where you are diving, you will be given a suit based on your needs of water temperature. Even tropical water can expel the heat from your body so don't be fooled by the outside temperature. All water takes heat from your body and the suit protects your body from this happening.

Once you know the basics you are ready to get some good training. You will want a certified instructor that is patient with you and explains how to use the equipment in details. With the right training and the proper scuba diving equipment you will enjoy a great experience with the sport of scuba diving.

Will Kerfoot is a PADI qualified scuba diver and carries with him the latest in scuba diving equipment including the new dive flag which you can find out more about at http://www.thediveflag.com .