## What to Wear to Scuba Diving Class
Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a complete novice, it’s important to have the right gear when you’re taking a scuba diving class. The right gear will help you stay comfortable, safe, and warm while you’re learning how to dive.
### Clothing
Swimsuit: A swimsuit is the most important piece of clothing you’ll need for scuba diving class. It should be comfortable and form-fitting, and it should not restrict your movement. Avoid wearing a swimsuit with too many loose straps or ruffles, as these can get caught on equipment.
Rash guard: A rash guard is a thin, long-sleeved shirt that can help protect your skin from the sun and jellyfish stings. It’s also a good idea to wear a rash guard if you’re prone to chafing.
Wetsuit or drysuit: A wetsuit or drysuit will help keep you warm while you’re diving. Wetsuits are made of neoprene, a type of foam that traps water against your body to create a layer of insulation. Drysuits are made of waterproof material and are completely sealed, so they keep you dry even in cold water.
The type of wetsuit or drysuit you need will depend on the water temperature where you’ll be diving. If you’re not sure what type of suit to get, ask your instructor for recommendations.
### Footwear
Dive boots: Dive boots are designed to protect your feet from sharp objects and cold water. They’re typically made of neoprene or rubber, and they have a non-slip sole.
Dive fins: Dive fins are used to propel you through the water. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so it’s important to choose a pair that is comfortable and fits well.
### Accessories
Mask: A mask is essential for scuba diving. It allows you to see clearly underwater, and it protects your eyes from the sun and water. Choose a mask that fits snugly on your face and has a wide field of vision.
Snorkel: A snorkel is a tube that allows you to breathe through your mouth while you’re swimming on the surface of the water. It’s not essential for scuba diving, but it can be helpful when you’re taking a break from diving or when you’re swimming back to the boat.
Buoyancy compensator device (BCD): A BCD is a vest that helps you control your buoyancy underwater. It’s inflated with air to make you more buoyant, and it can be deflated to make you less buoyant.
Dive weight belt: A dive weight belt is used to add weight to your body so that you can sink underwater. The amount of weight you need will depend on your body composition and the type of diving you’re doing.
Dive computer: A dive computer is a device that tracks your depth, time, and other dive data. It’s not essential for scuba diving, but it can be helpful for monitoring your progress and staying safe.
### Checklist
Here is a checklist of everything you’ll need for scuba diving class:
Swimsuit
Rash guard
Wetsuit or drysuit
Dive boots
Dive fins
Mask
Snorkel
Buoyancy compensator device (BCD)
Dive weight belt
Dive computer (optional)
### Tips
When choosing a wetsuit or drysuit, be sure to try it on before you buy it. It should fit snugly but not too tightly.
Make sure your dive boots are comfortable and fit well. They should not be too tight or too loose.
Choose a mask that fits snugly on your face and has a wide field of vision.
Be sure to try on your BCD before you buy it. It should fit snugly and be comfortable to wear.
If you’re not sure what size dive weight belt you need, ask your instructor for help.
A dive computer is not essential for scuba diving, but it can be helpful for monitoring your progress and staying safe.