It’s that time of year again. There are parties to go to, decorations to put up, dinners to make, cards to send, carols to sing, and the Nutcracker….. Awe Heck…. Forget all that, just skip it and go diving!
Of course diving would be nicer with some new swag, but of course as divers we are all too stubborn to go buy new stuff because after all “this old gear can be fixed one more time at least”. Too bad we can’t figure out a good way to get someone else to buy it for us as a gift. Oh wait, what was that? What time of year is it again? Eureka! It’s gift giving time!
To that end here is a list of five great gift ideas you can send to family, relatives, friends, casual acquaintances, or just post on the internet (in the hopes one of those internet weirdos will buy a random someone a gift). These five things are going to be welcome upgrades to almost anyone’s dive gear, and as such make excellent ideas for gifts. (Even if you have to “gift” yourself one or three).
1. Mares Limited Edition X-Vision Ultra Mask with Chrome Plated Frame and Zippered Mask Case Celebrate diving history with this 70th anniversary edition of Mares top selling mask. Mares has increased the “cool” factor of one of the nicest masks in their lineup. In addition to the LiquidSkin, bi-silicone skirt which is 40% softer and 270% more elastic than other silicones, this edition comes with a limited edition frame, and upgraded case, for (get this) the same price as the standard edition! You effectively get to be “cooler” at no additional charge! When does that happen? Oh… by the way, it’s also a great mask with good visibility, fit, and a glare reducing lens. These won’t last long, pick them up at the shop while you can.
$79.95
2. Light & Motion SOLA Dive Lights some of the best dive lights on the market, these things are BRIGHT and super functional. If you aren’t familiar with these lights, we also need to talk about upgrading your Unisuit and horse-collar BCD too. Seriously though, these come in models with spotlights, floodlights, photo, video, red light, and even in a special fluorescence beam. Stop by Tacoma SCUBA to find out which one is best for your diver (or yourself).
$229.00 – $499.00
3. Aqua Lung Dive Knives, a knife for every need and budget, from utilitarian to super kick ass. They are perfect for extricating yourself from some discarded fishing line, or for killing that post-dive PB&J. Plus, you can strap one to your forearm to look just like a GI Joe man. Come check out our selection.
$35.00 – $199.00
4. Stahlsac Duffel Bags if you’re anything like us you can never have enough bags. Or, if you are like everybody else, you need all the help you can get in keeping your stuff together. These duffles are our favorites for keeping track of all the small things like computers, masks, and lights when diving locally, but are just as great for traveling, dive boats, and have even been used as emergency grocery bags in foreign countries (although I think they would work equally well at Fred Meyers). With these convenient sized mesh duffels haul your stuff, and not the water.
$39.95 – $69.95
5. Fourth Element Arctic Undergarments everyone wants to be warmer underwater, so get yourself some of the highest performers on the market. Provided your drysuit is actually dry, buying a quality undergarment is the biggest thing you can do to stay warmer underwater. Most folks have poor quality, worn out, or insufficient undergarments (I know a few divers who can check all three of those boxes). They try to compensate with an increasing quantity of fleece shirts and vests. This is never going to work as well as a purpose designed undergarment. While they will keep you warm underwater, and make you look like a cutting edge submariner on the dive site, just please don’t be the guy who wears them to the pub post-dive. Somehow all the cool factor goes away at the restaurant door. These suits offer great flexibility and warmth while still being low volume and form fitting.
$41.00 – $369.00
There you have it. Five items that should be on every divers wish list, and in every diver’s gear bag. If you have all five already, remember… you can always use a backup. Seriously though, we’ve been using these products here at Tacoma SCUBA for many years now. All these products have held up well, and the companies have handled any warranty/repair issues promptly and efficiently. This selection should last you long enough, to provide many many enjoyable dives. If you are reading this and are not a diver, I’m assuming someone you know slipped you this article. Please take it as a hint that they are not interested in socks and underwear this holiday season. If you are a diver, remember… wrap the package, put it under the tree marked “From Santa“… and act surprised at the gift you bought yourself.
Until next time, have a Merry Christmas, and Dive Safe.
