Best Scuba Gear for Beginners (2026) | Complete Sets for Your First Kit
Written by our lead diver at Scuba Space, a PADI Master Scuba Diver and Law Enforcement Public Safety Diver with 12+ years of professional underwater operations experience.
If you’re hunting for the best scuba gear for beginners to level up your diving experience, you’ve landed in the right spot.
There are so many options, brands, and price points that it can feel impossible to know where to start. This article is for all the new divers out there who want to move beyond rental gear but don’t want to break the bank or buy the wrong thing.
Whether you’re a vacation diver or an aspiring future instructor, we’ve got the details on our top picks that you can check out today.
So, let’s not waste anymore time and get into it!
If you’re unsure about what each piece of equipment does, check this guide out:
*Scuba Space is a participant of affiliate programs and earns from qualified purchases*
Assembling Your First Kit
There are five pieces of equipment that we think make up the core of your diving kit: BCD, regulator, computer, mask, and fins. These are the pieces that make diving possible, and owning your own ensures a perfect fit and familiarity.
We’ve put together two sets of options here that we think will suit most beginner divers out there. The first set is a budget set that’s perfect for divers who are just starting out and want to own reliable gear without a huge initial investment. The second set is a value set for divers that are already committed to diving and want a kit that will grow with them for many years
We don’t recommend getting a high-end set for beginners ‘cus you won’t know what you like at this point in your diving journey. You’ll spend a ton of money only to end up wanting to change to something else later. We’re not gonna be giving you any recommendations in this area.
Quick Comparison
Before we get into the depths, here’s a quick look at how our top picks stack up. Peek at the table below then dive into the full reviews for all the spicy details. Click those links if you see something you like!
| BCD | Regulator | Computer | Mask | Fins | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | Cressi Start | Cressi AC2 + XS2 | Cressi Leonardo 2.0 | Cressi F1 | TUSA Solla |
| Value | Aqualung Wave | Mares Rover 15X | Shearwater Peregrine | SCUBAPRO Spectra | Mares Avanti Quattro + |
The Budget Set
These are workhorse pieces that will get you in the water safely and comfortably.
You’ll notice a reoccurring theme of Cressi products. That’s ‘cus Cressi makes quality products that dominate at this price point.
Budget Set Quick Glance
Here’s a quick list of the budget picks:
| Image | Product | Details | Links |
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| Amazon |
Cressi Start Pro
4.6
- Denier Nylon Cordura is more resistant to erosion caused by long-term friction and extends the duration of the weldings.
- Waist strap is independent of the air bladder. The strap can be tightened while the jacket is deflated without squeezing the diver's stomach when the jacket is inflated.
- Inflator with double air filtration system; under the hose connection stem and around the valve.
The Cressi Start Pro was designed primarily as a rental BC for resorts and dive school. You know what that means? It was designed to handle a beating and you can be sure it’ll last you until you’re ready to upgrade (or probably forever).
Its bullet-proof construction consists of using 500 Denier Cordura on the outside panel and 420 Denier on the inside. Cordura is more resistant to erosion caused by long-term friction and extends the duration of the weldings, as it is harder than Nylon.
The design is simple yet functional. The BCD streamlines by giving you just the necessities, which unfortunately means it doesn’t have an integrated weight system. Its waist strap is independent of the air bladder and cummerbund to prevent constriction while the jacket is inflated and it even includes a safety strap to anchor the jacket to the valve.
Our favorite feature, though, is probably the built-in gauge and octopus holders. We all know how important trim is when diving and having these hoses out of the way will ensure you have drag equivalent to a race car.
| Size | Buoyancy (lbs) | Buoyancy (kg) |
| XS | 29.2 lbs | 13.3 kg |
| S | 31.5 lbs | 14.3 kg |
| M | 42.7 lbs | 19.4 kg |
| L | 50.6 lbs | 22.9 kg |
| XL | 50.6 lbs | 22.9 kg |
Cressi AC2 + XS2
4.7
- Entry-level regulator designed for beginners and rental operations. Extremely simple and strong, features that make it easy to use and result in low-cost maintenance.
- AC2 with a conical filter with great filtering capacity, essential to prevent the entry of particles from the bottles.
- External regulation LP by means of a hexagonal key greatly facilitates the management of revisions and maintenance to the technical services.
The Cressi AC2 + XS2 is described by the company as “a no-frills regulator for dive school and rental use.” It’ i’s a great choice for beginner divers or as a stage bottle regulator system.
The 1st stage reg (Cressi AC2) features a straightforward unbalanced piston design that is easy to service. It’s suitable for water temps above 10°C (Certification EN 250/2014 A) and has an electroless nickel-plated construction. There’s 1 HP port and 4 LP ports, making it ideal for divers who don’t rely on an air-integrated computer. This traditional 1st stage delivers a no-frills, dependable breathing experience, perfect for high-frequency recreational dives.
The 2nd stage (Cressi XS2) features an adjustable Venturi system with two modes: pre-dive mode minimizes free-flows at the surface, while dive mode optimizes airflow for underwater performance. It’s made of durable, non-corrosive hi-tech polymers and has a dependable downstream demand valve mechanism. It also comes with a comfortable silicone mouthpiece.
With its traditional design, ease of maintenance, and cost-effective price point, we think the AC2 + XS2 is a practical choice for entry-level divers.
Cressi Leonardo 2.0
4.2
- Single button Dive Computer makes it effortless to set Air, Nitrox and Gauge modes. Ideal for beginners in Scuba Diving.
- FO2 adjustable between 21% and 50%. PO2 adjustable between 1.2 bar and 1.6 bar. CNS oxygen toxicity graphic indicator.
- Three levels of user adjustable conservatism. Visual and distinct, easy-to-hear audible alarms
The Cressi Leonardo 2.0 was built with simplicity and safety in mind. It can easily manage your dive plan from start to finish.
The dive watch features a large edge-to-edge display that lets you check important dive data quickly and an intuitive single-button navigation that makes even first-timer feel comfortable accessing their dive data.
The Leonardo uses the advanced Cressi RGBM Algorithm to calculate time on the surface, no-fly intervals, and desaturation. It’s got a replaceable protective screen cover that keeps the display clear and easy to read. It also uses a user-replaceable CR 2430 battery to minimize downtime.
The Cressi app lets you analyze and store your dive data. You upload the data via Bluetooth to your Mac, PC, or smart device.
If you’ve ever used a rental computer, it was likely this one. Dive schools and rental operations love this thing because of its full data reset option, letting each new diver start with a fresh profile.
Editor’s Notes: I debated putting the Mares Puck 4 here ‘cus it was the computer that I used for a long, long time (original version). However, I felt that the single-button navigation was a bit cumbersome. I think the Leonardo having more buttons would appeal to a wider range of audience.
Color options include:
- Black / Black
- Black / Grey
- Black / Yellow
- Black / Blue
- Black / Pink
- Black / White
Cressi F1
4.5
- Frameless masks are loved by many divers for their low-profile and ability to fold flat for easy carrying, even in a BC pocket.
- Cressi’s frameless design bonds a high-grade silicone skirt directly to a single lens for the ultimate in simplicity.
- The lens is made of tempered glass and certified by the CE (Communauté Européenne).
The Cressi F1 is a frameless mask. This means the glass is incorporated directly into the silicone, without the need of a disturbing frame. Like most frameless masks, it can be folded completely flat for travel or to stash in your pocket as a backup. Very practical.
It’s made out of high-quality, very soft, and very comfortable liquid silicone. This silicone gently seals the mask to your face.
The F1 uses a single lens made out of tempered glass that’s certified by the CE (Communaute Europeene). The lens has a huge field of vision and there’s even a special blue and orange lens available.
There’s low internal volume, so you can easily clear it when needed. The frame is also out of the way, so you can quickly access your nose for equalization.
The mask uses precisely adjustable strap buckles that are flexibly attached to the silicone body.
Color options include:
- Black / Blue & Orange Lens
- Clear
- Yellow
- Blue
- Turquoise
- Silver
- Black
- White
- Pink
TUSA Solla
4.4
- Proprietary thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) compound precisely positioned in an advanced blade and foot pocket structure. ForcElast delivers superior propulsion, efficiency and speed even with moderate power input.
- Quick release buckles allow fins to be quickly and easily adjusted with minimal effort. Adjustment can be made while the fins are worn.
- The fin blade is angled at 20° improving forward propulsion by 10%.
The TUSA Solla is powered by ForcElast technology, which gives you unparalleled performance and efficiency previously unseen in a traditional blade fin. This tech is a proprietary thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) compound that’s precisely positioned in the blade and foot pocket structure. ForcElast delivers superior propulsion, efficiency, and speed, even with moderate power input.
The fin has an optimized three channel crescent shaped blade with reinforced side-rails and vents, and uses TUSA’s patented 20° Angled Blade Design (A.B.D.). These features stabilize water flow, enhancing your speed and efficiency in the water.
The fins are held in place using the company’s Anatomic Fin Strap (A.F.S.), which are shaped to significantly reduce heel slippage found in many standard flat fin straps. You can adjust the Solla’s using TUSA’s EZ strap and Buckle System with minimal effort. Adjustment can even be made while the fins are worn.
Color options include:
- Black / Black
- Blue / White / Clear
- Lime / Black
- White / Clear
- White / Black
| Size | Length | Weight / Fin |
| XS | 21.9″ | 1.7 lbs |
| S | 22.7″ | 1.8 lbs |
| M | 23.9″ | 2.0 lbs |
| L | 24.7″ | 2.2 lbs |
| XL | 24.7″ | 2.2 lbs |
The Value Set
This set offers a great blend of performance, features, and durability. These pieces are more expensive but are a smart investment for the serious hobbyist.
We went a little deep on the dive computer pick, but we had to. It’s that good of a computer.
Value Set Quick Glance
Here’s a quick list of the value picks:
| Image | Product | Details | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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| AmazonDRIS | |
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| AmazonDRIS | |
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| AmazonDRIS | |
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| AmazonDRIS | |
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| AmazonDRIS |
Aqualung Wave
5
- Features a buoyancy bag with a lift capacity ranging from 18 to 55 lbs (8.2 to 25kg), ensuring stable and controlled ascents and descents.
- Equipped with torso-adjustable shoulder straps featuring "Squeeze-Style" side-release buckles, providing a secure and personalized fit.
- Constructed with ResisteK material, stainless steel rings, and robust plastic components, ensuring long-lasting performance and resistance to wear and tear.
The Aqualung Wave is an entry-level, wrap-around, jacket-style BCD that has a sweet new look. The company designed its new yellow color for better visibility underwater.
The BCD looks good and will stay that way, thanks to Aqualungs new, technologically advanced ResisteK material. This material is resistant to fading and abrasion in salt water and chlorine. Aqualung has also included two stainless steel D-rings.
The jacket features a built-in handle that makes it easy to carry, an adjustable sliding chest strap that can be raised or lowered on a rail system, and an adjustable waistband to accommodate a wide range of sizes. This BCD also comes in a huge range of sizes from 3XS to XL.
Last but not least, you know we’re a fan of octo pockets and this jacket has three of them. This gives you versatile, functional stowage that suits your preferences. Our personal favorite is the octo sleeve that’s on the right shoulder strap.
There is no integrated weight system on this BCD.
Editor’s Note: I started with the Zeagle Express Tech. I really wanted to put it here. However, I believe a jacket-style BCD would serve a beginner better. The Express Tech was super bare-bones and I think having all the features (pockets, octo sleeves, etc) would just be more convenient. I know, I know. There are no integrated weights. But, this thing comes in a million sizes and I think finding the best fit is paramount.
| Size | Buoyancy (lbs) | Buoyancy (kg) |
| 3XS | 18.0 lbs | 8.2 kg |
| 2XS | 18.0 lbs | 8.2 kg |
| XS | 24.0 lbs | 10.9 kg |
| S | 27.0 lbs | 12.2 kg |
| M | 29.0 lbs | 13.2 kg |
| ML | 33.0 lbs | 15.0 kg |
| L | 44.0 lbs | 20.0 kg |
| XL | 55.0 lbs | 24.9 kg |
Mares Rover 15X
4.6
- Set includes the 1st & 2nd stages with 80 cm rubber hose
- The 15X balanced membrane 1st stage features Dynamic Flow Control (DFC) for consistent airflow, with pre-oriented ports for easy octopus configuration and a durable sandblasted finish
- The Rover 2nd stage diving regulator features an oversized purge button with dynamic hinge design, ensuring easy purging and exceptional durability, even after 113,000 venting cycles
The Mares Rover 15X is a reliable diving companion. It comes in both INT and DIN versions that weigh 1107g and 933g respectively.
The 1st stage reg (Mares 15X) features a balanced diaphragm design made of sandblasted, chrome-plated marine brass. This environmentally-sealed design prevents water from entering, keeping contaminants like salt, sand, and chlorine at bay.
The 15X uses a dynamic flow control (DFC) system to minimizes pressure drop during inhalation, guaranteeing a stable air flow in even the most challenging conditions. It also has 4 LP and 2 HP ports for attaching pressure gauges or air-integrated consoles.
The 2nd stage reg (Mares Rover) is made of techno-polymer and delivers superior performance with Mares’ patented Vortex Assisted Design (VAD) system. This creates a swirling vortex that keeps the diaphragm down during inhalation, giving you smooth and easy breathing at any depth. The Rover also uses a Fluid Dynamic Deflector (FDD) to direct the airflow from the bypass tube to the mouthpiece to further enhance breathing.
We really like that this reg includes 2 HP ports so you can jump right into air-integrated computers.
Shearwater Peregrine
4.7
- Battery life per charge is up to about 30 hours on medium brightness level. USB-C wireless charging station is included.
- Customize your display with information important to you.
- Languages include: English, French, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, German, Portuguese, Korean, Japanese, Italian, and Spanish.
The Shearwater Peregrine features a 2.2″ LCD with vivid, enhanced color and saturation, and a 320 x 240 QVGA screen resolution. There are two 316 stainless steel buttons located on each side that help you easily navigate its state-aware menu structure. They sit just above where the 26 mm silicone band connects.
Its display is fully customizable so you can show the information that’s most important to you. Its got support for multiple languages and even comes with a screen protector.
The dive watch has full decompression support and uses the Buhlmann ZHL-16C+GF algorithm. Shearwater notes that the dive computer will never lockout for dive plan deviations.
Unlike the other computers on this list, the Peregrine doesn’t have a user-replaceable battery. Instead, it uses a Li-ion battery that can be charged on its included wireless stand. The battery is factory-replaceable.
The watch has a dive log capacity of 200 hours or 96 dive entries. You transfer the dive data to the Shearwater Cloud app through Bluetooth.
Unfortunately, no air integration in this version. You’ve gotta upgrade to the Shearwater Peregrine TX and pick up the Shearwater Swift Transmitter for that.
Color options include:
- Black / Cyan
- Adventures Edition Light
- Adventures Edition Dark
SCUBAPRO Spectra
4.4
- Crafted with tempered glass lenses, the low volume scuba mask gives a wide field of view; Mirrored lens option reduces glare
- EZ Equalize nose pocket makes simple work of equalizing
- Easily adjust the push-button buckles, which attach to the skirt, for optimal comfort
- Super comfortable and fits a variety of face shapes
The SCUBAPRO Spectra is a stellar mask that gives you a wide view and a comfortable water-blocking seal, plus it features an exclusive paint process that transforms your mask into stylish eyewear.
It uses a dual-lens design that’s low volume for easy clearings. Plus, it gives you maximum field of view. The Ultra Clear lenses are made from tempered glass for safety and long-term durability.
SCUBAPRO’s universal skirt design is super comfortable and fits a variety of face shapes. There’s even a special nose pocket design that makes easy work of equalizing.
Helping seal the mask to your face are a pair of swivel buckles. These buckles help you achieve the perfect fit and are easy to adjust, even while wearing thick diving gloves.
The mask is compatible with SCUBAPRO’s Comfort Strap and Neoprene Mask Strap. It’s also compatible with the SCUBAPRO Galileo HUD dive computer.
Color options include:
- Black
- White
- Red
- Black / Silver / Grey
- Bronze / Black
- Blue / Silver
- Blue
Check the link below to see it!
Mares Avanti Quattro +
4.7
- Unique four-rib structure creates an arched shape during each stroke, converting muscle energy into efficient thrust and enhancing propulsion for improved underwater performance
- Unique Channel Thrust inserts on these versatile open-heel fins enhance water flow, pushing more water with each kick.
- Constructed with a soft thermoplastic rubber foot pocket and a durable Tecralene blade deliver comfort and longevity
The Mares Avanti Quattro + are the most sold diving fins in the world and combine cutting-edge materials, increased performance, and a stylish design. Mares used countless computer simulations and field tests to perfect these fins.
The fin uses a four-channel design to arch during the fin stroke. This arching motion allows muscle power to efficiently be transformed into propulsive thrust that enhances overall performance. Mares calls this Channel Thrust technology. They focused on how water channeling could be improved and how “dead angles” of a fin stroke could be minimized.
The blades are made from Tecralene technopolymer and the foot pockets are made from thermoplastic. The foot pockets also feature perforations to prevent the “parachute effect” that’s often experienced with other fins. Your foot is held securely in place using a bungee strap. These straps have large grasp-loops for easy donning and doffing.
You’ll also find stabilizing trim tabs on the blades. These tabs were designed to improve stability and eliminate the ankle twisting phenomena.
Editor’s Notes: These are the fins that carried me through the first half of my diving career. They work awesome pretty much everywhere. The only reason I swapped them out was because they kept getting snagged on stuff at the bottom of lakes while I was conducting searches. This likely won’t be a problem for you. Get these guys. You’ll be happy for a long time.
Color options include:
- Black
- Lemon
- Reflex Yellow
- White
- Olive
- Aqua
- Reflex Blue
- Orange
| Size | Length (Blade) | Weight / Fin |
| XS | 13″ | Not Specified |
| S | 14.6″ | Not Specified |
| R | 15″ | 2.0 lbs |
| XL | 15.3″ | Not Specified |
The Premium Set
Editor’s Note: As noted earlier in the article, there will be no premium set recommendation. I strongly believe you should get some experience using basic sets before you go spending $$$ on high-end items. This will give you time to figure out what type of gear you like and what features you really need.
Wrapping Up
There you have it. Some of the best scuba gear for beginners, each set with its own perks.
Whether you’re fresh out of your PADI class or just want something sleek for your setup, there’s something here for you.
- The Budget Set: For divers who want to own reliable gear without a huge initial investment.
- The Value Set: For divers who want a kit they can grow into.
Remember, these are just OUR recommendations. The best gear is YOUR gear. A good fit is everything, and the right gear will make you a safer, more comfortable, and more confident diver.
So, what are you waiting for? Check out those links, snag your favorite, and get ready to dive in style!
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