Breaking the Gear Stigma: Why Your Diving Equipment Doesn’t Have to Be Perfect

When I first got into diving, I thought I didn’t have the “right” gear. In fact, I didn’t even own a wetsuit until recently (thank you Mumma and Dad for the lovely birthday prezzie!). My mask and snorkel were hand-me-downs—the kind you might find tucked away in the back of an old dive bag sitting in the garage. And my fins? Short, stubby training fins made for swimming pools- hardly the sleek, professional-looking ones I thought I’d need to fit in.

But here’s the thing: none of that mattered. I still showed up, I still went diving, and most importantly—I still had fun.

When you’re new to diving, it’s easy to feel like you’re on the outside if you don’t have the “right” kit. There’s this silent pressure to show up in matching, top-of-the-line gear and feel polished before you’ve even gotten in the water. But here’s the truth I’ve learned:

Gear Doesn’t Define Your Passion.

The best thing you can bring to a dive is not a high-end wetsuit or a designer mask—it’s your curiosity, your courage, and your respect for the ocean. Your gear is just a tool to help you explore, not a badge of worth.

That’s why I’ve come to embrace the beauty of the in-between stage—where your gear might be second-hand, gifted, or mismatched. It’s part of the journey. You’re allowed to grow into your dive kit over time. You’re allowed to love the gear that got you started, even if it wasn’t perfect.

 

 

Sustainable, Second-Hand, and Story-Filled

Let’s be real—dive gear isn’t cheap. Buying second-hand can be an empowering, eco-conscious way to start or expand your collection. As long as the gear is well cared for and properly serviced (especially life-support gear like regs and tanks), it can be just as safe and effective as buying new.

And let’s not forget: second-hand gear often carries a story. Every little scratch or sun-faded strap comes with a bit of history. Some of my favourite pieces have come with tales of coral reefs, training dives, or deep-sea adventures from the people who wore them before me.

We’re big on sustainability here at Dive Like a Girl NZ. Whether you're rocking well-loved gear or investing in pieces that will last you a lifetime, what matters is that it supports your diving journey and doesn’t cost the earth—literally or financially.

Creating an Inclusive Gear Culture

There’s absolutely nothing wrong with wanting high-quality, fresh-out-the-box divewear. In fact, we’re working on our very own line of dive wear and apparel that’s made to be eco-conscious, inclusive, and designed by women who dive. Our goal is to create gear that feels as good as it looks, for all kinds of divers—at every stage of their journey.

But just as importantly, we want to create a culture where every diver feels welcome and seen. You don’t need to “look the part” to belong. You just need to show up, be kind, and love the ocean.

 

Sam rocking all borrowed gear!

 

Want to Shop Smart and Sustainably?

We even have a section in our Mermaids Club where members can connect, swap, and sell used gear within a trusted community. This helps lower the financial barrier to entry and keeps gear in circulation—making diving more accessible, affordable, and sustainable.

 

 

If you’re buying second-hand gear, ask smart questions:

• How often has it been used?
• Is there any visible damage or wear?
  
• Is it compatible with my current setup?
  
• When was it last serviced? (especially for regs & tanks)
  In New Zealand, tanks must be hydro tested every 2 years and visually inspected annually. Regs should be serviced yearly by a technician. Your safety is everything.
  

 

Whether you’re diving in fresh gear or a pre-loved setup, what matters most is your willingness to learn, dive, and connect with others that truly matters. So don’t wait for the “perfect” setup to dive. Dive with what you’ve got. Show up anyway. That’s the Dive Like a Girl spirit.

Because no matter what gear you’re in—you belong here in our amazing, diverse and welcoming diving community x

 

 

Author: Samantha Dutton

DLGNZ Volunteer Ambassador- Whangarei