Five Things to Look for in Dive ShopsGood dive shops are more valuable to a diver than their gear and all their scuba diving magazines combined. 1. Good PeopleThis one tops the list. You have to make sure you get along with the people in the dive shop. How do your personalities mix?Does the shop person take the time to answer your questions or does it seem like you’re more of an annoyance than a customer? How well does the shop person answer your questions? Remember that you’ll be taking all (or most) of your dive classes there and there’s a good chance you’re talking to your future dive instructor. Make sure that they seem genuinely interested in helping you out. 2. Good Equipment SelectionDoes the dive shop carry two brands of gear? Three? Four? I’m not trying to say that a dive shop needs to carry every brand under the sun, but I’d look for a shop that has three or four brands with a solid reputation.In addition, does the shop have lots of equipment in stock in a variety of sizes or do they only have one or two “demo” units and offer to order you your size? Dive equipment is expensive and it’s not unusual for dive shops to have to order something for you, but if the dive shop looks sparse it may be a sign of financial difficulties. There’s no sense building a relationship with a dive shop if the shop isn’t going to be around for long. 3. Certified Technicians On StaffAt some point in time (at least annually) you’re going to have to get your gear serviced.Does the dive shop have certified technicians on staff or do they outsource? On-staff technicians can mean a shorter turnaround time if you need your equipment fast. It also means that you’re more likely to get a straight answer on any technical questions you have about your gear. 4. Good Selection Of DivesHow often does the dive shop offer dive trips? Do they have weekly trips, biweekly trips, and/or monthly trips? Are the trips one-day two tank dives, weeklong trips to Cozumel, 3-day liveaboards, or a little bit of everything?One reason to build a relationship with a dive shop is to increase your diving experience and to meet local people with the same interests. A dive shop that has several trip options a month can help you do that much easier than dive shops that offers the same two-tank dive every month. 5. Nitrox ReadyNitrox is enriched air that has a higher percentage of oxygen than your standard air mix.It requires a special certification to use Nitrox (if you’re not certified, get it!) and it’s a bit more difficult to blend than your average air mix. Make sure the dive shop you chose is certified and capable of mixing Nitrox (and certifying you to dive Nitrox). Nitrox can increase your bottom time and make your dives more enjoyable. Make sure you have a dive shop that can supply you when you’re ready to take the plunge. Few things are as important as a good dive shop with a knowledgeable staff. Follow these five tips and you’re sure to find one that can make your diving journey a fun one. Return to Underwater Diving Equipment Home Page.
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