If you have ever glanced through a sporting goods store, you will have probably noticed a significant amount of scuba diving apparel on the shelves. Some of these items will be rather snazzy in appearance and have the potential to make the wearer of the uniform to look somewhat dapper. Now, there is nothing wrong with this on the surface, but one should never take his or her eyes off the primary reason for scuba apparel and gear in general: the apparel serves the purpose of being able to safely and effectively scuba dive. In scuba diving, form must follow function and this notion extends to the purchasing of apparel as well.
The Function of Scuba Diving Apparel
When it comes to the purpose of scuba diving apparel, one must never take ones eyes off the fact that the primary purpose of scuba diving apparel is to provide the function of safety. For example, gloves are usually worn in order to keep one from suffering injury to one’s hands. There are a number of jagged structures underwater that could cause injury if touched and the use of gloves will protect one from lacerations. Additionally, there is also another huge reason that most scuba diving apparel is used. Gloves and headgear are designed to keep warmth from being lost through the extremities. Now, for those who prefer to swim in warm water areas, those who are interested in cold water diving will find the need to keep warm! Also, those who are interested in deep diving will also find a serious need for warmth. Keep in mind one does not have to travel to the North Pole to experience cold water conditions. Case in point: if one travels to the relatively warm climate of San Diego in the summer months of July and opts for a “deep dive” the 50 feet mark will yield some extremely cold water! Now, imagine what 99 feet will feel like. Without the proper apparel, the ability to enjoy such a dive will be very difficult to the seriously cold waters and environment.
So, if you wish to purchase apparel that looks great, there is nothing wrong with such a venture. However, you must be sure that whatever you are purchasing still maintains its primary function of serving the necessary purposes required for proper scuba diving. If it doesn’t, then its value is pretty minimal. Again, form must follow function.
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