Where to buy gear in Orlando, FL?

[Ellusionz]

I'm considering buying some snorkeling equipment here before we go on the cruise. Anyone know any local shops that don't charge outrageous prices? Not looking for a professional set, just a basic beginners one. Or do y'all think they might have good enough sets at our first stop at St. Martin on Orient Beach?

[Islandbear]

I would defiantly expect to pay less in Orlando than in the islands. Everyone has an opinion but here is mine.

 

Since you just want a beginners set-up. I would head to a Big Box Sporting Store first and look at the US Diver "like" sets. Snorkel, Mask, Fins, and a Mesh Bag for under $50. Stay away from any set that says ONE SIZE FIT ALL, they don't. If the package can't be opened and tries on go to another store.

 

Look for soft comfortable medium size fins. Remember your going to have to pack them and your not diving with Whale Sharks.

 

A snorkel with a small silicone flap the size of a dime in the mouth piece that will let you clear the water out and an incredibly complicated collection of Chinese plastic engineering at the top of the to be to keep water from getting in.

 

Now the most important item and the one you need to try on, The Mask.

Fist here is a hint if you are a 250 pound man with a broad face look for a man's large mask set. If you are a little women... oh you get the idea. Look for masks with tempered glass lenses and soft silicone shells. The edge of the silicone shell that touches your face should have TWO ridges almost all the way around.

 

Put the mask to your face with out the straps, press gently and breath in through your nose. If the mask sticks to your face GREAT.

 

Now with no sucking with your nose or pushing against your face have someone else look at the fit to your face as you hold it GENTLY up. Does it "look" like it should fit you? Yes, GREAT.

 

 

If you don't feel good about what you are finding. Do yourself a favor and visit a dive shop click here: http://www.google.com/search?sourceid=navclient&ie=UTF-8&rlz=1T4GGLG_enUS315US315&q=orlando+dive+shops

 

Talk to them and see what a great fit they can make for under $100.

 

Some people buy a US Diver type set for the fins and snorkel and a good mask because of the fit. Keep the other mask for back-up.

 

Have fun and enjoy your self. Snorkeling is well worth the effort.