Scubapro vs Swim Outlet for January 2021

Item: Scubapro vs Swim Outlet
Rating: 4

Thursday, January 21st

2021 Scuba Store Reviews

Scubapro

Return Policy: 30 days on unused items in original packaging only.
No returns on used merchandise.

Some of the world's most experienced divers trust Scubapro for all of their scuba gear needs. You'll find the brand offered at multiple stores, including some in our review, but buying directly from the source ensures you'll get free shipping on your order. The company has a strong reputation for creating equipment suitable for novices to professionals.

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Swim Outlet

Return Policy: 30 days on items in new and unused condition

Swim Outlet is a top online destination for swimmers who need apparel and equipment, and they have a small selection of some of the basics of scuba gear: wetsuits, fins, dive computers and more. Shipping is free on orders over $49, and the site offers frequent discount promo codes to save you even more. In general, customers have good things to say about Swim Outlet, despite a less-than-perfect "B+" rating from the BBB. You won't find everything you need to scuba dive here, but this store is a good option if you just need a few basic items.

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More Scuba Store Reviews

The 6 Best Scuba Stores

Where Can You Find the Best Scuba Gear?

Just like most products, the answer to that question is "online!"

Gone are the days of struggling to get the right fins, weights, tanks and everything else you need from a local dive shop - if you could even find one within a reasonable driving distance! Instead, with just a few clicks, you can have your scuba gear on its way to your house, all ready for your next underwater adventure.

Continue reading below

Scuba Store FAQ

What are the most essential items to have when shopping for scuba gear?

Your basic equipment will include a mask, a regulator (i.e. the mouthpiece) and tank, and fins. Optional items include a wetsuit (not so optional if you're diving in cold water!), weights to help you stay below the surface more easily, an underwater camera, and anything else you might need for how you intend to spend your time (such as spearfishing, exploring a shipwreck, and so on).

How is scuba diving different from snorkeling?

In scuba diving, you're equipped to breathe underwater! Snorkeling is best for staying at the surface, because you'll need to hold your breath if you want to dive down for a closer look at a school of fish or a shipwreck. Both activities use a mask for optimal vision, and a wetsuit if you're trying to regulate your temperature.

What is technical (tec) diving?

Tec diving goes beyond the typical recreational scuba diving limits and requires divers to have extra training, experience and equipment. Most tec divers use two air tanks instead of one, two regulators, dive computers, and other backup gear. These dives go much deeper than most recreational scuba activities, so divers have to be better prepared for emergencies.

Can I use my scuba gear in any environment?

For the most part, yes. Your mask, for example, will likely be appropriate for any dive regardless of water temperature. However, if you plan on diving in water that is cooler than 75 degrees, you may want to consider buying scuba gear designed for temperate climates: you'll still be able to use it on tropical dives, but you'll stay warmer when you're in colder water.

Why would I shop online for scuba equipment instead of at a local store?

If you have a local store that's open year-round, lucky for you! However, most brick-and-mortar stores don't carry as much inventory as you'll find online. For example, your dive shop may only have one or two brands of wetsuits, and maybe none in your size. Buying your scuba gear online gives you access to the best selection available, whether you're diving in June or January.

Is it safe to buy scuba gear online? What if it doesn't fit or work?

It's absolutely safe to get your scuba gear from a reputable internet retailer. Some of these companies have been in business for decades and have a loyal customer following. Just be sure to read up on each store's return/exchange policies before you buy. Most of them give you a window to send items back if they're not the right size or not what you expected - just watch out for restocking fees!

Scuba gear is EXPENSIVE! How can I save money?

A few online retailers give you the opportunity to buy gently-used fins, masks and other equipment. You may also be able to trade in your own gear for an upgrade. And, like most internet businesses, scuba gear stores often have promotional discounts, buy-more-and-save bundles, or free shipping if your purchase meets a certain minimum threshold. Scuba gear is definitely spendy, but there are ways to save some cash if you're a savvy shopper.

I have no idea what gear I need! Where can I get help?

Most scuba gear stores are more than happy to answer any questions you may have. Look for a toll-free number or online chat option on their websites. You can also visit the PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) website to get more information about diving in general or even find a scuba class near you!

Continued from above...

Why is scuba diving still so popular? That's easy: who wouldn't want to explore for sunken treasure in old shipwrecks, get up close and personal with tropical fish, or just have the opportunity to explore the ocean much more deeply (literally!)? Sure, snorkeling might let you do some of that, but you're limited to the length of time you can hold your breath!

Whether you're an experienced diver looking to upgrade your wetsuit, or a novice working on getting PADI certification in time for a cruise vacation, you'll want to get high-quality scuba gear at the best prices. How can you decide which online scuba shop should earn your business?

Consider these criteria to ensure that your customer experience is a good one:

Selection. How many brands does the retailer carry? Do they offer a full range of scuba gear, or just a few types of items like wetsuits or fins? A store with ample options is more likely to have something in your size and preferred style.
Pricing. Are the prices competitive with other retailers'? Does the company offer any money-saving perks like free shipping or discounts?
Reputation. What do other scuba enthusiasts say about their experiences buying from this store? Has the company been evaluated by the Better Business Bureau?
Return Policy. Scuba gear can be challenging to fit correctly. If you order yours and it isn't quite right, can you return it? If so, how long do you have to send it back? The best scuba gear stores may even allow you to return used merchandise for a refund or store credit.

TopConsumerReviews.com has evaluated and ranked the best online retailers of scuba gear. We hope this information helps you find all of the wetsuits, fins and other equipment you need for your next dive!

Compare Scuba Stores

Select any 2 Scuba Stores to compare them head to head

best-scuba-stores

Leisure Pro

House of Scuba

Scubapro

Swim Outlet

Wetsuit Wearhouse

Dive Inn

Leisure Pro vs House of Scuba Leisure Pro vs Scubapro Leisure Pro vs Swim Outlet Leisure Pro vs Wetsuit Wearhouse Leisure Pro vs Dive Inn House of Scuba vs Scubapro House of Scuba vs Swim Outlet House of Scuba vs Wetsuit Wearhouse House of Scuba vs Dive Inn Scubapro vs Swim Outlet Scubapro vs Wetsuit Wearhouse Scubapro vs Dive Inn Swim Outlet vs Wetsuit Wearhouse Swim Outlet vs Dive Inn Wetsuit Wearhouse vs Dive Inn

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Scubapro vs Swim Outlet