With the holiday season in full swing, it’s time to think about what the diver in your life might like to find in his stocking (or what you want to sneak under the Christmas tree for yourself). Here’s a look at some of the coolest new scuba-related products on the market, each of which is worthy of a place on your gift list.
Ikelite Vega torch
This new LED dive light from Ikelite is the perfect choice for avid underwater photographers and videographers. Its beam can switch from quarter-, to half-, to full power, which makes it ideal for focusing, macro photography and video. Photographers can easily control the beam setting using a large dial at the back of the torch, where power levels and remaining battery information is displayed via six LED indicators. The Vega also makes a good backup dive light — it’s compact and weighs only 11 ounces. It’s depth-rated to 300 feet (90m) and has a 2,200-lumen, 65-degree diffused beam. The Vega torch also has a built-in rechargeable battery, which provides 3 hours of run time when fully charged. A locking switch prevents the light from turning on accidentally, and it comes with a charger and wrist lanyard.
Contact: ikelite.com
MSRP: $550
GoPro HERO4 Black video camera
The new GoPro HERO4 Black is being hailed as the most advanced GoPro yet. Waterproof to 130 feet (40m), this model features a processor and video frame rates that are twice as fast as its predecessor. Its 4K30, 2.7K50 and 1080p120 video is ultra-high resolution, allowing for truly impressive clarity and unbelievably smooth slow-motion playback. The HERO4 Black can also shoot 12-megapixel photos at 30 frames per second, and has the capacity to shoot single images as well as automatic time-lapse photos at specified intervals. Its improved low-light sensitivity makes it perfect for the dim conditions at depth, and photographers can manually adjust the camera’s white balance to compensate for color loss underwater. Other manual settings include ISO, color, sharpness and exposure, making this one of the most versatile compact cameras on the market. It also comes with built in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for easy connectivity and image sharing.
Contact: gopro.com
MSRP: $499
Scubapro dive bags
Scubapro launched their latest line of dive luggage this October, specifically designed to be both durable and lightweight. The new line provides protection while simultaneously helping you adhere to airline weight and size restrictions. Each of the new pieces boasts innovative features — the Porter Bag, for example, has an extra-large volume but can be folded completely in on itself for easier storage when empty. The 95- and 120-liter dry bags have water-outlet valves to allow wet gear to drain after packing. Tear-resistant Ripstop material gives the new range added longevity and the zippers are designed to be resistant to saltwater corrosion. From the Caravan bag, capable of holding a full dive kit, to the more compact Cabin bag, Scubapro’s new range has all your dive travel covered.
Check out the full range here.
Tribord Easybreath Snorkeling Mask
This 2014 invention is an excellent option for those friends or family who would rather snorkel than dive. By incorporating mask and snorkel into one full-face design, the Tribord Easybreath Snorkeling Mask eliminates claustrophobia by allowing the wearer to breathe freely through both nose and mouth. Clearly, the mask is not appropriate for scuba divers since equalization is impossible, but it’s the perfect gift for snorkelers. A valve in the snorkel prevents leakage should it become submerged, while the mask’s dual airflow system removes exhaled air to ensure that the viewing pane remains fog-free. The Easybreath mask also offers 180-degree peripheral vision, meaning that snorkelers have an unrestricted view of the underwater world.
Contact: tribord.com/en
Suunto EON Steel computer
They say that all good things come to those who wait, and this could well prove true for those who’ve been waiting for Suunto’s revolutionary new dive computer. Although the EON Steel was slated for a Christmas release, Suunto moved the date back to spring 2015, making this product ideal for those who tend to send belated holiday gifts. This computer is different than any that have come before, both internally and externally. Its stainless steel face surrounds a high-contrast, brightly colored Brightsee screen, offering optimal clarity even in poor diving conditions. Depth rated to 495 feet (150 meters), the EON Steel allows the user to customize nearly every aspect of its interface, choosing precisely what they want displayed at any given time. It uses Suunto’s Fused RGBM algorithm, has gauge, air, nitrox and trimix modes, and is capable of eight different gas mixes. Later in 2015, users will be able to upgrade the computer to include a closed-circuit rebreather mode as well. It is equipped with easy-to-use navigation buttons, a rechargeable battery with 20 to 40 hours of life on a single charge, and a 3D compass. It comes with the option of a buckled strap or bungee mounts, making it physically customizable as well. Contact: suunto.com
