Gear

What actually matters

You don't need much. A mask that fits, fins that return energy, a suit that keeps you warm — and a buddy who's watching.

mask      low-volume, fits without the strap
fins      long-blade, soft stiffness
suit      two-piece open-cell, 3–5 mm
computer  depth + time + surface interval
lanyard   the rope is your only fixed point

The nose clip

For deep equalization a nose clip frees your hands. But learn Frenzel first — the clip is a tool, not a shortcut.