Hello Jason!
23 Jun 95 05:51, Jason Schwartz wrote to Alan Bethell:
 AB>> The most popular fins with all the divers here are the Mares brand
 AB>> Plana Avanti or Mares Plana Quatros. With good reason.
 JS> I have heard that from several people now... guess I will have to look
 JS> into them.  I am not sure I know of a dealer of those fins... but
 JS> hopefully I can find one.  Are those open-heel fins?  That is what I
 JS> (think I) would prefer.
Yes, they're open heel.
 JS> Thanks a lot for the advice.. if you have more, feel free to send it
 JS> my way. :)  I am also looking at BCs and REGs... I think I like Scuba
 JS> Pros a lot.. but don't have anything to compare them to.. we use
 JS> those in class.
I won't knock ScubaPro's technical qualities, but there are several brands 
out there which may deliver considerably more bang for the buck.  I can 
specifically recommend Dacor or Sherwood.  I would highly recommend that you 
resist the sales pressure that will undoubtedly be applied, and wait until 
after you're certified to purchase a regulator.  You might consider renting 
from other shops to try other brands.  Don't buy out of ignorance.
Back when I had a shop, if someone approached me about buying a regulator, 
but wanted to try a rental first, I would gladly reduce the sales price by 
the cost of the rental if they ended up buying one.  You won't know until you 
ask.  The worst that someone might do is say no.
 JS> I am getting my snorkel/mask/fin this weekend.. probably Tusa, Scuba
 JS> Pro, or Beuchat Mask...
It makes no difference as long as it fits.  If they don't have a mask that 
fits perfectly, go elsewhere.  Buying a mask that doesn't fit right is like 
using a paper bag to carry your dive gear around in....you'll never be 
satisfied.
 JS> Thanks again!
Mais certainment.
Jay
PADI M-9033
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