OK, maybe you’re not so keen on the idea of wearing a wetsuit that the previous owner may or may not have peed in. (They definitely did.) But buying used dive gear—or clothing, personal electronics and most anything else, for that matter—can be a good way to reduce your impact on the planet, as well as your wallet, if you take a few precautions. There’s no shortage of used dive gear for sale on online forums, auction sites and classifieds. Maybe you’ll even catch a lucky break at a garage sale or secondhand store. Keep an eye out, and you might get a deal on an item used only once or twice. Something that didn’t fit the previous owner might be just right for you.

TIPS FOR BUYING USED DIVE GEAR

1. Always, always bring new-to-you life-support equipment to your local dive shop for service to make sure everything is functioning properly before you dive with it.

2. Before you buy, make sure replacement parts are still being made for that particular model, and the gear is still serviceable, especially for older models.

3. Fit is everything when it comes to most dive gear. Try to buy from someone nearby so you can try it on and inspect it yourself.

Looking to discuss dive gear with your fellow divers? Join our Scuba Diving Gear Discussion and Tips group on Facebook here to chat with like-minded divers on all things related to diving gear and equipment.