I'm new to freediving and will be taking the PFI beginners course in Lakewood Oct 2-4. They require a wetsuit for pool and ocean session.
Can someone recommend a good place to rent a wetsuit? I want to try some wetsuits in the water before deciding which one I will eventually buy.
Also I'm looking to buy weights for my belt. Any recommendations there?
Renting Wetsuit
Re: Renting Wetsuit
Your local dive store (LDS) can help for both the weight and the wetsuit. In no particular order, look up Underwater Sports - Tacoma store. TLSEA, Tacoma SCUBA, and I believe Lighthouse Divers Supply has a store in Tacoma too. In addition, Underwater Sports has a store in Federal Way. There may be other dive shops near you that I'm missing.
Re: Renting Wetsuit
Yes, Lighthouse has a Tacoma shop, 25th and Pacific...
<Penopolypants> "I, for one, would welcome our new cowboy octopus overlords."
<LCF> "There is ALWAYS another day to dive, as long as you get home today."
<LCF> "There is ALWAYS another day to dive, as long as you get home today."
Re: Renting Wetsuit
Local south sound dive shops have already been listed above, and most should be able to get you outfitted with a wetsuit suitable for PNW waters. That being said, I understand that freedivers may use suits that are designed differently than the suits used for scuba (I don't freedive, so don't take this as gospel).
I would strongly recommend waiting until you have a chance to discuss proper gear with your instructor before investing in a new suit.
Regarding weights/weight belts: I prefer this style of weights
I have found that this style (where the belt is fed through the center of the weight) to be more uncomfortable to wear, as the weights tend to press into and bruise my hip bones.
Good luck, be safe and have fun.
I would strongly recommend waiting until you have a chance to discuss proper gear with your instructor before investing in a new suit.
Regarding weights/weight belts: I prefer this style of weights
I have found that this style (where the belt is fed through the center of the weight) to be more uncomfortable to wear, as the weights tend to press into and bruise my hip bones.
Good luck, be safe and have fun.
Re: Renting Wetsuit
I agree with MPenders to discuss what kind of suit you'll need with Chris. If you are going to embrace the free diving way of life their is a specific type of suit used for freediving. Chris can be reached at
Email: chris@phase3freediving.com
Website: http://www.phase3freediving.com
Email: chris@phase3freediving.com
Website: http://www.phase3freediving.com
David Fessler
PADI Master Instructor
"Live Life One Foot At A Time"
PADI Master Instructor
"Live Life One Foot At A Time"