Gotta love the gear. Scuba diving is an equipment-intensive sport, and we can thank our lucky stars for that. After all, one of the most enjoyable rituals of diving is discovering new gear, buying new gear, and putting it through its paces while exploring the depths. Each year, an ocean full of new equipment is introduced, and each year, Sport Diver’s staffers collect a bunch of it at the annual DEMA (Diving Equipment and Marketing Association) show to dangle in front of you, our readers. It’s that time again. This issue is packed full of the newest and coolest dive gear due to be released in time for the 2013 season. So dive in — you’re going to love this.

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2013 Dive Gear Buyers Guide - Regulators & Octos You can breathe easy now. Gone are the days of 10-pound first- and second-stage regulators. The new breathers are lighter and more compact; you’ll breathe so easily, you’ll almost forget you’re 60 feet underwater. Read more...| | | |

2013 Dive Gear Buyers Guide - BCs Buoyancy, comfort and a whole lot more. New BCs don’t just provide buoyant lift on the surface and underwater; they do it in comfort, style and with features that’ll make you never want to come up for air. Read more...| | | |

2013 Dive Gear Buyers Guide - Essentials Getting the basics right. Your first purchase will likely be a mask, snorkel and fins. With choices like these on the market today, you’re guaranteed to see better, breathe easier and kick more efficiently. Read more...| | | |

2013 Dive Gear Buyers Guide - Computers and Watches Safety first. The new dive computers on the market are certainly eye-catching, with superlative graphics and gorgeous exteriors. But it’s the advanced algorithms and cool features that help you dive safer. Read more...| | | |

2013 Dive Gear Buyers Guide - Protection It’s all about staying warm — and the world of exposure protection is making it possible. Super-flexible, ergonomic neoprene designs, and new technology in wetsuits and drysuits mean you’ll stay warmer, longer. Read more...| | | |

2013 Dive Gear Buyers Guide - Accessories Essential and fun. It’s a big category, but all of these products are integral to your diving experience. From bags that get you there in style to smooth-cutting knives, these are the accessories we love best. Read more...| | | |

2013 Dive Gear Buyers Guide - Underwater Photography Take only memories, leave only bubbles. It’s never been easier for divers to take underwater photos and videos, with a number of new compact systems that are not only easy to use, but also easy on the wallet. Read more...|