Want to know what gear ScubaLab has determined is the best based on its performance and price? We've got the cream of the crop right here.

Want to know what gear ScubaLab has determined is the best based on its performance and price? We've got the cream of the crop right here.

We Florida divers know we’re spoiled with year-round diving. But that doesn't mean we don't sometimes dive in water cold enough to warrant wearing a drysuit. DUI lets local divers try out its newest drysuits and gear at Manatee Springs State Park.

A rugged, full-function technical dive computer, the Shearwater Petrel accommodates both open circuit and closed circuit diving. In addition to air, divers can program up to five nitrox or tri-mix gasses for each. A two-button interface and intuitive menu system simplify programming and adjustments during the dive. It’s available in a “Standalone” version or EXT, which includes a Fischer connector for receiving O2 data.

SCUBAPRO’s Equator is a travel-friendly BC built for the rigors of the road and frequent diving. Its jacket-style design provides just the right amount of lift and its small backpack allows fold up compact storage.

A watch-sized dive computer with a large numeric display, the SCUBAPRO Chromis is loaded with features for all types of water sports, including scuba diving, free diving and recreational swimming. It is nitrox-compatible and boasts a full-function watch mode, making it ideal for daily wear.

The Transpac XT harness from Dive Rite gives technical divers immense capability and comfort. Easily customized with integrated weight pockets, it distributes tank and ballast weight for easier maneuvering while topside. When paired with the Travel XT air cell it becomes a lightweight system ideal for warm-­‐water adventures.

It’s been a busy year for our team: With our ScubaLab Reviews, We’ve evaluated more than 170 pIeces of dive equIpment, from travel gear to regs to fIns. WIth Lab tests and team dives behInd us, and all the data collectIng and number crunchIng completed, here are our picks for the best gear of the year.