Freediving is not just a sport. It is a way to slow down, calm yourself and escape the noise of the world for a moment. Instead of machines and gear, all you really need is your breath and a calm mind. Even so, you cannot do without some basic equipment. It is not about owning the most expensive gear, but about choosing equipment that fits you and supports you in the water rather than holding you back. This guide goes through each piece of freediving equipment, explains what to look for and helps you decide what you need now and what can wait.
Mask: your window into the underwater world
The mask is one of the first and most important pieces of equipment. At first glance it seems trivial – anyone who has ever snorkelled owns one. But a freediving mask is different. As you descend, water pressure squeezes the mask and you have to equalise it with air from your lungs. The larger the internal volume, the more precious air you use up – air you would rather keep for the dive itself.
- Low internal volume – the lens sits close to your eyes and you need less air to equalise.
- Soft silicone skirt – it seals well without pressing on your face.
- A good fit – press the mask to your face without the strap and breathe in gently through your nose; a mask that fits stays in place on its own.
Minimalist masks often have a surprisingly wide field of view. Browse our freediving masks.
Snorkel: the simpler, the better
In freediving you do not need valves or purge chambers – they tend to get in the way. Freedivers prefer a simple, straight snorkel without moving parts that is reliable and unobtrusive. You use it mainly on the surface while resting between dives, so it should sit comfortably in your mouth and stay securely attached. Many freedivers take it out of their mouth before the dive or leave it on the buoy altogether. See our freediving snorkels.
Fins: the engine of the whole body
Freediving fins are long, narrow and flexible. It is precisely this length and flexibility that lets you get the most out of every kick. Short or stiff fins are more likely to slow you down and tire you out.
- Blade stiffness – beginners usually do better with softer blades, which are easier on the muscles and help with technique. Stiffer blades make sense later, with more strength and better style.
- Blade material – plastic blades are affordable and durable, fibreglass is a step up in response, and carbon offers the best efficiency. Budget and ambitions decide.
- Foot pocket – it should fit comfortably but firmly, without slipping or pinching.
Whatever material you choose, the main thing is that the fins fit and feel good. Have a look at our freediving fins.
Wetsuit: warmth, glide and protection
Even in warm seas you start to feel cold after a while without movement. And because in freediving you often float at the surface or descend slowly, your body does not warm up much. A quality wetsuit makes a huge difference.
- Thickness – around 3 mm is often enough in tropical water, 5 mm or more in colder water.
- Two-piece cut – high-waisted trousers and a jacket with an integrated hood keep water out and heat in.
- Open-cell interior – it adheres to the skin, keeps you warm and seals well. It needs a lubricant, such as diluted conditioner, to put on – otherwise you simply will not get into it.
A wetsuit also protects you from scratches and jellyfish. We offer open-cell suits off the shelf and made to measure – see our freediving suits.
Tip: getting into an open-cell suit
Never pull an open-cell suit on dry – the delicate inner lining can tear. Mix a little hair conditioner with lukewarm water, pour it into the suit and slide in slowly. Rinse the suit in fresh water after every session and dry it inside out, away from direct sunlight.
Weight belt: finding neutral buoyancy
A wetsuit makes you buoyant. That is fine for snorkelling, but in freediving you need to get below the surface without unnecessary effort – that is what the weight belt and lead weights are for.
- Rubber, not webbing – a rubber belt follows your body as you breathe and stays in place even as the suit compresses at depth.
- The right amount of weight – it depends on your body, your suit and whether you dive in fresh or salt water. Freedivers are usually weighted to be slightly buoyant at the surface and neutral at around 10 metres.
Finding the right weighting takes a few sessions – ideally under the supervision of a more experienced freediver.
Computer: a smart helper when you want more
A freediving computer is not essential for absolute beginners. But once you want to progress, track your dives and keep an eye on your surface intervals, it quickly becomes indispensable. Computers record depth, dive time and rest between dives, and many let you set depth or time alarms that tell you when to turn. Whether you choose a basic model or a multifunctional device, make sure it is readable and reliable. Browse our dive computers.
Little things you will appreciate
- Neoprene socks and gloves – they keep you warm when the water is cooler. See gloves and socks.
- Buoy and line – the base for safe training in open water, with a place to rest and a line to dive along.
- Fin bag – long fins do not fit into a regular backpack.
You will find buoys, lines, bags and more among our freediving accessories.
Frequently asked questions
What equipment do I need to start freediving?
A low-volume mask, a simple snorkel and long fins are enough to begin. Add a wetsuit and a weight belt as soon as you dive in cooler water or want to go deeper.
Can I use my scuba mask for freediving?
You can start with it, but scuba masks usually have a larger internal volume, so you use more air to equalise. A low-volume freediving mask makes descending noticeably easier.
Plastic, fibreglass or carbon fins?
Plastic fins are an affordable and durable start. Fibreglass and carbon blades are more responsive and efficient, but also more expensive and more delicate. Choose according to your experience and how often you dive.
Why do freedivers use open-cell wetsuits?
An open-cell interior adheres to the skin, so almost no water gets between you and the suit. It keeps you noticeably warmer than a lined suit of the same thickness.
Conclusion
You do not have to buy everything at once, and certainly not the most expensive items. What you choose should work well and fit your body and diving style. Well-chosen equipment lets you focus on what matters most in freediving – your breath, calm and connection with the water. If you are just starting out, read our guide on how to start with freediving. And if you are not sure where to begin, contact us – freediving is not just our product range, it is something we love and do ourselves.