The Best Dive Gadgets Every Technical Diver Should Own

The Best Dive Gadgets Every Technical Diver Should Own

At Extreme Water Sports, a PADI 5-Star Instructor Development Dive Center based in Fujairah, UAE, we specialize in pushing the limits of diving—safely and efficiently. For technical divers, having the right gear is essential. Beyond the basic essentials like tanks and fins, certain dive gadgets can dramatically improve your safety, performance, and enjoyment underwater.

Whether you're diving deep wrecks in Fujairah or planning a trimix expedition abroad, here’s a breakdown of the must-have dive gadgets every technical diver should own.

1. Dive Computer (Shearwater Preferred)

A powerful and reliable dive computer is non-negotiable in technical diving. Devices like the Shearwater Perdix 2 or Shearwater Teric are top-tier options with features like:

  • Multiple gas switching

  • Real-time decompression tracking

  • Trimix and CCR compatibility

  • Bluetooth and digital dive logs

These computers help divers manage complex profiles and long decompression obligations with confidence.

2. Backup Dive Computer or Bottom Timer

Redundancy is a golden rule in tec diving. A backup computer or bottom timer ensures that, in the event of a primary failure, your dive isn’t jeopardized. Bottom timers like the Garmin Descent G1 or Uwatec models offer reliable, battery-efficient backups.

3. Spare Mask

It may seem simple, but a backup mask can save a dive. Keep it stored in a dry pocket or thigh pouch in case your primary mask gets lost or damaged during the descent or while maneuvering through wrecks or caves.

4. Underwater Notebook (Wet Notes)

Wet notes are critical for planning, communication, and emergency procedures. You can:

  • Log gas switches

  • Record deco schedules

  • Communicate silently with your buddy
    Look for waterproof notebooks with elastic pencil holders and durable covers for long-term use.

5. Dive Light and Backup Light

In technical dives—especially caves or wrecks—visibility can drop quickly. A primary canister light with strong lumen output (like the Light Monkey or Dive Rite systems) is vital. Always bring at least one backup torch clipped to your harness.

6. DSMB (Delayed Surface Marker Buoy) and Spool

Surface marker buoys are essential for alerting surface support or boats during ascent. Every tech diver should carry:

  • A DSMB with overpressure valve

  • A reliable spool or reel
    This gear becomes even more important in blue water ascents or drift dives.

7. Oxygen Analyzer

If you're diving with nitrox or trimix, you should never assume the gas mix. An O2 analyzer lets you verify your cylinder's contents, ensuring your dive plan matches your breathing mix. Brands like Analox or Diverite offer dependable and compact models.

8. Pressure Gauge with Hose Routing

For divers using sidemount or backmount setups with stage bottles, having accurate SPGs (Submersible Pressure Gauges) for each cylinder is essential. Choose durable, oil-filled gauges with short, streamlined hoses to reduce drag and clutter.

9. Bungee Mount Compass or Wrist Compass

Navigating wrecks, walls, or caves? A bungee-mounted compass gives you hands-free orientation. Compasses like the Suunto SK-8 are designed for reliability even at depth and in limited visibility.

10. Dive Tool Kit and Cutting Device

From tangled reels to broken clips, a multi-tool or cutting device like a Z-knife, trauma shears, or line cutter is a must. Also, carrying a small tool kit with spare O-rings, zip ties, and wrenches keeps your dive day running smoothly.

Bonus: Waterproof Drysuit Accessories

If you're using a Waterproof drysuit, enhance it with:

  • Heating undergarments for long deco stops

  • Integrated pockets for gadgets

  • Dry gloves for added thermal protection

💡 Practical Tips for Choosing Gadgets

  • Start with the essentials and upgrade as your diving progresses.

  • Test gear during training dives to get used to new equipment.

  • Buy quality once—reliable gear is an investment in your safety.

  • Redundancy is key—double up on mission-critical gear.

📍 Get Fully Equipped at Extreme Water Sports

At Extreme Water Sports in Fujairah, we not only train divers but also guide them in selecting the best technical diving gadgets. From Shearwater computers to sidemount accessories and Waterproof drysuits, we provide expert advice to suit your diving goals and environments.

👉 Ready to Upgrade Your Dive Kit?

Contact us today to book a tec diving course or schedule a one-on-one gear consultation with our experienced instructors. Let’s take your diving to the next level—fully prepared and fully equipped.

Back to Blog Posts