The Ultimate Freediving Equipment Guide: What Do You Actually Need?

So you've decided to try freediving. Excellent choice!

You've probably already started imagining yourself gliding effortlessly through crystal-clear water, looking like a professional underwater ninja.

But first, there's the small matter of equipment.

Walk into a dive shop or start browsing online and you'll quickly discover that freediving equipment comes in every shape, colour and price range imaginable.

Carbon fins? Fibreglass fins? Low-volume masks? Open-cell wetsuits?

Suddenly, you need a degree in underwater shopping.

Don't worry. Here's what you actually need to get started.

1. A good freediving mask

Your mask is one of the most important pieces of equipment you'll own.

Freediving masks are generally designed with a relatively low internal volume, meaning less air is needed to equalise the mask as you descend.

Look for:

• A comfortable fit.
• A good seal around your face.
  
• A design that suits your facial shape.

The most expensive mask isn't necessarily the best one for you.

Nobody wants a mask that spends more time leaking than staying on their face.

2. A snorkel

Keep it simple.

A basic freediving snorkel is generally all you need. Look for something comfortable and flexible enough to sit nicely in your mouth.

You don't need a snorkel with seventeen attachments, a built-in espresso machine and Bluetooth connectivity.

Simple J snorkel will work.

3. Long-blade freediving fins

Now we're getting to the fun stuff.

Freediving fins are longer than standard snorkelling fins and are designed to help you move efficiently through the water.

You'll generally come across:

• Plastic fins.
• Fibreglass fins.
• Carbon fibre fins.

Plastic fins are generally more affordable and durable, making them a popular starting point.

Fibreglass and carbon options can offer different performance characteristics, but they also tend to come with a higher price tag.

Our advice? Get your technique sorted before spending a small fortune on fancy blades.

4. A freediving wetsuit

Melbourne's water isn't exactly bathwater.

A properly fitted wetsuit is essential for comfort and thermal protection.

Freediving wetsuits are commonly designed to fit closely to the body and reduce water movement inside the suit.

You'll generally find different thicknesses depending on the conditions and your personal tolerance to cold.

A suit that's too thin will leave you shivering, while one that's too thick can restrict movement.

Fit matters just as much as thickness. 

If you are freediving in Melbourne we suggest a 5mm two piece wetsuit with an integrated hood. 

5. A weight belt

Freedivers use weighting equipment to help manage buoyancy while wearing a wetsuit.

The correct weighting depends on your wetsuit, body composition, equipment and how deep you are planning to dive.

Never simply copy somebody else's weight setup. Being overweighted can create serious safety risks.

We definitely suggest a rubber or silicone weight belt as it will grip to your wetsuit and not slip around and it has some stretch so it won't restrict your breathing. 

6. Gloves and socks

They help protect against cold water and can make longer sessions much more enjoyable.

Cold fingers and frozen toes aren't exactly the recipe for an amazing ocean adventure.

3mm gloves and socks is all you need in Melbourne. 

The other advantage of the wetsuits socks is that it stops you getting blisters on your feet from the foot pockets. 

What should beginners buy first?

If you're just starting out, don't feel pressured to purchase everything immediately.

A sensible approach is to start with properly fitting essentials and seek advice from your instructor.

Hiring equipment during your initial training can also help you work out what suits you before committing to a purchase.

Does expensive equipment make you a better freediver?

Short answer? Nope.

Fancy carbon fins won't magically give you better equalisation, improve your technique or turn you into a world champion.

Good equipment should fit properly and suit your experience and diving environment.

Skills first. Shopping spree second.

Need help choosing your freediving gear?

At Salt Sessions, we're passionate about helping people develop their freediving skills and find equipment that works for them.

Whether you're completely new to freediving or looking to upgrade your kit, start with the basics and ask questions.

Your wallet will thank you.

Explore Salt Sessions courses and equipment options and get ready for your next underwater adventure.