When you first start out learning to scuba dive you do not actually need any equipment. You will find that all the scuba diving equipment that you need will be supplied by the Dive centre where you are learning.
However many people starting out do seem to prefer to have there own mask, fins and snorkel. Indeed a number of dive centers will actually encourage you to purchase these items.
This is sound advice as of course when you are not diving you can if you wish still go snorkeling using your own equipment. Like all things in life if you have your own equipment these will have been fitted for you. You will there have confidence in then and know that they will no let you down or worse still fail you completely.
There are so many products on the market at this time, that you may find it rather daunting being faced with all these different products. You need to first decide just how often you will want to dive and where. This will have a huge impact on the piece of equipment that you intend to purchase.
Once you get your first PADI qualification you will then want to buy all the new and latest diving gadgets just like everyone else.
Just remember to never buy any scuba diving equipment with out getting expert advice from a qualified diving instructor in the first instance. It will save you a lot of headaches and more important money!!