Kids Dive Gear

Getting kids comfortable in the water early builds confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong appreciation for the ocean. Whether you’re snorkeling locally around Vancouver Island or traveling somewhere warm, having properly sized gear makes the experience safer, more comfortable, and a lot more fun.

At Nanaimo Dive Outfitters, we stock kids-specific scuba and snorkeling gear designed to fit smaller faces and bodies, not just scaled-down adult equipment.

Snorkeling gear for kids

Snorkeling is often the first step into underwater exploration. When kids can see clearly and move easily, they stay engaged longer and enjoy the experience more.

We carry youth-sized:

• • Masks designed to seal properly on smaller faces
  • Snorkels that are easy to clear and breathe through
  • Fins sized for smaller feet and lighter kick strength
  • Flotation aids for added confidence and surface support

This setup helps kids stay relaxed while exploring tide pools, kelp edges, and shallow reefs.

Cold-water protection for local snorkeling

Vancouver Island waters are cold, even in summer. For local snorkeling, proper thermal protection is essential for kids.

We offer:

• • Youth wetsuits in appropriate thicknesses for cold water
  • Neoprene hoods to reduce heat loss
  • Gloves and booties to keep hands and feet warm

Staying warm means kids can spend more time in the water without getting uncomfortable or tired too quickly.

Warm-water gear for travel

If you’re heading somewhere tropical, we also stock lighter kids gear suited for warm water, including:

• • Thin wetsuits or rashguards for sun and abrasion protection
  • Lightweight fins and compact masks for easy travel

We can help you choose gear that packs well and works for resort snorkeling or shallow reef exploration.

Junior scuba equipment

For kids enrolled in Junior Open Water or youth scuba programs, we carry properly sized scuba gear designed for younger divers, including:

• • Youth BCDs
  • Smaller regulators with lighter breathing effort
  • Exposure protection suited to local conditions

Proper fit is critical for safety and comfort, especially for younger divers.

Discover scuba for kids and teens

Not quite ready for full certification? Our Discover Scuba programs are a great way for kids and teens to try scuba diving in a controlled, supervised environment. These introductory experiences let young divers breathe underwater for the first time, learn basic skills, and see what scuba is all about before committing to a full course.

Discover Scuba is ideal for curious kids who want to see if scuba diving is right for them, and it pairs perfectly with properly fitted youth gear to ensure a safe and positive first experience.

Make it fun, safe, and comfortable

Well-fitting gear helps kids feel confident and excited about being in the water. Our staff are happy to take the time to fit masks, fins, wetsuits, scuba gear, and flotation properly so your child has a positive experience from the start.

Stop by Nanaimo Dive Outfitters and let us help you get your kids geared up for snorkeling, Discover Scuba, or junior scuba training, whether you’re exploring locally or traveling farther afield.