Diving in May brings a special kind of anticipation, as the changing seasons open up new underwater landscapes and adventures. Whether you’re planning to explore temperate coastal waters just warming up after winter or heading to a tropical destination for crystal-clear visibility, the right gear makes all the difference in comfort, safety, and enjoyment. May is a transitional month in many regions, so water temperatures can vary dramatically—from brisk, invigorating dives in the northern hemisphere to balmy, bath-like conditions in popular southern getaways. This means exposure protection is top of mind: a properly fitted wetsuit or drysuit is essential, with thickness tailored to the specific water temperature of your chosen dive site. In cooler locations, a 5mm or 7mm wetsuit or even a drysuit with thermal undergarments keeps you warm and focused on the beauty around you, rather than the chill. For those lucky enough to be diving in warmer waters, a lighter 3mm wetsuit or even a rash guard might provide all the protection you need from both sun and stings. Booties are often a smart addition, especially with open-heel fins, offering both warmth and a buffer against rocky or shell-strewn entry points.
Beyond exposure suits, May diving calls for thoughtful selection of core equipment that suits your experience level and the environments you’ll explore. A comfortable, well-sealing mask is invaluable—there’s nothing like the moment you slip beneath the surface and the world comes into focus through crystal-clear lenses. Fins, whether open-heel or full-foot, should match your diving style and the conditions; efficient propulsion is key for both safety and enjoyment, especially if you’re covering distance or contending with currents. Regulators and buoyancy compensators (BCDs) are the lifelines of any dive, and their fit and reliability matter more than ever when you’re adjusting to new seasonal conditions or traveling to unfamiliar sites. A dive computer is another indispensable companion, providing real-time data on depth, time, and ascent rates to help you dive within safe limits—particularly important as you adjust to the longer, more adventurous dives that May often inspires. Safety accessories like surface marker buoys (SMBs) and dive knives are wise investments for any diver, ensuring you’re prepared for the unexpected, from signaling your position to disentangling from stray lines. For those who love to explore crevices, wrecks, or twilight reefs, a dive light can illuminate hidden wonders and keep you oriented in limited visibility. Even small details, like a reliable mask defog solution, can make the difference between a seamless dive and a frustrating one.
May is also a time when divers often think about sharing their passion with others. Many of the gear essentials featured here make thoughtful gifts for those just getting started—perhaps a family member earning their open water certification, or a friend planning a first big dive trip. Seasoned divers, too, appreciate upgrades and replacements as they prepare for summer adventures. With the arrival of fall just around the corner, it’s a good idea to consider how your gear choices now will transition into the coming months. If you’re already looking ahead, you’ll find inspiration and tailored recommendations on our
Gear For Fall Diving page. No matter where your May diving takes you—tropical lagoons, kelp forests, or local lakes—the right equipment will keep you safe, comfortable, and ready to savor every underwater moment. Take the time to research your destination’s unique conditions, ensure your gear fits well and is in top condition, and practice with any new additions before your next adventure. With thoughtful preparation, May’s dives can be among the most memorable of the year, setting the tone for a season of discovery and connection beneath the waves.