This week, we're talking the usual pollocks... Jim’s back from Sweden with stories to tell. He got to try out a Suex scooter (spoiler: he loved it) and had a good rummage through some shiny new gear, including Halcyon wings, Shearwater dive computers, and the BZ420 base layer. There’s even a torch that straps to your head—useful or just weird? You decide.

We also tackled the big question: Shearwater or Garmin? Both are great dive computer brands, but they’re made for different kinds of divers. Whether you want something simple and reliable or packed with GPS and smartwatch features, we break down which one might suit you best.

Giorgio sent in a question about staying warm in his trilaminate drysuit. We talked layering tips, heated vests, and how to pick the right setup depending on how much you feel the cold.

Finally, the RK4 fins are here! They’re looking sharp with new colours and an upgraded design. We’ll be putting them through their paces soon, so keep an eye out for updates.

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PRODUCT LINKS:

Interested in something we talked about in this episode?

• Shearwater Dive Computers
• Garmin Dive Computers
• Apeks HX Hood
• Fourth Element 5mm Hood
• K01 Hood | Get in touch!

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In this episode of The Honest Diver Podcast, Nic shares some exciting news—they’ve landed an amazing new role with the Marine Conservation Society. We talk about how this career shift aligns with our passion for ocean conservation and what it means for The Honest Diver moving forward.

We also focus on Divemaster Internships, breaking down the pros and cons, and what divers need to know before committing. Nic and Jim offer advice on avoiding the common trap of being used as cheap labour. Plus, they tackle listener questions on dry gloves vs. wet gloves and how to identify your dive buddy underwater when everyone’s gear looks the same.

In our gear segment, we highlight some essential tools for your kit, from dive cutters to versatile dive knives, reviewing the gear that every diver should consider for safety underwater.

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PRODUCT LINKS:
Interested in something we talked about in this episode?
Shark Pulsar Strobe
Aqualung Folding Blunt Dive Knife
Aqualung Micro Squeeze Dive Knife
CutHero Line Cutter

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In this episode, we return after a bit of a hiatus to dive deep into the latest diving gear and answer your burning questions. We kick off by discussing recent dive conditions and the long gap since our last episode.

Bubble Troubles this week include Nic's challenge with standard reels being too large for her hands and how the Apeks Lifeline Halo Spool has made deploying her SMB so much easier. Jim talks about the ongoing challenge of accurately predicting and reporting visibility during dives, touching on how AI might be the future solution.

We also tackle Diver Questions about retrofitting XDEEP wings with quick-release buckles and how the popular Shark Pulsar Strobe has been flying off the shelves.

Our Product of the Week is the Fourth Element J2 base layer, perfect for staying comfortable in your drysuit, especially in warmer weather. We discuss its innovative design, eco-friendly materials, and why it’s a must-have for serious divers.

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PRODUCT LINKS:
Interested in something we talked about in this episode?
Apeks Luna X Torch
Shark Torch
XDEEP Zeos
XDEEP Zen
Apeks Lifeline Halo Spool
Shark Pulsar Strobe
Fourth Element J2 Base Layer

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In this episode, we jump into some hot topics and gear reviews.

We tackle the all important octo debate - what colour should it be and where should you have it?

We answer Nigel's question about swivels on regulators, weighing the comfort benefits against potential drawbacks, and how it might change your diving experience.

Our product of the week is the super impressive Apeks Luna X torch. We break down its features, from high power and multiple beam settings to its sleek design and live runtime display. Plus, we marvel at its lightweight construction and top-notch British engineering.

Join us for another fun and informative episode as we bring you the latest in diving news, gear reviews, and honest answers to your questions.

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PRODUCT LINKS: Interested in something we talked about in this episode?
Apeks Luna X Torch

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Episode 5 of The Honest Diver Podcast was recorded 4.. yup! FOUR TIMES. With all that practice, you just know its going to be a good one! 😉

In this episode, we dive into sustainable products, the problems we've come up against when we've dived recently and of course, respond to all your questions with an Honest answer.

We share our bubble troubles for the week. Jim's dilemma revolves around whether to bring his bulky camera on dives, which often distracts from the diving experience. Nic talks about the importance of having shore cover during dives and the potential risks of diving without it.

We answer questions from our listeners.
• Jess asks about the right time to start buying personal dive gear
• Ollie inquires about how to keep dive gear from smelling like p*ss

Our product of the week is the Apeks Ocea Regulator, the most environmentally friendly regulator on the market. We discuss its sustainable manufacturing process, including the use of bioplastics and recycled materials, as well as its suitability for cold water diving.

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PRODUCT LINKS:
Interested in something we talked about in this episode?
Apeks Ocea Regulator
The Reg Doctor scuba equipment servicing

NEED AN HONEST ANSWER?
Have questions or need advice? We're here to provide honest answers. Email us at hello@thehonestdiver.com.

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In this episode of The Honest Diver Podcast, Nic and Jim both have environmental issues on their minds with coral bleaching and sewage discharge troubling their bubbles.

We dive deep into the essentials of dSMB (Delayed Surface Marker Buoy) deployment and explore which methods are the best. We also give some honest advice on whether second-hand drysuits are worth the money, or if you should invest in an off-the-peg or custom suit.

This episode's Product of the Week is the XDEEP cargo pouch - add some extra pocket space to your wing and backplate with this little gadget!

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PRODUCT LINKS:
Interested in something we talked about in this episode?
Our range of (not second hand) Drysuits
Halcyon SMB
XDEEP SMB
Apeks SMB
XDEEP Spare Mask Pouch

RESOURCE LINKS:
Northumberland Water's storm overflow map
Marla viz forecasts
Reef World Foundation

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We'll give a prize to anyone who correctly counts the number of times we say "brain" in this episode of The Honest Diver Podcast.

Nic shares a vivid dream that morphs into a lesson on human factors in diving, while Jim recounts a mouthpiece mishap that highlights common gear issues.

We answer divers' burning questions about Enluva gloves' tendency to shrink and debate the merits of weight belts versus integrated weights for optimal underwater trim.

Our product spotlight shines on Stream2Sea, a pioneering brand in eco-friendly diving essentials. We discuss their range of reef-safe products, from shampoos to the must-have Sea Clearly Mask Prep Kit, emphasising the importance of protecting our oceans while having products that actually work!

LEARN MORE ABOUT HUMAN FACTORS IN DIVING

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PRODUCT LINKS:
Interested in something we talked about in this episode?

• Enluva Wool Inner Glove
• Enluva Wool Drysuit Socks
• Stream2Sea Full Range
• Stream2Sea Reef-Safe Mask Defog
• Stream2Sea Sea Clearly Mask Prep Kit

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In Episode 2 of The Honest Diver Podcast, Nic and Jim discuss the topic of greenwashing in the diving industry, saving the Oban chamber and that one time at dive camp where Nic got bent.

We also explore insights from Dr. Laura Walton's book "ScubaPsyche" about the psychological aspects of diving and decompression sickness.

Additionally, we answer questions from the diving community about the necessity of hose protectors and recommend dive computers for new divers. Our Product of the Week segment features Fourth Element's fins, designed with functionality and environmental sustainability in mind.

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We love that you've given our new little podcast a listen - to say thanks, use "honestpod" at checkout on your next order to get 10% off on us 😘

PRODUCT LINKS:
Looking for products mentioned in this episode?
• Fourth Element Tech Fin
• Fourth Element Rec Fin
• Aqualung i200C
• Shearwater Peregrine
• Garmin Descent G1

NEED AN HONEST ANSWER?
Have questions or need advice? We're here to provide honest answers. Email us at hello@thehonestdiver.com.

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