Essential Dive Gear for Scuba Diving in New England

Divers in 7mm wetsuits, boots, and hoods prepare for an underwater adventure in the scenic waters of Cape Ann.

Scuba diving gear for New England

Scuba diving in New England is rewarding, but it invites conditions that warm‑water travelers rarely face. Water temperatures can swing from 33 °F in late winter to 70 °F in late summer. Visibility can vary widely depending on weather, tide, and seasonal changes in the water. Shores can be icy in April and toasty in August. Choosing the right gear for scuba diving in New England is the first step toward comfort and safety.

Here’s the essential gear you’ll need to dive safely and comfortably in Massachusetts:

Certification & Cold-Water Experience (Or a Professional Dive Guide)

Before we even talk gear, you need the right training. Cold water diving is much different than warm, clear tropical dives. Lower visibility, thicker suits, and more weight all require a higher level of awareness and skill.

If you do not already have cold water diving experience, you should hire a professional dive guide or instructor who knows the local conditions. At DiVE KS, we specialize in training divers to be confident in New England waters with semi-private instruction and guided local dives.

💡 New to the area? Book a guided shore dive!

Diving Conditions in New England: What to Expect

• Temperature range – 33 °F to 70 °F

• Variable visibility – crystal clear on some days, hazy on others

  
  

Properly fitted, season‑appropriate gear lets you focus on your dive rather than the cold.

Choosing the Right Exposure Suit for Diving in Massachusetts

Wetsuits

• Material – neoprene (positively buoyant)

• Thickness – 7–8 mm for most.. some divers may wear 5mm in heat of the summer

• Season – May through October

  
  

A snug fit allows a thin layer of water to enter and warm against your skin. Your body temp will warm the water and keep you comfortable. An ill-fitting suit will allow water to flush in and out of the suit leaving you cold. Most divers in Cape Ann area choose a full‑ 7 mm suit.

Semi‑Dry Suits

• Added internal seals reduce water flushing

• Good option for divers who feel the chill but are not ready for a dry suit

  
  

Dry Suits

• Barrier – keeps the diver dry; warmth comes from undergarments

• Materials – trilaminate (lightweight shell) or crushed neoprene (thicker, slightly insulating)

• Features – airtight wrist and neck seals, inflate/deflate valves, optional dry‑glove rings, integrated boots and other add ons.

• Season – year‑round solution, especially late November to May.

  
  

Training is required before using a dry suit!

Accessories for Cold-Water Exposure Protection

• Gloves

  • 5 mm fitted gloves for summer. Dry‑glove systems pair with dry suits.

• Boots

  • Neoprene boots, 6mm -8mm with reinforced soles for shore entries (Rock Boots). Dry‑suit divers may opt for rock boots or integrated boots.

• Hoods

  • 5–8 mm hoods. Vent holes release trapped air.

Must-Have Scuba Safety Tools for New England Divers

• Dive flag and reel 

  • Required in Massachusetts.

• Primary flashlight

  • High‑lumen narrow beam for low‑viz days or wreck interiors. Pack a backup light

• Strobe

  • Clips to the ascent line or SMB for easier locating in murky water.

• Cutting devices

  • Shears plus a small knife tackle fishing line or kelp.

What to Wear for Scuba Diving in New England by Season

• Winter

  • Water Temperature : 33–40 °F

  • Exposure Suit: Dry suit with heavy undergarments, dry gloves, thick hood, divers may choose to dive in a Full Face Mask.

• Spring

  • Water Temperature: 38–50 °F

  • Exposure Suit: Dry suit or 8 mm semi‑dry, layered undergarments

• Summer

  • Water Temperature: 50–70°F

  • Exposure Suit: 7 mm suit (Cape Ann)

• Fall

  • Water Temperature: 45–60 °F

  • Exposure Suit: 7 mm wetsuit or dry suit with light insulation

    
    

Get Fitted for Cold-Water Dive Gear with DiVE KS

Unsure which thickness is right for your dive plan? Visit DiVE KS in Beverly, MA for gear advice. Our instructors and staff dive these sites every week and can recommend the best configuration for your comfort and budget. We are a boutique dive center and can special order gear specifically for you.

Contact us to schedule a guided dive – your next New England adventure starts with the right equipment.