What do you consider "gimmick" gear?

[Eric Sedletzky]

Some here would say buddies are a gimmick and way over rated.
lol

---------- Post added October 6th, 2015 at 09:08 PM ----------

Aqualung I3 or Mares Airtrim.

In other words, anything with an "elevator lever"

 

[RJP]

To me, from a marketing perspective, a gimmick is a "special feature" whose main/sole purpose is to attract attention. So essential a gimmick is something that exists simply "to be a special feature" without much functional relevance.

Accordingly I'd say things like... the 6-8 superfluous plastic D rings on recreational BCDs, anything made out of titanium, and anything with the word "Deluxe" in its name.

 

[MaxBottomtime]

Inline octos
Head-mounted video cameras
Helmets while diving open water
Gaiters
Heated vests
Scooters in open water
Rattlers and any other noise makers
Electronic compass
Retractors
Hose wraps
Slob winder

 

[Z Gear]

I guess it all depends on what you consider useful. What adds comfort, enjoyment or security/safety to your gear choice is up to you and is a "PERSONAL PREFERENCE".

To some less is better to others more or higher tech is better. Which is correct ?

The one that fits your needs and makes you a happy diver!

Frank G
Z GEAR - Z Gear

 

[Superlyte27]

Inline octos
Head-mounted video cameras
Helmets while diving open water
Gaiters
Heated vests
Scooters in open water
Rattlers and any other noise makers
Electronic compass
Retractors

Heated Vest: easily one of the greatest inventions in diving in the last 20 years. They've made dives warmer, more comfortable and safer. But you might not get it until you've done 5 hours of deco while freezing your butt off.

 

[Eric Sedletzky]

I guess it all depends on what you consider useful. What adds comfort, enjoyment or security/safety to your gear choice is up to you and is a "PERSONAL PREFERENCE".

To some less is better to others more or higher tech is better. Which is correct ?

The one that fits your needs and makes you a happy diver!

Frank G
Z GEAR - Z Gear

i don't know what's correct, I'm not sure there is a "correct".
I just wanted to see what different people think is a gimmick.

 

[Z Gear]

i don't know what's correct, I'm not sure there is a "correct".
I just wanted to see what different people think is a gimmick.

The answer there is no right or wrong, or maybe some might see something as a gimmick while others view it as useful. It will be this way because we all have many different tastes.

"One mans trash is another mans treasure" comes to mind.

 

[diversteve]

In other words, anything with an "elevator lever"

Technically an AirTrim is 2 buttons. But yeah, anything that takes the basic simple inflator concept and "enhances" it with a system of levers, linkages, custom dump valves etc to simply ascend/descend. And requires proprietary service from a mfr. trained tech. I'm guessing that costs a little more than the two cable ties and $25 it costs to replace mine were I too lazy to flush/service it.

 

[Eric Sedletzky]

Thigh pockets stuffed with all kinds of crap on basic rec dives.
pneumatic spear guns
6 window masks
tank nets
mask straps with pictures on the back
artificially aged brand new BC's to make them look old and vintage
deluxe harnesses for "minimalist" BP/W setups (oxymoron)
can lights with 50 million lumens of power so you can catch things on fire underwater

 

[buddhasummer]

Heated Vest: easily one of the greatest inventions in diving in the last 20 years. They've made dives warmer, more comfortable and safer. But you might not get it until you've done 5 hours of deco while freezing your butt off.

Agree, I have a heated suit and it allows be to dive year round. Prior to the heated vest I was almost always cold. It's increased my joy in winter diving exponentially. Personally I wouldn't classify it as a gimmick. It has a purpose and fulfills a need.