Scuba-bunny has laid out some key points to shopping at LDSs! The assortments vary; the instructors sometimes are pushed to "advertise" certain brands; at least 1 brand strategically limits its own availability in regions. Then, too, there are fads; 2 years ago, a BC acquired the reputation for being "the best" locally. Everybody bought one based on the buzz & found out about the same time that it wasn't that great, certainly not worth the huge price! Listen to people who have had an item for a few dives before eating hype. Now salesmen are pushing split fins to those who want "the best." Shops are there to sell, and if you can go in having tried on someone's equipment & have a concrete idea of why you liked it, they are less likely to lead you to gear you won;'t like.