I'm new in this sport and looking for some used gear while I learn and take courses. I am looking for 7mm freedive suit, fins, a mask, gloves, and boots for a 5'0" 116 lb. woman. I've heard open cell is the way to go for freediving, but am open for all suggestions. I am not looking to get Scuba certified, but am looking to potentially getting into spearfishing afterwards.
Welcome aboard. this year has been quite challenging for the club to connect. Thanks for reaching out on the forum. Traditionally you'd get responses quicker. I'm not sure where you are geographically but a good resource would be Rebekah Phillips. She's local to Monterey and a free dive instructor. On top of that she's very friendly and extremely knowledgeable. I put her contact info at the bottom. In normal circumstances the group regularly loans or sells equipment to each other cheap to make sure folks get a taste of the sport before committing a large sum of money. Personal opinion on gear is as follows:
Open cell Free Dive suit is the way to go. Far more flexibility than a lined suit.
Free dive fins for sure. The long ones. They come in plastic, fiberglass, and carbon fiber. As you can imagine they get progressively more expensive so you'll have to fit your budget to needs.
Marseilles style weight belt. The one with the buckle instead of clasp.
Low volume mask. Critical for diving any significant depth.
When/if you get to spearfishing there's a whole other conversation about the rest of the gear.
831.200.3485
rebekah@mbayfreediving.com