AboutMike Giles Expertise I am a Master Scuba Instructor with over 6000 dives. I can answer questions on general diving techniques, diving education and diver training. I can offer suggestions on the use and selection of proper dive equipment, general maintenance of dive equipment as well as diving equipment repair. I can also offer suggestions on air conservation techniques and buoyancy control. As a dive shop owner for 17 years, I can offer suggestions on starting/running a dive business.
Experience I have been diving for 52 years, teaching diving for 47 years and owned a diving business for 17 years. I am a certified regulator repair technician for several different brands and a certified scuba cylinder inspector.
Organizations I am currently a member of the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI), Divers Alert Network (DAN), International Resort and Retailer Association and the Better Business Bureau
Publications Undercurrent magazine and Divers Chapbook
Education/Credentials I am a Master Scuba Diver Trainer with 15 distinct specialty instructor ratings, Rescue Diver Instructor, Medic-First Aid Instructor and I have degrees in Chemical Engineering, Biology and Radiologic Technology.
Question Hi Mike. I need to buy a dry suit to dive locally but I've been told there are a range of styles and features (all of which I know nothing about). Please can you tell me the differences and there advan/disadvantages. Thanks
Answer Hi Adam,
I mentioned in a previous answer that my expertise in dry suits is limited so I want to consult with some of my divers who routinely dive in wetsuits before answering you.
I can do it much more efficiently if you will email me directly so I have your email address and I can respond directly instead of through this column.
Please send your question to: Mike Giles at mikescuba@earthlink.net and I will respond directly.
It will take me a few days since I am leaving shortly to escort a dive trip and will not have access to a computer until next Monday.
Thanks for your understanding and I'll try to get some useful information to you as quickly as I can.
