The deeper we are underwater, the less light there is. Diving in ten meters in clear water is not as problem as diving in 30 meters. The less light there is, the less enjoyment we will have from diving. Likewise we can dive at night or in caves where there is really not much of light. Our gear should therefore feature special lights for diving. There are many types but do we know what do they have in common ?
On the head, on the wrist or into the hand?
As for the design and overall structure, there are three basic types. First ones are headlamps. Headlamp is great for diving as it allows to have both hands free and its placing on head also allows excellent orientation when swimming and diving. Other option would be handheld flashlights. These can be also often mounted onto your helmet or used as a back-up source of light. Handheld flashlights include even larger models that have special feature for easier handling. Such flashlights ,however, offer excellent features. The last types are those flashlights that come with special clip or lanyard that allow us to attach it to our body parts, most often onto the wrist. These flashlights with multifunctional clip seem to be the best option when it comes to underwater light. As already mentioned, all of the types have something in common so let´s reveal what that is.
I see everywhere...
Whether it is headlamp, handheld flashlight or mounted flashlight, one thing is for sure - they must be waterproof. So pay extra attention to this factor when making a selection. As for the water rtesistance, we should rather opt for larger number. In another words - if we are diving in 20 meters we won´t be choosing flashlight that is depth rated to 20m as there is chance we go deeper. Of course better features means also higher price. Another important feature is obviously bright light. LED bulbs are once again the best option. 1000 lumen output is min standard for underwater lights. The light spreads differently than in the air. Eiher way, flashlights must feature several lighting modes as we will need different lighting modes in different situations. For example 1500 lumens in murky water is the same as the high beam in fog.
Well chosen combination
So what option is the best ? The best option would be some sort of mix. Never go on any trip without backup light. It is highly irresponsible as we never know what can happen. When we are 30 meters underwater it might be too late to find some solution. The best option seems to be the flashlight with a wrist clip. The battery should be separated from the light connected via special cable. As already mentioned, we should always carry backup light. This can be smaller handheld flashlight, but it will help us when we need it. One last recommendation - pay attention to max runtime as well as this is also another important feature.