Mares/Head Finalizes Agreement To Acquire SSI

The fourth paragraph of the press release concerns me. I have spoken to one SSI dealer who said he refuses to let anyone dive with him in a class unless either, 1) the equipment was purchased at his shop or 2) he "inspects" it, for a hefty fee.

This reminds me of the agreement that another agency had with a manufacturer when I first certified in 1969-70. The instructor shamelessly pushed this one brand, declaring that all other brands were junk, worthless, and would eventually kill you. He sold the other brands, but only "guaranteed the equipment through the door."I guess he never heard of a manufacturer's warranty.

So, I look for a big push by SSI dealers to sell Mares gear over other brands. Having said this, I did purchase Mares regulators for my diving daughters and am very pleased with them.