04-20-2007, 02:30 AM
As other have mentioned there are sime accetable floats out there. With your limited budget I might consider a used craft. I personally have picked up a couple of them. Fair prices and decent floats. Most recently a TU U-boat that my son is using. Talk about light weight and you couldn't beat the price (20). Just remember if you are looking at used to inflate them and check for leaks, torn fabric, missing parts. The condition of the fabric, stains should be ok, but deteriorating fabic is not. You may be able to find good waders also. I have yet to find any good fins that way but I'm sure they are out there. Check the dive shops and schools. They may be willing to part with some of their used equipment or point you to someone who will. On another note try it all out before you head to the backcountry. A local pond or even a swimming pool. Better to find a problem at home than far away from friends and help. Hope this helps.
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