This series is a diving diary of a designer who started with absolutely zero experience in scuba diving and is now learning and growing with Lefeet by my side. It’s a journey I’ve begun to share the beautiful, sometimes weird, and always new experiences I’m having with you. Through scuba diving, I’ll be taking you along to explore the wonders of the underwater world and the (sometimes comical) challenges that come with it.
Let’s be real: for most of us, the ocean is kind of a mysterious, slightly terrifying place. It’s that deep blue world we see in documentaries or those postcard-worthy Instagram shots — beautiful, sure, but there’s something hidden under all that beauty. Honestly, I never thought I’d actually dive into that world myself. But thanks to a design project, here I am. And now, not only have I stepped into the ocean, but I’ve become someone who absolutely loves diving.
Back in 2019, I started working with Lefeet, a company that makes underwater scooters. They’ve got products like the C1, S1 Pro, and P1, which are geared toward everyone from casual divers to the pros. These handy modular devices make moving underwater much easier, and they’re mostly used by scuba divers and freedivers. Naturally, I thought, “Well, if I’m going to understand this stuff, I need to try diving for real!” And just like that, my colleagues and I were off to get our PADI Open Water certification.
After the theory lessons were behind us, it was time for the real deal — learning how to use the equipment in an indoor dive pool. I’ve always been comfortable in water, so I wasn’t too worried, but once I got under the surface, I wasn’t expecting the intense pressure in my ears. That’s when I realized: scuba diving is a whole different ballgame from just swimming around in a pool. Luckily, the theory lessons had taught me about equalizing pressure, so the fear slowly faded. It’s kind of like that thing you do on an airplane where you pinch your nose and blow to pop your ears. In diving, it’s a must-have skill, and once you get used to it, it becomes second nature — even in the ocean.
As we practiced more dives, I experienced something that all beginners strive for — neutral buoyancy. In simple terms, this is where you’re not floating up or sinking down, just peacefully hovering in the water. I wasn’t really trying for it, but while keeping an eye on my dive buddy, I accidentally nailed it. And let me tell you, the sensation is something else. The only sound is your own breathing, and it feels like you’re floating in the air, not water. It’s so calm, so quiet, like I wasn’t even in the ocean anymore — more like I was in space.
Sure, I’d read about neutral buoyancy in theory, but actually experiencing it was totally different from I expected. It’s like you’re weightless, free from gravity, and that’s where I realized the real magic of scuba diving. Honestly, if I had an endless supply of air, I would’ve just stayed there forever, happily floating.
After my first dive training wrapped up, I knew one thing: the indoor pool just wasn’t going to cut it anymore. Now, I’m itching to get out into the real ocean. What will it feel like to dive into the deep blue sea? I guess we’ll find out soon enough. Stay tuned for the next adventure!
And just a quick note — scuba diving is more than just a cool hobby. It’s a challenge that takes both physical and mental preparation. But, the experiences and sense of accomplishment are totally worth it.
Brian Yoon | Partner LEFEET
