Your questions answered
The Dive Compass FAQs
We know buying online means questions. We’ve answered the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) that matter most to divers before they order.
You’ll find answers about our products, sizing, shipping, and our mission. If you don’t see your question here, just get in touch.
Email us with your questions:
We’re always happy to help.
Your questions answered
Orders & Shipping
Orders & Shipping
We have partnered with two main production and fulfillment centers, one serving North America and one serving Europe.
When you place an order, we automatically fulfill it from the location closest to you. This helps:
- Reduce shipping distance
- Shorten delivery times
- Lower the environmental impact of transportation
Your item is made specifically for you, then shipped from the fulfillment center that makes the most sense based on your location.
All of our products are made-to-order, which means your items are created specifically for you after you place your order.
This helps us:
- Reduce overproduction and waste
- Avoid fast fashion practices
- Only make what’s actually needed
Because of this, orders usually take 4-7 business days to be produced before they ship.
Once your package has shipped, you’ll always receive a tracking link so you can follow its journey.
At checkout, you’ll see an estimated delivery window based on your location and the shipping method you choose. These dates are estimates, not guarantees. Because our items are made to order, your timeline includes two parts: production time + shipping time. Once your order is finished and shipped, the delivery speed is in the hands of the shipping carrier.
If you’re ordering for a specific trip or event, we recommend ordering early and giving yourself some extra lead time, just in case.
For estimates depending on your region click here.
As soon as your order ships, we’ll email you a tracking link so you can follow your package every step of the way.
You can also check on your order by signing into your account.
Sometimes, yes. If your order includes items that are made or fulfilled by different production partners, they may ship separately and arrive at different times.
Swimwear and apparel are shipped separately.
Yes! We offer worldwide shipping.Available shipping options and costs will be shown at checkout based on your shipping location.
If you’re ordering from the US, UK, Europe, or Australia, there are no customs or duties on your order.
For other countries, customs fees, duties, or import taxes may be charged by your local government. These fees are not controlled by us and are the responsibility of the customer.
We always ship your order from the closest fulfillment center when possible to help reduce shipping distance and delays, but any customs or import charges are determined by your country, not by The Dive Compass.
Because our products are made specifically for you after you order, delivery times are always best estimates, not guarantees. Your estimated delivery timeline includes both fulfillment and shipping time.
Sometimes delays can happen that are outside our control, like:
- Peak travel seasons and holiday rushes
- Occasional shipping carrier delays
- Customs processing for some international orders
Once your package has left our hands, the delivery speed is handled by the carrier.
Since each item is made to order, we’re not able to offer refunds due to production or shipping delays.
If you’re ordering for a dive trip, vacation, or special event, we recommend ordering early and giving yourself extra buffer time. It’s always better to have your gear waiting for you than stressing about it on the way.
At this time, we don’t offer expedited production or shipping.
Most of our items are made specifically for you after you place your order, and they’re crafted with care, not just pulled off a warehouse shelf. Because of this, we’re not able to rush production or skip the process.
We know waiting isn’t always fun, but some things are worth doing properly. And sometimes, the best things in life (and dive gear) are worth the wait.
We always recommend ordering early if you’re shopping for a specific trip or event.
Returns & Exchanges
We accept returns on unworn, unused items that don’t work out for you — especially if the fit isn’t quite right.
Our goal is simple: we want you to end up with a piece you truly love and actually use.
To keep things fair and manageable, we ask that returns are requested within 15 days of delivery and that items are sent back in their original condition with tags and liners still attached.
Because many of our pieces are made to order, some items or special releases may be final sale. If something is final sale, it will always be clearly marked on the product page.
If you’re ever unsure or something isn’t right, just reach out — we’re real humans and we genuinely want to help make it right.
Our full return policy can be found here.
We know fit can be tricky — especially with swimwear and divewear.
If something doesn’t fit, reach out to us and we’ll help you find the right size or guide you through a return if your item is eligible.
👉 To avoid fit issues, we strongly recommend checking the size chart on each product page and comparing the measurements to a piece you already own that fits well. Most fit-related returns happen when the size chart is skipped.
All size charts can be found here
Yes! If your item doesn’t fit, you’re welcome to exchange it for a different size.
To be eligible for an exchange, the item must be:
- Unworn and unused
- In original condition
- With all tags and liners still attached
Just reach out to us through our Contact page with your order number and the size you’d like instead, and we’ll walk you through the next steps.
Our goal is simple: we want you to end up with a piece you actually love and feel great wearing.
1. Check your eligibility
Items must be unworn, unused, and in original condition with all tags and liners still attached.
2. Contact us
Email us at andrea@thedivecompass.com with:
- Your order number
- The item(s) you’d like to return or exchange
- And (if exchanging) the size or style you’d like instead
3. Send it back
We’ll reply with confirmation and return instructions. Return and exchange items must shipped back to us. We will provide the return address once you contact us based on your location.
4. Share your tracking
Once you ship the return / exchange, send us the tracking number or photos of the return package
5. We’ll take care of the rest
As soon as we receive and inspect your return, we’ll process your exchange or refund.
Please don’t send items back without contacting us first, as we won’t be able to process the return.
Yes — return shipping costs are the responsibility of the customer, unless the item arrived damaged or incorrect.
If your item arrives damaged, defective, or incorrect, we’ll absolutely make it right.
If something arrivesdamaged, defective, or incorrect, contact us as soon as possible and include photos if you can. We’ll take care of it.
Because our items aremade to order, we’re not able to accept returns or offer refunds due toproduction or shipping delays.
Sizing & Fit
Always use the size chart on the product page and compare the measurements to a swimsuit or activewear piece you already own that fits you well.
👉 We don’t recommend choosing your size based only on what you “usually wear.” Different brands fit differently, and using measurements is the best way to get the right fit the first time.
Our comprehensive size chart is found here.
We design our products to run as true to size as possible, but fit can vary slightly between styles and product types.
Some pieces may feel a bit more snug or more relaxed depending on the cut and intended use, which is why we always recommend using the size chart on each product page and choosing your size based on measurements, not just the size label.
The size chart on each product page is the best guide for that specific item.
If you’re between sizes, it depends a little on the style and how you like your fit:
- Choose the smaller size if you prefer a snug or more supportive fit
- Choose the larger size if you prefer a more relaxed or comfortable fit
If a specific product runs more snug or more relaxed, we’ll always note that on the product page.
And if you’re unsure, feel free to reach out — we’re happy to help you choose the right size.
Yes. Many of our pieces are available in sizes XXS–6XL because divewear should fit real bodies, not just one body type.
Our fabrics are designed to be supportive and hold their shape in the water. They will feel comfortable and flexible, but they should not significantly loosen or lose their fit when cared for properly.
No, our fabrics are chosen to be supportive, durable, and not see-through, even when wet.
It happens! If your item is unworn and in original condition, you can contact us and we’ll help you exchange it for the correct size or guide you through a return.
Our full reutrn policy is found here.
Products & Care
Yes, our products are designed to be worn in and out of the water. They’re made for swimming, snorkeling, diving, boat days, and long days around the ocean.
They’re not just for looking cute on the beach, they’re built for real ocean use.
UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor, it measures how much UV radiation a fabric allows to reach your skin.
A fabric rated UPF 50+ blocks over 98% of harmful UV rays, meaning only a tiny fraction can pass through.
Yes, it really works. UPF protection is built into the fabric itself, not applied as a coating, so it doesn’t wash out and doesn’t rely on reapplication like sunscreen does.
That’s why rash guards and sun-protective leggings are one of the most reliable ways to protect your skin during long days in and around the water, especially while snorkeling, diving, or spending time on boats.
It also helps reduce how much sunscreen you need to use, which is better for both your skin and coral reefs.
Yes. Our fabrics are made to handle saltwater, chlorine, and sun.
That said, rinsing your gear with fresh water after use will help extend its life and keep the fabric performing its best.
To keep your gear looking and performing great, we recommend:
- Rinse with fresh water after ocean or pool use
- Wash cold, gentle cycle, inside out
- Hang dry
- Avoid dryers, bleach, and fabric softeners
Heat and harsh chemicals can break down performance fabrics over time.
Expert Tip! Wash your gear in a GUPPYFRIEND Washing Bag to protect the ocean by preventing microfiber shedding and extend the life of your gear
Our fabrics are chosen for color durability, but like all swimwear and activewear, exposure to sun, salt, chlorine, and sunscreen over time can cause some fading.
Following the care instructions above will help keep your colors looking vibrant longer.
No, our fabrics are designed to besupportive and not see-through, even when wet.
Yes. Our performance fabrics are quick-drying and designed for days where you’re in and out of the water.
They won’t stay heavy or soggy like regular cotton or casual fabrics.
Absolutely, that’s the point! Our pieces are designed to be comfortable enough to live inon dive trips, boat days, and travel days.
Sustainability & Impact
To us, sustainability means making better choices, not perfect ones.
We focus on:
- Using recycled materials instead of virgin plastics
- Producing items only when they’re ordered to reduce waste
- Designing products that are made to last and actually get used
- And giving back to the ocean through donations and coral restoration
It’s about progress, not perfection.
Read about Our Commitment to Sustainability.
Most of our products are made from recycled polyester, which is created by turning existing plastic waste (like bottles and discarded plastics) into new, high-performance fabric.
Instead of using virgin polyester, recycled polyester:
- Uses significantly less water
- Requires less energy
- Produces lower CO₂ emissions
- And keeps plastic waste out of landfills and oceans
The process works by cleaning, shredding, melting, and re-spinning plastic waste into new fibers — creating durable, lightweight, quick-drying fabric that performs just as well as traditional polyester, but with a much lower environmental impact.
For our apparel pieces, we also use cotton and organic cotton. Organic cotton is grown without harmful pesticides and uses less water and fewer chemicals than conventional cotton, making it better for both the environment and the people who grow it.
We choose our materials based on three things:
- Performance in the ocean
- Durability and longevity
- Lower impact than conventional alternatives
Yes. We use OEKO-TEX™ certified sublimation inks for printing our designs, which means they’re tested and certified to be safe for people and better for the environment.
These inks are specifically made for performance fabrics and permanently bond with the material, so the designs don’t crack, peel, or wash out.
Using OEKO-TEX™ certified inks means:
- They’re free from harmful substances
- Safer for the people who make and wear our gear
- And a more responsible choice for the environment
We use different certified sublimation inks depending on the product and production partner, but all of them meet the same safety and sustainability standards.
Yes.Making itemsonly when they’re orderedhelps us avoid overproduction, unsold inventory, and textile waste — all big problems in the fashion industry.
Yes. We donate 10% of every sale to ocean conservation.
The donation is calculated from the product total only (not including shipping or taxes). Shipping costs and taxes incurred by The Dive Compass are removed before the donation is calculated.
If you use a discount code, the donation is calculated from the discounted product total, which means the donation amount will be slightly lower.
This keeps the system fair, consistent, and sustainable for the long term — and ensures we can keep giving back with every order.
Learn more about the donations in our Save our Seas Pledge.
A portion of every order goes toward supporting coral restoration through our partner, Livingseas Foundation.
Each product page shows an estimated number of coral fragments planted when that item is purchased at full price. This estimate is based on the cost of funding a reef star or coral restoration unit with our restoration partner.
If a discount code is used, the donation amount (and therefore the coral impact) is slightly reduced, since the donation is based on the final product total.
Your purchase helps fund:
- Coral nurseries
- Reef restoration structures
- And the long-term work of rebuilding damaged reefs
It’s a real, measurable way your purchase helps restore the ocean.
Learn more in our Save our Seas Pledge.
We use PCR (post-consumer recycled) plastic mailers for our orders. This means the packaging is made from recycled plastic, giving existing materials a second life instead of using new plastic.
Our mailers are also recyclable.
Because recycling rules vary by location, we recommend checking with your local recycling center on how they handle LDPE and soft plastics.
For US orders, you’ll find a QR code on the mailer that explains exactly how to recycle it properly.
We’re always looking for ways to reduce waste and improve our packaging as better options become available.
Payments & Checkout
We accept all major credit and debit cards, as well as Apple Pay, Google Pay, and other secure express checkout options depending on your device and location.
All available payment options will be shown at checkout.
Yes. All payments on our site are processed securely through Shopify, one of the world’s leading and most trusted payment providers.
Your payment information is encrypted and handled directly by Shopify, we never see or store your full card details.
Shopify is used by millions of businesses worldwide and meets the highest security standards for online payments.
Yes, if you’re on a compatible device, you’ll see options like Apple Pay or Google Pay available at checkout for faster, easier payment.
Payment issues are usually caused by:
- Your bank or card issuer declining the transaction
- Incorrect billing details
- Insufficient funds
- Or security restrictions on the card
If this happens, we recommend:
- Double-checking your details
- Trying a different payment method
- Or contacting your bank for more information
Your card is charged at the time you place your order.
Because our items are made to order, production begins shortly after checkout.
In most cases, you can use one percentage discount and one fixed-dollar discount in the same order, unless stated otherwise.
Some promotions or special offers may have their own rules, which will always be clearly noted.
Yes. As soon as your order is placed, you’ll receive an order confirmation email with all your details.
If you don’t see it, check your spam or promotions folder.
About The Dive Compass
The Dive Compass is an ocean-inspired, dive-first swimwear and apparel brand created for people who feel most alive in the water.
We make functional, comfortable, performance-focused gear for diving, snorkeling, swimming, and ocean travel — while giving back to the ocean through conservation and coral restoration.
Learn more about Our Mission.
The Dive Compass was born from a lifelong love for the ocean and scuba diving — and a deep concern for what’s happening to our reefs and marine ecosystems.
After years of diving around the world and seeing both incredible beauty and heartbreaking damage, we wanted to build something that:
- Helps people stay connected to the ocean
- Encourages more thoughtful consumption
- And gives back to the places we love most
Learn more about Our Mission.
The Dive Compass is for:
- Scuba divers
- Snorkelers
- Ocean travelers
- And anyone who feels at home in the sea
If your favorite place is underwater or near the water, you’re in the right place.
We don’t design “just swimwear.”
We design gear that actually gets used:
- Built for real ocean days
- Made for movement and performance
- Produced responsibly through made-to-order manufacturing
- And tied directly to ocean conservation and coral restoration
Everything we make is guided by one question:
Will this make someone’s ocean adventures better?
We really care. Ocean conservation is built into our business model, not added on later.
- We donate 10% of every sale to ocean conservation
- Every purchase helps support coral restoration
- And we design our products and systems to reduce waste and overproduction
We’re not perfect — but we’re committed to doing better and being transparent about it.
Learn more about Our Mission.
The Dive Compass is officially registered in Florida, USA — but in real life, it’s a very ocean-roaming brand.
It was founded by Andrea, a scuba diver who spends much of her time traveling, diving, and living near the ocean — often in places like Australia and wherever the next dive trip leads.
The brand is built for people who feel most at home in, on, or near the water — because that’s exactly where it was created.
No, and we like it that way.
We’re a small, mission-driven brand, not a massive corporation. Every order, message, and customer genuinely matters to us.
You can:
- Share our mission
- Follow along and tag us on social media!Instagram & Tik Tok: @thedivecompass
- Talk about ocean conservation
- And simply keep caring about the ocean
That’s how real change spreads.
Still have questions?
If you still have questions, please reach out!
We’re always happy to help.
Updated June 3, 2026















