I totally agree. Sometimes folks think that the expensive dive gear will get them to that level of proficiency they need. Ironically, I find that the most experienced & best divers I've met either don't have their own gear or just have simple, no-frills ones!
It’s great to have quality gear, but I see so many divers spending crazy amounts on things they don’t even need. Honestly, skill should always come first. The gear won’t dive for you.