You can’t go diving without the best snorkel gear. It’s an essential piece of equipment for your diving or snorkeling expeditions. And, while it may look like a simple tube, modern snorkels incorporate sophisticated design features that improve your diving experience, facilitate your breathing, and prevent water from coming back in. Overall, buying recommended snorkel gear will make your diving a comfortable and fun time in the water.

Understanding the Best Types of Snorkels

The world of snorkels has evolved far beyond the basic J-shaped tube. Classic snorkels remain popular for their simplicity and reliability, but modern designs have taken your snorkeling experience a step further as they come with features that naturally make breathing easier.

The semi-dry snorkel

The semi-dry snorkel is a hybrid of a traditional snorkel and a dry snorkel. While it does not keep all the water out, it does a good job of keeping the tube clear when water or a wave comes over the top. A semi-dry snorkel has a cover designed to deflect water on the surface and a purge valve at the bottom to allow the small amount of water to drain past the breathing tube. However, it will still flood if the diver chooses to submerge.

Semi-dry snorkels seem to work best for scuba divers who want to save precious air in their tank while on the surface but don't want to deal with the bulkiness of a dry snorkel.

The dry snorkel

Made popular in the 1990s, the dry snorkel started as a clunky design but has evolved into a streamlined snorkel, as seen today.

A dry snorkel is simply a snorkel with a mechanism on the top that prevents water from entering as the snorkeler dives underwater. The valve is usually a floatation device that floats upwards to shut the air pathway. When the snorkeler returns to the surface, the floatation bob falls back down, allowing the snorkeler to start breathing again.

The dry snorkel works great for the snorkeler who just wants to float around the surface, take quick shallow dives, and not have to worry about purging water out of the snorkel. While the best dry snorkel prevents water from entering the tube, the trapped air also causes the snorkel to be buoyant. This is undesirable to snorkelers who are looking to dive down to greater depths, such as free-divers.

Essential Design Features

Bore diameter

The bore of the snorkel is the interior of the barrel (tube) of the snorkel

The bore diameter of your snorkel impacts breathing resistance. Wider bores make breathing easier but increase drag and internal volume. Most quality snorkels strike a balance with a bore between 18-22mm, which facilitates breathing without excessive resistance or drag.

Tube length

Tube length matters more than many realize. Longer tubes increase dead air space and breathing resistance, while shorter tubes may not effectively clear the water surface.

Quality snorkels measure between 13-17 inches, optimizing both breathing efficiency and surface clearance.

Mouthpiece

The mouthpiece design affects comfort during extended use.

Look for soft silicone mouthpieces with ergonomic bite tabs. The best designs let your jaw stay relaxed but with a secure grip on the mouthpiece. The goal is to reduce jaw fatigue during long sessions and to feel the mouthpiece as natural in the mouth as possible.

Material Considerations

Modern snorkels use silicone and high-grade plastics.

Silicone is comfortable and durable compared to older rubber materials. It maintains its flexibility and doesn’t degrade under sun exposure.

The main tube should use rigid, impact-resistant plastic that maintains its shape but with flexibility to prevent breakage.

Quality materials justify higher prices, as they last longer, maintain better performance, and provide superior comfort. Cheap plastics can become brittle with sun exposure and may retain unpleasant odors over time.

Special Features Worth Considering

Purge valves

Purge valves, located near the mouthpiece, make it easy to clear water that enters the tube. While not essential, they simplify the clearing process, especially for beginners. These valves require regular maintenance to prevent sticking or leaking.

Flexible tubes

Flexible tubes near the mouthpiece reduce jaw strain and let the snorkel hang away from your face when not in use. This feature is particularly helpful when moving the snorkel aside to access a regulator while scuba diving.

Quick-release attachments

Some models offer quick-release attachments for the mask strap, simplifying removal and attachment. These are convenient, but make sure the mechanisms are sturdy and reliable — a lost snorkel can end your session prematurely.

Fit and Positioning

Proper fit extends beyond just the mouthpiece. Good snorkeling gear should position naturally alongside your mask, with the top sitting approximately level with the crown of your head. Too high, and it may catch waves; too low, and breathing becomes difficult.

Test the mask-snorkel combination before you buy either. The snorkel keeper (the attachment to your mask strap) should hold the snorkel firmly and not affect either the mask seal or your comfort.

Usage-Specific Considerations

Recreational snorkelers prefer comfort and simplicity, while free-diving enthusiasts typically opt for streamlined designs that minimize drag.

Scuba divers usually choose the best diving snorkel models, which come with quick-release attachments and flexible lower sections for easy regulator access.

Photography enthusiasts get low-profile designs that don't interfere with camera positioning.

Junior snorkelers need appropriately sized equipment — adult snorkels can cause jaw fatigue when used by children.

Maintenance Tips

Proper care extends your snorkel's life and maintains hygiene, so follow the steps below for a long-lasting snorkel:

• Rinse thoroughly with fresh water after each use. Pay special attention to purge valves and moving parts.
• Clean regularly with mild soap to prevent bacterial growth and remove salt deposits.
• Store your snorkel in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Avoid leaving it compressed or distorted, as this can permanently deform the tube or mouthpiece.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I replace my snorkel?

A quality snorkel should last 2-3 years of regular use. Replace it sooner if you notice degradation of the mouthpiece, stiff or cracking materials, or malfunctioning valves. If you snorkel or dive frequently, you may need to replace your snorkel every year for better performance.

Why does my jaw get tired when snorkeling?

Jaw fatigue results from either a poorly fitting mouthpiece or incorrect snorkel positioning. Check that your mouthpiece fits comfortably, and consider a model with a more ergonomic bite design. Also, check that your snorkel isn't pulling away from your mouth, causing you to bite harder to maintain the seal.

Should I get a dry or semi-dry snorkel?

The choice between a dry and a semi-dry snorkel depends on your intended use. Dry snorkels are best in choppy water and for frequent submersion, but they have more parts that can fail. Semi-dry snorkels offer a good balance for most recreational users, as they provide splash protection while still being simple and reliable.

How do I properly clear a snorkel?

For basic cleaning, exhale sharply through your mouth to force water out the top (blast clearing). With a purge valve, simply exhale normally, and the valve will release the water. Practice these techniques in shallow water before heading to deeper areas.

Can I use an adult snorkel for my child?

Using an adult snorkel for a child is not recommended. Children need properly sized equipment for absolute safety and comfort. Adult snorkels can cause jaw fatigue and breathing difficulties. Invest in youth-specific gear that matches your child's size and ability level.

How do I know if my snorkel fits properly?

Your snorkel should make breathing feel comfortable without jaw strain. The top should sit just behind the crown of your head when looking forward. You should be able to maintain a seal on the mouthpiece without biting hard, and the snorkel should remain stable as you turn your head.