Snorkeling Snorkels

Snorkeling Snorkels

Snorkeling is a great way to discover the astonishing beauty of the marine world. With minimum equipment and a bit of practice, you can enjoy hours of exciting diving adventures and explore the underwater world. Snorkeling allows you to marvel at marine life and immerse yourself in the wonder of the ocean. What’s more, almost anyone can enjoy snorkeling. With some basic guidance, people of all ages can take to snorkeling. 

One of the essential pieces of snorkeling gear is the snorkel — a breathing tube that allows you to keep your face submerged in the water while breathing at the surface. The whole point of snorkeling is that you can glide on the surface of the sea and explore the underwater magic without having to lift your head to breathe in air. The snorkel brings air to your lungs and gives you hours of snorkeling fun. 

How Snorkels Work

A snorkel is a simple device, usually made of plastic or silicone. It consists of a mouthpiece connected to a curved tube that extends above the water's surface. The purpose of a snorkel is to allow you to breathe air from above the water while keeping your face submerged. That way, you don’t have to lift your head out of the water. This setup gives you time and space to observe the underwater world for extended periods of time without interruption.

Snorkels are fun, easy to use, and don’t require training. Snorkeling beginners might want to practice with the mouthpiece in the mouth so they get used to breathing that way, practicing for a while outside the water before venturing in.

Types of Snorkels

There are several types of masks and snorkels to choose from, each with its own features and benefits. It’s up to you to choose the one that best fits your needs. 

Classic snorkel

The classic snorkel or wet snorkel is a simple J-shaped tube with a mouthpiece. This type of snorkel gear has no special features or valves and is best suited for calm waters. 

Some snorkelers prefer the wet snorkel because they have gotten used to them and they are the simplest and most affordable types of snorkel in the market. Seasoned snorkelers opt for wet snorkels but beginners might prefer dry snorkels. 

Dry Snorkel

A dry snorkel features a one-way valve at the top that prevents water from entering the tube when you dive below the surface or when a wave splashes over it. This ensures that you can breathe easily as soon as you resurface without having to clear water from the snorkel.

The dry-top snorkel makes it easy for beginners to enjoy their hobby without having to clear water off their snorkel, as it handles water splash automatically and lets you enjoy all the marine wonders unobstructed. 

Semi-dry snorkel

A semi-dry snorkel is similar to a dry snorkel but has a splash guard instead of a valve. This design reduces water entry splashing but doesn't completely prevent water from entering the tube when diving underwater.

Semi-dry snorkels stand in between dry and wet snorkels and people choose them if they want to dive a little bit underwater during their snorkeling exploration. 

Purge Valve Snorkel

A purge valve snorkel has a one-way valve located near the mouthpiece, allowing you to easily expel any water that may have entered the snorkel by exhaling forcefully.

How to Choose the Right Snorkel

It takes a little bit of practice to choose the right snorkel for you. Modern snorkels are more gentle to fit in the mouth and comfortable to use, as they are made of soft and bendable silicone. 

Comfort

Choose a snorkel with a snug-fitting and comfortable mouthpiece. A soft silicone mouthpiece is more comfortable and less likely to cause irritation. When you feel relaxed during your snorkeling, you can make the most of your hobby. 

Fit

The snorkel should fit comfortably alongside your mask without causing any discomfort. Check the position of the snorkel clip and how it attaches to your mask. You want the mask and snorkel to fit snuggly together. 

Type of Snorkeling

Consider the type of snorkeling you'll be doing. If you're diving in calm waters, a classic snorkel may suffice. If you plan on diving below the surface or snorkeling in choppy waters, consider a dry or semi-dry snorkel. 

Experience Level

If you're new to snorkeling, a snorkel with a purge valve can make it easier to clear water from the snorkel.

Snorkel, Mask, and Fins — and You Are Ready for Your Marine Exploration!

Remember to pair your snorkel with a good-quality mask and fins for the perfect snorkeling experience. Snorkeling is a hobby that doesn’t require expensive equipment and is geared toward all ages and experience levels. 

Contact us for further tips and information or visit our shop, take advantage of our offers and great customer service, and order the best surf and diving sports products at an affordable price. Happy snorkeling!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a dry and a semi-dry snorkel?

The biggest difference between a dry and a semi-dry snorkel is the mechanism used to prevent water entry. 

A dry snorkel has a one-way valve at the top that completely seals the snorkel when you dive underwater or when a wave splashes over it. 

A semi-dry snorkel, on the other hand, has a splash guard at the top that reduces water entry from splashing but doesn't fully seal the snorkel when submerged.

How do I clear water from my snorkel?

To clear water from your snorkel, exhale forcefully through the mouthpiece. 

If your snorkel has a purge valve near the mouthpiece, the expelled air will force the water out through the valve. 

If your snorkel doesn't have a purge valve, the force of your exhale will push the water out through the top of the snorkel.