Snorkeling Gear

All you must have to snorkel is a mask and a snorkel. However, many people – especially beginners – prefer to use a lifejacket or snorkel vest and fins. All of this equipment can be rented or purchased from dive shops located in snorkel destinations. If you choose to go on a guided snorkeling adventure, they will most likely provide the equipment for you. Here’s an overview of what you will need to take on your snorkeling adventure:

 

·        Snorkel Mask: The most important thing in using a snorkel mask is finding one that is the proper fit. The mask fits over your head and eyes like a pair of goggles and allows you to view the underwater spectacles while keeping water out of your eyes. Masks are adjustable, and should form a tight seal over your face to prevent leaks as well as be comfortable on your head.

 

Single-windowed masks are an inexpensive option and actually give you more visibility, but they do tend to leak more than a double-windowed mask. Double-windowed masks are a bit more comfortable, but also a bit more expensive. When purchasing a mask, look for one that has a double-edged skirt. These masks fit more closely to your face and help prevent water from leaking into your eyes.

 

·        Snorkel: The snorkel, although your most obviously important piece of equipment, is the least complicated. Your snorkel will strap around your head while the mouthpiece fits in your mouth and the tube sticks up out of the water. Practice breathing through your snorkel before you dip into the water to make sure you are comfortable.

 

·        Fins: Some people prefer wearing fins because they help propel you through the water. Others, however, feel that fins are cumbersome and just get in the way. Snorkel fins have a wide surface that can be helpful in navigating your way through the water. It is best to find a medium-sized fin that will be large enough to provide force to propel you, but also are not as heavy or bulky as the larger fins.

 

Snorkel fins can attach to your feet by heel straps, or can fit on your foot like a shoe. Although full-foot fins feel less clumsy, most younger children prefer the heel-strap fins because they are adjustable. It is a good idea to wear footwear underneath heel-strap fins.

 

·        Snorkel Vest: Snorkel vests are air cushions that strap onto your chest to keep you buoyant. These vests allow you to float on top of the water while not so heavy that you can dive down below the surface easily. If prefer not to purchase a snorkel vest, a life jacket usually suits beginners just as well.

 

·        Camera: There will be many sites that you will not want to forget on your snorkeling adventure. It is not a bad idea to carry an underwater camera with you to snap some shots of the beautiful scenery, as well as yourself or your family decked out in snorkel gear!

 

·        Defogging Solution: It is not uncommon that your mask will become foggy while you are underwater, reducing your visibility. A defogging solution is available at most scuba shops or snorkel rentals for you to smear onto your mask before you strap it on. If you don’t want to spend the money, some claim that human saliva works just as well!