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         Home Page                                                Scuba  Snorkel                                     Updated on:  22^nd November 2010

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The snorkel is the apparatus which will allow you to breath within the underwater world. Choose wisely to make your snorkeling experience memorable.

 

The snorkel is what enables you to breath whilst having your head semi-submerged under water whilst snorkeling.

It assists you in conducting your snorkeling activity without any interruptions of lifting your head from the water to breath air. As long as the  snorkel tube is not submerged you can you have a constant supply of air.

Scuba snorkels are made from a combination of plastic, neoprene rubber or silicone.

The snorkel itself is a long J-shaped tube no longer than 420mm. The lower part of the snorkel which is known as the mouthpiece is made from neoprene rubber or silicone whilst the upper part of the snorkel which is known as the barrel is normally made from plastic tubing.

 

 Cressi Freediving Corsica Snorkel Black

 

       Features to look out when buying a scuba snorkel.

Like choosing any other equipment be sure that you choose the right scuba snorkel to help you in achieving better performance during your snorkeling activites. A snorkel should allow unrestricted easy breathing. The snorkel's tube diameter, length and shape all affect your breathing.

 

There are different types of snorkels on the market. You may want to consider whether you want to get your self a wet or dry snorkel. If you are determined on getting yourself a dry snorkel then I suggest you take a look at our guide on dry snorkel is it for you?

When deciding on what type of snorkel to choose, I recommend that the snorkel you are about to purchase contains the following features:

 

• Has got smooth rounded curves. Avoid snorkels which are angular bended

• Has got a large bore to enable you to breath freely

• Is no longer than 420mm

 

Another feature to look out when choosing your mask snorkel, is that the snorkel is designed in a way which fits closely to the contours of your head. This feature will prevent drag whilst threading within the water. Some mask snorkels also have a self draining feature which allows water to be drained from the snorkel.

Be sure to choose a  snorkel which has a splashguard. This is a simple addition which is attached to the top of the snorkel barrel which prevents waves water from entering the snorkel.

 

 

Selecting the right  mask snorkel

The most important factors to look out for when selecting the style of your  snorkel are that the snorkel allows free flowing air and it fits you comfortably.

A simple test can be carried out by placing the snorkel mouthpiece between your lips and teeth and the barrel against your ear. Be sure that the mouthpiece does not irritate your gums and check for comfortness. Inhale deep breaths through the snorkel to test the ease of breathing. Choose another  snorkel to compare and re-test it following the procedure just described to you. You should now have made your choice on the right snorkel.

 

 

Once you have bought your snorkel, be sure to read our snorkel and mask guide. Here you will find useful tips on how to prepare your mask and snorkel to maximize your underwater experience.