Anyone who wants to spend some quality time in the water, whether be it a diver or snorkeler, needs a good quality snorkel. When you walk into a dive store it's easy to become overwhelmed by the vast selection of snorkels displayed on the wall. There seems to be an endless number of different brands, sizes, shapes, and colors snorkels come in. But don't worry, we've broken down all of these differences into an easy guide to help you buy just the right snorkel for you.
Choosing the best type of snorkel just for you
The Dry Snorkel
Yes, a snorkel can stay dry inside while you use it. It's called a dry snorkel. It has a damper at the top that slides up to block the airway everytime you submerge yourself underwater. You can also get a "semi-dry" snorkel which partially blocks the snorkel opening prohibiting splashing water from getting into the snorkel.
BEST FOR: The everyday snorkeler. Usually those less comfortable in the water or someone who doesn't' want to have to work that hard to clear their snorkel.
The "Traditional" Snorkel
This is your standard, run-of-the-mill snorkel that's been around for ages. If you're looking for the most basic and economical snorkel this is the one for you. This snorkel typically will not have a purge valve near the mouth-piece so you will have to be proficient in knowing how to properly blast clear a snorkel.
BEST FOR: Someone more comfortable in the water. This snorkel WILL fill all the way up with water when submerged so you need to either have a great set of lungs to clear it all out or know how to use the displacement method to clear your snorkel as you ascend from your freedive.
The "Roll-Up" Snorkel
Otherwise known as a pocket snorkel, the "roll-up" snorkel does just that; it rolls up and fits into a specific moon-shaped container. Then you can just store it in your pocket and pull it out when needed. Although a catchy idea, this is a super basic snorkel with no purge valve or special features.
BEST FOR: Divers, not snorkelers. Any diver who hates having their snorkel bang them in the face while they dive will love the concept of this snorkel!
The Freediving Snorkel
Most freedivers use what is called a "simple J" snorkel. It's basically what we mentioned above as a traditional snorkel: no purge valve, no flex areas, and is more rigid than the more fancy snorkeling snorkels. A freediving snorkel may also be a little shorter than your traditional snorkel to help the freediver during their breath-ups before descending and easier to stay out of their way while diving as they do not keep the snorkel in their mouths during the dive.
BEST FOR: Freedivers of course. Not for your leisurely snorkeler.
The Full Face Snorkel
The last snorkel to mention here, and the newest to be invented, is the full face snorkel mask. It's the hottest thing to hit every watersports store across the country. This cleverly crafted invention takes snorkeling to a whole new level. They've combined a full face mask and snorkel into one, allowing you to snorkel without barely getting your face wet!
BEST FOR: Someone who wants to snorkel but has never been that comfortable in the water. Easy for everyone to use, these full face snorkels are especially great for anyone who's had a hard time snorkeling in the past as it keeps your face practically dry.
Yes, shopping for the perfect snorkel can be overwhelming. As you can see, there is a multitude of different options out there, but all you really have to do is choose the type of snorkeler you are from our guide here and you are on your way. Stop into Underseas Scuba Center any day of the week and our experts will gladly set you up with the perfect snorkel.
