The snorkel, mask, and fins you choose can make all the difference, whether you want to swim faster and for longer or you want to explore an underwater oasis on vacation.You can choose from many different snorkels, masks, and fins, but before you buy, make sure to think about the following:
Fit
With the snorkel built right into the mask, full-face snorkel masks are popular with both novice and more experienced divers. They provide a simple and efficient method to remain in the water for longer.
But for your face mask to work, it has to be the right size for you. If it’s too big, water will leak in. If it’s too small, it will not only leak but also block your view.
In addition to fitting your face precisely, the ideal snorkel mask should be able to form a watertight seal just by adhering to your face without the need for straps.
Hot tip: Don’t compromise on quality. Snorkel masks that cost more often have silicone that is softer and of higher quality. This makes it more likely that the mask will stay in place and makes it very waterproof in both the pool and the ocean.
Vision
One of the main reasons to wear a snorkel mask is so you can see well under water. Single-glass masks can give you a wide field of vision, so you can see everything around you underwater. Double-glass masks may limit your field of vision a little, but they have a smaller air volume, which makes them more comfortable if you plan to go deeper than 2 to 3 meters.
Choose a mask made of tempered safety glass or a precision-engineered alternative. Look for anti-fog coatings to help reduce the chance of fogging up under the water.
Snorkel
Even the most basic snorkels are made to help you breathe while your face is in the water. Modern masks and snorkels are made to make breathing easy and smooth. If you know how to use it right, a good snorkel can make it easy to go on underwater adventures.
Since they are designed to prevent water from entering the tube and going down into your mouth, dry snorkels have grown in popularity. Most full-face snorkel masks have these types of dry snorkels, which float and have a valve that only lets water in one way.
But they also have purge valves that let water out of the tube when you take a deep breath, in case you get submerged in water and accidentally breathe some in.
Fins
The purpose of swim fins is to help you push yourself through the water while also improving your kick speed and leg strength.
You can choose from a lot of different styles, but they all work pretty much the same way. Fins with longer blades create more resistance in the water and are great for lap training. Fins with shorter blades are easier to use when swimming freestyle.
Most fins are made of high-quality rubber and have a foot pocket with an open heel. This lets you slip your foot in with or without swim socks or dive booties, and the heel straps are easy to adjust to make sure they stay on your foot.
Tip: When buying swim fins, keep in mind that they should fit snugly. If you can fit your fingers between your foot and the fin, they are too big for you and could give you painful blisters.
