Snorkeling is an activity that many people enjoy for the opportunity to see beautiful underwater landscapes and marine life up close. A critical component of snorkelling gears is the snorkel itself, which allows the snorkeler to breathe underwater while their face remains submerged. There are different types of snorkels available, each with unique features and benefits. In this article, we will compare the different types of snorkels and their features to help you decide which one is the best fit for your needs.
Traditional Snorkel
The traditional snorkel is the most basic and straightforward type of snorkel. It is a simple tube that is typically made of plastic or rubber, with a mouthpiece on one end and a curved end on the other. The snorkeler breathes in and out through the mouthpiece while the curved end remains above the water’s surface.
Pros:
- Simple and easy to use
- Inexpensive
- Lightweight and portable
Cons:
- Water can easily enter the tube, requiring frequent clearing
- May cause jaw fatigue due to prolonged use
- Limited air supply when diving deeper underwater
Semi-Dry Snorkel
The semi-dry snorkel is similar in design to the traditional snorkel but includes a splash guard at the top to prevent water from entering the tube. The splash guard is designed to deflect water away from the opening, reducing the amount of water that enters the tube.
Pros:
- Splash guard reduces water entry and frequency of clearing
- Lightweight and portable
- Inexpensive
Cons:
- May still require clearing if submerged too deeply
- Jaw fatigue due to prolonged use
Dry Snorkel
The dry snorkel is a type of snorkel that features a special valve at the top of the tube that seals shut when submerged, preventing water from entering the tube.
Pros:
- Prevents water from entering the tube
- Minimal clearing required
- Comfortable and easy to use
- Can be used for diving as well as snorkeling
Cons:
- More expensive than traditional and semi-dry snorkels
- Heavier than traditional and semi-dry snorkels
- May not be as portable due to size and weight
Full-Face Snorkel Mask
The full-face snorkel mask is a type of snorkeling gear that covers the entire face, including the nose and mouth, with a single lens that provides a wide field of vision. The mask includes a built-in snorkel that connects to the top of the mask, allowing the snorkeler to breathe normally through their nose and mouth.
Pros:
- Provides a wider field of vision than traditional snorkels
- Allows for natural breathing through nose and mouth
- Prevents water from entering the mask
- Can be used with prescription glasses or contact lenses
Cons:
- More expensive than traditional and semi-dry snorkels
- May not be as comfortable for prolonged use
- Can be heavier and less portable than traditional and semi-dry snorkels
- May not be suitable for diving
Flexible Snorkel
A flexible snorkel is a type of snorkel that includes a corrugated section in the tube that allows for greater flexibility and movement. This type of snorkel is typically used by divers and provides a more comfortable fit than traditional snorkels.
Pros:
- More comfortable fit than traditional snorkels
- Greater flexibility and movement
- Can be used for diving as well as snorkeling
Cons:
- More expensive than traditional and semi-dry snorkels
- Maybe less portable than traditional and semi-dry snorkels
- May not be suitable for beginners
