Snorkels

A snorkeling mask may just be the most important piece of gear for those who spend lots of time underwater. After all, you need one to see and breathe beneath the water’s surface. As a beginner, it’s crucial that you choose the right model and opt for professional snorkeling equipment from a trusted retailer. That way, you’re setting yourself up for success.

Scuba.com offers durable, dependable, and reliable snorkels for your next snorkeling adventure. Whether you’re a professional or just getting your feet wet, we carry top-quality gear so you can make the most of your time underwater. Browse our inventory and shop with us today.

Enhance Your Dive with Top-Quality Snorkeling Equipment

Snorkeling is a fun and exciting sport to get into. There’s a reason why it looks like such an enjoyable pastime when you see snorkelers on TV or in magazines.

Snorkeling appeals to watersport enthusiasts because of the thrill it holds. After all, taking the plunge and seeing the beautiful marine life up close feels like being inside an aquarium. Plus, snorkeling is a practical hobby because it doesn’t require expensive full-body gear or formal lessons. It’s also a safe and easy sport to learn.

What Are the Different Types of Snorkels?

To get started with snorkeling, it helps to know the different kinds of snorkels available.

Classic Snorkel

The most basic type is the classic snorkel, also called the J-style snorkel. Simple yet affordable, the only downside of this snorkel is that it can get uncomfortable over long periods because of its rigidity.

Flexible Snorkel

The next type is the flexible snorkel. True to its name, it has a flexible part that allows divers to adjust it to fit their face comfortably.

Semi-dry Snorkel

Another type is the semi-dry snorkel, which features a splash guard that prevents water from entering the tube. You may also opt for a dry snorkel that blocks off water and air completely once you’ve submerged.

Full-Face Snorkel

For enhanced functionality, you can get a full-face snorkel mask. This option covers your entire face and is the easiest to use of all the snorkels available.

Purchase Pro Snorkel Gear at Scuba.com for Less

Snorkels are vital items in your set of diving equipment. Turn to Scuba.com for your snorkeling needs. We carry a wide range of professional snorkeling gear, from dry-top snorkels to contoured snorkels and everything in between. Buy a Scuba.com snorkel from top brands including Aqualung, Blue Reef, Mares, Genesis, XS Scuba, and Scubapro.

How Do Snorkels Work?

A snorkel is a tube made of plastic, rubber, or silicone that helps swimmers breathe underwater while keeping their faces submerged. One end of the snorkel features a mouth piece, and the other extends the swimmer’s airway above the surface of the water.

Most snorkels feature a slight bend or J-shape so you can keep the open end above the surface while you swim. Some models have a float valve at the top to prevent water from entering the tube if you accidentally dip below the surface. Others are open at the top, so you’ll need to clear them by blowing out any water inside before inhaling.

Which Snorkel Should I Buy? 

Choosing the right snorkel for you has a lot to do with your snorkeling experience. 

Beginner or more timid snorkelers benefit from easy-to-use models with a floating valve at the top. Snorkels with valves are sometimes called “dry snorkels,” and they make it easier to dive below the surface without getting unexpected water in your mouth.

Some snorkels have purge valves for clearing water without needing to blow it out through the top of the tube. 

Flexible-curve snorkels provide a more customized fit so you can position your gear exactly where you want it for comfort.

How to Clean Your Snorkel

Cleaning a snorkel is fairly easy. You can use a mixture of water and a bit of gentle, unscented dish detergent between uses. Just submerge the snorkel in the soapy water, agitate it, and rub any debris off the mouthpiece or from outside the tube. Rinse with cool or lukewarm water to fully remove soap residue.

Because snorkels spend so much time submerged in the water, you need to be careful about mold, mildew, and salt. Make sure your snorkel fully dries before storage. If you do find some mildew, rinse your snorkel with a diluted bleach solution, then wash it with soapy water.