Tuesday, August 20, 2013

Finding The Best Snorkel Gear

By Andrea Davidson


Snorkeling is the name of an activity in which people swim on or through water. These swimmers are equipped with fins, a diving mask and a shaped tube known as a snorkel. In colder waters, they might also wear a wetsuit. This gear is designed to allow the swimmer the opportunity to observe all of the life and attractions underwater for an extended amount of time. Those who do this activity often, or plan to do it, may be in search of the best snorkel gear.

This is a common recreational activity, especially at tropical resorts and scuba diving places. The main appeal is the ability to observe the underwater life naturally, without needing complicated training or equipment that is required of scuba divers. It is appealing to people of all ages because it requires very little effort and work.

Scuba divers might also do snorkeling when they are on the surface. Search and rescue teams have been known to do this for water searches. This is also employed for athletes who participate in underwater versions of sports, such as hockey, spearfishing and rugby. This activity is thought to be centuries old, as Aristotle mentions a similar practice in a written work.

There is not a lot of equipment that is required to do this. However, one of the most important things needed is a snorkel. These devices are tubes that are generally 30 centimeters long and feature an inner diameter between 1.5 centimeters and 2.5 centimeters Typically they are shaped like an L or J and have a mouthpiece, which may be made from rubber or plastic, that is attached at the lower half.

The snorkel is used because it allows wearers to breath even when their mouth or nose are underwater. Usually these have a rubber piece that allow for attachment to a diving mask. Approximately 40 centimeters, or 16 inches, is the optimum length for these items. Long tubes do not necessarily make it easier to breath in deep waters, as the lungs will still struggle to work in deep waters.

Dive masks may also be needed, and are the style of masks used by scuba divers. They allow wearers to see underwater. These units may differ in size, style and shape. Most are made using rubber or silicone materials. Fins and wet suits are optional but are known to make swimming easier.

A lot of places that sell this gear have trained staff who can help people locate what items work for them. Facilities that offer snorkeling classes or sessions usually have rental equipment available. Before snorkeling, people will be given information regarding how to properly use the gear and other safety precautions. Generally, this activity is not ideal for people who are uncomfortable when it comes to swimming, unless snorkeling is done in very shallow waters.

The best snorkel gear will vary by person, but is should fit properly and be used correctly. Unlike scuba diving, not much equipment or training goes into this activity. The two main pieces required of snorkelers: diving mask and snorkel. A wetsuit and fins are optional pieces that some choose to use for comfort and convenience purposes.




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