Free Diving Snorkel

How to Choose a Snorkel

Unlike other equipment that can be tried on, snorkels are highly personal items, and most retailers don't allow customers to test mouthpieces. Fortunately, most designs follow ergonomic principles, so you're unlikely to experience mouth strain during use. Choose a model based on your diving needs and personal preferences.

Tip: Semi-dry and fully dry snorkels can look very similar, so double-check the features-especially when buying online.

Snorkels play a crucial role when finishing a dive. In emergency situations-such as rough seas, low air supply, or distance from the boat-the snorkel becomes a lifesaver, helping conserve energy while waiting for help. You can also use it to breathe at the surface while swimming to safety. With a better understanding of how snorkels work, you can make a more informed purchase and get the most out of this essential piece of diving equipment.

Basic Structure of the Snorkel

Wave-Resistant Design

A snorkel is simply a J-shaped plastic tube. The most functional feature is that some types of snorkels have a wave-resistant design at the tube opening, which prevents excessive water from entering the tube. It is important to note that regardless of the snorkel model, even if the mouthpiece has a flap, it cannot completely prevent water from entering. However, the amount of water that enters depends on the type of snorkel, which we will discuss in detail later.

Bottom Water Storage

Snorkels are primarily designed for portability. The longer and thicker the tube, the more effort is required to clear accumulated water, and it also increases the dead space for breathing, making it harder to breathe. However, it should not be too short, as this would cause water to frequently backflow into the tube. The optimal length for a breathing tube is 35–40 cm, with a diameter of 56 mm. The length is measured from the tube opening to the bottom of the bend, and the diameter is determined by the width of the mouthpiece.