Snorkeling Equipment

LeisurePro Tip: When choosing snorkel gear, it's important to make sure that you are comfortable. Because there are so many different kinds of masks, snorkels and fins, it might be wise to rent from a dive shop to find the brands and sizes that fit you best.

When selecting a mask, find one that fits your face snugly, doesn't leak and provides for a good field of vision. Some masks are designed with peripheral vision in mind, others limit peripheral vision.

When choosing a snorkel, you want to find one that lets you breathe easy underwater. Some snorkel hoses are longer than others, so practice with many different lengths. Additionally, some contain special one-way valves that help expel that water from your snorkel automatically, so experiment with different kinds until you discover the right one for you.

Finally, although you do not need fins to snorkel, they are a wise investment if you're interested in diving deep underwater. They'll help you swim faster and let you free dive deeper. Try open heeled and closed-fit fins to determine your preference.

Now that you've chosen your snorkeling equipment, grab your gear, put on some sunblock, and head to the beach!