Snorkeling as an activity is not new. It is a swimming exercise that involves swimming underwater. To snorkel, you need a plastic mask and a tube to breathe. Sponge farmers in Greece were using the same technique even in the early twentieth century. But now, Snorkeling is emerging as a trendy water sport.
Modern Snorkeling is very safe. That's because the snorkel gears that you get today are ergonomically perfect. So, read on to find details about everything that makes Snorkeling possible. And why it is appealing to so many people around the world.
How Does a Snorkel Work Underwater?
The design of snorkels differs with brands and manufacturers. But the basic structure of snorkels remains the same. The main tube has a hockey stick-like look. Moreover, it has a mask clip attached in the middle that you can quickly move around.
You get a plastic cover at the top of the main tube. It prevents unwanted water from a barge in when the tube is above water.
Though, the mechanism seals the line as you go underwater. Even if some water comes through, purge valves let you expel that water with a deep exhalation.
How to Breathe Underwater With a Snorkel?
Want to know how breathing with snorkels works? Then, you have to understand the mechanism of snorkel masks.
The masks have two closed compartments for the mouth and nose. The exercise of breathing happens via a separate channel.
Also, there is an opening at the side of the mask that allows exhaled air to go out. The exhaled air never enters the valve. But, it is critical because if you exhale into the valve, you will repeatedly breathe in your air.
The modern masks are easy to wear and comfortable. The use of silicone in the frame makes sure the masks remain lightweight. Now, retreating to the question, how do you breathe underwater with a snorkel?
Snorkels have two major components: snorkel masks and snorkel tubes. We saw how the snorkel mask and tube (in the first section) function. The tube attaches to the snorkel mask.
If you are using a custom snorkel, the snorkel tube remains in your mouth. And the opening of it remains above the waterline.
While with full-face masks, you get the flexibility to breathe both with your nose and mouth. These masks cover your entire face. And don't let any water seep into them. Full-face masks, too, have a snorkel tube, and it comes with anti-leak protection. This tube does not necessarily to be above the waterline.
Three Different Types of Snorkels
Now you are aware of the utility of snorkels and how you can use them. So, we'll present you with details of the types of snorkel available in the market.
If Snorkeling is very new to you, they might look very similar. There are majorly three types of snorkels. So, let's look at how one is different, and the value one brings to the table.
1. Wet Snorkel
Wet snorkels are the most common and probably the most used snorkel types among the three. They have many other names, J snorkel, J tube snorkel, and many more. Besides, wet snorkels do not have any unique mechanism to flush out the water out of the tube. And indeed, it's not easy to drain out water off their tubes.
Then, one might think, why they are the most common and frequently used snorkels. It's because experienced and professional divers usually prefer these snorkels. The reasoning behind it is not too complex. They have a minimalistic design. Besides, they throw minimal drag underwater. They are soft and a lot lighter in weight compared to the other two types of snorkels. Silicone mouthpieces make them even narrower.
All these factors coupled together make sure there is an easy exchange of air. Almost with every breath. That should answer the question of why they are the most used snorkels.
Snorkelers, who are now the masters of their art, do not struggle to get rid of water. And because of the same reason, beginners should not use it.
2. Semi-dry Snorkel
If you have a superficial glance at a semi-dry snorkel, it will look the same as a dry snorkel. The reason being, the snorkels have a more or less similar design. But they operate on a completely different mechanism. They offer protection from water by employing a splash guard at the top.
Unlike dry snorkels, semi-dry snorkels do not offer complete protection from water. When you are snorkeling on slightly choppy sea surfaces, water will likely seep into the tube. But they have a perfect mechanism to deal with it. They come with a one-way purge valve, which helps you flush out the water off the tube.
Moreover, they are perfect for water sports like scuba diving. They have a flexible tube; you can use the mouthpiece of your choice. Though, a silicone mouthpiece remains the most excellent pick. When you prepare for long-time underwater, you don't want to carry unnecessary weight with you.
3. Dry Snorkel
Dry snorkels are best suited for snorkeling in wavy conditions. Besides, they offer a very secure mechanism. Even when the snorkel is deep into the water, they don't allow any water to seep into it. They come with a very tight seal which gives snorkelers leg room to explore in deep waters.
These snorkels are unique in their category. They are the only snorkels that keep the tube dry. Dry snorkels are probably the best choice for beginners. Most beginners can't deal with a sudden inflow of water. They might panic in such a situation, and dry snorkels give the best protection against that.
Though, dry snorkels give ultimate protection against water. But it has its share of downsides as well. The complete seal of the tube means it can't offer a pass to the air inside the tube. As a result, it creates buoyancy in deep waters.
So, the snorkelers who look to engage in water sports like freediving and scuba diving should not use it. Spending too much time underwater with dry snorkels creates trouble. After a point, divers might feel difficulty in breathing.
How to Use a Mask and a Snorkel？
In one of the previous sections, we discussed the working principle of snorkel masks. But the question begs, how do you use them correctly with snorkels.
Ultimately, it's an underwater activity. Though it's safe, the splash of caution is necessary. We are pinning down some essential pointers that you should keep in mind while using the masks with a snorkel.
Steps to Use a Mask With a Snorkel
Step 1: Choose a mask that fits appropriately and seals all the corners. Fit masks keep the vision clean and avoid any potential fogging.
Step 2: Do not bite the mouthpiece too hard. Adjust your lips and close your mouth when it aligns with your teeth.
Step 3: Don't leave any attachments open; secure your mask with a snorkel keeper and mask clip. Tightening buckles are there to adjust the mask straps.
Step 4: If you are using a conventional snorkel, always keep the tube above the waterline. And keep breathing with your mouth.
Step 5: Do not force-breathe. Save your energy. Slow breathing and continuous air exchange are the way to go.
Step 6: Deep breathe "only" once when you start swimming.
Also, do not stress out if the water comes to your mouth. Though, it's unlikely if you follow the steps stated above. If it happens, force out the water through the tube by exhaling deeply. If the water remains, remove the mouthpiece, clean your mouth. And put it again.
Final Thoughts!
As a water sport and recreational activity, Snorkeling is getting a lot of traction recently. It's fun. You don't have to be a pro, skilled swimmer to do Snorkeling. It enables you to observe life underwater and be part of it with minimal complications.
Increasingly, tropical resorts are becoming the main places for snorkeling activities. But before you plan to engage in an activity that is new to you, the correct information is vital. The variables of Snorkeling we discussed above should be enough to get you going!
