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 also do snorkeling while they are on the surface, and by search and rescue teams doing water-based searches. This activity is also employed for sports that are played underwater, such as rugby, spearfishing and hockey. It is believed that this has been around for many years, as Aristotle mentioned it in his work.
Not very much equipment is needed to do this activity. Still, one of the major pieces requires is, of course, the snorkel. These units are tubes that typically have a inside diameter that is between 1 and 3 centimeters, and a length of 30 centimeters. Most are shaped like a J or an L, and include a rubber or plastic mouthpiece at their lower end.
This piece is designed to allow a person to breath air even when his or her nose and mouth is submerged underwater. Typically these have a rubber piece that is used to attached the snorkel to the diving mask. The optimum length for such pieces is 40 centimeters, or 16 inches. Long tubes do not make it easier to breath while deeper because the lungs still struggle, as they have to inhale against a higher pressure.
The dive mask is another important piece of gear. These are worn the same way as masks used by scuba divers. They allow the user to see clearly while looking underwater. These pieces are known to range in size, style and shape. Typically these are made from rubber or silicone. Fins are usually worn over the feet, to help with swimming, but are not required. This is also true of wet suits.
Many places that sell these things have staff who are trained and able to help people get what is best for them. Facilities that provide snorkeling sessions or classes usually provide this gear as rentals. Before doing the activity, people will be given information on safety and show how their equipment is to be used. In general, this is not an activity suggested for those who do not know how to swim, unless it is done in 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.
