subject: What equipment to take along when snorkelling [print this page] What equipment to take along when snorkelling
Snorkelling is a wonderful pastime that can be enjoyed by almost anyone, anytime, anywhere. It does not require the expense, time, and expertise that diving does, and can be done in oceans, rivers, lakes or ponds. Before you go into the water, there are a couple of things you need when snorkelling you need to choose your snorkelling equipment carefully and learn how to use them properly. The most important pieces of equipment needed when snorkelling are a mask, snorkels, fins, and lastly a camera.
Mask This is the centrepiece and serves as a window to the underwater world. The mask serves as a lens, helping vision underwater. Masks should be selected that give a clear unobstructed view, and with side windows for wider vision. Your snorkelling mask should fit you well and enclose your nose, which helps to maintain a comfortable pressure while underwater. One way to test whether your mask fits, is to hold it to your face with the strap hanging loose. Once you push the mask gently onto your face, it should keep on by simply inhaling slowly.
Snorkels Snorkels are a diver's lifeline, they connect the snorkeler to the surface air, letting them breathe while their face is in the water. There are several different designs of snorkels, which vary based on bore diameter and length. You should choose snorkels according to your needs and body type. If you are larger, you should opt for something that will allow more air to pass through. However, snorkels with larger bore diameters have poor air quality, because the expelled air hangs inside the tube taking up space so care should be taken when selecting snorkels.
Fins If you are exploring water that is a bit deep or wish to snorkel for a long duration, then it is wise to have fins, as these will help you glide effortlessly through the water. Fins are not necessary if you just want to hang out in calm shallow waters though. Fins help boost control, speed and power and help the diver go deeper. There are two types of fins open heel fins and full foot fins. Full foot fins offer more protection, but are not as secure as they cannot be adjusted. Open heel fins, on the other hand can be adjusted with a strap and are more secure but provide less protection to your feet.
Underwater Digital Camera This is just an option, but an absolute addition to any snorkelling trip. Underwater cameras are increasingly becoming affordable, with advances in technology.
