Snorkeling gives us opportunity to see the world that exists beneath the waves. There are many types of snorkels and you can find the model that will work best for you.

“J” Snorkel

This is a snorkel that is curved tube that allows you to breathe air from the surface while your face is under the water. It is named like that because it follows the shape of the letter J and this is the most simple snorkel. J snorkels are rigid plastic tubes fitted with a mouthpiece. They are not expensive and they are easy to maintain.

Flexible

The most popular type of flexible snorkel is an accordion-like piece between the barrel and mouthpiece. This allows the mouthpiece to swing out of the way when it is not used. Some other types of flexible snorkels include some that either fold or roll into a ball and this allows them to be showed easily to travel.

Dry/Semi-Dry

Dry snorkel has a floating mechanism that blocks the entrance to the barrel when the snorkel is submerged. Semi-dry snorkel has a splash guard or wave guard to protect the top of the barrel with a minimum water that enters in.

Purge Valves

Some snorkels, bellow the mouthpiece have a one-way opening at the bottom. This allows water to fall out the bottom of the snorkel when the diver returns to the surface.

Other Considerations

When you decide to buy a snorkel you should to check the size of the bore (barrel). If it is too small it will be difficult to get enough air. If it is too wide, it will be difficult to clear the water. If you choose to short snorkel it will not reach above the waves, but if you buy to long it may cause water to leak into your mask.

You must check the mouthpiece to be sure it’s comfortable to you.

If you buy some addition features you must be sure that that mechanism will work with your mask.

After you have chosen all your equipment you must test it under the water.