Designed with safety in mind, it features a lateral air channel system that drastically eliminates any breathing effort thanks to a reduced airflow length circulation. Another advantage is that when you rent gear, you have everything you need, theres no leaving something at home (or on the boat) accidentally. Full blade snorkeling fins: These have a greater top speed as most are now designed to store energy from the 2nd half of your kick to propel you further in the first half of each kick. Some nose pockets have a purge valve while others dont. It all boils down to this:When you snorkel, you want gear thats comfortable so you can maximize your time exploring and have fun. A well-made snorkeling bag with padded backpack straps can really make your shoulders happier when walking or hiking to the snorkeling site. Snorkeling is considered an equipment-light activity, especially compared to scuba diving. This can be true, but there are times when its not. What snorkel gear do I need to go snorkeling? It will help new snorkelers feel more confident in the water, and allow seasoned snorkelers to take it easy and reduce fatigue during long snorkeling trips. A snorkel comes with a soft hypoallergenic silicone mouthpiece, completely dry top, effective splash guard, corrugated breathing tube and a large exhaust valve. A snorkeling vest is a great tool for beginners and more experienced snorkelers alike. The secondary skirt increases the surface that is able to seal against the skin and significantly reduces the possibility of a leak. Properly constructed masks will feature impact-resistant (tempered) glass lenses that can withstand pressure if you go for breath-hold dives. Cressi Palau is a great option if you are looking for a compact and powerful, yet affordable open heel snorkeling fin. And if these arent enough, pick up one of our handy, waterproofdive/snorkel maps. And, believe it or not, there are options to consider when purchasing a snorkel. Silicone is a popular material due to its softness and flexibility. Finding the right snorkeling mask is the difference between a fun day and a memorable day in the water. Aimed at travelers, the ScubaPro GO are light and compact, yet surprisingly powerful for their size. Despite its large frame, the mask is compact and lightweight. Low profile, swiveling snorkel keeper is comfortable against the face and reduces pulling on the mask strap. For more info on Personal Flotation Devices, check out our article Life Jacket vs. Snorkeling Vest - Different Types of PFDs. Cressi Supernova Dry snorkel offers a great combination of top quality and affordable price. Here at Divers Direct, we carry some of the best brands in the snorkeling business including EVO, Aqua Lung, Cressi, Mares, and more! A pocket for your nose in the mask so that clearing your mask is easier. Kids snorkeling gear includes snorkels with a smaller overall length and smaller mouthpiece for easier use. Aria offers a huge field of vision and no more fogging thanks to Ocean Reefs patented and independently tested air circulation technology. Check out our article Full-Face Snorkeling Masks: Pros And Cons to learn more about the benefits and downsides of snorkeling with a full-face mask. Additionally, there are replacement mask straps/wraps that are made from neoprene. Silica or other plastic based skirts are not as flexible, comfortable to use and may even cause face rashes. The snorkel top seals when submerged and automatically reopens when you resurface, keeping water out of the tube. The Bonete fins are ideal for travelers due to their compact dimensions and light weight. Hopefully, it will help you choose the right equipment to enjoy your day on the water! When you have your snorkeling equipment at home, youre more likely to be active in the sport and youre ready to go at a moments notice. Everyone has to see him at least once, Pickles ReefLocated inside Florida Keys National Marine SanctuaryKey Largo, FLRecommended by: JL C - Assistant Store Manager, and Capt SonnyWhy: Planted staghorn coral are thriving, lots of seafans, Fort Zachary Taylor601 Howard England WayKey West, FL 33040Recommended by: Olivia P - Store Manager, and Tim G - BuyerWhy: Its a great location for families. Thats it! The Onyx has a professional matte black finish and a contoured tube that hugs the snorkelers head for perfect hydrodynamics and less drag. We love the sport of snorkeling as much as you do, so here are a few of our staffs favorite spots to snorkel in Florida. They also feature a composite blade design that provides comfortable finning and reduces cramping. If your snorkeling and water activities are on the surface only and you dont plan to do any breath hold diving, then a full-face mask may be a good option for you. Full foot snorkeling fins: These have an opening for your foot, like a shoe. ScubaPro Escape is a high-quality semi-dry snorkel. Look for a buckle system that allows some range of motion for strap positioning and preferably has a single-button release mechanism. A mask thats constantly leaking or fogging up, paired with uncomfortable fins and a flimsy snorkel can easily spoil the experience for you. Youll want to be a fairly proficient swimmer, so if you dont know how to swim, its best to learn how before you go snorkeling. Both full foot and open heel fins are fine to wear, but full foot fins are more commonly used for snorkeling since youll most likely be in warmer waters and wont need the neoprene boots that youd need with an open heel fins. Although, if youre snorkeling in cooler waters like California or higher UV areas such as Southern Florida and the Bahamas, you may want to consider wetsuits, rashguards, and reef-safe sunblock as well. So, take a look around and explore our Snorkel Gear selection so you can better explore the seas with the perfect mask, fins, and snorkel for you. Many reliable manufacturers round off the edges or even create custom mouthpiece profiles to achieve the best comfort level possible. However, to ensure best protection against sunburn, as well as prevent scrapes and stings, we suggest you cover your skin by wearing a rash guard with a high UPF rating. Whether youre looking for a mask that protects your ears or one with a camera mount, or if youre looking for a snorkel that will rarely, if ever, collect water in the tube (like a dry snorkel) or one that would be fine in calmer waters, we have just what you need. The best snorkel gear for you will be very different from the right gear for your kids or spouse. The mask skirt should always be made from high grade silicone for the best level of comfort and superior sealing. A semi-dry snorkel is partly closed at the top due to a wave deflector which works to direct water that splashes away from the snorkel opening. We could have just gone online and made another list of the Top Snorkeling Spots in Florida, but thats not why you come to us. JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. It comes with a soft hypoallergenic silicone mouthpiece, completely dry top, effective splash guard, corrugated breathing tube and a large exhaust valve. Dry snorkelshave a self-regulating valve that senses the difference in weight between air and water. One last thought on buying. Who knows, you might bump into one of us out there. Take it from us, after a long and wonderful day of snorkeling in the sun, your backside will be feeling the burn if youre not properly protected. One of the biggest reasons to purchase a set is value. An ultra comfortable regulator-style mouthpiece can be removed and replaced as needed. It has a number of advantages, including a more natural way of breathing using booth nose and mouth, no jaw fatigue, great visibility, etc. Sets can include all three pieces (mask, snorkel and fins) or just a mask and snorkel, with fins being purchased separately. There are 3 main types of snorkels: Dry Snorkels, Semi-Dry Snorkels, and Purge Snorkels. If youre honestly only going to snorkel once or twice a year, do you really need to buy gear? Lauderdale by the Sea2 Commercial BlvdLauderdale by the Sea, FL 33308Recommended by: Jaclyn G - HR, and Joey A - Warehouse ManagerWhy: Easy beach access, dubbed the shore dive capital of south Florida in 1997. Split snorkeling fins: These provide high propulsion and less resistance with each kick. The Avanti SuperChannel by Mares are among the best full foot fins on the market. If there is any discomfort, itll only get worse once youre in the water. Truth is, there are advantages to both. In comparison to scuba gear, your snorkeling gear checklist is quite minimal. The size and shape of purge chambers can vary but the principle is the same. Your mask is the most important piece of gear since it helps you see clearly underwater. Purge Valve. However, to ensure best protection against sunburn, as well as prevent scrapes and stings, we suggest you cover your skin by wearing a rash guard with a high UPF rating. The special Channel Thrust blade with a very flexible center area and two side channels mimics the split fin motion and moves a much greater amount of water compared to other fins of the same size. The result is greater thrusting power with the same amount of effort. It will effectively block the harmful radiation and even provide a bit of warmth for extended snorkeling trips. Another big bonus for Aria users is that the mask is compatible with all accessories in the FFSM Ocean Reef line. Its always a good idea to check water conditions before going out for a snorkel since choppy waters and heavy currents can make snorkeling more difficult, even with the proper snorkel gear. So again, there are many options and when you find the right one, youll know it. Whats more, in many places around the world local laws require snorkelers to wear a vest, so check if its the case in the destination you are planning to visit. Rainbow Springs - KP Hole9435 SW 190th Ave. RoadDunnellon, FL 34432Recommended by: Dina S - Buyer, and Jen M - Content WriterWhy: Take the ferry up and drift down. The basic pieces of gear you should have are a mask, fins, and a snorkel. Lets start with the parts of aSnorkeling Mask: Strap, Skirt, Lens(es), Nose Pocket. Adjustable snorkeling fins: These have a heel strap with a foot pocket and are also referred to as open heel fins. When you buy snorkeling gear, youre making an investment, not just financial, but an emotional investment as well. Afull face snorkeling mask, also known as a dry mask, is ideal for snorkelers who don't like getting their face wet or biting onto a mouthpiece. Low-Volume vs. For cooler waters, you will want to get a neoprene wetsuit (either a shorty or a full-length) to keep you warm. Mask Strap:This is the strap that attaches to the sides of the mask and is used to secure the mask to your head. The basic pieces of gear you should have are a mask, fins, and a snorkel. Your snorkel is the tube that allows you to breathe air while your face is in the water. Additionally, the mouthpiece has a convenient angled shape that prevents jaw fatigue. Snorkeling fins can be either full foot or open heel. Your fins make your kicking more efficient and give you greater speed on the surface and in the water if you dive down. The Sea Vu Dry full-face snorkeling mask by Head is a great solution for snorkeling enthusiasts. The best one for you will depend on your preferences, size of your head, and what feels comfortable. Nose Pocket:The nose pocket is exactly that. Your mask may seem like a minor piece of the puzzle, but when you find the right mask, youll understand. Such construction provides a plethora of other advantages including an excellent uninterrupted field of view, light weight, low volume and compact profile. TUSA Snorkel Mouthpiece T (Sp-110/300/400Q/460Q), 500PSI 4 oz Ready to Use Stink Guard Pump Spray, EZ On Off Rubber Fin Strap Quick Release Buckle, Suunto Soft Pouch for Wrist Dive Computers, Atomic Subframe Mask Corrective Optical Lens, Ocean Reef APA - Aria Protection Adaptor & Filter. Snorkeling Accessories Cost Less at Divers Supply. As for the blade length, shorter fins are typically the best option for snorkelers. Its also the most sanitary option since you know exactly who used your snorkel gear lastyou! Tuesday - Thursday:11:30am to 7:30pm ESTFriday - Sunday:11:30am to 5pm EST. Exclusives like. To maximize propulsion, the blade starts right at the end of the foot pocket. Because the fins are small and lightweight, they are perfect for frequent travelers. A float inside the tube will close off the snorkel when submerged, and re-open again upon returning to the surface. Tusa M-1001 Freedom HD is a unique mask with lots of intricate features. They allow even breathing and more flexibility on choppy days, but you'll still need to clear it. FREE SHIPPING* ON ORDERS OF $49 OR MORE | FREE PICK UP IN STORE | GET DIRECT REWARDS POINTS ON EVERY PURCHASE. This mask covers your entire face and fastens in the back with comfortable straps. Cressis Duke full-face mask and short Bonete fins set is another great option for beginner snorkelers. Silicone mouthpieces are much less likely to rub or cause irritation even after prolonged use. Do you want to risk a leaky mask or ill fitting fins when youre trying to relax and enjoy? Even if youre on the hunt for a more accessible way to snorkel without a mask and fin, weve got you covered with our selection of Snorkeling Rafts by Head! Sherwood Onyx features a classic J-style design and is a great option for those who like a simple, yet functional no-nonsense snorkel. In this guide, we have outlined the basic features you should look for when selecting each piece of snorkeling gear, as well as provided our picks of the best masks, snorkels, fins, wetsuits and accessories for snorkelers. We have the best prices on Snorkeling Accessories at Divers supply. A one way purge valve allows you to exhale through the nose to easily clear the water from your mask. Great for those with knee problems. Whichever type of snorkeling fins you ultimately choose, make sure they fit comfortably. Aqua Lung Smart Snorkel is among the masks with the lowest breathing resistance on the market. For many snorkelers, visiting tropical destinations, exposure protection may simply be swimwear and lots of Reef Safe Sunscreen. Poor quality sets often sold in discount stores are likely to leave you disappointed. Their F1 mask is rightly considered to be the best budget mask available on the market. The strap has quick-release swivel buckles for easy adjustments, tri-pad connectors for a balanced and comfortable air tight fit and an ultra-glide coating that prevents pulling of the hair. These maps give you a plethora of sites in each of the areas they cover. Lots more we could talk about here, but we think you get the gist. A mask, fins, and snorkel tuck easily into just about any bag and dont add much weight. A mask thats constantly leaking or fogging up, paired with uncomfortable fins and a flimsy snorkel can easily spoil the experience for you. It allows for an unrestricted flow of air in and out of the snorkel but the water can splash in. Aria by Ocean Reef is one of the best full-face snorkeling masks currently available. Entanglement is typically not a big risk during snorkeling but if you are visiting areas where sea kelp or old fishing nets can pose a hazard, having some sort of a cutting tool is a good idea. Things to Consider When Choosing a Snorkel. The full face polycarbonate lens provides a wide field of view and doesnt fog up. You want to find a snorkel that is most comfortable for you. The number one thing youll need to look for in a snorkeling mask is fit and comfort. The mask is designed to make it very easy and natural to breathe through your nose and mouth. article Full-Face Snorkeling Masks: Pros And Cons, Life Jacket vs. Snorkeling Vest - Different Types of PFDs. The mask offers unprecedented comfort and design, giving the user the ability to breathe naturally through their mouth and nose. If you dont want to buy each piece of snorkeling gear individually, you can go for a snorkeling set. The compact dry top snorkel keeps the water out even while submerged for easy continued breathing after surfacing. These replace or wrap over the strap your mask comes with and generally reduce hair pulling and tangling. It will effectively block the harmful radiation and even provide a bit of warmth for extended snorkeling trips. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser. Typically, buying a set is quite a bit less expensive than buying each piece of gear individually. Sign up for newsletter today, WORKING HOURS: MON - SAT: 10AM - 7PM SUN: 12PM - 6PM - EST. And that snorkel goes in your mouth. This can result in a mild pain and escalate to a headache which will cut a day of underwater exploration short. If youre looking for the right snorkeling gear for your next adventure, youve come to the right place. For information please call 716.691.9100 716.837.3483, Best Snorkeling Gear in 2020 - a Complete Guide. You dont need socks but can choose to wear thin lycra dive socks with them if you so choose. Just a little over 1.25 pounds each and 20.5 inches long in ML, these fins are small enough to fit in IATA carry-on luggage so you can really pack light. Your mask should conform to your face and provide unrestricted views of the underwater world. Cressi is a reputable and dependable brand when it comes to scuba and snorkeling gear. The straps are easy to tighten or loosen but stay on securely while you are swimming. Its practical to take a dry bag with you on any water adventure, snorkeling included! A mask strap should snugly fit against the heads natural curvature and should also be easy to adjust. We highly recommend that you take the time to research gear before you buy. A lightweight low volume mask with a purge valve, added into the high quality liquid silicone skirt allows for easy removal of any water that may leak into the mask. A purge valve is a one way device that allows any water that seeps into the mask to drain with little to no effort from you. Cressi Supernova Dry snorkel offers a great combination of top quality and affordable price. Best combination of top quality and affordable price; Low volume mask with one way purge valve; Dry top snorkel with a quick-drain purge valve and a corrugated lower tube; Fins with Optimized Pivoting Blade system and anatomical foot pocket; Full-face snorkeling mask with a wide breathing area; Lateral tube position for airflow with minimal effort; Short open heel fins ideal for travelers; For many snorkelers, visiting tropical destinations, exposure protection may simply be swimwear and lots of Reef Safe Sunscreen. For all snorkeling fins, your shoe size is a great place to start. Many cheap snorkels use silita or PVC as a silicone-like material in key components such as the mouthpiece. Exclusives like Snorkie Talkie and Optical Lens Kits all add to maximize comfort for an unforgettable experience. Blade Size and Stiffness. Sets are usually the best way to go with kids snorkeling gear. Poor quality sets often sold in discount stores are likely to leave you disappointed. Hollywood North Beach3601 N. Ocean Dr.Hollywood, FL 33019Recommended by: Venessa T - Store ManagerWhy: Family friendly location, lots of marine life, easy beach access, Biscayne National Park9700 SW 328th StreetSir Lancelot Jones WayHomestead, FL 33033Recommended by: Venessa T - Store ManagerWhy: Maritime Heritage Trail, nesting sea turtles, family friendly location, lots of marine life, Horseshoe ReefLocated inside Florida Keys National Marine SanctuaryKey Largo, FLRecommended by: JL C - Assistant Store Manager, and Capt SonnyWhy: Has one of the few remaining stands of Elkhorn Coral, Christ of the AbyssLocated inside Key Largo Dry Rocks SanctuaryKey Largo, FLRecommended by: JL C - Assistant Store Manager, and Capt SonnyWhy: Its iconic. If you will be snorkeling in cold water, where youll need to wear booties, an open heel fin is a better choice. High-Volume - Whats that mean?You may have heard people refer to their mask as low-volume. The store will not work correctly in the case when cookies are disabled. You may prefer a J-type snorkel if you aspire to freedive soon since J-type snorkels reduce drag in the water. Additionally, if youre either not the strongest swimmer or prefer an easier, more relaxing snorkel experience, you may also consider getting a snorkel vest for added buoyancy on the water. Buying snorkel gear is the best way to ensure that your gear will fit properly and comfortably. An added benefit of having an adjustable heel strap is that the size range for a particular pair will be more generous than with the full foot style. Purge valves and water collection chambers help to drain water away from your mouth and make clearing the snorkel easier by eliminating the need to exhale sharply to push the water up the snorkel tube. If you dont want to buy each piece of snorkeling gear individually, you can go for a snorkeling set. Last but not least, the compact size and light weight of the fin make it an ideal option for travel and snorkeling in warm water. If your snorkel gear doesnt fit right (especially your mask) youll find your adventure to be potentially uncomfortable and frequently interrupted by mask clearing, strap adjustments, and other quick-fix attempts. The snorkel has an easy to attach and detach snorkel keeper and pairs perfectly with the Sherwood Onyx Mask to complete the look. Additionally, the mask is equipped with a dry top detachable snorkel and a self purging valve. The orthopedic foot pocket with variable thicknesses provides superior comfort. HEAD Adult Marlin Mask, Snorkel and Fins Set is a good affordable option for beginner snorkelers in particular. Vista Park Reef2851 N Atlantic Blvd.Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308Recommended by: Venessa T - Store ManagerWhy: Family friendly location, lots of marine life, easy beach access. Often, we think another advantage to renting is that it costs less if were not snorkeling often. There are three different snorkel top types - classic, semi-dry and dry.