A snorkel set consist of a mask, a snorkel tube, and fins. Each of these component of a snorkel set must fit the individual appropriate for the snorkel set to function proper. A snorkel set that dont correctly fit the individual will allow water to enter both the mask and the snorkel tube.
Additionally, a snorkel set that does not fit the individual will make it difficult for them to swim while using the snorkel set. Most snorkel set manufacturer create sets of snorkel gear for children and sets for adults. The manufacturer determine the size of the snorkel set according to the individuals age, height, and shoe size.
How to Choose and Fit a Snorkel Set
For children under the age of ten, snorkel gear are available in junior sizes. These sizes have shorter snorkel tubes and softer mask skirts to accommodate the younger individual’s smaller anatomy. For adults, snorkel gear is available in sizes that is more larger than the sizes made for junior snorkel gear.
Snorkel gear use fins to propel the snorkeler forward in the water. There is two main types of fins: open-heel fins and full foot fins. Open heel fins are worn with neoprene boots.
These fins is adjustable for snorkelers who walk on rocky shores. Full foot fins are used while snorkeling without boots. These fins are lightweight and easy to pack when traveling with the snorkel gear.
To determine the proper size for fins, measure the length of the foot from heel to toe. Fins that are too loose will waste the snorkelers energy. Too tight fins will cause blisters on the feet.
The mask portion of a snorkel set is critical to allow the snorkeler to breathe normal underwater. To test the mask for a proper fit, press the mask against the individual’s face and inhale slow. If the mask do not slide, and there is a seal between the mask and the face, the mask is appropriate.
The individual must measure the width of their face from cheekbone to cheekbone. The individual must also measure the length from the bridge of their nose to their chin. For young individuals with smaller faces and jaws, the mask will be smaller.
For adults with broader faces or beards, the mask will have a wider jaw opening to accommodate the extra space. If there is a gap between the mask and the individual’s face, water will enter there mask and ruin the individual’s view of the underwater environment. The snorkel tube portion of a snorkeling set allow the snorkeler to breathe while floating on there back in the water.
The snorkel tube size should match the individual’s lung capacity. For children with smaller lungs, use snorkel tubes that is shorter and narrower. For adults with larger lung capacity, use snorkel tubes that is wider and may have dry valve to prevent water from entering the snorkel tube.
The length of the snorkel tube should be measured to ensure that the snorkel tube is comfortable for the individual when they breathe through the snorkel tube while floating. To determine if a snorkel tube is comfortable, take a deep breath through the snorkel tubes mouthpiece. The type of snorkel gear an individual use depends on the environment that they will encounter while snorkeling.
For travel, people use full foot fins because they are easier to pack in mesh bag. Travel gear is generally used in warm shallow waters. For professional snorkel gear, individuals use open-heel fins and boots so that they can walk on rocky shores while snorkeling.
Professional gear is used in rougher waters. For snorkel gear from different brands, the measurements of the mask skirts and snorkel tubes can differ. Therefore, individuals must refer to the specific measurements of the brands that they intend to purchase the gear from.
A medium size from one manufacturer may not be the same than a medium size from another manufacturer. To purchase a proper snorkel gear kit for an individual, measurements must be obtained before purchase. The individual can use a soft tape measure to take the face width from cheekbone to cheekbone.
The individual should also measure the distance from the nose bridge to the chin. The individual can measure the length of the foot on a sheet of paper by outline the foot. If the individual is an adult, they should also practice breathing through the snorkel tube to ensure it is comfortable.
Many people make the mistake of purchasing a mask for a child that is too large. In this case, the mask will flood with water. Another mistake that people make is wearing open-heel fins without boots.
This can cause tear in the skin. Finally, masks last for approximately two year when properly taken care of. Therefore, individuals should of invest in a quality mask.
