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 done as a recreational activity by man people, especially in resort or scuba diving location. It is so appealing because it gives people the chance to see the world underwater firsthand. Also, this an be done without major training or equipment like what is needed by scuba divers. This is an activity that people of varying ages like to do because it requires little work or effort.

Scuba divers might also do snorkeling when they are on the surface. Search and rescue teams have been known to do this for water searches. This is also employed for athletes who participate in underwater versions of sports, such as hockey, spearfishing and rugby. This activity is thought to be centuries old, as Aristotle mentions a similar practice in a written work.

There is not a lot of equipment that is required to do this. However, one of the most important things needed is a snorkel. These devices are tubes that are generally 30 centimeters long and feature an inner diameter between 1.5 centimeters and 2.5 centimeters Typically they are shaped like an L or J and have a mouthpiece, which may be made from rubber or plastic, that is attached at the lower half.

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.

Dive masks may also be needed, and are the style of masks used by scuba divers. They allow wearers to see underwater. These units may differ in size, style and shape. Most are made using rubber or silicone materials. Fins and wet suits are optional but are known to make swimming easier.

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 is that which fits and is used correctly. Not much equipment or training is necessary for this activity, and the essentials are diving masks and snorkel. Wetsuits and fins are optional pieces of gear that may be employed for comfort or convenience purposes.