Best Snorkel Gear 2024
Choosing the right snorkel can make a big difference in your comfort and enjoyment. A snorkel is basically a tube that you use to breathe through your mouth when your face is underwater. You’d be surprised at how difficult it can be to choose one.
There are many different types of snorkels, made from different materials and of different quality. Your mouth size and lung capacity will also influence your choice of snorkel. If you enjoy diving underwater, your snorkel will also vary.
Best Snorkel Gear 2024
1. The Cressi Palau LAF Set
This set includes a classic shield-style mask, a snorkel with impressive flexibility, and sturdy fins that make it easy to navigate around the reef. However, it may not fit in some carry-on bags. If you’re looking to buy your first snorkel set, we recommend the Cressi Palau LAF Set.
A design that’s been around for over 20 years, the mask features a single tempered glass lens and a mask skirt with a clear silicone edge, which in our testing has proven to be a great way to prevent leaks. One feature we missed was the easy-to-adjust buckle that other models offer, but unless you’re constantly swapping with other swimmers, the mask fit shouldn’t be an issue once you get it sized properly.
This snorkel has a silicone section near the mouthpiece, which gives it more flexibility than some of the other snorkels we’ve tested. It also has a dry top, unlike some other snorkels we’ve tested, to help prevent water suffocation when diving.
The Palau Long Adjustable Fins have an adjustable open heel, which allows them to fit a wider range of foot sizes than fins with closed heels. There’s a loop at the back of the strap, making it easy to put on with wet hands. The blades are durable with rubberized edges to prevent edge wear and keep you safe from other swimmers getting too close while you’re swimming.
2. Zeeporte Mask Fin Snorkel Set
The easy-to-adjust mask and fins, along with their compact size, make this affordable snorkel set a great choice for beginners planning a snorkeling trip. However, it’s not as comfortable to use as our top picks.
At half the price of our top pick, the Zeeporte mask fin snorkel set has a few upgrades, including an easy-to-adjust handle on the top and bottom of the mask strap buckle to allow for a smoother push on the strap.
In our tests, the mask sealed well, and the snorkel has a functional dry top and purge valve. The short fins in this set will fit in most carry-on bags, making it great for travel.
Our main complaints were that the mask and fins were less comfortable to wear and use than our top pick, and that we could hear our breathing more through this snorkel than with our other picks. However, these issues weren’t deal-breakers.
3. Blue Reef Snorkel Set
The Blue Reef snorkel set is a reliable piece of kit for any snorkeler. The entire set is only $49.99, and it offers a lot. It’s a very reasonable price for a high-quality mask, snorkel, and pair of fins.
First off, the quality of the snorkel is comparable to other snorkels in its price range. It features a functional dryball chamber, and it fits comfortably in the diver’s mouth. The standout feature of this snorkel is the mask clip. The clasp unfolds with a simple pull and the flat design allows the snorkel to sit comfortably on the diver’s face.
The fins are also innovative and unique. The heel is neither open nor closed, but rather a combination of the two, allowing the diver to find the perfect fit. Short and practical, they are especially suitable for divers diving in caves or over sensitive bottom formations. The mask features a wide field of vision and tempered glass.
4. Cressi Light Weight Premium Travel Snorkel Set
The Cressi Light Weight Premium Travel Snorkel, also known as the Palau set, includes the Cressi Palau Long Adjustable Fins (LAF) in an open heel style, the single lens Onda mask with silicone skirt, the Supernova Dry Snorkel with dry top, flex tube, and purge valve. Cressi offers high quality gear, and this set comes with one more color option.
5. Ocean Reef Aria QR+ Full Face Mask with Duo Fins
The Ocean Reef Aria QR+ is one of the safety tested full face masks, and if it fits well, I recommend it. This mask comes in three sizes. It comes packaged with Ocean Reef’s Duo Travel Ready Fins, and is open heel style and comes in two sizes.
6. US Divers Cozumel
The US Divers’ Cozumel set includes everything you need to get started, including a pair of fins. This well-made mask features a three-way adjustable buckle for a great fit and seal. The full foot fins are comfortable, durable, and true to size. Although semi-dry, the snorkel is easy to empty.
A very comfortable set, with a good fit and a secure seal. The mask has a 3-position adjustment buckle, and the semi-dry snorkel easily drains water. The fins are also full-foot with vents for added performance, making them ideal for pros. The 3-position adjustment mask is very comfortable even after spending hours in the water.
7. Greatever Snorkel Set
If you are looking for a top-rated snorkeling set made of high-quality materials suitable for both beginners and experienced snorkelers, the Greatever Snorkel Set is a great choice. This set includes a 2-window mask, dry-top snorkel, and short fins made of durable materials, making it perfect for those who want to explore the underwater world with ease.
The 2-window snorkeling set mask provides maximum visibility while keeping water out of your nose and mouth. It also features a soft silicone skirt that comfortably fits most face shapes. The materials used in this set ensure durability and long-term use. Dry top snorkels prevent water from entering the tube when diving below the surface, allowing you to breathe comfortably at all times.
Made from durable materials, short fins are a great addition to your snorkeling gear. Designed to reduce fatigue and provide maximum propulsion in the water, they are perfect for use with the Greatever snorkel set. They are also easy to put on and take off like a snorkel mask, making them ideal for beginners who aren’t yet comfortable wearing fins.
8. TUSA Sport Adult
This great product from Tusa is specifically designed to fit medium to large adult faces. The snorkel has a drainage chamber that is activated via a dump valve when water enters. The fins are compact, but still provide plenty of power to propel you underwater.
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9. Promate Snorkel Set
This snorkel set from Promate offers great value for money. It’s easy to use, making it ideal for those with little snorkeling experience. The vented open heel fins reduce drag, giving you more reward for your effort with each kick. The single lens mask offers excellent visibility. The set is also available in a variety of sizes and bold colors.
FAQ
What is a good snorkel set?
A good snorkel set consists of two or three components: a mask and snorkel, or a mask, snorkel, and fins (flippers). Of course, you can also buy each component individually. But with all the options available, it can be hard to know where to start.
That’s why some of the best scuba and water sports brands, like Cressi and Mares, offer complete snorkel sets. This saves you the hassle of endless searching and research. As an added bonus, buying everything together is usually cheaper than buying the individual pieces.
A good snorkel set should consist of a high-quality mask that fits well without leaks and a snorkel that allows you to breathe while your face is facing down on the surface. Some snorkel sets include fins, while others don’t. You can opt to not use fins if you want to, and many snorkelers don’t. However, as we’ll explain later, they can be a useful piece of equipment.
What’s the best mask for snorkeling?
It’s important to include a good mask in your snorkel set. The point of snorkeling is to see underwater life, and that’s impossible without a mask. Masks come in a variety of styles, and which style is best for you will depend on your personal preference. Some people prefer a mask with a single window that leaves no obstructions between the eyes. Others prefer a mask with two windows. You can also find frameless masks designed to improve peripheral vision.
The most important thing, though, is that a good mask should fit well and create a watertight seal around your face. Many rental and cheap masks have plastic skirts that are prone to breaking. A silicone skirt seals well and is much more comfortable. Also, make sure your mask is made of tempered glass, as it provides better protection for your eyes.
What is a dry snorkel set?
Snorkels have come a long way from the rigid tubes of old. Most snorkels today are flexible and come with a dump valve to make it easier to empty the water than older models. Once you exhale, water is pushed out through a one-way valve at the bottom of the snorkel.
While traditional J-style snorkels are easy to use, these are open at the top, allowing water to enter the snorkel. If you’ve ever snorkeled in the surf, you’ll know that open-top snorkels absorb a fair amount of water and need to be emptied regularly.
They’re still a great option, but manufacturers today aim to keep water out of the snorkel from the start. Semi-dry snorkels come with a waterproof flap that provides some protection. However, semi-dry snorkels aren’t ideal if you plan on snorkeling in the ocean or diving below the surface. The other option is a dry snorkel. So what’s a dry snorkel set?
A dry snorkel has a valve at the top of the breathing tube that seals off completely when submerged. This keeps water out and prevents you from accidentally breathing underwater. When you return to the surface, the valve opens and you can breathe easily without having to blow or exhale enough water to get out. If you enjoy diving while snorkeling, a dry snorkel is a great choice.
What are the best flippers for snorkeling?
Fins or flippers are a great accessory for your snorkel set. They allow you to move faster and maneuver better in the water than when you’re barefoot. There are two types of fins you can buy for snorkeling: full foot and open heel.
Full foot fins have a closed pocket that fits your foot snugly. Open heel fins have an adjustable strap that wraps around the back of your foot. These boots allow you to wear neoprene boots with thick soles, which are great if you have to walk on rocks or stones to get into the water before snorkeling.
There is no one best flipper for snorkeling. It depends on the situation. For example, where will you be snorkeling? Full-foot fins are good for warm water, but socks or boots are a good option for cold water to keep you warm. In this case, an open heel is a better choice. Don’t have a lot of space to pack? Shorter fins are lighter and take up less space, so they can be more travel-friendly.
However, sticking with a respected brand will generally result in a much higher quality fin. There’s a reason why many dive instructors and snorkel guides wear Mares Avanti Quattro fins. They perform well and last a long time.
How much does a good snorkel set cost?
You can get a cheap mask and snorkel at most big box stores for around $15, but is it really that good? Quality ensures your safety in the water. For example, many budget options have windows that aren’t tempered glass. And as discussed above, tempered glass is a must-have.
A good snorkel set doesn’t have to cost a fortune. If you’re on a budget, there are great snorkel sets available for around $25 to $30. If you’re an advanced snorkeler or someone who vacations a few times a year, you can get a top-quality snorkel set for years to come for $50 to $100.
The snorkel set reviews below are broken down into budget, mid-range, and high-end options, and they’ll give you an idea of what to expect for your money.
What size snorkel set do I need?
Since each brand has different sizing charts, it’s best to try on the snorkel mask and fins to find the perfect size for you. The snorkel mask should be tight enough to prevent leaks, but not so tight that it causes discomfort. For snorkel fins, it depends on whether you’re going to wear fin socks or not. Just like regular shoes, the fins should fit snorkel snorkel snorkel snorkels ... As explained in the guide above, dry snorkels prevent water from seeping in when fully submerged. Semi-dry snorkels, on the other hand, use a waterproof membrane instead of a valve to keep water out (though they don’t work as well underwater as dry snorkels do).
What color is best for a snorkel mask?
This largely depends on the wearer. There are pros and cons to wearing a clear silicone mask versus an all-black mask. A clear mask lets in more light, but that also means it doesn’t offer much protection from the sun’s glare. Conversely, a black mask can block unwanted light, but it also significantly obstructs your peripheral vision, which can be scary for beginners.
Should I also consider which mask is right for me when buying a snorkel?
Most snorkels are compatible with most snorkeling masks, as the snorkel attaches to the mask with a simple clip. Sometimes the mask clip and mask strap don’t match, but this can easily be fixed with another clip. Full-face snorkeling masks usually have the snorkel attached to the mask, so you don’t need a separate snorkel.
Is comfort the most important factor when buying a snorkel?
Yes, comfort is the most important factor when looking for a snorkel, and it goes beyond the mouthpiece. A snorkel should fit comfortably in your mouth, but if water gets into your snorkel and you feel uncomfortable, you should also consider features like a waterproof membrane.
A purge valve flushes excess water out of the snorkel, making breathing easier. People who prefer J-shaped snorkels without this feature tend to be freedivers and spearfishers.
What are the main differences between cheap and premium snorkels?
Premium snorkels are usually made of high-quality materials that can withstand long periods of sunlight and saltwater. Cheap snorkels are more likely to be made of cheap plastic that can easily crack along the snorkel tube. Cheap snorkels also tend to have less durable mouthpieces and waterproof membranes, which can cause water to leak. This is especially true around the seams at the mouthpiece and purge valve.
A high-quality snorkel made of durable plastic and silicone can cost twice as much as a cheap snorkel, but it will last years longer than a poor-quality snorkel. Rinsing your snorkel and keeping it out of direct sunlight will extend its lifespan, regardless of its quality.
What advice would you give to someone who is trying snorkeling for the first time?
If you have never snorkeled before, it is best to test your snorkel in a pool before heading out to the ocean. This will help you get used to the feeling of wearing a mask over your eyes and a snorkel in your mouth while swimming.
Practice clearing water from your snorkel by blowing hard or manually removing the snorkel from your mouth. When it is time to go to the beach, spend time in shallow, still water where you can stand or float if you need to readjust your equipment.
When is the best time to snorkel and why?
Snorkeling can be done at any time, but it is best to pay close attention to the weather and sea conditions. The fish are most active at dawn and dusk, making them a great time to snorkel around the reefs. Otherwise, you’ll want to snorkel in clear skies, clear waters, and calm seas with no waves or currents.
Check the weather forecast to plan your snorkeling session during the least windy times for the most comfortable experience. The wind can be cold and make snorkeling impossible, and excessive waves can splash your snorkel.
What other gear is essential for snorkeling?
There are a few pieces of gear that are recommended for snorkeling. The most important one is a mask to ensure clear visibility while snorkeling. You can also snorkel with a pair of fins to help you kick through the water efficiently.
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