A swimmer's snorkel is a tube about thirty centimetres (twelve inches) long, usually J-shaped, fitted with a reasonably comfortable mouthpiece, and constructed of rubber or plastic. It is used for breathing air from above the water surface when the mouth and nose are submerged, either during a surface swim before or after
scuba diving, or during snorkeling.
The most common type of snorkel is a simple tube that is allowed to flood when underwater. The snorkeller expels water from the snorkel with a sharp exhalation on return to the surface. Some modern snorkels have a sump in the mouthpiece to allow a small volume of water to remain in the snorkel without being inhaled when the diver breathes. Some have a one-way output valve in the sump, which automatically drains the sump as it fills with water. Some snorkels have float-operated valves attached to the surface end of the tube to keep water out when the snorkeller submerges.
The maximum length of the tube is around fifty centimetres (twenty inches). A longer tube would place the lungs in deeper water where the surrounding water pressure is higher and the lungs would be unable to inflate when the diver inhales, because the muscles that expand the lungs are not strong enough to operate against the higher pressure.
Snorkel Tips
A snorkel is among the first pieces of gear you will probably buy. While they seem simple, there are a wide selection of purge methods and comfort features. Choose one that:
- Feels comfortable with your mask.
- One that you will comfortable clearing.
- Is the mouthpiece will be comfortable.
Once you have selected your snorkel, care for it by:
- Removing it from the mask for transport.
- Storing flat and not placing heaving items on top of it.
- Check it for leaks before use.
- Clean it at the end of your dive with the rest of your gear.
- Consider a neoprene or upgraded snorkel-keeper for comfort.
- Store it away from the heat and sun.
The Snorkel is a main part of your dive gear, but it also used a great deal more by people that have physical ailments and used by swimmers so they can concentrate more on their task at hand. Here are just a few examples of what I mean:
- Snorkels allow swimmers to glide through the water with grace and ease without having to turn your head to breathe.
- Also allows the swimmer to concentrate on stroke technique, head position, complete and symmetrical body rotation.
- This snorkel allows beginners to learn stroke and kick techniques before introducing breathing cycle.
- It enables individuals with neck, back and spinal injuries to swim without tension on injured area.
