If you are a swimmer, whether a beginner, intermediate, or experienced, then you are well aware that to improve your technique, you have to check on your breathing. Breathing interferes with your swim pattern and throws you off balance.
With a swim snorkel and the best waterproof fitness trackers for Swimming, you can improve your swimming technique as you will not have to breathe with every stroke you make and you will be able to track your moves.
Other than improving your swimming technique and posture, you can use swimming snorkels and goggles for an endless number of water activities like sightseeing.
The market is flooded with all kinds of swimming snorkels, and going shopping for one will not be a walk in the park but, after going through this review, you will know the right one for your money.
More Swim Gear Reviews:
Table of Contents
My Top Picks
I have listed the best swimming snorkels you can get in the market regardless of your swimming capability in terms of features, functionality, and value for money.
- Best Overall: FINIS Adult & Junior
“Available in adult and kid sizes. One-way purge valve. Adjustable headband. It can be used by swimmers of all levels. Flexible mouthpiece-Suits everyone.” - Runner Up: Kraken Aquatics
“Stays dry. One-way purge valve. Comfortable mouthpiece. Adjustable head brackets-It is the best for beginners.” - Best Budget: COPOZZ
“Superior features found in pricier models-what more could you want in a snorkel?” - Best Design: Zionor
“You will not only feel good with it but also look good in it.” - Best for Long Swims: MP Michael Phelps Focus
“High-end functionality, versatility, comfort, and the right endorsement.”
Comparison Chart
Here you can have a glimpse of the best swimming snorkels’ features and what they are best for, and a quick comparison will help you settle for what will suit your needs.
The 15 Best Swimming Snorkels Reviews
In this section, I have provided encompassing reviews of each of the top picks in the market.
1. FINIS Adult & Junior
(Best Overall – Editor’s Choice)
This is the O.G. The Finis Original Swimmer’s snorkel has got nearly all your snorkeling needs covered whether you are a competitive or a recreational swimmer.
The center-mounted snorkel tops my list because of its first-rate features and its high popularity among swimmers. It is the pioneer of the center-mount design which allows you to have a full-range motion of the butterfly, freestyle and breast stroke swimming styles. It will also stay put when you do flip-turns.
The snorkel features an elliptical shape hydrodynamic tube that curves around your head to maintain a proper body position and reduce drag. In a relaxed position, you can swim for a longer period, and you remain focused on improving your technique.
The snorkel pipe stays out of the water all the time; thus, you are guaranteed continuous breathing. In case water fills the tube, you can empty it with the one-way purge valve, and it will not enter the mouthpiece.
The mouthpiece is made of flexible silicone material, and it has a few pieces to bite, ensuring a good grip and firm fit of the snorkel in the mouth.
With the Finis Original, you can bring your kids to your next underwater adventure, be it sightseeing or technique training as it comes in both kid and adult sizes. It also features a head bracket that you can adjust both in height and diameter for a perfect fit. You can use the head bracket with or without a mask or goggles.
With this snorkel, you will effortlessly glide in the water without having to turn, lift, or bend your head to catch a breath. That will help build your lung endurance and train your body in various ways at once.
It comes in pink and yellow.
Pros
- Available in adult and kid sizes.
- One-way purge valve.
- Adjustable headband.
- Can be used by swimmers of all levels.
- Flexible mouthpiece.
Cons
- No splashguard.
Here is a video review of the FINIS Adult & Junior Swim Snorkel check it out and see the O.G in action.
See Also: Swimming Goggles for Kids
2. Kraken Aquatics
(Runner Up)
If you are a beginner looking for an effective training aide, this is your optimal choice. Most beginners complain of snorkels gulping water thus, interfering with their swim training. With the Kraken Aquatics Swimmer’s Snorkel, that is a forgotten nightmare.
The snorkel features a system that closes the airway when underwater to control the water to a minimum level and a one way purge valve for blowing out water on the rare occasion that a leak occurs.
It comes in a center-mount design with a low profile special tube that reduces water resistance as it cuts through the water. Therefore, it allows you to breathe continuously without interfering with your body position and stroke efficiency.
Unlike other snorkels, Kraken has a nice soft mouthpiece that is smaller than the average silicone ones. You will not mind using is for long swims or dive as it offers a comfortable feel and dental grip.
You can fasten and secure the whole snorkel unit with its adjustable and padded head brackets that offer you superior comfort and a snug fit. It will not come off in whatever style or speed you swim in.
Another reason why it is the best swimming snorkel for beginners is that you do not have to break the bank for it. Not only beginners can benefit from this top-notch snorkel, even experienced swimmers or divers can make the most of its excellent features.
The Kraken Aquatics Swimmer’s Snorkel only comes in black.
Pros
- Stays dry.
- One-way purge valve.
- Comfortable mouthpiece.
- Adjustable head brackets.
Cons
- No color options.
Watch this video of the fantastic Kraken Aquatics Swimmer’s Snorkel and see if it will be part of your first training experience.
See Also: Nose Clips for Swimming
3. MP Michael Phelps Focus
(Best for Long Swims)
Are you a marathon or lap swimmer looking to improve your technique? Well, you need to improve your breathing first, and the MP Michael Phelps snorkel is the best solution for you.
Michael Phelps, the GOAT, together with his longtime coach Bob Bowman has long broken into the swim gear industry with products he has tried and tested. He created this snorkel after he noticed a few shortcomings in products from other companies he had used. That being said, quality and functionality cannot be on your list of worries with the MP Michal Phelps snorkel.
Its triangular shape is its biggest selling point. It inhibits side to side rotation when swimming at speed or doing flip turns, common with other regular snorkels because it wraps tightly around the head. Since the edge of the snorkel that rests against your head is flat, you will experience less rolling or sliding back and forth while you swim- this is why it can be used for long swims.
With this snorkel, you will no longer experience drag during your training, thanks to the unique low-profile hydrodynamic tube that positions your head correctly and eases breathing. In the relaxed body position, you can build your lung capacity and cardiovascular strength as you improve your technique.
If you happen to get water into the tube, you can easily flash it out using the one-way purge valve offered. Also, you won’t abandon your training because of jaw fatigue with this snorkel; it comes with a silicone Comfo-Bite mouthpiece-another reason why it is highly suitable for long swims.
As if that is enough, the center-mounted snorkel features a lightweight head bracket that you can adjust to your personal fit, and, for superior comfort, it has an integrated cushion.
The snorkel comes in 2 sizes; a small and a regular fit with an option of 6 bright colors.
Pros
- Snug fit.
- Multiple color options.
- One-way purge valve.
- Comfortable mouthpiece.
- Adjustable head bracket.
- Well-known endorsement.
Cons
- The cost seems to be high because of endorsement.
Here is a video of the MP Michael Phelps Focus Swim Snorkel watch it and see all its grandiose features in a demonstration.
See Also: Ear Plugs for Swimming
4. Zionor
(Best Design)
Looks and excellent functionality on a budget is the most befitting description I can give the Zionor Swimming Snorkel. Zionor claims to offer products with first-rate functionality at affordable prices, and it is exactly what you get with this snorkel.
This is one snorkel mostly preferred by users because of its design and orientation. It comes in a sleek, hydrodynamic center-mount design that allows you to swim effortlessly without any water resistance.
The snorkel fits excellently and accommodates various head sizes on account of its head bracket that has an engineered thickened head-pad that sits firmly on your head to offer comfort and firm grip. It will stay put even during flip turns and high speeds as well as relieve you from any pressure related pain.
You also get a very unique optimized mouthpiece made with food-grade and odorless material which fits perfectly and accommodates different mouth sizes. Although if you have a small mouth, it will take a few uses to break in. In case water fills the tube during an exhale, you can flash it out through the one way purge valve.
The snorkel has an open tube design with a spout that allows a smooth and unobstructed flow of air that offers you a generous amount of oxygen into your lungs when you inhale. The downside to this is that water can also enter the tube through the same spout in generous amounts now and again, especially if you are swimming in open waters with waves.
The Zionor Swimming Snorkel comes in 4 colors; you can use it for triathlon, lap swimming, and training.
Pros
- Comfortable.
- Optimized mouthpiece.
- One-way purge valve.
- Very affordable.
- Great design.
Cons
- It cannot be used for lung endurance training.
5. COPOZZ
(Best Budget)
Good choice if you mind your coins. It is one of the best swimming snorkels for both adults and children with an excellent set of features at a cheap price.
The COPPOZ is a front snorkel with a central mount design that allows you to breathe easily when you are doing the butterfly of freestyle kicks that require you to be in the face-down head position. It is streamlined in shape to reduce water resistance when you swim without blocking your vision.
The snorkel features a one way purge valve located at the bottom of the tube through which water and the air you exhale freely flows out of the snorkel tube. Anyone who has used a snorkel with a purge valve before knows the pitfalls of bubbles that interfere with vision after water is blown out. The purge valve on the snorkel is positioned to solve this problem.
Aaaah! My gums. Many snorkel users complain of irritating gum pain caused by uncomfortable mouthpieces. COPOZZ is an exception; its mouthpiece is made with soft, flexible, superior quality of silicone that accommodates all mouth sizes. Nothing sucks as much as abandoning fun or adventure because of pain caused by uncomfortable swim gear.
To fasten the snorkel, you will use the adjustable head strap it comes with. It has buckles that you can easily press to adjust to fit perfectly with any swim caps or goggles, which are optional. The buckles also hold the straps in place.
The COPOZZ Swim Snorkel comes in 5 colors to choose from, and it can be used by young swimmers, adults, beginners, intermediate and experienced, or competitive swimmers.
Pros
- Very affordable.
- Comfortable mouthpiece.
- Adjustable head strap.
- One way purge valve.
Cons
- No splash guard.
Here is a video of the great COPOZZ Swim Snorkel watch and find out if indeed it is a steal.
6. Whale
(Best for Body Physical Therapy)
This is a perfect choice for anyone who prefers to do their physiotherapy in the water. Maybe you want to swim train with a back or neck injury, but it also suits beginners, teens, and adults who want to improve their swimming technique.
The snorkel is built with a hydrodynamic tube that has a ‘V’ Cone shape which helps reduce water resistance as you cut through water as well as improve your vision. This allows you to focus on your butterfly, freestyle, or breast stroke style without worrying about your breathing.
With this snorkel, you will have a relaxed and comfortable swim training on account of its flexible holder that is quickly adjustable. The head holder is center mounted with adjustable straps that can fit various head sizes and is made with EVA for your added comfort.
The mouthpiece of the snorkel is one of a kind. It is made with ecofriendly food grade liquid silicone material, which is the same as the one used for baby bottle nipples. It is incredibly soft, flexible, non-toxic, odorless, and highly transparent, and it does not yellow. This means you get zero gum irritation or jaw fatigue making it one of the best swimming snorkels for lap swimming or long distance swimming.
What’s more, you can drop out the mouthpiece if you need to.
In case water gets into the tube, you can blow it out with the one way purge valve it offers, and it also has dual exhaust valves that clean help you to easily clean and keep the tube clear.
The Whale Swim Snorkel comes with 6 color options so, you will not only feel great but also look good with it.
Pros
- Great design.
- Multiple color options.
- Dual exhaust valves.
- Extremely comfortable mouthpiece.
- Adjustable head band.
- Drop away mouthpiece.
Cons
- More expensive than other choices.
Watch this video of the fantastic Whale Swim Snorkel in case you want to see its features in action.
7. Focevi
(Best Mouthfeel)
This is an upgraded version with better quality at a very affordable price. With this snorkel, you will get the best bang of your buck.
It comes in a central mount design with a tapered shape, which ensures you do not get to touch the snorkel while swimming as well as balance the weight of the snorkel for superior comfort and excellent body balance. The tapered design also reduces water resistance as it breaks through water; thus, increasing your speed.
The snorkel features an adjustable head bracket with a protection pad that maximizes your comfort when you wear it. It has a head strap that you can adjust to fit any head size comfortably and snuggly, making it suitable for anyone.
Focevi offers you the best mouthfeel on a snorkel as it has a mouthpiece made from food grade silicone mouthpiece that is incredibly soft and comfortable. The mouthpiece has convex substance on both sides that makes its texture smooth and easy to bite. It is the same material use to make baby pacifiers. A great mouthfeel on a snorkel means you can swim for long without any discomfort.
You can also blow out water that enters the tube through the airway using a purge valve, which has professional protective parts that make it difficult to lose.
Generally, the Focevi swim snorkel is made with high quality materials that are very light with no pungent smell common with most snorkels. Its high-end features allow you to focus on your backstroke, breast stroke, freestyle, and butterfly strokes.
It comes in 3 colors; black, blue, and yellow.
Pros
- Comfortable mouthpiece.
- It is made with high quality materials.
- Comfortable head bracket.
- One-way purge valve.
- Great design.
Cons
- Not the best for rough waters.
8. Speedo Bullet Head
(Best for Speed Training)
Any sprinters in the house? This is your ultimate pick for training in the pool, especially if you are looking for stability.
It comes in a minimalist design with a unique tear-drop shape that makes it ideal for speed training because it provides you with maximum vision and reduces drag. The low profile shape also enhances stability as the snorkel cuts through the water.
The hydrodynamic tube has a small opening that limits air flow, which helps in improving your lung capacity, a key aspect of your swim training. You also get to enjoy the privilege of using a removable silicone mouthpiece, which makes cleaning and maintenance a tad easier.
With the Speedo Bullet Head Swimmer’s Snorkel, you can forget about headaches or migraines caused by discomfort and facial pinching thanks to its incredible TPR headband. The headband is adjustable with notches on the tube and highly flexible for your comfort and stability when swimming. If you happen to fasten the headband too tight unknowingly, the padding TPR will eliminate facial pinching or headaches.
The Snorkel’s head-strap is made with premium silicone, and it comes in a split strap design for extra comfort and stability.
Any swimmer, newbie or seasoned can use the Speedo Bullet snorkel to achieve a streamlined position focus, pull sets, kick sets, speed training, and lung endurance training.
Pros
- TPR headband.
- Silicone head strap.
- Removable mouthpiece.
- A shape that enhances speed and stability.
Cons
- No purge valve.
Check out this video of the Speedo Bullet Head Swimmer’s Snorkel and see if you are bringing it to your next training.
9. Arena
(Best for Swim Training)
If you’d like to talk amid your swim, maybe shout out your stroke counts and training results to your coach with a snorkel on, the Arena Swim Snorkel is your best shot.
One unique feature that makes the Arena snorkel outlandish is its ability to rotate. Brilliant right? In case you want to talk, you simply move it away from your mouth. You can as well move it until it’s out of your field of vision if you wanted to for whatever reason. Its ability to rotate also makes storage and transportation easy.
One more interesting thing about the snorkel’s ability to rotate is that if you move your head when swimming, it wobbles. This helps you focus on maintaining a proper head position.
Its head piece, apart from being rotatable, is soft and adjustable for your comfort.
The top of the snorkel controls your air intake, and at the bottom, is a one-way purge valve you can use to get rid of water in case some get into the tube so no water inhalation. The mouthpiece is made with soft silicone, again for your added comfort.
The front-mounted snorkel lets you focus on aligning your body correctly and stabilizing your core during your butterfly strokes, front-crawl drills, and kicks. Its headpiece and centered construction help you maintain maximum stability amid your strokes.
The Arena Swim Snorkel is one of the best swimming snorkels for beginners as it helps them develop the fundamental techniques to being an expert. You can get it in 3 colors; black, hot pink and blue.
Pros
- Comfortable.
- One-way purge valve.
- Can rotate.
- Wobbles if the head is unsteady.
- Easy fitting and storage.
Cons
- Can wobble if you start, touch, or turn in a certain way.
Check out this video of the powerful Arena Swim Snorkel and see how much you can do with it on your swim workouts.
10. Arena Pro
(Best Customizable)
This is an upgrade of the Arena snorkel I have reviewed above. It is a perfect choice for all the swimmers who complain of ill-fitting mouthpieces and spout size options offered by most snorkels.
The snorkel comes in a center-mount design with a regular ‘J’ shape. Jaw fatigue and gum pain are a thing of the past with the Arena Swim Snorkel Pro thanks to the 2 different sized mouthpieces that come with the package.
You can also choose to train your lung endurance or have a generous amount of oxygen into your lungs because it comes with 3 different spout options. The one without any spout caps allows you to breathe 100% oxygen while swimming, and the other 2 choices give you 70% and 50%.
It has a newly designed head strap with a quick-release clip that allows you to quickly adjust for a perfect and comfortable fit. The center mounted headband makes the snorkel ideal for fast fin-swimming and flip turns because it offers a secure fit. Speaking of swimming fins, check out best swim fins for a good one.
With the Arena Swim Snorkel Pro, you can build your lung endurance and body or core as well as maximize speed training.
Pros
- Optional mouthpiece sizes.
- Multiple snout options.
- Adjustable head strap.
Cons
- No purge valve.
- It can be a bit hard to put together at first.
Watch this video of the Arena Swim Snorkel Pro in case you want to see how you will put it together for your next training.
11. TYR 2.0 Ultralite
(Best Lightweight)
This is your go-to snorkel if your mesh bag is already too stuffed with your other swimming gear, and you need something that won’t add bulk to the load. Just like its name, its distinctive feature is its lightweight, just 175g, making it a perfect choice for training and long swims.
The snorkel is front mounted, and it comes in a boomerang shape that keeps you stable and solves the breathing problem that is a hindrance to perfecting your swimming technique. Since you won’t have to turn your head to catch a breath with every stroke, you will focus on maintaining a proper body posture and improving on speed.
The snorkel features a removable mouthpiece made with soft silicone- you will not suffer jaw fatigue from biting down on a mouthpiece like with other snorkels. It, therefore, suits you for your long swim workouts or adventures in the water. The removable mouthpiece also makes cleaning and maintenance easy for you.
It also features an adjustable head-strap that is also unique as it is tightened on the back of the head for your perfect and comfortable fit. Most snorkels have straps that are adjusted where the headpiece joins the snorkel tube.
The TYR 2.0 Ultralite Swim Snorkel comes in 2 colors; black and pink.
Pros
- Lightweight.
- Adjustable head-strap.
- Comfortable.
- Removable mouthpiece.
Cons
- No purge valve.
Watch this video review of the TYR 2.0 Ultralite Swim Snorkel for more details on features and functionality.
12. FINIS GLIDE
(Best for Increasing Aerobic Capacity)
This is very similar to the original Finis Swimmers model only that it has a shorter tube, and it comes in 4 beautiful colors. It is an excellent choice for any swimmer with any capability.
It is built with a center-mount design that allows you to relax in water so that you can focus on stroke technique. Its front positioning offers you perfect stability at any speed. Its short hydrodynamic tube makes it an ideal snorkel for introducing fitness and training to triathletes, children, adults, and beginners.
The tube allows for a generous amount of oxygen to flow through the spout while also increasing your aerobic capacity. It does not entirely limit air flow or put you into too much of an oxygen debt but allow you to have just what you need, which is the perfect way to learn how to train with a snorkel.
The snorkel will sit firmly on your head regardless of your stroke type or speed thanks to its adjustable head bracket that makes for quick strap adjustment and a perfect fit. It will stay in place for the freestyle, breast stroke, butterfly and flip turns.
The mouthpiece is made of soft silicone that won’t make you suffer jaw fatigue. You can, therefore, use it for long swim training. However, it lacks a purge valve, in case it leaks, you will have an interrupted swim. You have to be extra careful to maintain your head position throughout the swim session.
Pros
- Adjustable head brackets.
- Increases aerobic capacity.
- Affordable.
Cons
- No purge valve.
13. FINIS Freestyle
(Best for Freestyle Swimming)
Freestyle enthusiasts! Anyone? This has been specially designed for you. It is a FINIS Swimmer’s snorkel improv. It is like the top half of the FINIS Freestyle Swim Snorkel wrapped around the back of your head so that the top of the tube points behind your back and not straight up.
It is also the pioneer freestyle snorkel. Its advanced curved shaped design allows you to achieve a lower head position hence a perfect body position that you can optimize to improve your techniques and speed. The design also offers you a streamlined fit as it easily and stably fits closer to the face.
The snorkel is reinforced with stability allowing you to swim with a full range of motion in any style at any speed. You can even do flip turns with it without having to turn your head in any direction to catch some air.
It has a mouthpiece made with comfortable and medical-grade silicone, which is also very flexible. It feels safe to know what goes into your mouth and if it has any harm staying there for hours of your swim workouts.
It also features a head strap that you can adjust to any size both in height and diameter for your personal fit.
One huge downside to the FINIS Freestyle Swim Snorkel is that it does not have a purge valve or a ball cock tip to prevent water from entering the tube. So you have to be careful to maintain your head position for continuous breathing.
It comes in FINIS yellow only.
Pros
- It can be used for freestyle swimming.
- Adjustable head strap.
- Comfortable mouthpiece.
- Affordable.
Cons
- No purge valve.
Watch this video review for more features and usage details of the fantastic FINIS Freestyle Swim Snorkel.
14. OMGear
(Best Snorkel Gear Set)
If you are looking for a snorkel gear set, this might be your best bet, both for you or your kids. The set includes a snorkel and a snorkel mask, a mask paddle, and a phone bag.
The snorkel gear guarantees you clear and safe vision underwater as it has a snorkel mask with a tempered glass lens, which is scratch-resistant and shatters resistant. At least you don’t have to get a pair of goggles, which might end up taking up storage space or lying unused in your pool room.
The snorkel mask is completely anti-leak. It has a silicone strap and skirt as well as a well-designed frame that makes it leak proof. The snorkel itself is a dry kind. It has a splashguard that prevents water from entering the tube, and on the rare occasion it does, you can blow it out with the one way purge valve. It also has a dry valve for further water protection, which guarantees you easy breathing while swimming.
The snorkel mask can fit any face shape and size thanks to its super stretchy silicone straps, skirt, and side buckles that you can adjust easily for a personal fit.
The OMGear snorkel set is best suited for free-diving, scuba diving, spear fishing, swimming, and many other underwater adventures. Additionally, since it is made with flexible materials, it is easy to fold and roll making it ideal for travels. Btw! Its ability to fold is its largest selling point.
The snorkel’s breathing tube is large and allows you to have access to a generous amount of oxygen during swimming. The biggest downside to the size of the tube is that clearing it can be tricky, especially that it does not have a purge valve.
The snorkel set is available in 3 colors, both for kids and adults.
Pros
- Useful for free diving and spear fishing.
- It can fold into a compact size for convenience.
- Great supplementary products.
- Available in Kid and adult sizes.
- Comfortable.
Cons
- No purge valve.
15. SwimStar
(Best for Family)
If you want to play matchy-matchy with your family on your next water adventure, you better settle for this snorkel set. It comes in multiple colors, and everyone in the family will find something that suits them.
The snorkel set features a snorkel mask with head straps that are fully adjustable and a high-grade liquid silicon face skirt that that molds to fit almost all face shapes for both women and men. It is anti-fog coated for your safe and clear vision. The tempered glass lens on the snorkel mask lasts longer than regular ones.
See Also: How to Keep Swimming Goggles from Fogging Up
You will be able to adjust the mask for a comfortable and perfect fit using the buckles on its side, and with its single lens design, you will enjoy an unobstructed clear view of the beautiful aquatic life.
The SwimStar is a completely dry Snorkel, which is an excellent choice if you intend to swim in rough waters or tag your kids along to your pool adventure. It means they will not be getting any ‘surprise’ water in the snorkel tube which would interfere with their breathing. Btw! this is a great safety feature you want to consider before buying your kids a snorkel.
Anyhoo! If water happens to get into the tube, you can blow it out so fast with the large purge valve on the snorkel. It also makes cleaning a breezy task.
You can use the snorkel set for extended periods underwater, and you will not experience any discomfort thanks to the hypoallergenic silicone mouthpiece it comes with. You are also provided with a fully adjustable snorkel clip that will prevent you from getting jaw fatigue.
The snorkel set comes in 4 colors; black, blue, pink, and yellow.
Pros
- One way purge valve.
- Multiple color options.
- Adjustable snorkel clip.
- 100% dry.
- Comfortable mouthpiece.
- Durable snorkel mask.
Cons
- Not useful for all types of snorkeling.
Watch this video of the SwimStar Swim Snorkel Set and see if it will be part of your swim gear on your next beach holiday.
How to Choose the Right Swim Snorkel?
1. Spout Size
There are different situations that may require you to select a spout size. For instance, if you want a snorkel for swim training, it is best you settle for a small spout size that limits airflow so you can train your lung endurance. But, if you just want to snorkel in open water, then you need a generous amount of oxygen like you typically do on land, so it would be best if you got a bigger spout.
2. Head Brackets and Straps
You are going to want a comfortable head bracket whether you will be using the snorkel for fun or for swim training. No one wants an irritating headache from an uncomfortable head strap.
You might want to consider head pieces/brackets made with padding for superior comfort to avoid distractions from your fun or training.
3. Length and Strength of Snorkel Tube
Long snorkels with a curved shape are the best because they prevent water from entering the tube. Inhaling water can be very dangerous and can cause an accident you would not want to deal with. If water enters the tube, you will have to stop to purge it out, which can be a bother.
A longer shape will also help you maintain a proper body posture.
4. Purge Valve
A purge valve is essential as it will help you easily clear the tube in case water gets in the snorkel-tube. It also makes cleaning easier. It is best to settle for snorkels that have a purge valve whether they are completely dry or semi-dry.
Dry snorkels are those that have a splashguard that prevents water from entering the tube. Even some of them have purge valves in case a leakage occurs. They are the safest for children.
Why Do You Need to Add a Snorkel to Your Swimming Gear?
For over a decade now, the swimming snorkel has been one of the most popular swimming tool, and it is with good reason;
Keeps Your Body Position Balanced
Swimming with eyes focused on the opposite pool wall to catch some air, rather than underwater, causes hips and legs to drop below the water surface, increasing drag. A snorkel frees you from breathing and allows you to put your face down so you can focus on maintaining the correct head position.
Helps in Improving Swimming Technique
Since side breathing is eliminated with the snorkel, you will focus on your core rotation, efficient arm strokes, and consistent flutter kicks, which are all key elements to an excellent swimming technique.
It Helps Extend Swim Practices
Whether you are an amateur triathlete or an Olympic caliber swimmer, you will need to reduce your neck and trap muscle demands during your swim workouts, and a snorkel is a right tool as it will allow you to swim with a relaxed head position.
No Swimmer’s Shoulder
A swim snorkel also prevents you from uneven muscle development on your back, shoulders, or arms caused by breathing imbalances.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can You Use a Snorkel in a Swimming Pool?
Yes. You can use a snorkel in a swimming pool for any activity that you desire, like underwater pool games. Once you have it on, you can immerse your face in the water and focus on the bottom of the pool without any breathing difficulties.
How Do I Use a Swimming Snorkel?
Most snorkels come with manuals that show you how to use a snorkel, but usually they just require you to attach them to your head using the head straps and insert the mouthpiece into your mouth, then you are good to go.
After that, you can safely swim face down without any breathing difficulties. Once you are done, ensure you clean it thoroughly before keeping for it to last you some more swimming thrills.
How Will Swimming with a Snorkel Help Me?
The right swimming snorkel will help you improve your swimming technique by letting you focus on your strokes and speed instead of breathing. It will stabilize you and help you maintain a proper swimming posture.
When you try to swim without a snorkel after training, muscle memory will make you swim just like you did with it on.
Do I Have to Clean My Snorkel After Swimming?
Yes. It is important that you clean your snorkel after every swim session to avoid bacterial growth.
Whether you use it in the pool, lake, or the ocean, it can build bacteria if you don’t clean it, and the next time you use it, you will be forced to breathe in the bacteria, which can cause an infection to your lungs.
See Also: How to Clean Swimming Goggles
Swim Network Overview
A snorkel is a key tool in improving your swimming technique regardless of your swimming expertise because it solves the challenge of breathing, which mostly throws your center off balance and interferes with your performance.
Besides training, you can use snorkels for fun, to play around in the pool, or float out on lacks and oceans to see aquatic wildlife.
There are multiple models of swimming snorkels, but not all of them are similar in functionality and features. Once you know what you need a snorkel for, you just need a little research, and you get what is best for your money. This guide has enough information to make you confident in choosing the best swimming snorkel.
The FINIS Adult & Junior is the best swimming snorkel you can get out there with superior features and functionality that suits all swimmers with any capability. If you want a snorkel for lap swimming or long swims, you can get the MP Michael Phelps Focus, which has a shape that perfectly reduces drag and rotation of the snorkel.
The TYR 2.0 Ultralite is the best lightweight if you don’t want extra weight on your swim gear bag, and theSwimStar is the best you can get for a fun-filled beach holiday with your family.
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