Snorkels

The Snorkel

Larger tube sizes generally mean easier breathing
Flexible snorkels hang out of the way when using the scuba regulator.
Solid snorkels should be shaped so the mouth piece fits in the mouth well and reduces drag in the water
Self draining Purge Valves collect excess water, then removes it from the mouth piece on exhale
Mouth pieces should be soft and comfortable in the mouth. Some have swivel adjustment and replaceable snorkels
Dry or Semi-Vents minimize the amount of water splash from entering the tube

Cost of scuba snorkels/ to buy?

Starting: $20 Top Range: $60

Scuba Diving Equipment / Diving Gear

Apart from diving masks, another essential, though optional, diving equipment is the snorkel, sometimes referred to as the swimmer's snorkel, which divers use to breathe air found above the surface of the water. A J-shaped tube that measures about t30cms in length, a snorkel usually comes with a mouthpiece that is made either of plastic or rubber.

Various types of snorkels are available, although a more common type is the one having a single tube designed to get flooded while the diver is underwater. Once this takes place, the diver, or more appropriately, the snorkeler, simply expels the water by one of two methods. The first involves a backward tilting of the head once the snorkeler reaches the surface water. The other involves one sharp exhalation once the diver's head gets above water.

Other snorkel versions carry a sump or a space where a small amount of water can be stored in the tube without the snorkeler inhaling it as he breathes in and out. Recent models of this particular snorkel type feature a single output valve that automatically drains liquid from the sump once it overflows.
In many cases, snorkels can be found attached to diving masks, usually just outside the strap. Previous versions of the snorkel where it is merely stuck between the mask and its strap caused the former to leak, eventually leading to more serious problems. This type has since been rendered obsolete.
Additionally, some snorkels are made of plastic material and sometimes of substandard glass. These are likewise not recommended when engaging in regular scuba diving activities as they pose potential dangers.

Most snorkels are designed to be only 50cms long, which is the maximum. Developing longer tubes is not advisable as it will mean exposing the human lungs to higher water pressure under which the said organs would not be able to inflate as a snorkeler inhales. This is primarily because the lung muscles are not developed to withstand such high water pressure.

Admittedly, snorkel scuba diving takes some practice if one wishes to thoroughly enjoy the sport. It is imperative, therefore, to make sure that one is comfortable enough with these diving equipments before going into the water. Additionally, it is always a good idea to check the gears, especially the snorkel, before using them. Specifically, check the snorkel for anything that may be blocking its water passageway.
Most importantly, learn to relax as this is one way of freeing the mind, ultimately allowing it to think clearly when things go awry.