Snorkeling Guides - OpenWaterHQ

Is There a Weight Limit for Snorkeling? What You Should Know

Many beginners often ask if there is a weight limit for snorkeling. Your weight plays a role in the snorkeling ...

Do You Need Water Shoes for Snorkeling?

When it comes to snorkeling, the footwear (or lack of it) can make a big difference. While you can technically ...

Do You Need a Weight Belt for Snorkeling?

If you find it cumbersome to duck dive down and stay down while snorkeling, then you should consider wearing a ...

Do I Need a Rash Guard for Snorkeling?

Don’t you hate having to apply and reapply so much sunscreen each time you head to the beach, only to ...

Is it Safe to Go Snorkeling While on Your Period?

For half of the world’s population, that time of the month can be a real bummer when it arrives and ...

Can You Use Swim Fins for Snorkeling?

If you are thinking about taking up snorkeling and you already own a pair of swim fins, chances are the ...

Are Freediving Fins Good for Snorkeling? The Lowdown

Are you a freediver looking to take up snorkeling and are wondering if you can just use your freediving fins ...

Snorkel Vest vs Life Jacket – Which One Should You Wear?

Navigating the vast ocean that is water safety gear can feel as complex as exploring underwater reefs. Among the most ...

What Size Snorkel Fins Do I Need? A Beginner’s Guide

Choosing the right size for your snorkel fins is akin to finding the perfect pair of shoes. Just as you ...

Do You Need a Flotation Device for Snorkeling?

Under idyllic conditions, snorkeling seems like the easiest, laziest activity you can do in the water. All you're really doing ...

Snorkeling is a great way for curious adventurers to get a glimpse into what the underwater creatures and ecosystem is like. It requires minimal training and gear, unlike scuba diving. Furthermore, in tropical climates, snorkeling is a very popular activity. Selecting snorkeling gear is easy, and people who rarely snorkel can simply rent equipment at hotels or local scuba stores.

The basic gear you need to snorkel are the mask, snorkel, and fins. Depending on how cold the water and wind is, you may also want to wear a wetsuit to keep warm. The most important piece is a properly-fitting mask. Without it, water will keep rush in and obscure your vision. Next, the snorkel allows you to breath while looking down towards the water.

Lastly, the fins should be flexible and lightweight. They protect the feet from sea animals and sharp coral, and can help you swim better. Even though snorkeling is relatively safe, it is recommended you snorkel with at least one other person just in case.