from a lowly snorkeler

[Monkeylemon]

Hi--I hope I won't be laughed outta town, but I'm going on a snorkeling trip to St. John and I wanted to get input about good equipment. What price range assures solid equipment without breaking the bank? What brands would people suggest? And specifically, do I want a mask with a purge just for snorkeling? Thanks!

[NitroWill]

Welcome to the board!

No price assures good equipment. You can have a $10 mask that is great for you and a $80 mask that is terrible. Masks are all about how they fit you so it's best to try them on before you buy. Hold one up to your face and suck in thru your nose a little and see how good a seal you get. It doesn't hurt to have a mouthpiece/snorkel in your mouth as it slightly changes your face so keep that in mind.

If you find a $30 mask that fits you great - go for it. Try as many on as you possibly can and get the one that fits you best. Most dive shops carry many different models - solely because everyones face is different and not all masks fit each person!

As for the snorkel it is personal preference. I find the "dry" snorkels and purge ones a feature I don't need and am plenty happy with a simple snorkel with no purge.

[Monkeylemon]

Thank you--in the past I've rented equipment, but it seems better & more cost effective to buy. Do you like a rigid snorkel or a flexible one?

[fisheater]

Find a dive shop in your area and go try on masks. They'll help you out and you won't be laughed at or ridiculed. (Dive shops need your money and there is always the possibility that you'll be inspired to sign up for dive training.)

Lots of people like having purge valves on their snorkels. However, many of us like the simplicity of "old school" non-purge snorkels. Clearing a snorkel is quite easy.

As for purge valves in masks, just don't.

Purge valves (either in masks or snorkels) can be defeated by sand. Chances are that you are going to be around lots of sand.

[NitroWill]

I prefer a rigid one piece snorkel. It will move out of my way when I don't need it - but always but readily accessible.

[fireflock]

I think your question is really good. Too many people don't enjoy snorkeling because their gear does not fit right.

Fit is more important than brand. Anything sold on Scubatoys.com for example will hold up and would be fine. I'd stay away from stuff at mass merchant stores unless you know what you're looking for or can find someone to give some advice. Some of that stuff will work fine, but a lot if it is crap.

You probably don't need a purge. A mask that fits well won't leak. If you do get some water in there, you can just press lightly on the top of the mask and exhale out your nose. Poof.....water gone.

Some dive fins don't work as well for snorkeling because they are designed to push much more gear through the water. You will probably be happier a set of fins on the smaller side (smaller paddle area, not smaller foot pocket).

If you are a comfortable swimmer then I would skip a snorkel vest and go for a shorty wetsuit. The wetsuit will float you, and it will provide some protection from the sun and anything you might scrape up against.

Have a great time on your trip.

Rich

[scubasavvy]

I have some Deep See split fins that I absolutely love for snorkeling. They're wicked comfortable. I think they're $24.00 on Leisure Pro. If you want to buy specifically from ScubaToys, anything. They have only the best in stock and can even put together a package deal for you.

[Super-Duper Scubasteve]

I definantly agree you dont need a purge mask, if you're only going snorkeling then you can clear it on the surface, plus a ourge migh leak after a while. If you're only snorkeling in warm weather then maybe you should get a full foot fin.

[BSea]

Originally Posted by Super-Duper Scubasteve

I definantly agree you dont need a purge mask, if you're only going snorkeling then you can clear it on the surface, plus a ourge migh leak after a while. If you're only snorkeling in warm weather then maybe you should get a full foot fin.

While most people who dive know how to easily clear their mask, if you arn't comfortable doing that, then go ahead & get a purge just because it's easier for a beginner. If you know how to clear a mask, then I'd skip the purge. A purge valve is just something that can cause a problem down the road.

[KGNickl]

Just go to a local dive shop and pick some equipment that fits your budget and fits good. Should be able to get them for $100-$250. Or you could read reviews and purchase some online and hope you like them.