Snorkeling and Free-Diving Gear Guide
At Dive Missoula, our Instructors and Divemasters are passionate about snorkeling and skin diving, always eager to share their knowledge and enthusiasm. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your skills, we offer comprehensive lessons that cover the basics and beyond, ensuring your time on the water’s surface is both enjoyable and safe.
While we provide snorkel gear at no additional charge during lessons, we highly recommend investing in your own equipment. Personal gear, when packed correctly, is compact and lightweight, enhancing your overall experience. Relying on rental equipment at vacation spots can be unpredictable, as it may have been used by numerous individuals, potentially leading to hygiene concerns and inconsistent quality. Our team has observed instances where returned gear was immediately rehung for the next renter without proper cleaning—a scenario best avoided.
Snorkeling Masks
Selecting a mask that fits well, is comfortable, and creates a tight seal is crucial. Without a proper seal, water can seep in, disrupting your experience. Some masks feature a built-in purge valve in the nose pocket, allowing you to expel any water that enters with a simple exhale through your nose.
Snorkels
There are three primary types of snorkels:
1. Open-Ended: These traditional “J-tube” snorkels are open at the top. However, they allow water to enter if submerged or hit by a wave, leading to potential ingestion of water—a less-than-pleasant experience.
2. Splash Guard: Equipped with a slotted guard at the open end, these snorkels help prevent water from entering due to splashes but won’t stop water if fully submerged.
3. Dry Snorkel: Featuring a mechanism that seals the snorkel when submerged, dry snorkels prevent water from entering, ensuring a more comfortable breathing experience.
Snorkeling Fins
Comfort is paramount when selecting fins. They should never cause pain or discomfort, especially around the heel, top of the foot, or toes. Many fins are designed to be worn with boots, which provide a snug fit, protect against rubbing, offer insulation, and allow you to walk comfortably on various surfaces after removing your fins.
Investing in quality snorkeling gear enhances your safety and enjoyment, allowing you to focus on the beauty beneath the surface. Our team at Dive Missoula is here to guide you in selecting equipment that best suits your needs and preferences.