Page 6
Copyright Wet Paper Publications 2014
S
ECTION
2 S
NORKELLING
EQUIPMENT
Water
Air
Figure 6.1 A mask places a layer of air between the
eyes and the water
Illustration courtesy Aqua Lung
Figure 6.2 Check your mask with your instructor to
see if it is the right size
Bob Moffatt
The basic equipment for snorkelling is a mask, snorkel, fins, wet
suit, stinger suit (for tropical summer climates), booties and a weight
belt. In general, the choice of equipment is based on three things:
1. Comfort: Any piece of equipment selected must be a good, firm
but comfortable fit which can be worn for long periods without
causing any discomfort.
2. Financial status of the snorkeller: Look for quality when purchasing
equipment even though it may cost more.
Cheap inferior equipment does not last as long, and in some cases
may even be a threat to the safety of the snorkeller e.g. safety
glass in the mask is a bit more expensive but is less likely to damage
the eyes if broken.
3. Suitability: Different localities or activities may require specialised
types of equipment. For cold climates thicker wet suits are required.
Lycra stinger suits are required for snorkelling in tropical waters
in the summer months.
Safety, hygiene and comfort
For hygiene and comfort it is recommended that you use your own
equipment. When not in use equipment should be stored away from
light and not with pool-maintenance materials.
•
Look for standards markings and always check equipment before
use for any signs of deterioration or faults.
If the equipment is non-conforming, then place it in a clearly
marked box or area and report faulty parts or arrange for repair.
•
Stinger suits should be considered in northern parts of Australia in
summer months and wet suits are preferable in all parts ofAustralia
in nearly all months of the year due to the buoyancy and comfort
they offer.
•
Leaders should carry a knife, and if snorkelling vests are used,
they should conform with Australian standards.
Masks
As mentioned earlier, these place a layer of air between the eyes and
the water, thus allowing clearer vision beneath the surface as shown
in Figure 6.1.
Types of mask
Four types are generally available and include the following:
•
Silicone masks are made from a variety of grades ranging from
inexpensive to very expensive. The advantage of silicone is that it
is less prone to deteriorate and tends to be more comfortable on
the face.
•
One lens masks have a single plate and may suit some faces better.
•
Split lens masks have the advantage of a lower volume and so
could be easier to clear. Some snorkellers claim that it is easier to
see with this type of mask.
•
Masks with corrective lenses allow people who wear spectacles to
see better underwater.
If you really love snorkelling and are visually impaired, it’s
worthwhile buying a mask with a preset focal length or have a
special mask made to suit your focal length.
The volume in a
mask effects
visibility and the
ability to clear it.
1,2,3,4,5 7,8,9,10