The use of the Snorkel, and Swim Fins

The Snorkel

When properly used, the snorkel or breathing tube is a valuable piece of equipment for the skin diver. The device is named after the German submarine which was equipped with a device called the schnorkel which allowed the motors to “breathe” while the ship was submerged. The diver’s snorkel is made of plastic or rubber in a J or S shape, extending from his mouth above the surface of the water while he is swimming. Its main function is to permit the diver to breathe while his face remains in the water. Its use is important when it is desired to keep an underwater object in sight, and it also permits the diver to rest on the surface without exertion. A properly sized snorkel should be about three quarters of an inch in diameter and not more than 14 inches long. The snorkel is usually fitted with an automatic shutoff or float valve to prevent the entrance of water into the tube when the diver submerges. The snorkel is held in the mouth by a molded rubber mouthpiece which should fit easily and evenly, and has a rubber band or strap to hold it in place.

The use of the snorkel is fairly simple. Wearing the face mask and snorkel, all breathing must be done through the mouth. Exhalation through the nose will only be used to equalize the pressure inside the face mask. Before entering the water, the swimmer should practice putting the tube in place and properly adjusting the mouthpiece and head strap. First practice should be in hip-deep water with the face submerged. The one important skill in snorkeling is learning to blow out the snorkel on coming to the surface, in order to clear it of water. The valve should be checked for proper operation each time the snorkel is used.

We have already mentioned the hazards of using a full face mask that covers the mouth. Some snorkels are actually built in as part of a full face-mask unit. This type of equipment is considered hazardous, since it requires an unnatural breathing routine. It may also cause injury from excessive suction which can be extremely painful and cause facial tissue damage. And there is a chance of dangerous carbon-dioxide build-up in the mask or tube. The snorkel in such a full face mask does not make it safe for use.

The Swim Fins

There is a wide variety of swim fins on the market. The most important requirement is that they fit the foot properly. If the fit is a bit too tight the footpiece can be sandpapered down to provide a more comfortable fit; some swimmers use waterproof adhesive tape for a better fit. Generally, rubber fins are preferred to plastic. The latter are less flexible and may crack or break. The fins should be wet when they are put on the feet.

Walking on land with fins is easier than it looks if a high, lifting motion of the leg is used. The water use of fins calls for a flutter kick, though the motion is slower and broader than in nonfin swimming; a climbing or bicycle motion is also effective. Treading water, the frog and scissors kicks should be practiced with the fins. A variety of different kicks should be developed to help avoid cramps and to strengthen leg muscles. First practice with fins in the water should be

Fins, face mask and snorkel have made the sport of “underwater sightseeing” possible.

while holding onto a kick rail or the edge of a dock or pool-side. Flutterboards or surfboards are also good for practice.

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