Proper Use of Snorkeling Equipment

By Jonathan Howery

Snorkeling is one of the fun activities you can do with Hawaii Turtle Tours. Safety is a factor that plays a part as well as how to properly use the equipment while you are exploring the open ocean. To comfortably mold to the contours of a face, the skirt or face seals and straps are made from silicone. Salty water or chlorine from swimming pools can make these masks clouded over time. A fresh-water rinse after each use will be enough to keep the silicone skirt supple. A small amount of regular dish soap can be applied after using the mask. This will remove any sunscreen that came in contact with the silicone skirt. Rub some white toothpaste with your finger on the lens surface to gently polish off residue. An anti-fog solution could be applied to the inside of the lens before each use.

Masks should be stored in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. Store the mask in a protective box or case. Snorkels are practically care free. Just rinse the snorkel in fresh water after each use. However, the mouthpiece, snorkel keeper and purge valve are prone to wear and tear. The most comfortable mouthpieces are soft and easy to bite through and are easy to replace.

The snorkel keeper lets the snorkel be attached to the mask and the purge valve is the one-way valve that allows water out, but will not let water in. Rarely does the purge valve malfunction or deteriorate. Just make sure to rinse the snorkel in fresh-water.

Fins are like all other components of snorkel gear. A fresh-water rinse after each use and store in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight will preserve the fins. Remember that fins are meant for swimming, and not walking. Put fins on before entering the water and remove fins before you exit the water. Also do not put heavy objects on top of the fins in storage. The molded foot pockets may collapse. The fins will not be as comfortable the next time worn. A mesh gear bag is useful for storing snorkel gear.

Enjoy your vacation here in the lovely Hawaiian Islands and if you have any questions about Hawaii Turtle Tours or about this blog, feel free to email at [email protected].