Buying Guide for the Best Snorkel For Swimmers
Choosing a snorkel for swimmers can make your training sessions more effective and enjoyable. A swim snorkel allows you to focus on stroke technique and body alignment without worrying about turning your head to breathe, which is especially helpful for beginners and competitive swimmers alike. Before buying, you should consider several key aspects that impact comfort, performance, and suitability for your swimming needs.Tube ShapeThe tube shape of a swimmer’s snorkel is important because it determines how the snorkel sits on your face and how easily you can breathe. Most swim snorkels have either a straight or slightly curved tube that fits comfortably over your forehead. A more streamlined (straight) tube will make it easier to swim quickly and reduces water resistance, making it ideal for competitive swimmers. Curved tubes are often more comfortable for casual or recreational swimmers who prioritize ease of use over speed. Your choice should depend on whether you’re swimming laps for fitness, training for competition, or just enjoying the pool casually.
Mouthpiece Material and SizeThe mouthpiece is the part you bite on, and its material and size matter for comfort and durability. Most are made of silicone or soft rubber – silicone is usually more comfortable and lasts longer. Mouthpieces also come in different sizes to suit various mouth shapes. If you plan to use your snorkel for long workouts, look for a soft, medium-sized mouthpiece that you can keep in your mouth without getting sore. If you have a smaller or larger mouth, try to select a size that fits you well to avoid jaw fatigue.
Strap SystemHow the snorkel attaches to your head is controlled by the strap system. Good straps will be adjustable and easy to tighten or loosen, and sturdy enough to keep the snorkel in place without causing discomfort. Some straps wrap all the way around your head, while others have a single band. If you swim at higher speeds or do a lot of drills, look for a secure and easily adjustable strap system to prevent the snorkel from shifting.
Purge ValveA purge valve is a small valve at the bottom of the snorkel that allows water to drain out easily if it enters the tube. This feature is helpful for newer swimmers or anyone who prefers not to clear water manually by blowing forcefully. Snorkels with a purge valve are more convenient but may require a bit more maintenance over time. If you want the simplest setup, you can skip this feature, but if you want extra ease and comfort while training, a purge valve is useful.
Center Mount vs. Side MountSwim snorkels are typically either center-mounted (directly in front of your face) or side-mounted (like traditional snorkels for snorkeling). Center-mounted snorkels are much better for swimming laps because they keep your head balanced and let you move smoothly through the water. Side-mounted snorkels might feel more familiar to beginner snorkelers but are less stable during continuous swimming. If your main use is swim training, a center mount is generally the best choice.
Breath Control FeaturesSome swim snorkels come with adjustable breath control caps or restrictors. These can limit how much air you breathe in, helping you develop lung strength and efficiency. This feature is mainly beneficial for experienced or competitive swimmers looking for a tougher workout. For casual or beginner swimmers, it’s usually better to start without restrictive breath caps, focusing first on comfort and natural breathing.