If you’re new to diving and are looking to try out a snorkel, you might be wondering whether to go with a classic wet snorkel or whether to try a dry snorkel. You might also be wondering what the benefit of a dry snorkel is and how it works.
If you aren’t sure how a dry snorkel works, you might be confused as to why you can’t breathe with the snorkel underwater. Keep reading as we explain how a dry snorkel works and how it’s different from a classic wet snorkel.
How A Dry Snorkel Works
A dry snorkel has multiple parts that make it effective at keeping water out of the snorkel. The most important part of a dry snorkel is its float valve. The float valve is a valve at the top of the snorkel that opens or closes based on whether the snorkel is underwater or above water.
When the snorkeler goes underwater, the float inside the valve floats, closing the opening of the snorkel. When the snorkeler comes out of the water, the valve drops, allowing air to come into the snorkel. Because the valve is closed when the diver is swimming underwater, there is no way to breathe through the tube. There is very little air inside the tube already making it impossible to take a breath.
Some dry snorkels have other comfort features, including a purge valve, flexible tube, and splash guard. A purge valve is a place for water to sit underneath the mouthpiece so that if any water does manage to get inside, it won’t go in the snorkeler’s mouth. The flexible tubing allows for the snorkel to be worn with the most comfortable fit. Also, a splash guard makes the top of the tube more closed off so that water is less likely to get in.
What is the difference between a wet and a dry snorkel? Find out here.
Differences Between Wet and Dry Snorkels
A wet snorkel is the classic version of the snorkel with little more than a mouthpiece and tube. The wet snorkel requires exhaling forcefully to remove all of the water that collects in the tube while you are underwater. This can be difficult to do and many beginners find it frustrating, especially when they get water in their mouths. As a result, dry snorkels are often good choices for beginners because it makes snorkeling much easier. To get water out of the purge valve, a forceful exhale is still required, but it usually requires less force and it’s far less likely to get water in the snorkeler’s mouth.
Besides all of the comfort features that a dry snorkel has, such as a comfortable mouth guard, flexible tubing, and purge valve, the main difference between the two types of snorkels is cost. Because a wet snorkel is mainly just a tube with a mouth guard, it’s far more inexpensive. Some divers start out with a wet snorkel because of its cost-effectiveness and then move onto a dry snorkel when they can afford to buy a higher quality one.
Lastly, wet and dry snorkels may be used for different types of diving. As an example, a wet snorkel is preferred when doing SCUBA diving (if you’re going to use a snorkel at all) because a dry snorkel can be too buoyant, which can interfere with the diver’s mask seal. This can make enjoying SCUBA diving difficult because of the constant need to dump water out of the mask. Additionally, it can cause drag while swimming, which can also be incredibly frustrating.
Conclusion
Dry snorkels can make diving a lot more fun without the constant need to clear the snorkel. However, a dry snorkel can be more costly and may not be appropriate for all types of diving. Each diver will have to weigh the benefits and decide if a dry snorkel is the right choice for them.
Please note: This blog post is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Please consult a legal expert or medical professional to address your specific needs.