Where to Buy Snorkeling Gear

[asonitez]

Like many people when I started traveling to the islands the first thing I did was run into a SportsAuthority and buy the best looking midrange (priced) snorkeling mask and tube I could find. On my trip to St. Martin I snorkled about twice a day and washed the mask and tube with fresh water after my dives.


2 Months later I spent 12 days cruising the caribbean and my mask kept filling up with water near the nose part. No amount of washing or cleaning or blowing could stop it. The brand is Tussi or something like that.


Next year I am going to the Dominican Republic and Nassau Bahamas. In DR I will be diving from shore but in the Bahamas I will be with family that does marine construction and have boats for fishing and snorkeling. I need a decent set.

I'm a newb so could someone point me in the direction of where I might be able to go in New Jersey too speak with experienced divers and get fitted for some quality gear?

 

[ace_92101]

I'm not sure where in NJ you're located. When I grew up in NYC, Leisure Pro and Paragon were both good.

 

[r-balljunkie]

Getting scuba gear and getting snorkeling gear has some cross over, but obviously one will put a bigger dent in your wallet.

For either, a good mask is essential. I suggest a low volume frameless mask. Don't skimp on your window to the sea!

I would steer away from the purgeable models. waste of money, will eventually leak on you.

The mask i use is so flexible, i can give it to my 7 YO kid to wear, fits perfect, no leaks.


Fins: split fins seem to last years news even though i still prefer them.

A popular option is the Seawing Nova's. They have a ton of thrust. Two styles to choose from, open heel or closed heel. My preference is open heel, but these will require water boots which are good to own if you are getting in and out of the water near rocky/craggy or coral laden areas. Closed heel fins require bare feet. This is fine for a boat dive.

Snorkels: any cheapie with a semi-dry option is fine. Most divers dont even bother using one after a few years.


good luck and have fun in the water.

 

[ps3]

I recently purchased snorkeling gear at divers supply in atlanta while visiting. we took the discover scuba class and I knew we were going on a cruise in november so I wanted my own equipment. I went thrue 4 different maskes before I got one that fit correctly.They alowed me to try them on and swim with them in their dive pool before buying the one that fit the best. there was defenitly a difference dry fit vs wet. If you are near a dive shop that would be the best place to at least try on a varity of masks.

 

[G_Sanab922]

DIVERSDIRECT, expensive but great quality products

 

[tkeracer619]

Getting a mask to fit properly is essential. Look for a spot that has a pool, they will let you go for a dip and test out the hardware before you buy it.

I use mares advanti quatro fins. They are pretty big and unless you exercise regularly the long fins can create some shin cramps. Either way I love being able to move through the water faster and use less air with the bigger fins. I prefer booties as well. They are good for walking on rocks and keeping your feet from chafing raw on the fins/sand.


Don't forget to scrub the inside of the fins with toothpaste before using them, otherwise they will fog regardless of how much antifog you use.

 

[G_Sanab922]

Getting a mask to fit properly is essential. Look for a spot that has a pool, they will let you go for a dip and test out the hardware before you buy it.

Never heard or seen this before in my life lol

Good idea though.

 

[tkeracer619]

Yup, we have a bunch of training centers here that are glad to have you test out equipment in the pool if you are serious about buying.

 

[billsreef]

Like everyone is saying, go to a dive shop and try them on. Fit is paramount, and there is only one way to get that good fit Since your aim is snorkeling, go for a nice large bore snorkel. Breathes easier than the narrow bores.

Don't forget to scrub the inside of the fins with toothpaste before using them, otherwise they will fog regardless of how much antifog you use.

I think you mean the inside of the mask Never scrubbed the inside of fins before :lol:

 

[tkeracer619]

Oh son of a :lol:

 

[asonitez]

Thanks for all the info since introducing my wife to snorkeling and saltwater tanks she and I have been snorkeling everywhere. We are planning a 7 day trip to Fiji after the Bahamas and want to go prepared with our own stuff. Services there is very expensive I hear.

 

[ace_92101]

Fiji is going to be awesome!

 

[Gmac356]

Like many people when I started traveling to the islands the first thing I did was run into a SportsAuthority and buy the best looking midrange (priced) snorkeling mask and tube I could find. On my trip to St. Martin I snorkled about twice a day and washed the mask and tube with fresh water after my dives.


2 Months later I spent 12 days cruising the caribbean and my mask kept filling up with water near the nose part. No amount of washing or cleaning or blowing could stop it. The brand is Tussi or something like that.


Next year I am going to the Dominican Republic and Nassau Bahamas. In DR I will be diving from shore but in the Bahamas I will be with family that does marine construction and have boats for fishing and snorkeling. I need a decent set.

I'm a newb so could someone point me in the direction of where I might be able to go in New Jersey too speak with experienced divers and get fitted for some quality gear?

Go to a reputable local dive shop. Mask and fins and booties need to be properly fitted by a professional. Mask fitment depends on many factors. Spend the money it's a worthwhile investment!