Snorkelling

[ktlou]

Hi All,
I'm going to Croatia in 2 weeks and i want to buy a snorkelling mask so that when I swim i can look under the water. Also, I'm not a confident swimmer cos I don't like the water going in my eyes and up my nose, so a mask would help that too. I've looked on the internet and it says you can have rubber or silicone as the sealing bit - which is better? I would say that rubber will rot, but is that true? Any help would be appreciated! I'll put this in shopping too just in case! Thanks!

[LindyLouLou]

Hi ktlou
As a scuba diver, I would recommend silicon - its usually more expensive, but does last a lot longer. Rubber masks are good to start off with but break down and become 'sticky' over time.
Another point, as I'm not sure from your post if you are intending to buy over the internet, but I would advise you to go to a dive shop and try on the masks. They are all different and the only way that you can get a good fit is to try on loads. You should be able to get a good seal by just inhaling when you have the mask on (you dont even need the strap on for this - this just keeps it secure while you are in the water) If when you inhale, you get any leaks around the sides, try another.
Enjoy your hols and the snorkelling

[stevie-p]

As above,dont invest in a �9.99 special.
Pay a bit more from a dive shop,it'll last longer and you can get some smashing snorkels too....without a ping pong ball at the top ..lol