Should You Wear a Snorkel While Scuba Diving? Pros, Cons, and Alternatives

Scuba diving agencies require open water certification divers to use a snorkel during their training dives, but should divers continue to wear a snorkel after completing their certification? This question sparks debate among divers of all experience levels. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of wearing a snorkel while scuba diving, and discuss an alternative solution: carrying a roll-up or foldable snorkel for emergencies.

Pros of Wearing a Snorkel While Scuba Diving

1. Surface Breathing:

   • Energy Conservation: Wearing a snorkel allows divers to breathe easily while swimming on the surface, conserving air from their tanks for the actual dive.

   • Safety: It provides an easy way to breathe in choppy waters or while waiting at the surface without using up precious air from the tank.

2. Emergency Situations:

   • Backup Breathing: In case of an out-of-air emergency, a snorkel can be used for surface breathing while dealing with equipment issues or waiting for assistance.

3. Comfort and Convenience:

   • Surface Swimming: Makes it easier to swim longer distances on the surface to the dive site, especially if the diver needs to swim against currents.

   • Multi-Activity Use: If a diver also enjoys snorkeling, having a snorkel on hand allows them to easily transition between snorkeling and scuba diving.

Cons of Wearing a Snorkel While Scuba Diving

1. Hydrodynamic Drag:

   • Increased Drag: A snorkel can create additional drag, making it slightly harder to move through the water and potentially increasing air consumption.

   • Snagging Risk: It can snag on kelp, fishing lines, or other underwater obstacles, potentially causing distractions or minor hazards.

2. Discomfort and Hassle:

   • Bulk and Interference: The snorkel can feel cumbersome and may interfere with the mask strap or get in the way when turning the head.

   • Mask Leaks: A poorly positioned snorkel can cause the mask to fit improperly, leading to leaks and discomfort.

3. Reduced Necessity:

   • Less Use Underwater: Once underwater, the snorkel serves no purpose, as divers rely entirely on their regulators. Many divers find they rarely use it and prefer to minimize their gear.

An Alternative: Carrying a Roll-Up or Foldable Snorkel

For those who prefer not to wear a snorkel during their dives but still want the safety and convenience it offers, a roll-up or foldable snorkel is an excellent solution. These compact snorkels can be stored in a pocket or clipped to a BCD, providing an emergency breathing apparatus without the drawbacks of a traditional snorkel.

• Easy Storage: Roll-up or foldable snorkels take up minimal space and can be easily stowed away, ensuring they are available when needed.

• Convenience: Having a snorkel on hand for surface swims or emergency situations provides peace of mind without the hassle of wearing it throughout the dive.

Conclusion

The decision to continue wearing a snorkel after certification largely depends on personal preference and diving conditions. For beginners and those diving in conditions where surface swimming is common, a snorkel provides comfort and safety. However, more experienced divers or those diving in environments where a snorkel may cause more inconvenience than benefit might choose to leave it behind. Carrying a roll-up or foldable snorkel offers a practical compromise, ensuring divers are prepared for emergencies without the drawbacks of traditional snorkels. Ultimately, divers should weigh the pros and cons based on their individual diving habits and environments.