Buyer's Guide Freediving is the sport of diving down to recreational SCUBA depths on one’s own breath. Recreational freediving has had spurts of increased popularity in recent years, and even PADI (known for SCUBA training) now also offers freediving courses. Experienced snorkelers and SCUBA divers often find themselves drawn to this remarkable sport. That means you likely already have most of the equipment, like a basic mask and snorkel, to start freediving. However, you will need to … [Read more...] about Top 5 Freediving Fins for Beginners
Freediving Gear
What is a Low-Volume Dive Mask? (They Aren’t Just For Freedivers!)
In the old days of SCUBA, when most divers were frogmen, SCUBA equipment looked very different than it does today. The dive mask has traditionally been a piece of the gear that brings to mind a modern VR headset. Solid, large viewing windows, a bit like a fishbowl strapped to your face. While more traditional dive masks are still in production (they do have their merits), a different trend has rapidly overtaken the market in recent years: the low-volume mask. This term is nearly unavoidable at … [Read more...] about What is a Low-Volume Dive Mask? (They Aren’t Just For Freedivers!)
Wet Vs. Dry Snorkel: What’s the Difference? (With Diagrams!)
Anyone new to snorkeling or SCUBA is likely to come across many references to dry snorkels. In fact, they seem to be very popular among novice and veteran adventurers alike! But what's the difference between a wet vs. dry snorkel? What exactly makes a dry snorkel "dry"? A dry snorkel has a special mechanism called a float valve in the tube of the snorkel. The float valve seals the snorkel tube if it becomes completely submerged. This might happen if you take a dive or a large wave rolls over … [Read more...] about Wet Vs. Dry Snorkel: What’s the Difference? (With Diagrams!)
The Difference Between Framed and Frameless Masks (Pros and Cons)
The frameless mask is a design that has long been popular with freedivers and spearfishers. However, as those extreme sports have increased in popularity, so too have the specialized gear they use. Specialized designs for masks that were once niche and obscure, such as the low-volume profile and the frameless design, can now be found at almost any dive shop! This trend has left many SCUBA divers and snorkelers wondering what the hype is all about. What's the difference between framed and … [Read more...] about The Difference Between Framed and Frameless Masks (Pros and Cons)