first time snorkeling, rent or buy equip?
 

hi there, i have no idea how much snorkeling equipment costs but if it is reasonable, is it better to buy and bring your own rather than rent snorkeling equip? i have never snorkeled before so maybe it's better to try it first before i make the investment but i've heard if you don't have the best equip., it can make for a less than optimum experience. thanks

When my wife and I first started snorkelling we always used either rental or provided equipment. In doing so the only thing that really concerned us was the snorkel itself. There is something about putting a snorkel in your mouth that may have been used by 100 people before you cause you to pause. So..I suggest a compromise. Buy your own snorkel....rent the mask and fins at your vacation destination. If you decide snorkelling is for you, then go out and buy your own equipment. If you wear glasses, you can get prescription lenses for your goggles.

JJDave gave you good advice. I agree. The snorkel thing bothered me before I had all my own gear, as well. However, you don't want to put a bunch of money into a lot of gear if you end up not caring much for snorkeling.<BR><BR>For now, buy your own snorkel and rent the rest until you decide.<BR><BR>

Bringing a tight-fitting mask is also what we recommend to guests since rental equipment is often one-size-fits-all or huge.

Hi-<BR>We just got back and we rented snorkel/mask on St. John. $5/day from Cruz Bay Watersports. Not being great swimmers we didn't plan on snorkeling a lot, but were happy with the service and the fit of the equipment. We didn't think we'd need/want fins so just went with the mask/snorkel. Good luck-there's lots to see!<BR>Toni

If you decide to buy some equipment, I would start with mask and snorkel only. Mask fit is important and you want to try out a few at your local sporting goods store or dive shop before deciding on one. For snorkeling, I find the rental/provided fins just fine. I own 3 pairs of fins for diving but often leave them at home if I plan to just snorkel. I feel much more comfortable in my own mask and snorkel though.

Snorkel equipment is like any other sporting equipment, the prices range greatly. If you have never done it before and aren't sure you'll like it, either rent or go to K Mart and buy a $20 mask and snorkel.<BR><BR>If you decide this is for you, then you can go to a nice dive shop and be fitted well with a good mask. I think the fins fitting well are important too. I used to have them fill up with water and drag me down until I found ones small enough for me.<BR><BR>Have a great time.