Explore underwater worlds this summer with these best-value choices in soft gear – a mask, snorkel and fins. Check out some useful diving extras here.
1. Expert’s Choice
From R1 795.
If you’re looking to invest for a bucket-list scuba diving trip to the Red Sea, look no further than Scubapro This name comes highly recommended by divers and gear distributers.
Designed locally, the Seawing Nova fins are cut lower so the foot pocket won’t catch your ankle and they offer sensational underwater movement.
The superior Spectra snorkel has a splash guard, flexible curve to adjust the height of the mouthpiece and purge valve to release excess water. The mask’s swivel strap provides ultimate comfort and it’s wide back doesn’t cut into your head.
TIP: Before using for the first time, rub the mask’s glass with white toothpaste (not gel). This cleans off the manufacturers’ silicone layer that protects it during shipment.
2. Start Simply
R650
This Cressi Rondinella set is a great bundle pack – mask, snorkel and fins – for wetting your toes the first time.
The mask has good-quality tempered glass, easily adjustable straps, and a clear frame that gives better peripheral vision. Light and flexible, the fins have comfortable foot pockets and a tab to help pull them on. There’s nothing fancy about this set – the snorkel in particular is very basic – but it’s well suited to simple snorkelling adventures such as heading into the waves at Cape Vidal or Long Beach in Simon’s Town.
TIP: Get kids to wear their masks and snorkel in the bath and practise blowing out water – fill the snorkel with water, then get them to give a long, sharp blow or shout ‘two-two’ exaggerating the ‘t’ sound. They’ll have a whale of a time and get used to the gear before heading into the waves.
3. Good Value
R595
This Aqualung kids’ snorkel set is excellent gear at a reasonable price.
This silicone Ventura Midi mask is a winner; it’s soft on the face and has easy to use push-button strap fasteners so your kids won’t struggle putting it on. The snorkel is nothing fancy, but will do the trick and the full-foot fins are incredibly lightweight for easy swimming (however, consider adjustable heel straps so kids don’t grow out of them as quickly).
Did you know?
Those things you’ve always called flippers are correctly named fins in the dive world.
