The snorkel is easy enough to use but it does have a bit of a learning curve. You inhale using the snorkel and exhale through your nose. The included literature says that children and some adults may need to use a nose clip initially. I don’t think a nose clip is necessary but you may get some water up your nose before you master the technique.
It took me three or four swims to get the hang of it. I was soon swimming laps with the snorkel with no problem. Breathing through the snorkel feels a bit alien at first. It did seem to me that I was getting just a bit less air through the snorkel than I do when swimming regularly. It’s a minor difference, and may be more perception than reality.
You can get the Cardio Cap attachment for the snorkel that will further limit air flow or you can do what many swim coaches do. Use electrical tape to partially cover part of the snorkel’s opening. Using this technique you can incrementally reduce airflow for hypoxic training (learning to do more with less air) and improving lung capacity.
Swimming, Drills & Kick Sets
Using the snorkel, I did feel like I got a bit better picture of my arm mechanics, roll and body position when swimming with the snorkel. I also found it useful for drills. In my opinion it really shines when used for kick sets. I find it an excellent replacement for a kick board. I just put my arms out in front and kick across the pool. My swim coach has me doing a lot more kick sets to improve my body position and propulsion. So I’ll be taking it to the pool frequently this off season.
I have not tried flip turns with the snorkel yet but I have deliberately swam deep enough to get it to fill with water. It has a purge valve, and if you get the tip back out of the water and exhale forcefully, it will clear itself.
The Bottom Line: The FINIS Swimmer’s Snorkel is a worthwhile swim training aide with multiple uses for around $25. Recommended.
www.swimswam.com Snorkel review link