Do You Wear A Life Vest While Snorkeling?

A life vest is a crucial equipment for snorkeling, designed to keep your head out of the water to prevent drowning. It is not always necessary, as it can be uncomfortable and may cause you to struggle with the currents. However, it is essential to adjust the vest correctly to ensure maximum safety and comfort.

Snorkel vests are designed to keep the body balanced while horizontal in the water, while life jackets are made to keep the body upright with the head above water. Snorkel vests offer more control, buoyancy, and support, making them ideal for those who want to be fully supported in the water. Medium-duty life jackets are suitable for decent swimmers who need a little boost.

Flotation devices are also recommended when snorkeling, especially for those who are not strong swimmers. They help stay afloat if you get tired or if the currents are strong. Snorkeling vests have a similar shape to life jackets but are made specifically for snorkeling.

In conclusion, a life vest is not always necessary for snorkeling, but they provide numerous advantages that make it easier and safer. State or local laws may require a snorkeling vest for those new to snorkeling, not strong swimmers, or in open water. A snorkel vest provides extra buoyancy while horizontal in the water and is more comfortable. You can customize your buoyancy by inflating it.

A true life vest, like those issued on cruise ships, will attempt to keep your face out of the water even if you are unconscious. However, it is important to remember that the vests provided by the water do most of the work to keep you up, so as long as you know how to move around, you should be fine.