Fins : These are pretty robust , but check rubber for signs of perishing ; straps for little tears which could become a complete break ; and buckles for cracks . Replacing things before they break completely could not only save you a cancelled dive but also a long , one-legged , swim back to shore should it happen mid-dive . I ’ ve only once had a fin blade crack on me . But that was in -28 Celsius so isn ’ t that relevant to UK snorkelling . Even Aberdeen .
Weightbelt : Fabric belts are generally robust but check for any damage . Rubber ones can perish over time if not looked after , although mine has seen some abuse and is still operational after 10 years . Check the buckles too . Whether plastic or steel , make sure the mechanism works properly , can catch and hold the belt and , most importantly , can be released easily .
SMB : Inflate it and make sure it stays inflated . If you use it with a reel , make sure the running and locking mechanisms work and the line is in good condition . If line is stored wound up and wet it may never dry properly . I know it ’ s a pain but check all the way to the inner end .
Torch : I use torches all the time when I ’ m snorkelling . For sunset , sunrise and night snorkels , for checking in nooks and crevices or just when it ’ s one of those dark , overcast , ‘ British ’ days . If rechargeable , check the batteries can take and hold a charge . Make sure it works while you still have time to fix or replace it .
Knife : Not every snorkeller carries a cutting tool , but I always do . I carry out a simple check of the blade , the most likely place for rust to accumulate , and the sheath ’ s locking / unlocking mechanism , if it has one .
Computer : I always snorkel with a computer . It ’ s my compass , depth gauge , surface timer ( for those times when I ’ m duck-diving to ensure I take a long enough rest on the surface ) and it tells me the time . Although mine is rechargeable , some still have batteries which require you to send the computer back to the manufacturer or dive shop to be replaced . Clearly , it ’ s best to flag a low battery early so it won ’ t interrupt your season .
Snorkel : I ’ ve found mine to be near indestructible over the years , but do give it the once over ; have a good look at the mouthpiece to make sure you ’ ve not nearly nibbled through it . If you use a snorkel retainer rather than just shoving it up your mask strap check that too . I ’ ve never lost nor broken a snorkel but I ’ ve done both , numerous times , to retainers .
Yourself : If you ’ ve had a few months over , maybe more with the restrictions laid down by COVID last year , don ’ t start with anything too epic . We all need a shakedown dive just to reattune ourselves with the water and set ourselves up for a good year . �
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