The basic function of a snorkel is to help you breathe while your head is submerged underwater. But knowing a bit more about how they work can help you improve your confidence and overall snorkeling experience.
Moreover, understanding how each part of the snorkel functions allows you to identify what is causing an issue if there's any with your snorkel. How a snorkel works slightly differs depending on its design.
Basic J snorkels - This type of snorkel is not only used by snorkelers but it is also popularly used by scuba divers and freedivers. It has one-way purge valves that allow you to easily clear the air and floor valves that prevent the water from entering into the snorkel.
Classic snorkels - The classic snorkels are a J-shaped tube with a mouthpiece on the other end. It is attached to the mask using a clip or a fixture, with the mouthpiece sitting on the side of the head and face. You need to make some adjustments to the snorkel to make sure that the mouthpiece is the same level as your mouth.
If you are using a classic snorkel, you need to avoid breathing through your nose. With this design, you have to breathe in through your mouth. Another important thing to remember is when using a classic snorkel, you have to keep the top of the tube above the water to keep the water out.
Dry snorkels - in recent years, there has been an increasing popularity of dry snorkels. Unlike its predecessors, this type of snorkel is designed to stop water from getting into the tube. At its tip, it has a flotation device that works as a one-way valve.