Buoyancy belts

[Katiekakes]

Has anyone used a buoyancy belt for snorkeling? We have always used blow up vests in the past, but sometimes they can actually get in the way. Will the buoyancy belt hold you up enough and can you swim ok while wearing them? We are very average snorkelers and swimmers, and feel the need to wear something to keep us afloat.

[themons]

I just came across an idea yesterday that you might be interested in.

 

You can buy weight belts with pockets at almost any scuba shop. Instead of putting weights in the pockets, you can put in closed cell foam rubber from a camping pad. All you have to do is cut the camping pad into small squares that will fit in the pockets.

 

You can adjust the bouyancy by the number of pads you put in the pockets and there is no danger of the belt ever losing it buoyancy like a snorkling vest. Best of all, it doesn't get in the way.

[mowrider]

Just floating on the surface while snorkling, you will float easily. I have to use a weight belt so I can take pix 20 feet down without popping back up when I stop "flipping". In shallow water, just try floating first. you may not need extra help.:rolleyes:

[Friscorays]

Just floating on the surface while snorkling, you will float easily. I have to use a weight belt so I can take pix 20 feet down without popping back up when I stop "flipping". In shallow water, just try floating first. you may not need extra help.:rolleyes:

 

True but the original poster rates swimming skills as "average." Many a person has managed to drown in salt water. If in doubt, use a vest or belt. The nice thing about the inflatable vests is that they can be deflated should your confidence increase mid snorkel (and you decide to dive under for a bit).