Guides, how-tos & gear advice

Field Notes / Snorkel & Dive

Expert-desk guides on paddling, surfing, tow sports, snorkeling, safety and gear — researched, practical and written for real water.

Person holding a white and black underwater cameraSnorkel & Dive
The Dive Desk8 min read

Underwater Photos with an Action Camera or Phone

Which cameras and phones are truly waterproof, why underwater photos turn blue and how to fix it, plus settings, technique and gear care.
Swimmer wearing fins diving down through blue sea waterSnorkel & Dive
The Dive Desk7 min read

Swim Fins Guide: Open-Heel vs Full-Foot and Blade Types

Full-foot vs open-heel fins, paddle vs split blades, how to fit fins, which fin suits snorkeling, scuba, bodyboarding or training, and the right kicks.
Underwater view of a snorkeler wearing a mask and snorkelSnorkel & Dive
The Dive Desk8 min read

How to Choose a Snorkel Mask That Doesn't Leak

The 10-second mask fit test, why masks leak and fog and how to fix it, which features matter, and what to know about full-face snorkel masks.
Woman snorkeling at the surface of clear blue ocean waterSnorkel & Dive
The Dive Desk8 min read

Snorkeling for Beginners: Breathing, Clearing and Finning

Learn to breathe calmly through a snorkel, clear your snorkel and mask, fin efficiently, enter and exit safely, and treat reefs and wildlife right.
Snorkeler swimming above a colorful coral reef in clear blue waterSnorkel & Dive
The Dive Desk9 min read

Reef-Safe Sunscreen and Reef Etiquette

Which sunscreen ingredients harm coral, where reef-safe laws apply, and the in-water habits that protect reefs, turtles and you.
Snorkeler in clear ocean waterSnorkel & Dive
The Dive Desk3 min read

A snorkel kit that fits: mask, mouthpiece, and fins

Buy for your face and feet, understand equipment limits, and test the complete setup before a trip.
Snorkeler in clear ocean waterSnorkel & Dive
The Dive Desk3 min read

Your first snorkeling day: plan for comfort before distance

Choose a supported first experience, understand the exit, and build confidence at the surface.

Our expert desks

Advice from people who get wet.

Every guide is built by a topic desk, checked against official safety sources and manufacturer documentation, and cited at the bottom of the page.

The Paddle Desk

SUP and kayak sizing, technique, care and trip planning.

Read the desk The Surf Desk

First boards, forecasts, etiquette and the small gear that matters.

Read the desk The Tow & Wake Desk

Tubes, ropes, wakeboards, skis — and how to run a safe tow.

Read the desk The Dive Desk

Masks, fins, snorkel skills and underwater photography.

Read the desk The Safety Desk

Life jackets, cold water, weather and teaching kids.

Read the desk The Gear Desk

Wetsuits, dry bags, waterproof ratings and storage.

Read the desk The Fishing Desk

Kayak and small-boat fishing setups and electronics.

Read the desk The Field Notes Team

Lake days, transport, beach shade and trips.

Read the desk
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