Dry top snorkels, also known as hyperdry snorkels, feature a mechanism at the top of the snorkel tube that helps to prevent water from entering the snorkel while the diver is swimming or diving on the surface. This mechanism is typically a floating ball or valve that seals the top of the snorkel tube when submerged, preventing water from entering the tube.
When the snorkel is above the water, the ball or valve is not activated and air can easily enter the tube for breathing. However, when the snorkel is submerged, the ball or valve is forced upwards by the pressure of the water, sealing the top of the tube and preventing water from entering.
Dry top snorkels are particularly useful in choppy or rough water conditions, where waves and splashing can easily cause water to enter the snorkel. They also help to conserve energy by reducing the need for the diver to frequently blow water out of the snorkel.
Some dry top snorkels also feature a purge valve at the bottom of the tube, which allows the diver to easily clear any water that may have entered the snorkel. The purge valve can be activated by exhaling sharply into the snorkel, which forces any water out of the tube.
Overall, dry top snorkels or hyperdry snorkels offer a convenient and effective way for snorkelers and divers to breathe comfortably on the surface, while minimizing the risk of water entering the snorkel tube.
Here at Oceansports, we sell a large range of top of the line dry top and hyper dry snorkels by TUSA and Cressi.
Check them out here!