Freediving is a way to explore the underwater world without carrying SCUBA gear. For some, it is a way to get closer to marine life; for others, it is a competitive extreme sport. For many, freediving offers an opportunity to just be one with nature. Whatever your reason for getting into freediving, you’ll need a small amount of basic gear.
Snorkel
A freediving snorkel should be flexible, made either with silicone or rubber. Many snorkels sold in stores are made of hard plastic, and while they are suitable for staying at the surface. These aren’t the right type for freediving, as you will need to remove your snorkel as you descend, carrying it folded in the palm of your hand to reduce drag. Some freedivers do use rigid snorkels, but most prefer flexible ones.
Mask
Like a scuba mask or snorkel mask, a freediving mask encompasses the entire upper portion of the face, covering the eyes and nose. This allows you to equalize during your dives. Choose a very flexible, low-volume mask; this type will enable you to equalize easily while using only a small amount of air. Swim goggles without a nose pocket will not work for freediving.
Fins
As in scuba diving and snorkeling, freediving fins act as extensions of your legs. Usually made of carbon fiber, glass fiber, or plastic, these fins are generally stiffer and longer than scuba fins, enabling you to move with a great deal of efficiency. Choosing full-foot fins rather than open-heeled ones will allow you to propel yourself more efficiently.
You may be interested in using a monofin, which is a single, wide fin that fits over both feet and looks a bit like a mermaid’s tail. This type of freediving fin looks impressive and provides excellent propulsion, but it is less maneuverable than standard freediving bi-fins.
Wetsuit and Dive Socks
Exposure protection is important for freediving, as your body must work as efficiently as possible. Freediving wetsuits fit like a second skin rather than allowing water to circulate as scuba wetsuits do. Many freedivers choose to have their wetsuits custom-made for optimal fit.
Most freediving wetsuits are two-piece rather than one piece, incorporating high trousers and a jacket with an integrated hood. Almost all are made with open-cell neoprene, which offers warmth and mobility but less durability than the closed-cell neoprene scuba wetsuits are typically made from.
Dive socks are important too; since freediving fins are very stiff, they can be uncomfortable if worn without socks. Socks serve another important function; they help to prevent dangerous cramps.
Weight Belt
Freediving weight belts are usually made of rubber rather than nylon, enabling them to stick to the body during descent. The weight belt is worn low on the waist and weight is adjusted so that neutral buoyancy occurs at a depth of 10 meters.
Buoy and Line
If you plan to freedive independently or with a buddy, a buoy and line can be very helpful, providing you with a link to the surface and a place to recover after your dives. Freediving buoys have handles and a strong attachment point for the line. They are designed for easy towing and are mandatory for those wishing to freedive in most ocean environments and many other areas where boat traffic is prevalent.
While you can begin to practice freediving with basic scuba gear, you’ll find that things go better for you when you use gear designed specifically for freediving.