Oceanic's ''Just For Junior'' -- Mask/Snorkel/Fins

Your kids deserve the best, but how can you separate the good stuff from the dime-store knockoffs? Easy -- just apply the same criteria you used when you bought your own mask, snorkel and fins. Children's masks should have tempered glass or strong polycarbonate lenses, supple silicone or high-quality PVC skirts, and buckles and straps that are both comfortable and uncomplicated to don and adjust. Depending on the children's ages, smaller models of adult masks may also fit their faces. Purge valves help keep snorkels dry, but of more importance is the quality, size and design of the mouthpiece, which should adjust and align for comfort. Some brands also offer replaceable mouthpieces. Full-foot fins offer simplicity but may have a limited lifespan on a growing child. Open-heel fins, by contrast, may fit through several seasons. No matter which style you choose, make sure the foot pocket will not chafe or cause discomfort. A soft rubber or composite foot pocket is superior to hard plastic models. When we were growing up, the only children's snorkel gear on the market could be purchased at the local five-and-dime, and it was probably decorated with mermaids and starfish or bore the likeness of a certain mouse. By contrast, our youngsters have it made. A number of mainline dive gear manufacturers have recognized the importance of the children's market and are now offering downsized equipment built of the same materials and to the same quality standards as their full-size products. Why should our kids have it better than their parents? With regard to snorkeling, better gear makes for a better overall experience -- and no more struggling with cheap and leaky masks, ill-fitting wetsuits, uncomfortable snorkels or flimsy fins. Equip the little ones with well-made, functional snorkel gear, and you'll not only find that they are more willing to accompany you on family dive trips, but you may also help foster a lifelong love of the sport. For more information about children's snorkel gear, click onto Oceanic's home page below.

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