The History of the Snorkel

Modern "J-shaped" snorkels are the latest in a long line of devices designed to aid swimmers and divers by allowing them to breathe surface air while staying submerged for longer periods of time. The concept upon which the snorkel is based has been in use for centuries

  1. Ancient Snorkeling

    • Before the invention of the modern snorkel, divers used hollow reeds to help them breathe while swimming underwater. This practice dates to sponge farmers in 3000 B.C.

    Mentioned by Aristotle

    • Aristotle mentions devices, described as akin to an elephant's trunk, that allowed divers to breathe surface air.

    Alternatives to Snorkels

    • Around 900 B.C., Assyrians used bags of animal skins filled with air while diving, and Alexander the Great oversaw the development a diving bell, which captured bubbles of air to which divers could return.

    Da Vinci's Snorkel

    • Leonardo da Vinci is credited with inventing the first modern snorkel, a hollow breathing tube attached to a leather diver's helmet.

    Modern Advancements

    • Advancements in plastic and rubber greatly improved the snorkel's usefulness, not only in the construction of the snorkel but also in improvements to masks and goggles.