Bright, high-contrast colors like yellow and orange offer the best visibility if you get separated from your group, since they stand out most against open water. Blue sits in the middle: it's easier to spot than muted greens or blacks that blend into reefs and kelp, though it isn't as attention-grabbing as neon shades. In shark-prone areas, many guides actually recommend toning colors down rather than up, so a moderate color like blue can be a practical, everyday choice rather than a safety liability.

A good beginner snorkel set starts with three pieces: a soft, adjustable mask, a snorkel with a valve that keeps water out, and comfortable, easy-adjust fins. The Cressi Ocean Set covers all three, and adds a mesh carry bag for rinsing and packing gear after each swim. Look for a dry or semi-dry snorkel valve so you spend less time clearing water, and a low-volume mask that seals easily without a tight strap. Buying a matched set also means every piece is sized to work well together.