Could the TYR 2.0 Ultralite Snorkel Improve Your Swim Training? Detailed Review

Description

Design

Every time I unpack and use the TYR 2.0 Ultralite Snorkel, I’m struck by its sleek and minimalist design. The black finish gives it a modern, professional vibe that doesn’t scream for attention but still looks sharp. It’s lightweight, which makes it easy to carry around in my swim gear bag without feeling like I’m lugging an anchor. The central mounting system keeps it perfectly aligned, and the adjustable headpiece makes it a breeze to fit on different head shapes. The silicone padding on the forehead rest is a thoughtful addition, though I wouldn’t call it the plushest feature—it could use a tad more cushioning for extended use. Still, the overall construction feels well-thought-out and durable.

Features

The snorkel is loaded with features that cater to both casual swimmers and those training for competitive sports. The sliding headpiece, combined with quick-release buttons, makes strap adjustments effortless. I’ve experimented with the two included airflow caps, designed for endurance training, and while the restricted breathing can be a challenge, it’s a fantastic way to enhance lung capacity if you’re into hardcore swim drills. The purge valve at the base makes clearing out water a simple task, sparing me from the frustration of waterlogging mid-swim. The hypoallergenic Dura-Fit silicone mouthpiece adds to its comfort, ensuring that even with prolonged use, my jaw doesn’t feel like it’s gone through an intense workout.

Fit

Fitting this snorkel onto my head is straightforward, but there’s a learning curve if you’re new to these types of swim gear. Once adjusted, it stays snugly in place, even during flip turns or drills. I’ve got a pretty average-sized head, and the strap has just enough length to accommodate, though I imagine someone with a larger noggin might find it a tight squeeze. My coworker, who’s been using it for her swim practices, also mentioned how secure it feels during vigorous strokes. The mouthpiece is okay but not angled as naturally as I’d prefer, so there’s a bit of clenching involved to keep it steady.

Durability

After weeks of testing, including some rather intense swim sessions, the TYR 2.0 Ultralite Snorkel hasn’t shown any signs of wear. The silicone padding and straps remain intact, and the purge valve functions just as smoothly as it did on day one. However, I did notice that the head strap feels slightly thinner than those on other snorkels I’ve used, like the FINIS or Arena models. Time will tell if this becomes a weak point, but for now, it seems to hold up fine. A friend of mine, who swims daily, mentioned that her valve failed after a month, so perhaps durability might vary depending on usage intensity.

Usability

Getting used to the TYR 2.0 Ultralite Snorkel took me a couple of swims, but once I got the hang of it, it became an essential part of my training. The purge valve is a lifesaver, especially for someone like me who’s not a fan of stopping every few laps to clear out water manually. The snorkel’s lightweight design reduces drag in the water, making it feel like an extension of my body rather than an additional piece of gear to manage. Switching between the airflow caps was a bit challenging initially, but once I figured out the trick, it was smooth sailing—or swimming, in this case.

Key Benefits

• Lightweight and sleek design reduces drag in the water.
• Effortless strap adjustments with sliding headpiece and quick-release buttons.
• Hypoallergenic silicone padding and mouthpiece for added comfort.
• Includes airflow caps for endurance training, a handy bonus.
• Effective purge valve simplifies clearing out water quickly.

Areas of Concern

• The forehead rest could use more cushioning for extended wear.
• Thinner head straps may feel less sturdy over time.
• Mouthpiece angle requires a firmer bite compared to some competitors.
• Larger head sizes might find the strap adjustment a bit limiting.

Peer Products

Comparing the TYR 2.0 Ultralite Snorkel to the FINIS Original and Arena swim snorkels, each has its pros and cons. The FINIS snorkel has a more substantial strap and a comfortable mouthpiece, but I’ve found its purge valve less effective, often requiring me to stop and manually empty water. On the other hand, the Arena model offers a more padded forehead rest, which is great for long swim sessions, but it feels bulkier in the water. The TYR snorkel strikes a balance with its streamlined shape and easy usability, though it doesn’t excel in one standout feature like the others do. For someone focusing on comfort and minimal water leakage, the TYR snorkel edges out the competition.

Money’s Worth

Considering the snorkel’s features and how well it performs, it feels like a solid investment. While it’s not the cheapest option out there, the combination of durability, usability, and thoughtful design makes it worth the price for those serious about their swimming. That said, if you’re new to snorkels and on a tighter budget, the Zionor might be a more wallet-friendly starting point. However, for seasoned swimmers or those looking to up their training game, this snorkel delivers excellent value.

Additional information