few tips on selecting snorkeling gear

1) If you are only ocassional snorkelers, short fins. They pack easier and while they don't provide the same finning power as the larger or split fins, you won't be working as hard either. That translates into less tired calves and thigh muscles.

2) When picking a mask, stay away from the "gimmick" masks. By this I specifically mean some of the ones with snorkel clips (they rarely are where you want the snorkel anyway). The other common gimmick is the nose piece with the purge valve. These are fine if you are strictly a surface snorkeler, but if you like to make quick trips down to the fish or coral, the valves can invert and flood the mask unexpectedly.
3) I tend to favor low volume masks, but fit to the face is #1. The best way to tell is to place the mask on your face without putting the strap around your head and then to inhale slightly from your nose. If the mask will stay on you face with a slight amount of suction and will not fall off until you exhale from your nose, it is a good fit. Then try it with the snorkel in your mouth. Many times the bump in your upper lip from the snorkel will change the way the mask fits and it will leak air. If it leaks air, it will leak water.
4) Back to fins. Fins with separate booties will probably be the most comfortable in the long run, plus you will have some foot protection on the beach and snorkelling boats. But if you are only going a couple of times a year, full foot fins are more convenient because you don't have to worry about whether you packed the booties (been there, done that ).
5) If you find a dive shop to buy from, ask if they have a pool to try equipment out or if they are going to have an equipment day at a local YMCA or public pool. A lot of dive shops also have snorkeling classes.

The best dive and snorkeling gear is not always the most expensive. Make sure it fits. There is nothing that will ruin a dive or snorkeling trip faster than a mask that floods or fins that fall off.