Can You Breathe Underwater With a Full Face Snorkel Mask?

by Catalin Andries on September 23, 2019

We get a lot of questions from people who want to know how breathing works on a full face snorkel mask.

  • Can you really breathe underwater as if you’re not underwater?
  • Does it really help to ease the anxiety associated with breathing with a traditional snorkel mask?
  • How does it all work, anyway?

Well, we’ve created this article to answer all these questions and give some more information on how breathing works with a full face snorkel mask. The short answer is that, yes, you can breathe underwater with a full face snorkel mask. We wouldn’t send you out there with a mask that restricted or prevented your breathing. That’d just be a lawsuit waiting to happen.

So let’s get into it.

Breathing with a traditional snorkel mask

We’ll be honest, we started this company because we could see a lot of people were missing out on snorkelling purely due to the fact that they didn’t like ‘the whole breathing thing’.

Whether it’s hearing themselves breathe, having a tube stuck in their mouth the whole time, or not being able to take in air through their nose, there are a number of things that people just plain don’t like about breathing with a traditional snorkel. And that’s why we set out to design a full face snorkel mask that would make things easier, so more people could enjoy the underwater universe while breathing more comfortably, naturally, and effortlessly.

In case you missed it: a traditional snorkel maskis one that involves having a tube in your mouth that sticks out above the water. You inhale and exhale through the tube, and we can kinda see why it can be freaky for some people. It’s not uncommon to have water accidentally enter the tube, making you choke, and it’s easy to suffer jaw fatigue and claustrophobia when you’re a newbie.

Breathing with a full face snorkel mask

So, what’s the difference between breathing with a traditional snorkel mask and a full face snorkel mask?
With a full face snorkel mask you breathe the same as you would normally. As in, as if you weren’t even underwater, as long as the top of the tube stays above the water.

The mask covers your whole face (hence being called a full face mask) so that you can breathe through both your nose and mouth. Do a bit of this, a bit of that, do whatever you like. We’ve designed our full face snorkel mask so that breathing is natural, comfortable, and easy, so even little kids and people with snorkel phobia can have a go.

So there’s no tube?

Well, there’s still a tube, cos how else are we going to get air inside your mask? That said, the tube is connected to the top of the mask rather than your mouth, so you can rest easy and forget about that jaw fatigue. You can stick your tongue out and smile in photos, and you can talk (yes, even your GoPro camera will pick up what you are talking under the water with a full face snorkel mask).

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Can you choke on water with a full face snorkel mask?

Look we don’t like to say the word never, but we’ve done everything possible to reduce your chances of choking on water while wearing a full face snorkel mask. How have we done that? With a dry top anti-leak seal that prevents water from entering your mask.

Basically, a ball sits at the top of the snorkel tube keeping the air valve sealed while you’re underwater, so that no water is able to enter. If any water does get into your mask, a drainage system will make sure its automatically expelled so your mask stays nice and dry and your breathing uninterrupted.

A full face snorkel mask isn’t going to turn you into a mermaid, but it sure will keep you breathing underwater for longer. If you’re not a fan of traditional snorkel masks, you’ll definitely love the freedom and comfort of breathing underwater with a full face snorkel mask. It’s never felt more natural and easy, and if you don’t take our word for it then you’ll just have to try it out for yourself!


How many people dream of snorkelling but don't feel comfortable wearing a snorkel mask?

The Influencer @lud.around is a NINJASHARK lover!

NINJASHARK is the sound of a revolution in snorkeling. Whereas other water equipments companies are constantly adding poor quality products, we listen to your feedback and constantly improve our products to fit for all of your needs.

 
"I'm not leaving my room without the mask. The full face snorkeling mask from Australia is comfortable and fit me perfectly! Love how easy it is to breath out your nose and mouth when you snorkeling and even has earplugs!"

“The mask include GOPRO mounts, so you can easily film and photograph underwater scenery! I highly recommend especially to people who have a fear of snorkeling! This mask is really easy to use and is safe!” said @lud.around. “I can’t wait for my next trip with my new mask!”

The Ninja Shark full face snorkel masks makes your experiences the best they can be. They are exclusively sold on the Ninja Shark website.

The Ninja Shark full face snorkel masks comes equipped with advanced Anti-Fog technology, automatic drainage, no CO2 Buildup with improved uni-directional valves, and a revolutionary breathe flow system so you can breathe through both your nose and mouth.




“If you thought we’re just here to sell you products, think again. You’re part of the Ninja Shark family, and your feedback matters! We’re constantly working to improve our products and deliver the full face snorkel mask that exists only in our dreams!”

What customers are saying about us…

“Awesome set.

Loved the complete set. I even used the waterproof phone pouch to take photos and videos underwater. It made my Fiji experience so much better than using the free snorkel set that hurt your face after 2hours and leaving a sun/mask mark. The ninja leaves no marks and gives great vision under water in comparison. It did take some getting used to but it definitely paid off! Only frustration is that the tightening straps are quite basic; they should be much simpler to loosen and tighten both in and out of water.” – Jock

Try our line of snorkelling and swimming gear
by Ninja Shark! You’ll love it.

All Ninja Shark Products are tailor-made
with medical silicone.

We care about making our products safe and healthy for you—and our planet.
That’s why the Ninja Shark Full Face Snorkelling Masks are made from a non-toxic and environmentally friendly anti-allergic medical grade silicone, that’s not only safer for your kids but safer for you too.
29 comments
by Cassandra Barrow on February 10, 2021

Hiw comfortable and secure it seems

by helen steiby-tuilau on December 30, 2020

LETS GO SPEAR FISHING

by Jennifer on December 09, 2020

We are that excited to try this as we are heading up the Australian Coast after Christmas ✌🏾🌟

by Pamela Wootton on December 07, 2020

Looks amazing and awesome cannot wait to try it

by Carly on December 07, 2020

Interested
To see how my young kids go with it

by paul on November 24, 2020

I think i would like to try one out.

by Indu Scott on November 24, 2020

Sounds amazing!
~ I have difficulty using the traditional snorkel ~ This snorkel would be fabulous

by Simone Murdock on November 24, 2020

Wow, this is an amazing mask. I hate the jaw fatigue you mentioned and I do struggle with regulating my breathing. I hope I can afford one of these one day soon.

by Anne Corcoran on November 24, 2020

Car to wait to try it.

by Anne on November 24, 2020

The masks will give people more scope to open try new things and broaden their horizons. Even I would try it which speaks volumes.

by Anne on November 24, 2020

The masks will give people more scope to open try new things and broaden their horizons. Even I would try it which speaks volumes.

by Melvyn leroy Curtis on November 24, 2020

I’m in my late 60s and grew up with the traditional tube in mouth these masks look absolutely fantastic can’t wait to try them

by Joanna on November 21, 2020

This looks amazing!!! My 9 year old son would have SO much fun with this!!!

by Jesse on November 20, 2020

I need to try this as my old snorkel has had it

by Anthony Sexton on November 19, 2020

whats the sizes for adults and kids

by Phillip Bowen on November 18, 2020

How much do they cost ?

by Maryanne on November 16, 2020

Always feel claustrophobic with a normal snorkel so would love to see if this solves that problem for me.

by Amanda Millar on November 13, 2020

How does the carbon dioxide get removed from the mask, and not rebreathed in.

by Graeme Clancy on November 16, 2020

Yes.

by Maryann on November 13, 2020

Yes

by Stephen on November 10, 2020

I have always had issues with snorkel masks fitting and sealing properly as my head has quite a unique shape which traditional masks don’t accommodate for…getting one custom made is price to say the least…how are these full face masks when it comes to fitting uniquely shaped faces/heads?

by Kristy on November 10, 2020

I would love to try this and see if I can use it I have no luck with the other snorkel version not sure if it’s because of my asthma or I’m uncoordinated 😂

by Noela O'Reilly on November 08, 2020

Awesome would love to try

by Noela O'Reilly on November 08, 2020

Awesome would love to try

by Noela O'Reilly on November 08, 2020

Would really love to try

by Megan Taylor on November 08, 2020

This sounds like the perfect solution.

by Chris on November 08, 2020

This sounds awesome. Can’t wait to try it :)

by Donna on November 08, 2020

Awesome can’t wait to try it

by Adrian wall on November 07, 2020

Looking forward to try the mask and see how it works

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Based on 1515 reviews
91%
(1373)
7%
(102)
1%
(21)
1%
(8)
1%
(11)
Prescription Lens for full face snorkel

Recently we went on a cruise to the South Pacific with lots of opportunities to snorkel. I was asked so many times "are they prescription lenses in there" & "where did you get them from".

The lenses were awesome, I was able to see and enjoy the snorkelling. Others tried mine and were amazed how good they were. As they were suctioned to the mask it made sure the mask was in the correct position on you face (not too high/low). Initially my lenses were a little tight to put together but they went in alright in the end :)

It was easy to find out what level (prescription/strength) was needed, I just went to my optometrist with the options and they told me which ones I needed.

D
Lifetime Warranty
Diane K. (Melbourne, AU)
The Ninja Shark Snorkel mask is awesome!

We bought these snorkel masks as we were going on a tropical holiday which included snorkelling tours and we both hated breathing through traditional plastic snorkels shoved in our mouths. My partner in particular did not want to snorkel because of this. These snorkel masks are FANTASTIC and were GAME CHANGERS. We did several lots of snorkelling on our holiday and every time, we were able to lie in the water, breathe normally and focus on looking underwater without worrying about breathing. Even if you dive underwater with these masks, the valve blocks water from coming into your snorkel mask. I bought the premium Equaliser Pro with the ability to pinch your nose if diving and my partner bought the basic model. Both are fantastic products - comfortable, easy to wear and highly recommended. You need to fit it tightly but it's really comfortable in the water and doesn't leak. Even when you come up you don't need to take it off, just keep breathing normally. I loved snorkelling with this product and even my anti-snorkelling partner really enjoyed it and felt this mask was a game changer.

T
Lifetime Warranty
Tom P. (Melbourne, AU)
Recommended

Great product and even better customer service

J
Package : Air Adults (Mask + Fins + Bag)
JEANNIE O. (Piara Waters, AU)
Bloody love this!

Never snorkelled in my life. Petrified of putting my head under water. But now my neck is bad - if I don't alter the way I swim - then no more swimming for me. This has opened 'a whole new world' - (haha -that songs stuck in your head now) - to me. I'm just using my ninja gear in my gym outdoor pool atm. My legs are getting so strong - and my lungs too - as I'm doing some great breathing. I have huge surgery coming up soon - and i believe this is allowing me to get to a great level of fitness - in preparation. Honestly - i can't go on enough about this product enough. My friend bought a cheaper version. She's given it away already... say no more 🤿🤿🤿

B
Electra - Full Face Snorkel Mask
Bolang C. (Perth, AU)
Great design

This is the best snorkel mask I’ve ever had. Very comfortable on face, easy to breathe. I am not a good swimmer, it makes me feel safe and enjoy snorkelling without distraction. Thank you ninjiashark.

Best snorkel ever!!

Got one of these for me and my 7 year old daughter for Xmas. We’ve used them twice already and love them!! So much easier to breathe, can see so much and just makes the whole snorkelling experience better! Would highly recommend!

Clear as day

Clear to see and easy to breathe,
Whole family loves the NinjaShark Snorkel mask.

R
Lifetime Warranty
Robyn H. (Adelaide, AU)
Amazing

The best snorkel and mask combination. No going back now! I could snorkel for over an hour easily. So glad I made this purchase

M
(DRAFT) Package: Dry Snorkel (Set + Fins + Bag)
Maureen R. (Townsville, AU)
Mermaid

While travelling in Timor leste l met a fellow snorkeller. We snorkelled for 10 days together the food was shit but the water was stunning. The friend was using Ninja Shark fins and mask mine were steaming up, letting in water and heavy. On arriving back in Australia l ordered straight away.
I was a little bit anxious on receiving my order as the mask was quite different to my old one and the fins were short and adjustable ( l wanted them to be my size ! ) well to my luck the weather was beautiful ( yes mid winter in Mackay ) and perfect for boating so off we scooted to Cockermouth ( don't laugh it's a real place ) jumping in and WOW I'm now a mermaid 🧜‍♀️ the mask and fins felt like part of me. I actually cried as not only was the equipment allowing me to explore as l wanted but the reef was STUNNING. So lm indepted to Ninja Shark for making me the mermaid l always aspired to be 🧜‍♀️

Took it to Tahiti

I wasn’t quite sure about getting a full face mask but bought mine (Electra package) before a trip to Tahiti which we got home from yesterday - absolutely LOVED it!!! I’ll be getting one for my wife before our next trip to a similar destination. BTW I make LOTS of crazy videos with lots of toys.

Judge.me YouTube video placeholder
Life changing

I do love my full face snorkel.. the freedom of nose breathing under the water.. the meditative and relaxative effect of this snorkeling is unexpected and great. Fits so well.. comfy to wear for long time.. highly recommend

J
(DRAFT) Diving Dry Snorkel Set with GoPro mount
Joanne T. (Brisbane, AU)
Super quality & fit

So happy we got Ninja shark, perfect for Great barrier reef snorkel day.
Flippers, mask, dry wallet, carry bag (good quality bag), anti fog spray, happy days.

Ninja Shark Kids Mask

We recently brought the Ninja Shark Kids 3-11 Mask + Fins + Bag package for our 7 year old who absolutely loves it! Will be buying three more for the rest of the family. 😊

Even better than expected!

I saw the kids full face snorkel masks online, and thought they looked pretty cool. I ordered two for Christmas, for my 3 and 6 year olds. Wow, did they have a great time with them!

I wasn't sure how the 3 year old would go with it, but he was comfortable in it almost immediately, and spent hours swimming around and seeing a whole new world of underwater scenery.

They were easy to fit, zero issues with them staying on. No leaks or fog.

They can't wait to get back to the water!

Highly recommend this product :)

N
Electra - Full Face Snorkel Mask
Nick J. (Brisbane, AU)
mask swimming

The mask did exactly what was stated. I was very happy and will get another mask for my daughter.

R
Electra - Full Face Snorkel Mask
Raffaele S. (Perth, AU)
Great way to swim

I have NEVER been able to snorkel but love swimming. These full face snorkels are an absolute game changer in my life. Now I try to swim around 5 kms a week in the local pool. The Ninja mask makes it easy to do laps. I’ve been using the Ninja Shark for a quite few years and find the new Electra the best full face mask ever. No leaks, no fog and really easy to use and great quality. I’ve noticed my regular chats with other swimmers at the pool have encouraged many of them to purchase one of their own. I’ve given my older models to my grandkids and they love them too.

Fabulous

I got one for the 3 year old and one for the 5 year old, I thought maybe the 3 year old would get the hang of it eventually but they both loved it and mastered it pretty quickly. We’ve only used in the swimming pool, excited to go snorkeling in the ocean soon. Great product.

S
Lifetime Warranty
Sarah B. (Surfers Paradise, AU)
Love it!

Amazing product ! Have the electra package, kids love it. So easy to use. Highly recommend

J
(DRAFT) Diving Dry Snorkel Set with GoPro mount
Jen M. (Brisbane, AU)
Love it

Bought these for myself and my husband after getting the full face masks for the kids, and they were so good we’re getting them for the rest of the extended family for Xmas. The fact u can dive down and not get water down ur snorkel is a brilliant bonus! Makes our family holidays much easier and better without snorkel dramas!

This made our holiday

The product itself was amazing, but the service we received allowed us to get our 2 sets of masks for our cruise. We took them with us and used them multiple times for snorkelling on our cruise to Nouméa and New Caledonia. It was amazing snorkelling and being able to breathe easily, and the fins were the most comfortable I've ever used. I've got size 13 feet, and not only were they completely adjustable, but they were THE most comfortable fins ever invented. A massive shoutout to Colleen Zamora from your support staff who helped me out and made it possible to take our gear on holidays! Thanks Colleen!
The photo is us snorkelling off Amadee Island looking for turtles!

My kids love them

I’ve got three of these masks for my younger kids, however the oldest wants one too as the young ones rave about how good the are.

Summer Family Fun

Our Ninja masks have made snorkelling as a whole family very easy and enjoyable. The kids (and parents) find them super easy to use and have allowed us as a family of five to snorkel for longer than we ever could using traditional snorkel gear. I would highly recommend these masks.

G
Lifetime Warranty
Geri D. (Sydney, AU)
Lifetime warranty

Glad I have but haven’t needed to use .. yet

Great Mask

Love this mask. Kids find it so much easier snorkelling with the Ninja Shark. The snorkel mask is super clear and doesn’t fog up. The adjustable straps are great and easy to loosen and tighten. Very happy that we made the decision to get these for the kids.

A must for snorkelers!

Recently purchased the Equaliser Pro Mask, Finns and bag. 🤿 🐠🐡🐟🦈 Had an amazing time snorkeling off Fitzroy Island, the Pro mask allowed me to explore for over 7 hours. Higly recommend! Planning must next snorkeling trip! 🤿💦🌴☀️