Do Full Face Snorkel Masks Work With Beards?

by Catalin Andries on September 23, 2019

Bearded bros, you might be curious as to whether you can rock a full face snorkel mask with that luscious mane of yours. You don’t want to miss out on all the fun but you don’t want to sacrifice your hard-earned beard either, and we totally get that! Truth is, there’s a short answer and a long answer when it comes to beards and full face snorkel masks.

It’ll all depend on the size of your beard, the shape of your beard, the style of your beard! In this article we’ll look at:

Why beards and full face snorkel masks are sometimes incompatible

How you can best work around their incompatibility

Tips and tricks for our facial haired snorkellers out there!

Why beards and full face snorkel masks sometimes don’t mix

When you’re using a full face snorkel mask – or any snorkel mask, for that matter -you need to ensure that there’s a proper watertight seal between your face and the mask. This seal is what prevents water from leaking into your mask, and pretty much the whole point of wearing a snorkel mask. If it’s not doing its job, then the snorkel mask is basically useless!

Having a beard can sometimes get in the way of creating a proper seal. Those little hairs can creep in between the silicon lining and create little spaces where the water can seep in. This will not only ruin your snorkelling journey, but could also be dangerous if you can’t manage to fix the seal while out in open water.

That said, it doesn’t mean you have to ditch the full face snorkel just because you have a beard! There are ways around this, and it doesn’t always apply to everyone (or every beard). But you might need to get out the trimmers…

Shape and size matters

As we said before, the shape and size of your beard matters. Many people with a goatee or just a moustache will either not experience any issues, or be able to easily resolve them with a bit of vaseline to help with the sealing (we’ll include more tips and tricks below!)

If you’ve got quite a big large beard (think Hagrid from Harry Potter), you might have to give up on the idea of full face snorkelling. There’s just no way that the mask will be able to seal around your beard hairs. Unless you think you could tie it up into a little pony and stuff it in the mask somehow? We advise against that, however!

This year get a head start on our BLACK FRIDAY Offers!

Enter Your E-mail Below and Receive Access
1-Day EARLIER THAN EVERYBODY
To Take Advantage Of Our Limited BLACK FRIDAY Special Packages
Save up to 70% OFF for Special Packages.
Limited stock - only 50 pieces available.
⚠️The BLACK FRIDAY Special Packages are limited!
(We’ll let you in on a secret: this Black Friday has our BEST DEALS EVER. And a few SURPRISES)

This year get a head start on our BLACK FRIDAY Offers!

Enter Your E-mail Below and Receive Access
1-Day EARLIER THAN EVERYBODY
To Get Your Hands On Our Limited BLACK FRIDAY Deals!
Save up to 70% OFF for Special Packages.
Limited stock - only 50 pieces available.
⚠️The BLACK FRIDAY Special Packages are limited!
(We’ll let you in on a secret: this Black Friday has our BEST DEALS EVER. And a few SURPRISES)

How to snorkel with a beard

If you’re just rocking a bit of stubble or a moustache, there’s still a chance you can enjoy the pleasures of a full face snorkel mask and get to keep your manly facial hair.

Here are some tips and tricks to help ensure that seal isn’t broken so you can enjoy snorkelling without having to lose the hair:

  • Shave the bit under your nose

We’re not telling you to shave all of it, so don’t worry! But shaving the area below your nostrils creates a little bare bit of skin where the mask can easily seal. You’ll get to keep your moustache (although it’ll be a bit shorter), and create a good seal at the same time.

  • Use a mask with a silicon seal over PVC

Silicon provides a better seal than PVC as it remains flexible even when temperatures change. PVC is prone to stiffening or hardening, losing its flexibility and seal when water cools down. When you’ve already got something like facial hair compromising a seal, you’ll want to avoid PVC.

  • Give it a good trim

Again, no shaving, just a little trim! Thinning out your facial hair will definitely make an impact as to how well the mask will seal to your face. The thicker your beard or moustache, the harder it will be to create a seal. Thinning out their facial hair can be helpful to some men when snorkelling or diving.

  • Use a grease

Using a specially designed grease can help make it easier for you to seal your mask when sporting a beard or ‘stache. Mask Seal is one product that you can apply to your moustache to help create a better sealing surface. It can be a little tricky to get this stuff out of your facial hair afterwards, but warm water and soap (and patience!) should do the trick.

  • Lose it just for a bit

Ok, we’re just gonna say it… why not lose the beard for a bit?! If you’re off on a snorkelling holiday, it’s well worth the shave to enjoy lots and lots of wonderful snorkelling adventures with your full face mask.

The hair will slowly grow back, and might even be fully grown by the time you get back. Think about it, tonnes of fun out in the ocean, with pristine panoramic views, safe in the comfort of your full face snorkel mask… it’s well worth the smooth cheeks we reckon.

So can I use a full face snorkel with a beard?

Full face snorkel mask or not, beards are just not a great idea when it comes to snorkelling. They get in the way of creating a proper watertight seal, leading to water leaking into your mask. This not only ruins the experience, but can also be dangerous.

That said, it all depends on the shape and size of your beard, and whether you’re willing to compromise a little for the sake of a damn good time. Things like trimming, using a greaser, and wearing a mask with a silicon seal can help to keep water out so you can rock your facial hair while also enjoying the joys of snorkelling.

You could also rock your beard during winter and shave it off during the summer months – it’s much cooler for you and then you can snorkel as much as you like with no worries!


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.

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.
3 comments
by Shay Mueller on May 23, 2024

I am looking for a mask for my boyfriend to go snorkeling with and he has a beard. I need help finding the perfect mask for him

by Some User That Will Buy One Of Your Products Soon But Should Do A YouTube Channel And Become A YouTuber To Earn Money To Purchase The Ninja Shark Equaliser But Is Worried That It Will Not Fit And Left A Question on November 02, 2021

When you purchase a mask, does it automatically come with earplugs and “the bag that holds the mask and drains the water out of it”?

Please don’t report me (because of the long name)
Sorry

by Ron Strong on January 29, 2021

Thank you fir your reply. I have a moustache only nit a beard. My request was a more about the seal of the mask and perhaps a close up of the seal, type and how it works.

Ron

LEAVE A COMMENT

Please note, comments must be approved before they are published


Based on 1513 reviews
91%
(1371)
7%
(102)
1%
(20)
1%
(9)
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! 🤿💦🌴☀️