Snorkeling Myths Debunked: Setting the Record Straight

by Catalin Andries on August 20, 2024

Snorkeling is a popular and accessible way to explore the underwater world, offering a glimpse into the vibrant life beneath the ocean’s surface. However, like many activities, snorkeling is surrounded by myths and misconceptions that can deter people from enjoying this incredible experience.

In this article, we will debunk some common snorkeling myths and provide accurate information to help you dive in with confidence.

Myth 1: Full-Face Snorkel Masks Are Unsafe

Debunked: One of the most pervasive myths is that full-face snorkel masks are unsafe. Concerns have been raised about potential CO2 buildup inside the mask, leading to dizziness or fainting. While these issues can arise from poorly designed masks, high-quality full-face snorkel masks, like those from Ninja Shark, are rigorously tested for safety. They feature advanced ventilation systems that ensure fresh air circulation and prevent CO2 accumulation. When used correctly and chosen from reputable brands, full-face masks are as safe as traditional snorkel masks.

Myth 2: Snorkeling Is Difficult and Only for Strong Swimmers

Debunked: Many people believe that snorkeling requires advanced swimming skills and is difficult to master. In reality, snorkeling is a relatively easy activity that can be enjoyed by beginners and non-swimmers alike. With the right gear and a basic understanding of the technique, anyone can snorkel. Full-face snorkel masks, for instance, make breathing easier by allowing you to breathe naturally through your nose and mouth, reducing the learning curve. Additionally, using flotation devices like snorkeling vests can help those less confident in their swimming abilities.

Myth 3: Snorkeling Is Dangerous Because of Marine Life

Debunked: Fear of encountering dangerous marine animals is another common misconception that keeps people from snorkeling. While the ocean is home to various species, most marine animals are not interested in humans and will not pose a threat if left undisturbed. Sharks, for example, are often feared but are generally harmless to snorkelers. It’s important to respect the marine environment and avoid touching or disturbing the wildlife, but with proper precautions, snorkeling is a safe and enjoyable activity.

Myth 4: You Need Expensive Gear to Snorkel

Debunked: Another myth is that snorkeling requires costly equipment. While it’s true that investing in high-quality gear can enhance your experience, it doesn’t have to break the bank. Basic snorkeling gear, including a mask, snorkel, and fins, can be purchased at a reasonable price. Full-face snorkel masks, like those from Ninja Shark, are an excellent investment for comfort and ease of use, offering value for money with their durability and safety features. Remember, the most important factor is that the gear fits well and is comfortable to use.

Myth 5: Snorkeling Is Boring Compared to Scuba Diving

Debunked: Some people assume that snorkeling is a dull activity compared to scuba diving. While scuba diving allows you to explore deeper waters, snorkeling offers its own unique experiences, such as witnessing vibrant coral reefs, swimming with colorful fish, and even encountering sea turtles in shallow waters. Snorkeling is also less equipment-intensive and can be done spontaneously at numerous locations, making it a versatile and exciting activity for all ages.

Myth: You Can't Go Fully Underwater with a Full-Face Snorkel Mask

Debunked: Many people believe that full-face snorkel masks are only suitable for surface snorkeling and that they can't be used underwater. While it's true that these masks are primarily designed for surface use, you can go underwater with them—just not for extended periods.

Here's how it works: Full-face snorkel masks have a dry-top system that seals the snorkel when submerged, preventing water from entering the mask. This feature allows you to dive briefly below the surface without worrying about inhaling water. However, they aren't intended for prolonged diving like traditional snorkel gear because of the increased pressure on your face and the limited ability to equalise. If you try to dive deep or stay submerged for too long, you might find it uncomfortable.

Snorkeling is an accessible, enjoyable, and safe way to explore the underwater world, as long as you are informed and use the right equipment.

By debunking these myths, we hope to encourage more people to experience the joy of snorkeling without unnecessary fears or misconceptions. Whether you’re using a traditional snorkel setup or a modern full-face mask like those from Ninja Shark, the underwater adventure awaits!


Have you ever dreamed of snorkelling but felt uneasy about wearing a full face snorkel mask?

Just ask Phill, a true NINJA SHARK lover! He reached out to us after trying our masks, here’s what he had to say:

Our masks are equipped with advanced Anti-Fog technology, automatic drainage, and improved breathing chambers, ensuring there's no CO2 buildup. It's the ultimate gear for a worry-free and safe snorkelling adventure.


From total newbie to pro, Ninja Shark is the way to go!

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





“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 to bring the dreamlike full face snorkel mask to reality!"

What customers are saying about us…

"Amazing"

We bought the equalizer mask and fins package for lake and river snorkeling and it’s amazing. As soon as I submerged my head I was in a whole new world. I have never experienced such an immersion into the underwater world before (with normal snorkel gear). The equalizer mask is crystal clear, no water ever gets in (even when I dive, do summer saults, jump in off a rock) and being able to equalize my pressure by plugging my nose is awesome. I love breathing freely through my mouth and nose. I’m just really impressed and love my mask. The flippers are really nice to. They fit great.

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

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Based on 1513 reviews
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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.

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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! 🤿💦🌴☀️