What Snorkelling Gear Should I Buy?

by Mihai Pinzariu on September 24, 2019

Heading on a snorkelling trip and want a good idea of what kind of snorkel equipment you should get? Or maybe you’re an interested snorkeller who’d like to take this hobby a little more seriously. Either way, we get a lot of questions from keen snorkellers who would like to build the ultimate snorkelling gear pack, but aren’t sure what exactly they’ll need.

The truth is that there’s no set ‘must-have snorkelling gear’. It all depends on where you’re going to be snorkelling, whether you plan on diving below the surface, what the water temperature is like, and more! That said, here’s a list of snorkelling gear that most people should have in their arsenal, as well as advice on whether it’s an essential item or not.

Snorkel mask: the obvious

If you’re only going to be relaxing along the water’s surface, enjoying the view underwater, then you won’t need much more than just your snorkel mask! Those who enjoy slowly gliding along the surface at an easy pace and don’t plan on heading out too far from shore, you’re safe! Grab your snorkel mask and hit the water. No need for a snorkelling arsenal here.

Fins: for long distances and diving underwater

If you’ll be hitting snorkel spots that are a little away from shore and require swimming longer distances, then definitely go for a pair of fins. These will help propel you as you move through the water, helping you swim much faster and cover longer distances easier. If you’re prone to getting sore legs while swimming, fins will save your life.

Fins are also super handy for snorkellers who’d like to dive down underwater as they help you go deep below the surface (but not too deep!)

Wetsuit: for cooler waters and winter snorkels

If you’re not going to be snorkelling in tropical waters, then you’ll definitely want a wetsuit to keep you warm in the chilly seas. A wetsuit is also handy for those who’d like to keep enjoying snorkelling throughout the winter months as well. Remember, water might seem warm for the first ten minutes, but a wetsuit will make sure you stay warm for hours and hours. Who wants to interrupt their clownfish gazing just because they’re cold? Nobody!

Rash guard: for UV protection (and jellyfish stings!)

If you’re the type to get sunburnt from long days out in the sun, then a rash guard is definitely worth throwing into your snorkelling gearbox. Rash guards not only prevent sunburn but also help protect against UV radiation, which is important for people of all skin types (even those who tan and don’t burn!) Anyone who’ll be spending long days out in the sun should consider a rash guard.

Rash guards also come in handy as they can protect you from jellyfish stings as well as other dangerous creepy crawlies underwater. If you don’t like the idea of brushing past something that you’re unfamiliar with, a rash guard will keep you feeling nice and protected.

Knife: for diving and detangling

If you are planning to dive below the surface of the water, you should always be prepared. Anything can happen in the deep, dark depths of the water, a knife will ensure you’ve always got some form of safety defence as a backup. Ankle got tangled in some seaweed? Rip it up with a knife. These kinds of issues are more common than you think, and having a knife handy while snorkelling could be a life-saving move. Why wait to find out?!

Buoys: for safety and visibility while diving

It’s always recommended that you carry a buoy with you while snorkelling underwater so that anyone above the surface can easily spot you from a distance. This is especially important if the area you are snorkelling in sees a lot of boat traffic or is popular with other snorkellers and divers. It’s just a way of saying, ‘Hey, I’m here!’, and having that added safety factor while snorkelling in busy areas.

Floating vests/noodles: for relaxing vibes

Foam noodles and floating vests are an absolute dream come true for snorkellers who like to just glide along the surface of the water and enjoy the scenery, without having to be all active about it. With these pieces of snorkelling equipment you can just take it easy and float along the surface of the water at a leisurely pace while the marine life goes past below you. These are also great for those snorkellers who do enjoy being more active, but need to take a break every now and then to restore energy.

Water shoes: for those pebbles

If you’ll be hitting up snorkelling beaches that aren’t soft and sandy, it’s definitely a good idea to invest in a good pair of water shoes. These will help you get in and out of the water easily, without having to tiptoe and worry about cutting your feet. It’s not only painful to walk over small pebbles, but can be dangerous if you do end up cutting yourself. Water shoes make things easy, breezy, and comfortable so you can walk without a worry.

GoPro: for memory making & showing off

Okay, it’s not really a piece of snorkelling equipment, but after snorkelling for awhile you’ll start to see why everyone keeps harping on about GoPros. There is just so much incredible life underwater that sometimes you just need to share those experiences and sights with other people.

A GoPro means that when you spot that school of amazing barracuda, or that beautiful coral you’ve never seen before, you can snap a pic and show it to someone later. You can look up marine life and creatures you’ve never seen before, you can show loved ones your happy moments, and you can create memories that last a lifetime. Of course, if you do go for a GoPro then you’re going to need a GoPro mount too (our snorkel masks all come with one!).


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.
1 comment
by Leanne Chalkley on November 26, 2021

What do you think of the underwater scooters for use by beginners?

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! 🤿💦🌴☀️