Why are full face snorkels not allowed?

Feb. 19, 2024

Snorkeling is a popular activity for those looking to explore the marine world without the need for scuba gear. It allows swimmers to float on the surface of the water and observe the underwater world with the help of a snorkel and mask. However, in recent years, the use of full face snorkels has become increasingly popular among snorkelers. These masks cover the entire face and allow for easier breathing and a wider field of vision compared to traditional snorkel masks.

Despite their popularity, full face snorkels are not allowed in some places, including certain rental shops and guided tours. So what is the reason behind this restriction? Let's dig deeper into why full face snorkels are not always permitted.

One of the main concerns surrounding full face snorkels is their potential to cause carbon dioxide buildup. Traditional snorkel masks have a separate mouthpiece for breathing, which allows exhaled carbon dioxide to easily escape into the water. In contrast, full face masks cover the entire face, including the nose and mouth, making it harder for exhaled carbon dioxide to escape.

This can lead to a buildup of carbon dioxide inside the mask, especially during periods of heavy breathing or panic, which can result in discomfort, dizziness, and even loss of consciousness. In extreme cases, this could lead to a dangerous situation underwater, where the snorkeler might struggle to breathe properly or lose consciousness.

Another concern with full face snorkels is the potential for water ingress. While traditional snorkel masks have a separate breathing tube that is above the water surface, full face masks rely on a mechanism that seals the mask to the face. If this seal is broken or if the snorkeler submerges their face underwater, water can enter the mask and create a potentially dangerous situation.

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In contrast, traditional snorkel masks are designed with a separate breathing tube that is positioned above the water line, ensuring that the snorkeler can always breathe in fresh air without the risk of water ingress. This design has been tried and tested over many years, making it a safe and reliable choice for snorkelers of all levels.

In addition to safety concerns, there are also environmental reasons why full face snorkels may not be allowed in certain areas. The wide field of vision offered by full face masks may encourage snorkelers to get closer to delicate coral reefs or marine life, increasing the risk of accidental damage. Traditional masks with a narrower field of vision encourage snorkelers to maintain a safe distance from the underwater environment, reducing the risk of unintentional harm.

Furthermore, full face snorkels are often bulkier and heavier than traditional masks, making them less streamlined and increasing the risk of accidental contact with underwater structures or marine life. This can not only harm the environment but also pose a risk to the snorkeler themselves.

Ultimately, the decision to allow or restrict full face snorkels is often made with safety and environmental considerations in mind. While full face masks offer advantages in terms of comfort and visibility, they also come with potential risks that must be carefully considered. Snorkeling operators and rental shops have a responsibility to prioritize the safety of their customers and the protection of the marine environment, which may involve restricting the use of full face snorkels in certain circumstances.

In conclusion, while full face snorkels offer certain advantages in terms of comfort and visibility, they also come with potential risks that must be carefully considered. Safety concerns, including carbon dioxide buildup and water ingress, as well as environmental considerations, play a key role in determining whether full face snorkels are allowed in a particular location. Snorkelers are encouraged to follow the guidelines set by local operators and rental shops to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in the underwater world.

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