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Friday, Jul 17, 2026

Are some full-face snorkel masks dangerous to wear?

Clinton Engelberger | Suncoast Searchlight, Suncoast Searchlight
yes

Some full-face snorkel masks, as opposed to traditional two-piece ones, have posed dangers to consumers, leading experts to advise against wearing them.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission issued a warning in March advising customers not to use OUSPT full face-snorkel masks, which were sold on Amazon. The commission said the mask could cause snorkelers to experience difficulty breathing that can lead to drowning. It can also increase carbon dioxide levels.

But it’s not just one bad apple. A 2022 study that tested different full-face snorkel mask designs found most didn’t function as advertised, raising safety concerns.

In Hawaii, many commercial boat tours and rental shops have banned the masks due to risks associated with them.

While not every mask is a hazard, experts advise only experienced snorkelers who have lots of training should use them.

This fact brief is responsive to conversations such as this one.

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