The Death Mask

Full Face Snorkel Masks like this one are causing snorkeler deaths. Time to try one out...
Snorkel Bob's, Hawaii's leading snorkel retailer refuses to sell them. Tour operator Hawaii Ocean Project won't allow their guests to use them, even if you bring your own.
So what's causing the deaths associated with cheap, copy-cat full face snorkel masks? We tear their design flaws apart and give you five tips for staying safe if you actually have to use one of these death traps.
If you need a reputable brand for a Full-face Snorkel Mask, start here:
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The Death Mask
Though we are based in Florida, Hawaii, California, and Michigan have 100 ft and 300 ft ocean and lake underwater coral reef, shipwreck, cave diving, freediving, scuba diving, and rebreather trips. To learn full face mask, beginner scuba diver, advanced scuba diver, tech scuba diver, cave diver you can reach out to a professional scuba diver. Everyone should get scuba diving insurance with Divers Alert Network.
We support all types of diving products, like a full face mask, fins, BCD, regulators, closed circuit rebreather, underwater scooter, from many companies like Simply Scuba, Mares, Dive Rite, Cressi, Zeagle, Huish, Hollis, Scubapro.

[@DiversReady]

We want to hear YOUR experiences using these masks! Let me know below!

[@flipflop82ful]

Noone lived to tell the story...

[@jennyhughes7991]

I have bought a similar snorkeling mask and I LOVE IT. And upon using it for the past few weeks was that i found out that the culprit of accidents involving these masks. For starters, maybe they have ignored the fact that it can only be used as a snorkeling mask and not a diving mask. some people just dive right in the water use this mask to breath under water which is of course a no-no. But when they do, they cant. That's when they start to panic. I tried diving with my mask under 2 meters of water and the technique is to breath-in before diving in like what we normally and naturally do when we dive without any mask. Never breath-out your air in your chest before diving in the water. The feel the urge to breath in again and you're still underwater will not be possible since the ball valve is blocking the snorkel pipe. So since you cant breathe, you'll start to panic. And next to panic could mean danger. So the best thing you can do when you feel the urge to breathe is to swim fast out the water and remove your mask instantly. Don't attempt to breathe while underwater thinking that it is possible because you are wearing a full face mask. It is just a mask, not a scuba. i also have observed other people who used my mask for the first time and told me that they couldn't breathe underwater. Stupid haha.. that's why it is a snorkeling mask. You stick the snorkel out the water and not in it. So i educated them. i therefore conclude that the mask is not to be blamed but the people who use it and ignore precautionary measures before taking a dip. Be A responsible swimmer becoz the only one you can save yourself is you. REMEMBER: IGNORANCE IS NOT AN EXCUSE!

[@fluchschule]

For starters, you cannot dive with these masks since you cannot equalize, and the amount of air inside is too large. So, stay on the surface! Apart from this, I enjoyed using this type of mask snorkeling in warm water, many times, often without break for over an hour, without feeling any breathing problems. They fog more easily than others, especially once they got wet on the inside. I actually found them very comfortable since your face is less exposed to salt water. Not sure whether I want to use them again. The point with the dead air space sounds reasonable, but I never felt it. I tend to breath calm but fully while snorkeling, so that might have helped. To find out whether these masks really have a higher risk, you need to compare the usage ratio ml in the death cases to the total usage.

[@seamuscormack177]

i bought one to upgrade from a normal 2 piece mask and tube ,a Cressi Duke ,which i think is not a bad make , i've even shaved my beard down to get a better seal ,however i'm still getting water entering in the upper chamber and can hear air bubbling on the out breath ,not normal i think . so far my adventures have been limited to a pool ,i don't want to risk anything in the " wild" until i'm certain and confident with it ,any advice welcome ! cheers James

[@ScubaLui]

A lot of non-divers seem to like these. As you know many newbies don't like getting a bit of water in their mask. They seem to really like these as they keep the water out well. The ones I've seen have all had silicone seals. I tried one for 5 mins. It kept the water out well, but as soon as I realised I couldn't dive down even a few centimetres due to the large air space, I was done with it and handed it back! I'll keep an eye out for cheap ones and warn people if I see them. Thanks for making this video.

[@ralphziehdorn2979]

Went snorkeling with one in Jamaica thank goodness the guide noticed me lagging behind and struggling to keep up with the group. He snatched off my full face mask and gave me his set up and helped me get back to the boat. When we got back to shore I gave the man a 100 dollars and broke the mask in half and threw it away. The guide stated he will no longer allow anyone to snorkel in his group with one of those masks. I wish I would have seen this video before I ever made that purchase. Thank you for sharing this.

[@dwaynebevibin.3347]

i'm jamaican you gave him a dollar for saving your life 😑

[@ralphziehdorn2979]

@@dwaynebevibin.3347 lol not true. That man is in my thoughts whenever I go near the water. Why would you even post such a negative comment. Where you there? I know you where not- the guide myself and God know the truth. God bless you

[@terasgamer9097]

@@dwaynebevibin.3347 he gave him 100$ usd

[@Brandon-tk2rw]

100 USD Is like 1k USD in Jamaica

[@E-Wad]

@@Brandon-tk2rw well it wouldnt be "USD" in Jamaica

[@jamescosstick2233]

Seems like someone tried to reinvent the wheel and made it square.

[@goodluck6948]

lol!!! never heard that one before.

[@Brandon-gs5ot]

Shark wheels

[@dr.doppeldecker3832]

The principle of full face mask is not bad in itself, it's these cheap knockoffs that are dangerous!

[@luqmanhafidh8914]

DONT BE TOO PROUD TO USE A FLOATATION VEST.

[@THELIFEDREAMER.1329]

Well the problem is , that kind of cheap dangerous masks shouldn't be allowed to be sell. They are basically dead traps. Thanks for your video. I am pretty sure you are saving some lives with it!

[@vincent5525]

I have zero experience with snorkelling, and I’ve always wondered how it can be possible to drown when your head is literally 6 inches from the surface. This video explains it perfectly. Asphyxiation from dead space and poorly recycled air never occurred to me. Thank you.

[@user7966]

Yeah its prob the co2 build up more then any of the other problems. The other problems add to the list.

[@uberschnilthegreat22]

There's also the risk of the mask deciding to outright murder you with the ball valve in the intake nozzle getting stuck when you resurface due to pressure differences in the dead space and the atmosphere, meaning you can literally suffocate to death unless you rip it off your face. (It can be VERY hard to get it off when this happens sometimes, especially if your mask leaks air when underwater like mine and can generate a rather considerable suction! Granted, mine only has the valve stick occurring when my head is facing down past a certain point when I'm resurfacing, but it is scary nonetheless.)

[@SilvaDreams]

People have drown in as little as two inches of water before, it's not the depth that makes things dannngerous.

[@differenttan7366]

I picked up a couple of these things from a store in Florida a few years back for my kids. Tried them in a pool with no problems but out on a snorkel trip my kids both felt unwell, I tried one of the masks and within 10 mins had a rapid headache which I hadn’t experienced with with my traditional mask before or after. I got the kids old school snorkel and mask after that.

[@YuriyDel]

Biggest problems with those, and the deaths they've caused, isn't hypoxia, it's hypercapnia-according to the medical studies I've been reading. CO2 buildup also causes a reaction to breath more shallow which exacerbates the problem of dead space. Whichever it is, all in all, wouldn't recommend.

[@DiversReady]

That is correct.

[@Shutityou]

Indeed. It’s the same principle in play in panic attacks, you breathe more shallowly which makes you feel a variety of u pleasant feeling which makes you breathe more shallow. Your heart rate increases, you notice this and breathing deteriorated further. It’s very interesting to be honest.

[@JPINFV]

@@Shutityou For panic attacks, the issue is too little CO2. You hyperventilate and that blows off CO2 which makes your blood too alkalotic (normal pH is 7.35-7.45). CO2 is an important regulator for the pH level of your blood. CO2 levels are also the normal trigger to breath. When you hyperventilate before skin diving, you aren't loading more O2... you're off loading more CO2 which means that urge to breath takes longer to develop. This is how some of the deep skin divers die... they blow off CO2, so they get the urge to surface and breath too late... which leads to their bodies using up too much oxygen. Interestingly enough, though, at too high concentrations of CO2, it can act like a sedative (hypercapnic narcosis).

[@cherriberri8373]

@@JPINFV Wow, I looked it up entirely expecting you to be wrong and full of crap. I stand corrected, thank you for teaching me something new! Additionally, it seems there is another concern when hyperventilating, which is that your blood vessels constrict, which restricts blood flow to say, your brain.

[@goodbye8995]

@@JPINFV hard to believe someone who writes so "sciency" but doesn't know the difference between breath, and *_breathe._*

[@madaboutbrens]

brother in law was dragged out of the sea wearing one of these things, managed to get a major CO2 hit, he was fine until he was swimming slightly harder than usual, would have drowned had it not been for someone who had observed him in trouble !

[@dolphinboi-playmonsterranc9668]

Jeez, glad he's okay

[@Berkcam]

That is lack of knowledge. You should know how to recognise CO2 buildup and know how to deal with it Everyone wants to be a diver without putting effort in to be safe. All the deaths wearing these masks were self inflicted - end of!

[@norfolkngood8960]

@@Berkcam I know this is old but yes lack of knowledge but if you don't know then you don't know being a heartless jerk doesn't help anything. If you're going to be a self righteous doucge then at least point out where to learn & how to be safe not just I know everything & you all should just get out if the water fools. Fact of the matter is because these things are on sake in supermarkets, markets seaside shops & because its just a tube to the air most people don't even think there's anything yo be aware of. I hope you don't fall of that high horse & break your neck.

[@___echo___]

@@Berkcam thats a bit harsh, people are just going out to have a fun time, see some fish in waters way nicer than the murky waters where they live. I definitely think people need an instructor to advise and educate them, one that doesn't allow these masks But just spread the word and warn people when you seem them with those on, people just don't know what they're buying

[@hossprey]

@@Berkcam totally, they teach that in elementary school, I mean come on guys!

[@tgbeam]

Weird that I'm just seeing this. I just talked to my wife about these masks when we snorkeled with dolphins in Mexico. It made me feel like I was suffocating and got me in a panic.

[@uberschnilthegreat22]

These things can legitimately suffocate you if do so much as looking down too far when you're resurfacing, as the ball in the intake nozzle will get stuck (I don't know why exactly, but it must be due to pressure differences in the dead space of the mask and the outside air, coupled with the angle of your face when you resurface) and the *only* way to get it to come back down in my experience is to rip it off your face and release the pressure inside the mask (Which can be VERY hard to do so as in my experience, these things can generate a considerable suction force on your face!).

[@joelhalifax38]

Dang flabbit this video was posted right after my dad almost died in one of these, we were in Hawaii and he was wearing that mask. He was moving a bit wierd in the water and some fellow paddle boarders came over and asked "are u okay sir" he mumbled yes through the mask (he doesn't like help that much) 5 minutes later the shore was pushing him against rocks as he was breathing much slower, the paddle boarders came back over and had to bring him back to shore, our whole family hasn't gone snorchling since 😳😳

[@DiversReady]

Scary story! Other people weren't as lucky as your Dad! Glad it all worked out in the end. Thanks for sharing your story.

[@RobinTheBot]

That's why you need to accept help!!! Pride almost killed him...

[@elh305]

TBH, too much snorching sounds dangerous, with or w/o that mask..🤷🏻‍♂️ . . . Ok, great story tho, glad your dad and family are ok..! 😬👍🏼🙋🏻‍♂️

[@sinxsideways5900]

@@elh305 ok lmfao

[@boxinabox6608]

@@RobinTheBot it wasn't pride, he would've thought it was something else as his head isn't too far from the surface if he wants a break

[@williamdunbar8554]

Without question that was one of the greatest PSAs I've ever heard. Thank you!

[@efrainchavez2408]

As a diving instructor that normally doesn't use this type of equipment, I found your video very useful! I also liked your thorough explanation of every key aspect! Congrats!

[@cliffmillerslandlockedexpl5421]

I purchased a full face snorkel mask a few years back. I had heard warmings on this type of snorkel, so I began doing research and found one from a reputable company. I haven't had any problems with it. It's like you said, do the research and don't skimp out on the price.

[@kyerogers7838]

Yeah I have like a 50-60 quid one. Have no such problems. Best snorkeling I've ever done

[@williamlee7782]

What's a good brand? I see Amazon is flooded with these types and near perfect reviews. Yikes.

[@cliffmillerslandlockedexpl5421]

@@williamlee7782 I purchased SeaBeast. I haven't had any problems with it. Just be safe and it's all good.

[@weefslider]

I found one on the bottom of a river, would you call that quality? Lmao

[@abdullahal-shimri3091]

@@williamlee7782 Aria - made in Italy

[@jarredstill2285]

My wife uses one all the time, I've made her aware of some issues people have had. She's never experienced the headaches or anything. I paid for a nicer one cause I figured all the cheap ones were the issue. I have no real complaints about the mask other than it's a little difficult to dive down for anything.

[@roboticfuzzball179]

Yep you really got to dish out the money to get one that doesn't kill you

[@MartynDavies]

I have a lot of dive and snorkel experience. I tried one of these, and found it claustrophobic. An obvious disadvantage is that you can’t really breath-hold dive in it, since you can’t equalize the pressure in your ears. It surprised me how quickly it fogged up, and then it’s very difficult to clear, since the straps are tight and don’t easily allow you to let water in, or to then let it out. I don’t think that these are a good idea.

[@jaschaschmidt]

There are Modells that have a silicon part over the nose so you can access the nose to equalize the pressure. And the fork problem gets better if the mask have a real air circle with separeted air in and out. But that features only come with the expensive Models.

[@Dhalin]

Yeah, I don't really get why anybody thinks it's a good idea to dive into 60F water with 95F air coming out of your lungs on a bit of clear vinyl or plastic. That's going to fog up almost instantly. Same thing that happens when you get into your car in the winter, your breath will quickly cause fog on the windshield until the car's heater can heat the glass enough that it stops fogging.

[@michellequinn4650]

@@Dhalin the ones that ventilate right do not fog up, at least mine doesn't

[@JoeMandell-]

Absolutely... great analysis!!! While snorkeling in Hawaii with a full face mask, I suffered from I thought was Hypoxia and was in full hyperventilation by the time I reached the beach. As mentioned in the video, the Lifeguards told me that most of their rescues involve adults wearing these masks. Additional research indicates I was suffering from Hypercapnia. Regardless, if I did not recognize the signs and symptoms that I was experiencing due my military training and experience, the outcome could have been lethal. As mentioned, IF... and ONLY IF, you have to get a full face mask please ensure it has an Orinasal Pocket. This technology is used in Healthcare to seperate exhaled CO2 from incoming fresh air. Fifteen minute breaks in calm waters works fine, but if you are dealing with tides or currents, decrease your snorkeling to 5 minute intervals. Please be safe! Hypercapnia can easily sneak up on you. Thanks for the great assessment and important PSA!

[@jacobjones5716]

Even though I bought the more expensive face mask, after 15 minutes you're done, as he explained in the video. He was not joking when he said it too! And I thought it was just me until I looked over at my friend, a professional athlete swimmer, and he was having a really hard time too!

[@kennethcargill3512]

I've been using one for quite a while and your evaluation is correct. These are only good for short periods of very casual snorkeling. ALWAYS have flotation and remove the mask from time to time or you will find yourself short of breath. Great Video!

[@rinzler9775]

They are probably best in the bin.

[@DinnerForkTongue]

@@rinzler9775 Exactly. This is TRASH.

[@bosshoss14]

Wow, I bought some of these on Amazon for a lake trip. My nephew (6 years old) was also using one. We probably only had it on for 10 min max at a time. Seeing this makes me realize we were risking our lives just by using these apparently safe masks. I was completely oblivious to these risks at the time. I’m throwing them away.

[@lynnecoles7276]

We have used them and they are in the trash after us having breathing issues while snorkeling! We also had to intervene in the case of a little boy that was struggling on our excursion four weeks ago!

[@rca6128]

When I used mine I did notice I got tired, luckily I already take regular breaks when snorkeling so I was fine, however I was lucky and I really appreciate seeing a video that explains the science behind my experience

[@dr.davidlisk8197]

As a scuba diving instructor and a snorkel instructor I bought one of these masks to try out. I had no problems with it. In fact I actually prefer it for surface snorkeling. It is comfortable does not leak, easy to breathe from and did not fog up. Great experience. No use for scuba diving, by the way when scuba diving do not attach a snorkel to your mask. Put the snorkel in a pocket or clip it to you as you only ever need the snorkel in the unlikely event that you will need to do a long surface swim. PADI train's divers to always clip the snorkel to their mask. However when PADI train you as a rebreather diver you are trained not to clip the snorkel to your mask. PADI however does accept that ordinary scuba divers can clip or pocket a snorkel if they wish as long as they carry one. I believe clipping a snorkel to the mask throughout the dive when scuba diving is stupid and in certain circumstances can be dangerous.

[@extremetea]

I am not a diver (I like my boots dry) and this is the first vid of yours I've found and also the first in which safety was primary THANK YOU. One thing I'd humbly suggest you might want to add for newbies is the proximity a pair of buddies should maintain. When we're in a danger zone i i want him within arms reach. The stories in which dive 'buddy' says, " She was 30 feet back as we were ascending. I looked back and saw a giant black shape go by..." Those folks were solo diving and they didn't even know it. Thanks again boss. Safety first.

[@stevenwilliams6638]

Thank you for putting the time into doing this. These looked very appealing (especially to someone who doesn't know about diving) I'm glad I came across this video. You have probably saved a few lives with this PSA.

[@bigcrabrob]

I am no professional, but I bought a $30.00 version of this mask and I loved it! I was able to really explore with it. I don't doubt what you are all saying, but I had one of the best experiences in the water I have ever had with mine.

[@JAfonsoNunesMartins10]

how deep can you go with it?

[@poposisa]

@@JAfonsoNunesMartins10 these are surface masks, you can't go deep.

[@JAfonsoNunesMartins10]

@@poposisa yeah I know that now haha, that comment was 9 months ago and I've started doing freediving since that and learned some things

[@Culvey]

Yeah, i had a similar experience... my wife on the other hand hated it because she didn't like looking down while snorkeling, she wanted to look more forward, so the float that prevents water from coming in kept cutting off her air. That was more of a mechanical problem due to posturing. Heck i was using it for well over an hour, taking in deep breaths and diving down fairly deep (for a snorkeling trip that is) and had no issues at all.

[@LaserPeow]

so funny, I told every person I know and that asked me to not buy these things for several reasons: a) increased dead air b) a normal mask with a snorkel can be used for scuba diving as well, so you don't need to buy twice Every person I advised to buy a normal mask/snorkel setup was very happy

[@LifeOnTheHulls]

As a professional dive instructor and breathing apparatus technician I really appreciate your assessment of this poorly designed piece of essential safety equipment. It goes without saying that increased carbon dioxide and potential for salt water aspiration can and will lead to serious safety concerns. Thanks mate. Rossco

[@uberschnilthegreat22]

I'd like to also note as someone who used one of these things (I think a near identical model seen in the video), is that there is another VERY dangerous flaw with these el cheapo masks. The ball inside the intake nozzle can get stuck if you resurface with your head facing down past a certain point, meaning you will end up legitimately suffocating to death by the mask *SUPPOSED* to let you breathe while only your face is submerged, unless you force it off your face and release the pressure inside the dead space. I don't know why this happens exactly, but it must have to do with the aforementioned difference in pressure inside the dead space of the mask and the atmosphere, coupled with the angle of your head *when* you resurface. Every time it's happened to me, there is a distinct, albeit mild and very brief hissing sound when I rip the mask off my face when this occurs. My theory is that air is slowly seeping out of my mask's dead space when I'm underwater, and causing the ball to remain stuck and create a truly sealed environment *above* water, and that the angle of my head when I'm resurfacing is helping to create that ideal condition to make the perfect seal. (It can be REALLY hard to take this thing off sometimes when the ball gets stuck, so some kind of suction HAS to be produced from somewhere!) Seeing as you're an apparatus technician yourself who has a million times more knowledge on this kind of stuff than myself, perhaps you could put your own inquiry onto how this occurs?

[@EricHart1]

A couple of years ago. I was snorkeling with family and traded out my regular mask for this style... swam out far and was exerting myself and felt light headed and felt a sense of impending doom... switched back to the regular snorkel later and felt better. I had purchased five of these for my family and through them all away.

[@sarcasm198]

This was a great (and timely video). I'm heading to the beach soon and was about to oder one as I want my own snorkel. I thin kI'll pass and stick with a standard mask for now! Thanks!

[@DiversReady]

Thanks for watching!

[@joeshmoe7967]

Been snorkling for decades, have only seen this type of mask with a new friend a few months back, I may send her this video. For me, if it ain't broke, don't fix it. I see zero wrong with the old fashion mask/snorkle I have used forever.

[@desertlizard4723]

"Your least favorite child" I like this guy

[@joshuafujiwara899]

Perfect to give to the mother in law on a snorkeling trip

[@buttcheek5007]

Joshua Fujiwara 💀💀😏

[@d.k.1394]

No just hold her under

[@Divadtube]

Bought one of these, and after using it myself for a short swim, and my daughter using it for the same amount, we both agreed, it is HARD to breath in these masks and feels like much more work to breath as soon as you put it on, let alone using it in the water. One point he missed, is the cheep plastic flaps used to seal the mouth area from the rest of the face, they are inflexible, and you have to breath hard just to get air past them, this adds to the labored breathing. Not fun, not safe.

[@catherinemccrum5091]

Just purchased an OCEANREEF full face mask. Practiced for 40-minutes in a pool and put myself and the mask through various manoeuvres. Releasing buckles while in water was easy. Purposely allowed mask to fill with water, then raised head above water and it drained as expected, albeit I as in a relaxed state. Mask remained fog free. I imitated swimming in a panic and forced rapid breathing, mask performed well. I tried diving down and was only minimally able to descend as the pressure was too forceful, came to surface and pressure released quickly and fresh air greeted me. (mask is not for diving down, however I wanted to experience how it felt so I tried) FYI - I’ve tried three different standard snorkelling masks and mouth pieces and they are impossible for me to use. This OCEANREEF full face mask worked well. Thank you for your opinions, alerts, and safety guidelines.

[@clayton19931]

I think it’s worth mentioning that with a normal snorkel mask you can purge water out of the mask by breathing out your nose

[@derrickwilliams1902]

The Death Mask. Interestingly this is what I have been calling this mask ever since it came out.

[@DiversReady]

There's been four more deaths in Hawaii alone since I made this video. It's maddening that stricter enforcement hasn't happened on the people selling these things. James

[@jollyroger7933]

@@DiversReady They should be banned outright.... I knew these masks were going to be a problem, the 1st time I saw one... They had a very similar mask in the late 1950;s that had a pair of snorkels, each one had a ping pong ball inside a cage, to keep the water out, when you went underwater... They were responsible for a helluva lot of drownings... They were eventually banned... These should have been banned before they ever hit the market! P.S. These things have made my life a living hell, trying to search for a good deal on a used Full-Face SCUBA Mask.... The search engines are flooded with these damn things! There are roughly 1,500 of these listed for every real diving mask!

[@ronaldrvvanhook1437]

Its been years since I dove... Separate mask, separate snorkel seems safest

[@DiversReady]

For sure it is, Ronald! Thanks for watching!

[@joeaverage3444]

Just get a regular $20 mask and snorkel combo. Even in that low price range, you will get a mask that will let you survive your snorkeling without a problem.

[@zazugee]

best advice is to not buy them they are rubish, there is a reason why snorkelling equipement looks the way it does now because it serves a purpose

[@laserworkstv]

You Using the mask Me: Pall bearers: 🕺🏿🕺🏿⚰🕺🏿🕺🏿

[@heidysec]

My greatest congratulations 🙏🏼 for this description...many people are really attracted by the design and its value, but many of us are unaware of the dangers behind this aquatic equipment...I was about to buy this mask and I happened to see your video..You are a great guy 🙋🏻..very useful this video.

[@workshopninjathe1st]

I bought 3 cheap ones off Amazon for a trip to Hawaii when they were a “new” product - I noticed I was out of breath in 10 mins. I did not trust that my young son would be as aware as myself so we thew them away. On our latest trip we used our “regular” old masks and snorkels, bought our son one too and we all felt fine. Glad we made the right decision - not enough information is out there on the dangers of these.

[@SkySweetie]

Thank you for the explanation why! There was a lot of fear and a lot of people contributing to the landfill like they're proud of that action. I read the manual the first time.. and the understanding of the snorkel mask seemed to come naturally to me, I tested it before using it.. I did NOT have problems with fatigue or CO2 problems, but I made sure to make it seal, even if it was uncomfortable initially. I also can tell that because I'm hyper sensitive. I can tell when I'm about to panic, when I'm low energy.. ect.. especially because I am MUCH more prone to panic from the traditional masks. I was breathing normally and calmly. I might return mine and get an expensive one! I think you also should treat anything that holds your life in the hands with a lot of caution and intent. Your video is really valuable! I was just sharing since you asked!

[@arcaneblack3401]

My son and I have 2 of these that we use quite a bit. We bought name brand and paid $50 ish. The seals are flexible. We have had zero issues with fogging. Never had any issues with clearing each breath from the mask and in taking fresh air. We swam hard for hours last time we used them and I did not feel any co2 effects.

[@Erumyr]

Arcane Black exactly, this fat idiot is exaggerating, but it’s still bad for amateurs, and could drown your kid.

[@joshmandeville3835]

This "fat idiot" is not exaggerating. Full face snorkels can be very dangerous if you are using them incorrectly and dont buy from a reputable brand.

[@wideyxyz2271]

Same here no problems sea swimming....

[@wideyxyz2271]

@@joshmandeville3835 I think its a little over the top...Children should always be supervised....and if you feel "tired or woozy" take off your mask and head for shore....always have a flotation device if you are more than a few meters from the shore.... Simple

[@Berkcam]

Exactly Arcane Black. The fact that you "swam hard for hours" means you are both very proficient in-water and you can safely use these or any other mask/snorkel set-up. If anyone thinks there is an easy fix for playing in the ocean then be prepared for heartbreak.

[@senorialequizio7688]

Just got one to use in my 52'' above ground pool. The idea of breathing normally vs. a tube on mouth is appealing but this video is on point! I got one of these mask off Amazon for a little more than $40 and as described I became exhausted, short of breath, dizzy and almost disoriented. The CO2 build up is overwhelming. Back to regular facemasks for me.

[@luchokostov5841]

Thanks for the notice! I guess it depends on the mask model and brand. I've used a high quality mask brand that has separation of the incoming and outgoing flow and have had no problems for the past 6 years of being in the open sea for hours with my mask on. I even do dives for up to 3m. So if you buy one don't go for the cheap ones they sell for 10$, they have poor ventilation and the result is the one explained here in this video.

[@reyz1984]

I used the cheap for $20 was silicone and it's surprisingly well-breathed, I think people misunderstood this invention, that mask isn't for diving but more for ocean sightseeing from surface. You're using it wrong, you need to stay on the surface without diving, I used my hours without a problem...

[@TenantRepGuru]

You probably have saved many lives. I only hope more people see this video. I was thinking of these for my kids. Now, I never will. Thank you.

[@agonzgonzalez7748]

Was watching a influencer promote these masks and then they tell about how they nearly passed out wearing one. They should be banned.

[@ThailandDantotherescue]

I have a 25 dollar mask that works great... I cut down the tube and attached an n95 filter on top and now I use it when face to face with a patient with flu like symptoms at my paramedic job offshore. No issues for me whatsoever, but I am not trying to swim. For this covid19 outbreak they have many purposes. Wrap the intake with hepa filter material from a hepa vacuum bag and you will have great protection.

[@HalcyonHavoc8221]

Does it mist inside a lot?

[@sfawc]

My family (wife, two teenagers and a 75+ year old mother-in-law) bought the original Triboard Easybreath masks and absolutely LOVE them. Several snorkeling trips to Curacao and St. Croix. No problems at all.

[@alanduxbury1167]

Thanks for the video and advice, I was going to buy 2 of these masks for my 11 year old twins. Have now bought some decent snorkeling masks from a diving shop 👌

[@anykinestuffs6446]

I got the Body Glove mask from Costco for about $40, and it works great. I was really impressed on how good it actually works. I agree get the name brand for a little bit more, and it's way safer.

[@tThisNThat]

not so sure body glove would be a name brand for this kind of item, especially at costco, pretty sure brand name is a reputable dive equipment manufacturer, not a bathing suit corp.

[@419buckeye7]

@@tThisNThat I have seen divers wearing body glove suits though

[@Hearthman1159]

Rebreathing CO2 can lead to hypercapnia. Normal people breathe based upon their CO2 levels-- not O2 drive. As your PaCO2 rises, you begin to develop respiratory alkalosis. This Ph imbalance often leads to carpopedal spasms, numbness and tingling to the lips and generally freaks out the victim who often panics. Other typical symptoms of hypercapnia are confusion and increased respiratory rate. This insidious cycle fulminates with passing out, which self corrects.............unless you're under water or fall and conk your head. FWIW, I'm a retired paramedic. Good stuff. Love your channel.

[@mntnpalerider]

My brother used a full face mask in the Bahamas for about 5 days and highly recommended it. He said it was so much easier to use, more comfortable and was able to breath easy. He's used both traditional and full face mask and would use the full face mask again.

[@l333boa]

Was looking at buying one of these for my daughter and I’m glad I KZbind it and came across your video, 100% will not be buying one now after watching this, I’ll get her a typical snorkel set from a reputable company thanks for the upload 👍

[@lachlanoneil8938]

You really have to buy it with her if you want one that actually fits and is comfortable, doesn't leak, watch a vid about buying a freediving mask not snorkeling because snorkeling gear.os rubbish

[@darkiee69]

And make shure the snorkle isn't to big for her. Kids shouldn't use adult snorkles, to much dead space.

[@l333boa]

Appreciate the advice guys will definitely take her with me, we’re both interested in taking up snorkelling, we do a lot of kayaking and get to some lovely places so would be nice to explore them more

[@koekie7003]

I actually have one of these masks an used it last year when snorkeling, though i did not really feel any of the bad effects but i did also take short breaks every now and again, thanks so much for the info I will def be careful using it from now on

[@aldri346]

It probably was high quality one

[@C-Handle]

No. You get a new one

[@sandkatt]

Saw these for the first time when I was in Hawaii a while ago. I thought they looked weird and didn’t sit right with me for some reason but didn’t think too much of it at the time. This video was very informative and explains why I didn’t feel right about them. Thank you for putting this out.

[@Beef3D]

I bought a full face snorkel mask in summer 2020 but never really ended up using it for the same reasons you mentioned. instead I recently got my OWD certification and last week an FFM certification so I could dive with an Ocean Reef Neptune and I'm so glad that I did. scubadiving can be a scary thing when you're inexperienced folks! NEVER skimp out on proper training when practicing underwater sports.

[@therrienmichael08]

I nearly bought one at K-Mart. Glad I put it back on the shelf.

[@kaidavey6879]

Thank god! I work at a k-mart and wish with every part of my body that it could be removed from every store

[@lengthmuldoon]

The big advantage is you sing a few bars of "suspicious minds" in there which is vital in this day and age.

[@frafoz]

Went to Decathlon and noticed those full face still on the shelves while normal masks one's were empty. Thank god!

[@pamelafrey6867]

My husband purchased one of these masks for me a few years ago for $100. Was so excited. I am an avid snorkeler and always wear a life belt. Within just a few minutes of snorkeling the reef in Roatan, I couldn't breathe. I started breathing heavier to get some air and that just made it worse. Just thought it was me. Well, I won't even give this mask to charity. Going to throw it in the garbage. Sharing this on facebook.

[@bubblef8073]

Mask and Snorkel combo! Is like drinking scotch with water together! You'll get hammered and hydrated in the same time!

[@KelvinHappyLife]

I was really happy with the decathlon one I used. Duck diving it was great. I didn’t experience the CO2 problem snorkeling for a long time.

[@BackFromTheMadeUp]

I also bought one at Decathlon and have to say it would make my top ten most revolutionary products ever in my life. I couldn't rave about it enough. Totally game changing.

[@BreakthroughEmpowered]

How do you go equalizing?

[@BackFromTheMadeUp]

@@BreakthroughEmpowered I don't think you can, so it's really just for surface snorkeling and popping down a meter or two. I have ear issues, so for me it wasn't a problem but my daughters are less enthusiastic about the mask for that reason.

[@KelvinHappyLife]

You can’t well. Wearing a nose peg would be a solution.

[@wdwerker]

It’s great to hear why the cheap full face snorkel mask is worse and why even a well made one carries significant risk ! Back when I was scuba diving regularly it took several dives to fine tune my skills after a 6 to 8 month break. If you decide to try snorkeling on a trip take a class and use quality gear you are familiar with. Take all of the warnings and restrictions very seriously! If you don’t it could cost your life.

[@dissociativealeks]

Wore one of these for airsoft thinking it might make for a good alternative to normal mesh face pro with better peripheral vision than goggles. You can’t breathe in these, dead air is a real issue even with the main stem lopped off. Used it a couple times and after ten minutes of sprinting it felt like my lungs were about to implode.

[@closetmonsterjesse]

As a former seal with a lot of underwater experience, I can honestly say these are a liability

[@rjscherer2073]

which class? which team, who was your chief?

[@Creed-lp4wj]

Do t worry about the guy demanding answers. He has no authority over you.

[@rjscherer2073]

Creed2989 Too many people claim to be seals. If he actually is one I wouldnt care. But 99% of the people who claim this shit on the internet and is lying and dont deserve to claim the title. If he was a seal hed happily answer my questions.

[@HamishInTheWild]

RJ Scherer as a former orca can confirm this guy was a seal

[@draco2378]

As a former blue whale I can also confirm hes a seal

[@Logan_Cox]

I remember about two years ago when these became very popular I bought one for $89 and took it down to the keys and I was snorkeling with it using it for about 20-ish minutes and all of a sudden I started getting lightheaded and had to take it off out in the middle of the water and swim all the way back without the mask

[@rayg9915]

I love the one I have. Mine is a top name brand (Leader) with silicone. It was $80. It uses a different system than most. Rather than breathing in and out the snorkel you only breathe in the snorkel. Exhalation occurs out 1 way valves on the side of the mask. This one way flow of air minimizes dead space. At no point did I feel hypoxic. I was absolutely buried by a wave and the ball valve at the top of the snorkel did it's job. No water entered the mask. I could see the cheap ones being dangerous, but this one is excellent. Another example of you get what you pay for.

[@ubetucan2747]

I watched a fellow wander down to the water in a flouro full body bathing suit with one of these masks. In waist deep water he bent down and stuck his face under. The mask promptly filled up and as he couldn't breathe, he stood up. The only problem was the water didn't drain out and he still couldn't breathe. He was about to drown in his own face mask whilst standing in water just above his knees. The look of absolute terror in his eyes told me this bloke was in trouble. It took quite a few frantic gestures to try and get through to him that all had to do was pull the mask from his face.

[@DiversReady]

Thanks for sharing, glad the worst didnt happen.

[@workernori]

we bought the actual Triboro brand, when they were actually sold only in the U.K, expensive as hell but we never had any kind of issues with loss of breath or any of these problems he is having. just goes to show you....You get what you pay for.

[@Creed-lp4wj]

+1

[@antoniosalvador9754]

every bad thing you described actually happened to me. thanks for my wife for saving my life.

[@SonsOfLorgar]

Have never used a full face snorkel mask, but I do have a lot of experience of both working and sleeping in unsafe/unplesant atmosphere and combat training using filter masks, and it amazes me that these snorkel masks isn't designed in a similiar way so that only the air volume in the actual mouth compartment could ever become dead volume. Eg, a one way exhalation valve directly from the mouth/nose compartment and one way valves from the eye compartment to the mouth compartment so that the air volume in the eye compartment always consist of only fresh surface air and is circulated with every inhalation!

[@ramagtr34]

I have one of the cheap ones and it fogs up a lot and its annoying... but after seeing this video im glad it does, that makes me come up to clean the mask and get fresh air more often.

[@mcfly6174]

I’ve bought these from 3 different retailers. 3 different models with 1 model having a silicon nasal area. 1. They fog 2. Strenuous activity in the water while using these did made me feel dizzy. 3. Had to remove it to breathe properly after 5-10mins depending on currents and boy it’s really cumbersome to do so. 4. Overall i didn’t enjoy snorkeling with it in open water. 5. Water did leaked in a little. Why did I get 3...? I really wanted to give it a chance...haha. But also to test it myself before recommending it to a friend of mine who likes to snorkel but just couldn’t get use to the conventional snorkel. The first time she used it in open water, after about 10mins, she took it off and complained of slight dizziness. We float around for abit and tried again when we were ok. Again after 10mins, she took it off. We stopped and headed to shore to rest. Went in again after almost 30mins (just to make sure). This time, she had it on for about 20mins before we ended the session as we got cold. No dizziness that last time maybe because we took it slow as the current died down. I also used anti-fog before the session and it helps a little. But I couldn’t stop the small leaks tho.

[@DiversReady]

Good info! Thanks McFLY! James

[@jejulife_pause]

I can't agree more to your video. I almost died 3days ago during snorkling using that full-face mask

[@DiversReady]

Whoa! Well, I'm thankful that you're ok and that you pulled through! Thanks for subscribing!

[@evemitchellanderson]

Me too

[@TheWtfnonamez]

I spent a few weeks snorkelling with the cheapest old-school snorkel I found in a hypermarket for a few quid. It was literally a mask and a snorkel, no valves, no features, no nothing. Because I didnt have to trust any feature, and there was nothing to "fail" it was perfectly easy and reliable to use. There is a lot to be said for choosing simple kit that works, over more complicated kit that might let you down.

[@jkproductions9885]

Thanks So much for taking time to post this! My GF and I saw a few people with them while on our cruise, and while we brought our own regular snorkel masks/tube to save on the rental fees at each island, we did buy a pair of these after returning home. The brand we have (its unopened so I can still return) is Lifeguard Brand by BH brands, I can't find any reviews on this brand.....prob a KNock off....maybe Ill just for Covid! thanks! PS we bought these ONLY for SNORKELING not diving :)

[@TheCcmarine]

Thanks James 👍 for this extremely informative video. I'm old school and I use the basic mask and snorkel like you showed in the beginning of the video. I can definitely see the attraction to full face masks and many people probably didn't know that they are this dangerous. Thanks again and I think I'll stick with my old school mask and snorkel.

[@kotro88]

Used one of these recently in the Bahamas.....Had a decent one with the purge valve in the bottom, etc. Complete trash. On the surface, it was okay. Diving and clearing was terrible. I'd come up from a 20 or 30 foot free dive and the ball that stops water from pouring into the snorkel portion would not clear. That means, after holding your breath for a minute or longer underwater, you will try to breathe in fresh air at the surface......and there won't be any! That's because the floating ball is blocking the snorkel. It wasn't just me. My wife's did the same thing and so did a friend's. We dive any way, so we have the traditional setup. I'll stick with that from now on. BTW - As described in the video, they don't breathe well....

[@DiversReady]

Thanks for watching, Kotro88! James

[@h20bearboy65]

I have been a certified diver and a snorkeler for 40 years. I bought a cheap knockoff full facemask to try on a recent trip to Baja. It does fit and seals properly - but: The first problem was it optically distorts, stuff looks much further away - and warped. But the big issue was I simply could not get enough air to breathe comfortably. on top of that, when I did get water in the snorkel - no way to clear the mask - and you end up running out of air , and have to rip the mask off to get air.

[@Shazzzam74]

I bought the cheap one for my kids not their was a difference. They never used it and never will. Thank you so much for the info and for helping me realize it’s no joke messing with cheap equipment.

[@garymiller1216]

I'm a keen snorkeler on holiday and i use a regular mask and snorkel, I have also tried scuba diving which i hope to again soon. recently on holiday I tried a mask like that one mentioned in the video, I found breathing compared to my mask very labour intensive, it was like the air coming in was restricted and i had to force it in with every breath. I would imaging someone who is not used to snorkelling would inadvertently breathe shallower (due to the force needed to breathe, compared to on land) they would not take regular breaks as they were enjoying the underwater scenery and due to shallow breathing with every breath cycle would increase the co2 towards a dangerous levels. these masks are easy to put on and use, but i would not recommend them to anyone,

[@janibberson3712]

Thank you so much for this review. Came across it while looking for reviews before buying one for Christmas for my adult son, who is taking an extended trip to Australia. Definitely not buying one now, and have played him this in case he sees them and is tempted to buy one himself.

[@Aholeintheground]

These full face masks are fantastic! Went snorkeling over thirty times on my last vacation trip and had zero issues with it. I was even able to dive underwater and resurface without any problems. I had some of the best snorkeling experiences ever with this mask.

[@parker2749]

🪤🪤

[@X-Gen-001]

I was going to get one for my girlfriend who loves being in the water. I'm glad I saw this handy bit of information first. Thank you.

[@pegleg2959]

Now you know you're definitely going to to getbher one eh?

[@MoNomad77]

James, thank you for your review. I've been thinking of getting one. I've seen the body glove version at my local retailer. Will now look deeper into the construction since my daughters would like to snorkel with me when we go. Again thank you.

[@DiversReady]

Thanks for your support!

[@pup1030]

i bought one of these a while back, but i only got to use it in my pool water kept leaking in, and it got foggy insanely fast, but i was not aware this was _killing_ people

[@imapseudonym1403]

So, you bought one that was too big for you, and somehow, that's the mask's fault?

[@since1876]

@@imapseudonym1403 your first name is correct but instead of pseudonym, maybe you should have gone with "moron". Watch the video again, pay close attention to the part where he very clearly describes why water can leak in. Here's a hint: cheap ones don't use silicone. Another candidate for KZbin's dumbest comment of the year.

[@thompsona10625]

A quick explanation of what occurs with a cheaply made mask that forces its user to re-breath their used air. It isn’t so much the lack of oxygen as one may think; rather, it is the increased co2 that causes the issue. The respiratory drive within our brain (medulla oblongata and the pons) constantly monitor the co2 levels in the brain by sensing the resulting carbonic acid in the blood. As co2 levels rise, carbonic acid increases and stimulates the brain to increase the depth and rate of respiration. The resulting hyperventilation is the body attempting to vent the excess co2; however, the mask forces you to re-breathe the co2 while the oxygen levels gradually decrease. The panic that ensues further increases the co2 production in the body as your brain struggles to normalize your blood gases. You become hypercapnic, develop a headache, dizziness, lethargy, and you eventually lose consciousness and drown. Suffocation is a terrifying fate and often, you don’t really feel it until it’s too late.

[@sugusgoggle]

Thank you so much for your tips. I didn't know the danger of this cheap snorkeling full-face mask until I saw your video. I hope your video will save the lives of those who are not aware of using cheap brand full-face snorkel masks.

[@jonathanchadwickartsandadv712]

Hate those mask! Tried it once I was out of breath, couldn't catch my breath!! I do you feel about the pro ear dive mask with the ear cuffs?

[@DiversReady]

They are absolutely horrific! Thanks for watching Jonathan! James

[@coovenom9078]

your litteraly wearing *The Death Mask* at the beginning 😂

[@thomassanders6934]

The family and I took these to Hawaii with us and went snorkeling several times. All of us were beginners and none of us had issues

[@neogator26]

My father was always big on not getting cheap sports equipment. My mask was $85 a little over 20 years ago. Full glass lenses and silicone seals. Wore it in my neighbor’s pool a month ago and still works great.

[@kingtorra6955]

I live on Oahu and I bought a pair of these when I first moved here. They’re kind of odd, it’s not easy to breath in them but I have to admit it‘a not too bad in my experience. I wouldn’t exactly recommend it

[@vjng7976]

Please watch,This is the right review bout that mask, thank you sir. Good job👍🏻

[@DiversReady]

Thanks Vincent!

[@juliejules1822]

I bought such a full face mask in 2018 from the French low price sports equipment retailer Decathlon (they have huge stores all over Europe and sell brand name merchandise as well as their own brands - their own brand for snorkeling and diving equipment is called Subea). I used it ever since with no problems and I love it. It never fogs, never leaks and is very convenient, although you can’t dive with it like with a regular mask and snorkel, of course. It only cost me about 15€, which is not even 20$. I think now it’s like double the price at least. I don’t know if you can call it a „knock-off“, I wouldn’t. I understand the concerns, just I really never had a problem with it. But now I got into diving and got OWD certified, so I didn’t use it this year. Can recommend, though 🤷🏼‍♀️ To add: my mask from Subea has that system you talked about where it prevents you to breath in the same air you exhaled.

[@retrosad]

Had a very cheap one of these, however the mechanism to stop water leaking in was not well molded so water would trickle in. Stopped using it out of annoyance. Was able to get a more compact snorkel mask that has a curved top to keep water out and found it much better

[@quarterpounderwithcheese3178]

sooo.... you're telling me this mask is "plausible deniability" 😈

[@jessecanada6995]

I live in FL. I went scalloping with some friends and one of them used this mask. I tried it but it didn't feel safe. I felt safer going underwater without anything over that thing. I used a mask and a snorkel separately. Those masks are trash

[@WalkerKlondyke]

Thanks for the tip! I just picked up one of these for my mother in law. Can't wait for our trip to the Bahamas!!!