If you’re planning a snorkelling trip and already own a pair of swimming goggles, it’s natural to wonder whether you can use them instead of buying a separate mask. While they may look similar, swimming goggles and snorkelling masks are designed for different environments and serve distinct purposes. Understanding the differences can help you stay safe, comfortable, and get the most out of your underwater experience.
Understanding the Differences
Design & Purpose
Swimming goggles are designed primarily for lap swimming or recreational use in pools and calm waters. Their focus is on streamlined design, minimal drag, and eye protection during surface swimming. In contrast, snorkelling masks are specifically made for underwater exploration, offering features that make breathing and vision easier while submerged.
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Coverage & Seal
Goggles only cover your eyes, leaving your nose exposed. This is fine for swimming on the surface, but not ideal when you’re submerged. A snorkelling mask seals around the eyes and nose, creating a watertight barrier that allows you to equalise pressure and prevent water from entering. This coverage also helps with comfort and visibility underwater.
Why a Snorkel Mask Is Better for Snorkeling
Equalising Pressure
One of the biggest reasons to use a snorkelling mask is the ability to equalise pressure. When you dive below the surface, pressure builds up around your face and head. A snorkel mask allows you to gently blow air through your nose to balance this pressure. Goggles don’t offer this function, which can lead to discomfort or even injury at depth.
Enhanced Field of Vision
Snorkelling masks are designed with a wider lens area, giving you a better view of your surroundings. This panoramic visibility helps you enjoy the full underwater experience, from coral reefs to marine life. Swimming goggles offer a much narrower field of view, limiting what you can see.
Integration with Snorkel Tubes
Snorkelling masks are built to work with snorkels, either with a strap attachment or integrated design. Swimming goggles aren’t compatible with snorkels, meaning you would need to breathe through your mouth without any assisted gear, which defeats the purpose of snorkelling.
Safety Considerations
Using swimming goggles for snorkelling can pose risks. They don’t allow for proper breathing through a snorkel, which means you’d need to come up for air more frequently. They also tend to fog more and offer a less secure seal, increasing the chance of water leakage. These factors can reduce visibility and lead to a less enjoyable—and less safe—experience.
When Are Swimming Goggles Acceptable?
In some very specific cases, swimming goggles can be used instead of a snorkelling mask. This might include casual surface swimming in shallow, calm water where you’re not submerging your face for extended periods. They may also be suitable for children who are playing at the water’s edge and not going deeper. However, for any serious snorkelling or time spent underwater, it’s best to choose gear designed for the task. You can find reliable options in this collection of snorkeling gear.
What to Look for in Proper Snorkelling Gear
When buying snorkelling gear, look for a mask with a silicone seal and tempered glass lenses for durability. A dry-top snorkel can help keep water out, and a purge valve makes it easier to clear water if it enters the tube. Optional extras like fins, rash guards, and snorkel vests can further improve your comfort and performance.
Conclusion
While swimming goggles are great for laps and poolside fun, they aren’t suitable substitutes for snorkelling masks. If you’re planning to snorkel—whether in the open ocean or a calm reef—investing in a quality snorkelling mask will enhance your comfort, safety, and visibility. The right gear can make all the difference in how much you enjoy your time in the water.
