10 Best Snorkeling Gear for Kids in 2024
Brian Price
When looking for a new hobby to share and enjoy as a family, snorkeling is a fantastic pastime that people of all ages can enjoy together! The basics that are needed for snorkeling fun are the mask, snorkel, and some may say fins/flippers. The fins/flippers are not necessary for snorkeling, but they do make the experience more enjoyable. Children as young as 3 years old can begin the basic exercises that are required to successfully snorkel. Snorkeling gear isn't cheap! So if you are unsure if your child will enjoy this new pastime, you can always buy a cheap/basic snorkeling mask and let them try it in the tub before investing in the rest of the needed gear. Below you will find the 10 top-rated, best-reviewed snorkeling gear items for kids in 2019.
In a Hurry? The test winner after 28 hrs of research
Made from 500-denier, heavy-duty PVC
Comes in two sizes and a simple, sleek design
Keeps out sand, water, mud, and snow
Includes Duraflex brand hardware and clips
Contains a roll-down top
The Best Snorkeling Gear for Kids Reviewed
1. Såk Gear DrySak Waterproof Bag
Made from 500-denier, heavy-duty PVC
Comes in two sizes and a simple, sleek design
Keeps out sand, water, mud, and snow
Includes Duraflex brand hardware and clips
Contains a roll-down top
Item can be bulky depending on use
Some say the zippered pocket is not waterproof
A waterproof bag is needed to transport your gear when snorkeling and swimming. The Dry Sak comes in two sizes for different needs, plus there is a variety of colors. It is an all-weather bag for great protection of your personal belongings.
Read moreDesign
The bag comes in two sizes and in a variety of different colors so that your child can choose the one they like most.
Safety
Not only is the large shoulder strap adjustable and removable, but it will clip to places that have hooks to secure it while traveling or strap it for security. The zippered pocket is the best feature of this waterproof bag because it can hold small items and keep them accessible without opening the bag. This is important when on the go and you cannot open the bag to search.
Durability
It is made of 500-denier, heavy duty PVC that is watertight with it welded seams. This bag keeps all gear dry and protected. You can store small items in the zippered exterior pocket that has a reflective trim lining the pocket. This lining ensures the bag can be seen at night or in the water. The shoulder strap is adjustable and removable, and this offer includes Duraflex brand hardware and clips. Keep out sand, water, mud, and snow with this great waterproof bag. It contains a roll-down top that creates a waterproof seal when it is closed.
2. Divelux Full Face Mask
No skills or preparation are necessary
Will not leak or sweat
Fits the face perfectly
Has a long pipe structure
Has the Dry Snorkel Technology
A few complaints about breathing issues
Some said it leaks
Divelux has created this terrific full-face mask for a variety of water sports. Kids can swim, dive, and snorkel with this piece of equipment.
Read moreDesign
A few color options are offered. The full-face design gives the best visibility and the ability to breathe naturally through the nose and/or mouth. The mask comes with a protective case for a phone for taking photos in the water and an e-book. The e-book is called “top Places for Diving in the USA.”
Safety
Kids can enjoy the activities and not be concerned about their breathing. No skills or preparation is necessary. The mask will not leak or sweat because it fits the face perfectly. With the Dry Snorkel Technology used for this mask, children will not experience water leaks in the breathing chamber of the mask. They will not have to worry about breathing issues because this mask covers the full face.
Durability
It is made of liquid hypoallergenic silicone and polycarbonate plastic that is of the highest quality. This full-face snorkeling mask has a longer pipe structure than most of the others offered. This will allow kids to go deeper into the water and explore more things.
3. Anti-Fog Full Face Mask
Water will not enter the breathing tube
A float is included in the tube
A high-tech snorkeling mask
Gives 180-degree visibility
Comes with three accessories
Some buyers experienced breathing issues
A few had water leaks
This full face mask is sure to make your kids' snorkeling experience wonderful. Some cool extras are provided with this mask when you order. You will get a camera mount, phone bag, and a microfiber towel to increase your enjoyment while swimming and snorkeling.
Read moreDesign
The full-face models of snorkeling masks are the most popular, and this one is different from most of the others in its design. The manufacturer states that this mask is high-tech mainly because of the air tube. Water will not enter the breathing tube even during a dive or a high wave. It comes with a GoPro camera mount, a phone bag that is waterproof, and a microfiber towel that absorbs quickly and is compact. Choose your correct size and favorite color from the nice selection of hues and sizes.
Safety
This is a high-tech mask for snorkeling and other water sports. It features a float in the air tube and a separate breathing compartment to control the airflow in the mask. All these features make it a very safe mask for children.
Durability
A float is included in the tube that blocks the opening when the user is submerged in the water. The lens provides a crystal-clear vision underwater and gives 180-degree visibility. The watertight seal is provided by the heavy-duty plastic and silicone, in addition to the adjustable straps.
4. Prodive Premium Dry Top Set
Provides perfect vision underwater
The lens is tempered glass and impact resistant
Has an anti-fog lens
Dry, high-tech snorkel keeps out air
Comes with a waterproof carrying bag
Some people had problems with water leaks
Glass lens may scratch easily
ProDive has created this fabulous snorkel set of the mask, snorkel, and carrying bag all in one item. It provides perfect vision underwater with the lens of tempered glass that is impact resistant.
Read moreDesign
This product comes with a waterproof carrying bag to hold all pieces of the equipment for easy traveling and storage.
Safety
This mask can be used in deep water when kids are ready for more challenging diving fun. It can take the extra pressure from the deeper water easily and provide a wonderful experience with more to see underwater.
Durability
This lens is made to take the pressure from deep water also. Kids can dive deeper with this mask and snorkel because of the improved quality of the material. The lens is anti-fog, so hours of enjoyment can be had while swimming, snorkeling, and diving. The dry, high-tech snorkel keeps out air until you need to take a breath. Sometimes masks fog up underwater from your breath, but this one will not do that because it is a special anti-fog lens. See clearly for the whole time while under the water every time.
5. Speedo Junior Recreation Mask
A few colors to choose from
Made completely of silicone skirt
Features the Anti Fog Max
Great for recreational swimming and snorkeling
Fits well on the face
A few issues of straps breaking
Some had problems with the air pressure underwater
Try this mask for a number of water sports, such as diving, swimming, snorkeling, body boarding, and surfing.
Read moreDesign
This item is just the mask without the snorkel and is the simplest product of snorkeling gear we feature. The Anti Fog Max is an exclusive feature of this Speedo product which provides a crystal-clear view of the landscape underwater. This is needed for a trouble-free encounter with a wonderful view.
Safety
Any underwater viewing can be done with this mask which has a tight fit and provides maximum comfort. This is a great mask for underwater pleasure without the snorkel. Kids will have to hold their breath to use it, but this may be easier for them and less scary.
Durability
It is made completely of silicone skirt for maximum comfort, and it fits well on the face. The underwater clarity is enhanced with the polycarbonate lens, plus the Speed Fit head strap adjusts quickly. Try this simple mask for a view under the water that will not be hindered with a foggy lens or leaky seal.
6. SealBuddy Snorkel Vest
Affordable
Inflates quickly
Vibrant colors provide excellent visibility
Keeps the body in an upright position with the head above water
Runs small
With the SealBuddy Snorkel vest, you can be safe while enjoying your favorite activities. It doesn’t matter if you’re swimming, wading, or snorkeling this vest is great for any water-based activity.
Read moreDesign
The vest is designed to fit over the neck. It is easy to slide on and off. Equipped with straps that go around the waist and crotch you can be sure this vest is on securely. The straps are designed with pinch buckles for fast removal. Available in several different sizes, people of all ages can wear this vest comfortably.
Safety
These vests inflate quickly, thus helping you get to the surface and remain there. Once the vest is inflated will support your body while keeping it an upright position. When purchasing you can choose between three different neon colors. The vibrancy of the colors makes it easy for help to spot you in the water. The adjustable straps will put your mind even more at ease as they allow you to get a secure fit. Even if you’re an avid swimmer enjoying a day in calm waters, this vest will allow you to rest in open water rather than treading.
Durability
The high-quality material allows you to wear this vest on several water adventures. The included mesh bag can be used to store the vest as well as any wet gear after a day on the water. It deflates just as easily as it inflates, thus putting the vest away will be a stress-free process. When deflated the vest is light and flat, thus allowing you to easily pack it in any travel bag. Priced under fifteen dollars, we find this vest to be highly affordable. Especially since it maximizes your safety, is easy to use, and is highly durable.
7. Cozia Design Set
Prevents fogging of the mask
Multifunctional and adjustable diving fins
Mask is shatterproof and durable
The tube on the mask is foldable
Comes with the GoPro mount and waterproof earbuds
Some buyers had trouble with water leaks
A few comments about fogged up lens
Get the basic snorkeling equipment in one purchase with this fabulous set. It is a snorkeling mask and fins. Each piece of this set is necessary for snorkeling, and this is a wonderful set that comes all ready to go. You get the mask, snorkel, and fins/flippers with this product. There is no need to buy separate pieces with this combo.
Read moreDesign
A few colors are available for the mask and snorkel, and a few sizes are offered for both the fins and the mask. The mask includes an anti-fog lens, comfortable face padding, and nylon straps that are adjustable.
Safety
The full-face mask allows natural breathing under the water and maximum comfort for safe snorkeling. The fins have adjustable straps, soft foot pockets, and click buckles. These give complete mobility and easy propulsion.
Durability
It prevents fogging with the separate breathing compartments, plus the lens is shatterproof and durable. The tube on the mask is foldable, plus the mask comes with the GoPro mount and waterproof earbuds. These features make this wonderful combo perfect for travel and storage. The top seal and the one-way drain of this snorkeling mask will enhance your watersports experience greatly. The top seal keeps water out of the mask and the drain expels the leaked water.
8. Vaincre 180° Full Face Mask
Has a 180-degree view
Has a GoPro movable camera stand
Breathe naturally underwater
Includes a Dry Snorkel feature
Has an anti-fog lens
Some people said the mask leaks while swimming
A few claim they could not breathe underwater
Full-face snorkels are great for young kids and those just starting out in snorkeling. This one comes in a nice selection of colors and different sizes.
Read moreDesign
The mask and snorkel have a 180-degree view for underwater excursions. This product has a GoPro movable camera stand to film what you encounter underwater. With a full-face design, your kids can breathe naturally under the surface, as they will not have to hold a snorkel in their mouths. You can record what you see underwater with this snorkel mask because it is equipped with a camera stand. Wonderful photos and video can be taken easily with this feature.
Safety
Included is an anti-fog lens so everything under the surface is crystal clear. This full-face snorkel mask decreases wasted swimming energy and allows you to focus on diving under the surface.
Durability
A few models that we highlight here have the Dry Snorkel feature on top of the mask, like this one. This permits the valve to close automatically and prevent water from infiltrating the breathing tube.
9. Wildhorn Topside Fins
Has a flexible neoprene boot
Combines the features of a fin and a shoe
Can walk on land great
Fits easily into a backpack or carry-on
Will float and lift your legs in the water
Can be hard to get on
May be smaller than expected
The Wildhorn Topside Snorkel Fins combine the features of a fin and a shoe. Kids can walk on land wonderfully without waddling awkwardly. These Topside Snorkel Fins are perfect for a number of watersport activities, such as snorkeling, swimming, paddle boarding, and bodyboarding. Kids will love all the ways they can use these fins and have plenty of fun this summer.
Read moreDesign
Different sizes and a few color choices are offered.
Safety
A Velcro strap surrounds the ankle giving added support. Use for several watersports and fit easily into a backpack or carry-on. These will float and lift your legs in the water while reducing drag from your body. They have a better down kick from the fin surface on the boot top than most other fins. The blades are short to give a fantastic boost for swimming. Use these in combination with a snorkeling mask for unforgettable fun.
Durability
A durable rubber sole is included on these flexible neoprene boots. Different from other fins that are on the market, these fit like shoes with closed heels and toes. They will reward the user with the absence of blisters, hypertension, and cramping of the feet.
10. Fun Toes Socks
Designed with grip soles
Highly durable
Neoprene keeps warmth inside
Available in a wide variety of sizes
Runs big
Wet suit all packed? Did you remember your neoprene socks? Fun Toes neoprene socks will keep your feet warm while snorkeling, diving, jetskiing and more.
Read moreDesign
With your purchase, you will receive two pairs of socks, both of which are 2.5 mm thick. Neoprene will keep your feet warm, thus allowing you to fully enjoy your day on the water. Even though the material is thick, the socks have a lightweight feel. You will be able to move freely through the water without feeling weighed down. The bottom of the socks are designed with grip soles to prevent sliding and slipping. This unisex design is available in a wide variety of sizes, thus making them the perfect for people of all ages. With two pairs in one package, you can always have a back up on hand. Both socks are black, thus allowing you to pair them with any suit.
Safety
The thickness of material will reduce chafing from boards, fins, and water skis. Say goodbye to blisters. It will also protect your feet from objects that may be in the water, like glass or coral. You can even wear these on the beach to protect your feet from the scorching sand. The material stretches and fits close to the skin once on. They’re easy to put on and take off but will remain securely on the foot while in use. While they are not 100% waterproof, your feel will not be sopping wet after leaving the water.
Durability
Designed with extra thick soles, these socks are highly durable and will provide protection to your feet. Reuse them over and over again. The material allows you to easily fit them in any size bag. Avid snorkelers love that these can be worn with fins that straps and fins that don’t.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Design
We choose only the best-rated, mostly bought items online to feature on our site. This ensures that you are looking at only the finest products offered by manufacturers. You lead a busy life and don’t have time to search through the multitude of items in this category that are inferior. We do this work for you, so your shopping experience is enjoyable, fast, and productive. The bright, sometimes neon colors, will appeal to kids also. Sizing charts are available in the online descriptions of each product provided by the manufacturer. These do vary with each item, so check each carefully before purchasing.
Safety
Kids will be safe utilizing these items while they enjoy a wide variety of water activities. By using the instructions with the products when they arrive, children can learn the basics of how to use the equipment wisely. They should practice the skills before they go into the water at the beach or pool. These items can be used for many water sports including swimming, snorkeling, body boarding, and diving. Let them explore the many different activities where snorkeling masks and fins can be used.
Durability
These are all durable snorkeling masks, fins/flippers, and bags for long-lasting water sports fun. Most of the companies offer a guarantee on their products to ensure your satisfaction. Because these items will take much abuse in the water and during traveling, they are constructed of high-quality materials that will not disappoint the buyer.
Design Safety Durability 
If your child wants to try snorkeling, it is a good idea to practice at home in the bathtub or even the public swimming pool so they know what to do when you go to the beach.
For the best protection, always carry a life vest and a flotation device for your kids.
Other Factors to Consider
Accessories
All of the products on our list come with different accessories to make the snorkeling experience even more fun for children of all ages. Some of them have bags included so you can easily carry the equipment, some have e-books so children can learn more about this activity and some feature phone or camera bags so kids can carry their cameras and take cool photos underwater! Check out the detailed review on every product and find out more.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: How do find out which size to buy for the masks?
Sizing a mask is easy and done by taking a simple measurement. With the mouth closed, measure the space from the nose bridge (between the eyes) and the chin bottom. This is a general size measurement, as the various masks have different size increments. With this measurement, you will be able to judge which size you need from the ones they offer. For less than 3.9 inches, choose size XS; for less than 4.75 inches choose S/M; for more than 4.75 inches choose size ML; for measurements larger than 5.125 inches choose size L/XL.
q: Can glasses be worn with these full-face masks?
No, glasses cannot be worn with these masks because the arms of the glasses would break the seal along the contours of the face. The mask does not go to the ears, making wearing glasses with these impossible. However, you can wear contact lenses just fine.
q: Is there any special care for the snorkel masks?
One thing to watch out for is avoiding sun exposure for the masks and snorkels. Clean by hand with mild liquid soap and air dry. Do not put in dishwasher or clothes washer. Other than these guidelines, these items are fairly care-free and easy to manage.
q: Are these masks for deep surfaces or just surface swimming?
Most of the snorkeling masks are for surface swimming and snorkeling. If they are suitable for deep surfaces, the snorkeling tube will be longer, and the description will indicate that the mask is for deep surfaces.
q: Are there different models of snorkeling masks or fins for boys and girls?
No, these are all suitable for both boys and girls or various ages and sizes.
q: How soon can small kids start this water sport?
This is a personal decision that parents should make based on the individual child’s skills and abilities. Some kids at the age of 3 can comfortably wear the equipment and enjoy using it, while others at this age do not like having the mask on their face and are not interested in snorkeling yet. The best thing to do is to try them with the equipment gradually to see how they progress with it.
q: What should beginners look for in a snorkeling mask?
A mask for a beginner should be the right size for the face and have a short tube for surface snorkeling. If there is a choice of color, then let them get the one they like. This will enhance the experience. Make sure the mask fits snugly on the face without pinching it. It should not be uncomfortable. Keep hair away from the contact places of the mask with the face. Beginner masks do not have to be expensive and full of features to be enjoyable and a good piece of equipment.
q: What equipment is needed for snorkeling?
The basic equipment to start kids off with would be a snorkeling mask and a short pair of fins/flippers. If they like the sport and enjoy using these pieces of sports equipment, then you could purchase fine socks for comfort and even a body suit if they are swimming in colder waters. For the serious enthusiast, the equipment can always be upgraded for enhanced features and better capabilities, such as long tubes in the snorkeling mask.
Sources
- , SNORKELING WITH THE KIDS IN KEY LARGO, Snorkeling Story with Kids
- , Teaching Kids to Snorkel: the Ultimate Guide, Teaching Guide
- , HOW TO GO SNORKELING WITH CHILDREN?, How to Guide
- , How To Teach Young Kids to Snorkel, How to Guide
- , Snorkeling with Kids: Tips and Tricks, Informative Guide
