We love spending time in the water, but one thing humans struggle with when adventuring below the surface is eyesight. Unlike fish, our eyeballs are not suited for seeing underwater, so we need some extra protection. You have two main options: goggles or a mask. Both goggles and masks are effective for seeing underwater, but they were designed for different purposes. They each have unique advantages as long as you're using them in the right scenario. So what is the difference between swimming goggles and snorkel/scuba masks, and when should you use each?
What are goggles?
Goggles are worn to protect the eyes while swimming and are most typically used for recreational or competitive swimming in pools and lakes, although some people may choose to use them when swimming in the ocean as well. They are low profile, lightweight, and more hydrodynamic since they are only worn over the eyes. They fit close to the head and seal to the user's face with soft rubber gaskets, making them very comfortable to wear. And they are also easy to fit with prescription lenses if you need them. Due to their size, you can carry them in your pocket or small bag since they don't take up much space. Because goggles don't cover the nose, they rarely fog up, but it also means that users may want to use a nose clip to plug their nose depending on what water activity they are doing.
When should you use goggles?
Goggles are the best option for swimming. Whether swimming in a pool, a lake, or the ocean, goggles will provide the protection you need without the bulk of a dive mask. That is, as long as you are swimming on the surface of the water. If you're swimming competitively or training, goggles are essential since they will make you more hydrodynamic and allow you to swim faster.
The exception is snorkeling, as even though you may be staying on the water's surface, you'll be breathing through a snorkel. Since you'll be breathing through your mouth with your snorkel, it's important that your nose is covered, or you'll end up swallowing a ton of water. Even if you wear a nose clip, goggles are still ineffective for snorkeling, and you're better off with a mask.
Also, if you try diving underwater with goggles, it can be very uncomfortable as the air inside the goggles will compress, and you'll have no way to get it out. With a mask, you can blow a bit of air out of your nose to reduce pressure in the mask. But with goggles, there's no way to do this, which will lead to painful mask squeeze and can cause popped blood vessels or damage to the eyes.
What is a mask?
There are a variety of different mask styles available, but what they all have in common is that they cover and protect both the eyes and nose with a waterproof seal while allowing users to see clearly underwater. They provide a wide field of vision, making it easier to look around and see where you're going when exploring beneath the surface. There are masks available with a single lens or double lens and with a transparent silicone skirt or opaque skirt. Each mask is designed with a specific use in mind, such as a snorkeling mask, diving mask, or freediving mask, and some are geared toward particular types of underwater conditions.
With a dive mask, there is no risk of getting water into your nose, but there is more chance of them fogging up since you may release air into the mask from your nose. But as long as your mask has an anti-fog film, this shouldn't be an issue.
Not all masks are created equal, and it's essential that you do your research before buying a mask to ensure that you're investing in a safe and high-quality mask that's made from durable materials. While you may be able to buy a mask off the shelf of a convenience store, it will likely have plastic lenses and be made with cheap rubber that will leak and fog up easily. If you're going to be snorkeling and diving, look for masks made with quality materials. The lens should be tempered glass, with a skirt made from silicone. Another way to ensure you're buying a quality mask is to find a company that offers a good warranty (a 2-year manufacturer warranty is ideal). The last thing you want is to be out in the water and have the mask break, putting your safety at risk.
When should you use a mask?
If you're diving, snorkeling, or freediving, it's essential to use a mask. While goggles may provide the best eye protection for those moving swiftly in the water, a mask is better suited if your goal is to explore the underwater world. Since snorkeling and diving require you to breathe through your mouth, a mask is a must, as it covers your nose. Whether you're breathing through a snorkel or regulator, you don't want to worry about accidentally trying to breathe in the wrong way and ending up taking in water.
As we mentioned before, when you dive underwater, the pressure increases exponentially and compresses the air pockets inside the mask. You can easily release that pressure by breathing out a little through your nose, preventing mask squeeze and enabling you to stay underwater for longer. Since you cannot do that with goggles, they are suitable for diving.
That said, masks are bulky, so they aren't a good option for swimming laps, competitive swimming, or training.
Goggles vs. mask: which should you choose?
Goggles and masks are both effective for protecting the eyes and enabling users to see underwater. They are designed to keep the water out of your eyes and provide a better field of vision. But when you're trying to decide between goggles vs. mask, it's important to consider what you intend to use them for. Goggles are best for swimming, whether in a pool, lake, or ocean. But masks are essential for scuba diving, free diving, or snorkeling. Regardless of which you choose, make sure you get a pair made from quality materials that fit your face to ensure their effectiveness and your safety when in the water.
