Arena North America Recalls Swim Snorkels Due to Choking Hazard

What was recalled

In the world of competitive swimming and serious training, gear reliability is just as important as physical endurance. However, a significant safety concern has emerged regarding specific swim snorkels manufactured by Arena North America. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued a recall notice on November 10, 2020, addressing two distinct product lines that were designed to help swimmers maintain proper head position and breathing techniques during pool sessions. While these tools are intended to enhance performance, they have been found to contain a manufacturing defect that poses a serious risk to users. It is crucial for anyone who owns or has recently purchased swimming equipment to verify whether their specific models are part of this safety alert.

The recall specifically targets the Arena Swim Snorkel Pro II and the Arena Swim Snorkel II. These are not generic items but precise technical products identified by unique style codes printed directly on the hardware. The first group includes the Arena Swim Snorkel Pro II, which was available in three distinct color options: black, acid lime, and pink. Each color variant carries a specific style code that you must check to confirm if your unit is affected. The black version of the Pro II is identified by style code 001969-501, the acid lime version by 001969-605, and the pink version by 001969-905. These snorkels feature the "Arena" logo printed clearly on the top of the tube, serving as a brand identifier alongside the technical specifications.

The second group involved in this recall is the Arena Swim Snorkel II, which was sold in black and acid lime colors only. Unlike the Pro II, this model does not appear to have been offered in pink within this specific recall scope. The black Swim Snorkel II is marked with style code 001970-501, while the acid lime version carries the code 001970-605. Just like the Pro II, these units also display the "Arena" logo on the top of the tube. On both product lines, you will find additional critical information printed on the tube above the mouthpiece. This includes the style code and production date, along with the certification mark EN 1972 Class A and the origin label "Made in China." If your snorkel matches any of these style codes and visual descriptions, it is part of the recall and should be addressed immediately to ensure your safety during use.

The hazard, explained

At first glance, a swim snorkel seems like a straightforward piece of equipment: a simple tube that lets you breathe while your face is submerged in water. However, the specific danger associated with the recalled Arena Swim Snorkels lies not in the design of the breathing path itself, but in the integrity of the materials used to construct it. According to the recall notice from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the core issue is that these snorkels can release excess material from inside either the tube or the mouthpiece. This means that during normal use—especially when a swimmer bites down on the mouthpiece, exhales forcefully, or experiences water pressure changes—the internal structure of the device may degrade or shed small fragments.

To understand why this is so dangerous, it helps to look at how we breathe while swimming. When you use a snorkel, you are taking in air directly from the environment through that tube. If small pieces of plastic, rubber, or other manufacturing byproducts break loose inside the mouthpiece, they can become dislodged and travel down the narrow passage of the tube. Because the user is inhaling, there is a significant risk that these detached fragments could be sucked into the airway rather than staying in the mouth. This creates an immediate choking hazard. The CPSC reports that this is not just a theoretical risk; the manufacturer has already received one report where a small piece of the swim snorkel was actually inhaled by a user.

This type of injury is particularly concerning because it can happen without warning during a recreational activity. A swimmer might be focused on their stroke or enjoying the underwater view when suddenly a foreign object obstructs their airway. In the best-case scenario, this causes coughing, panic, and a disruption in swimming. In worst-case scenarios, especially for children or less confident swimmers, it can lead to complete airway obstruction, drowning, or serious respiratory injury. The fact that the material comes from "inside" the tube suggests that the defect may be related to how the components were assembled or cured during manufacturing, rather than just surface wear and tear. This makes it difficult for users to anticipate where a piece might break off until it is too late.

It is important to distinguish this specific hazard from general snorkel safety issues like fogging or water leakage. While those are common annoyances that affect comfort, they do not typically pose a direct threat to life. The shedding of internal material, however, introduces a physical object into the breathing stream that was not intended to be there. This transforms a passive piece of gear into an active danger zone with every breath taken through it. Understanding this mechanism underscores why the remedy is not a simple repair or cleaning instruction, but rather an immediate cessation of use and replacement of the affected parts.

Who is most at risk

While the CPSC report notes that Arena North America has received only one confirmed incident involving a small piece of the swim snorkel being inhaled, the nature of this hazard means that anyone using these specific models is potentially vulnerable. The recalled products, including the Arena Swim Snorkel Pro II (style 001969) and the Swim Snorkel II (style 001970), are designed for active use in aquatic environments. Consequently, the primary group at risk consists of swimmers—ranging from competitive athletes to recreational pool-goers—who rely on these devices to breathe while their face remains submerged. Because the defect involves excess material detaching from inside the tube or mouthpiece, the danger is not limited to a specific age group but is inherent to the act of using the equipment as intended.

However, vulnerability to choking injuries is rarely evenly distributed across all demographics. Children and younger swimmers are generally considered more susceptible to the severe consequences of choking hazards for several physiological reasons. Their airways are significantly narrower than those of adults, meaning that even a small fragment of plastic or rubber debris can obstruct breathing much more quickly and completely. Furthermore, children may lack the developed lung capacity and breath-holding techniques required to manage unexpected respiratory distress while underwater. The panic that often accompanies sudden choking can lead to rapid water inhalation, escalating a simple blockage into a life-threatening drowning scenario far faster than it might for an adult.

Individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions or reduced lung function also face heightened risks. For someone with asthma, cystic fibrosis, or other chronic breathing issues, the introduction of foreign material into the airway can trigger severe bronchospasms or inflammation that is difficult to control. The mechanical act of inhaling sharply through a snorkel during exertion increases the velocity at which any detached particles are pulled into the lungs, potentially causing them to lodge deeper in the respiratory tract rather than just sitting in the mouth where they might be more easily expelled.

Additionally, swimmers who are less experienced or who may become fatigued during their session are at greater risk. When a user is tired, their motor skills and coordination decline. If a piece of material breaks loose while they are struggling to maintain proper form or breathe rhythmically, they may be too exhausted to react appropriately—such as spitting out the debris or surfacing immediately. The combination of physical exertion, water immersion, and mechanical failure creates a perfect storm for injury. Therefore, while any user of styles 001969-501, 001969-605, 001969-905, 001970-501, or 001970-605 should stop using the device immediately, parents and guardians should exercise extra caution with children, ensuring they do not use these recalled items until a free replacement tube or mouthpiece is provided by Arena North America.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

Before you take any action, it is crucial to confirm whether your specific swim snorkel is part of this recall. Arena North America has identified two distinct product lines that are affected by this safety issue: the Arena Swim Snorkel Pro II and the Arena Swim Snorkel II. Because these items look similar at a glance, you cannot rely on the general appearance of the snorkel alone to determine if it is unsafe. You must physically inspect the device to find specific manufacturing codes and color variations that match the official recall list.

The first step in identification is to locate the printed information directly on the tube. On every recalled unit, you will find the style code and production date printed on the tube just above the mouthpiece. Additionally, these tubes will display the "Arena" logo printed on the top of the tube, along with the certification mark "EN 1972 Class A" and the origin label "Made in China." If your snorkel lacks this specific combination of markings or if the style code does not match one of the codes listed below, it is likely not part of this recall. However, if you see these codes, proceed to check the color and model name.

The recall covers five specific variations across two models. You must verify both the model name and the exact style code, as the codes are unique to each color combination. Here is the complete list of recalled items:

• Arena Swim Snorkel Pro II: This model was sold in three colors. If you have this model, check for one of the following style codes: 001969-501 (Black), 001969-605 (Acid Lime), or 001969-905 (Pink).
• Arena Swim Snorkel II: This model was sold in two colors. If you have this model, check for one of the following style codes: 001970-501 (Black) or 001970-605 (Acid Lime).

If you purchased your snorkel recently, it is helpful to remember that these items were sold in black, acid lime, and pink colors for the Pro II model, and in black and acid lime for the standard Swim Snorkel II. The presence of the "Arena" logo on the top of the tube is a common feature across both recalled models, so use that as a starting point, but rely strictly on the style code printed above the mouthpiece for confirmation. If you cannot find the style code because it has worn off or was never clearly printed, do not guess. Instead, contact Arena North America directly with any photos or descriptions you have to verify if your unit is included.

Once you have confirmed that your snorkel matches one of the style codes listed above, stop using it immediately. Do not attempt to clean the excess material yourself, as this does not resolve the underlying manufacturing defect. The recall remedy involves contacting the firm for a free replacement tube or mouthpiece. Please keep your style code handy when you call or email them, as it will help customer service representatives quickly locate your record and process your replacement.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

If you have been using your Arena Swim Snorkel, the most important thing to know right now is that you do not need to throw the product away, nor do you need to purchase a new one from a different brand. The company has established a straightforward and customer-friendly remedy designed to fix the specific safety issue without costing you anything. Arena North America is offering a free replacement for the affected parts of the snorkel. Specifically, they will send you a new tube or mouthpiece at no charge. This approach is actually quite practical because it addresses the root cause of the hazard—the excess material inside the tube or mouthpiece that can break off and pose a choking risk—by providing a unit where that material has been properly secured or removed during manufacturing.

To take advantage of this offer, you will need to reach out to the company directly. Arena has set up dedicated channels for customers affected by this recall. You can call their toll-free number at 888-902-7362. It is helpful to know that their customer service team is available from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday. If you prefer to communicate in writing or want to keep a record of your request, you can send an email to customerserviceUSA@arenawaterinst.com. Both methods are monitored by the same support team, so you can choose whichever feels most convenient for you.

There is also a digital option available if you prefer to handle things online. You can visit Arena’s official website at https://www.arenasport.com/en_us/. Once there, look for the “Contact us” section of the website. Within that area, you should click on the link labeled “Snorkel recall campaign.” This dedicated page is likely designed to streamline the process, potentially allowing you to submit your information and request more details about the replacement procedure without having to wait on hold or draft an email.

When you contact Arena, be prepared to provide specific details about your product to ensure they send the correct replacement part. Recall notices like this one are very particular because the defect only affects certain styles and colors. Make sure you have your snorkel handy so you can read the style code and production date printed on the tube above the mouthpiece. You should also note which color your snorkel is, whether it is black, acid lime, or pink. Having this information ready will help the customer service representatives verify that your item is indeed part of the recall and expedite the shipping of your free replacement tube or mouthpiece.

Remember, the goal here is safety and satisfaction. By accepting this offer, you are essentially upgrading a potentially hazardous piece of equipment to a safe one. There are no hidden fees, no return shipping costs for the old part (unless specified by the agent, though typically these remedies are hassle-free), and no requirement to buy new gear. Just stop using the recalled snorkel immediately, contact Arena through one of the methods above, and wait for your free replacement parts to arrive. Once you install the new tube or mouthpiece, your swim gear will be safe to use again for your underwater adventures.

What can happen if you ignore it

It is natural to feel reluctant to stop a routine that brings you joy, especially when the product in question seems perfectly functional on the surface. You might look at your Arena Swim Snorkel and see only a useful tool for training, noticing no obvious cracks or breaks. However, ignoring a recall is not merely an inconvenience; it is an active decision to continue exposing yourself to a known mechanical failure that can have serious physical consequences. The core issue here is not that the snorkel will stop working, but that it begins to fail in a way that introduces foreign objects into your airway.

The specific hazard identified by Arena North America and reported to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) involves excess material releasing from inside the tube or mouthpiece. This is not a minor cosmetic flaw; it is a structural integrity issue where parts of the device can detach during use. When you are swimming, your breathing pattern changes significantly compared to being on land. You are taking deeper, more forceful breaths through a narrow conduit. If a small piece of plastic or silicone breaks loose inside that tube while you are inhaling, it does not just sit there. It becomes an immediate obstruction.

The reality of this risk is underscored by the fact that Arena has already received one report of a small piece of the swim snorkel being inhaled. While this single incident confirms the danger exists, relying on the absence of more reports as a sign of safety is dangerous logic. In the world of product safety, one confirmed inhalation event is a critical warning flag. It proves that the mechanism for failure is real and operational. If you continue to use the recalled models—the Swim Snorkel Pro II or the Swim Snorkel II—you are essentially gambling with your ability to breathe while submerged.

The consequences of ignoring this hazard can range from immediate panic and choking to more severe respiratory distress or lung injury if a fragment is inhaled deeply. Water sports already require precise control over breathing; introducing an unexpected blockage disrupts that control instantly. The panic that follows a choking incident can lead to secondary dangers, such as inhaling water into the lungs (aspiration) or losing composure in deeper water. There is no way to predict whether the next piece to break off will be small enough to cough up safely or large enough to cause a serious blockage. By continuing to use the product, you are disregarding the manufacturer’s explicit warning that the component is prone to shedding material.

Furthermore, ignoring the recall means you are missing out on a simple remedy. Arena offers free replacement tubes or mouthpieces specifically designed to resolve this exact issue. By doing nothing, you not only keep using a defective item but also forfeit the opportunity to have it fixed at no cost. The path of least resistance now is actually the safest long-term choice. Stopping use immediately eliminates the risk of injury entirely, allowing you to return to the water with confidence, knowing your equipment will not betray your breath when you need it most.

Staying safe: broader tips

While specific product recalls are essential mechanisms for removing defective items from the market, true safety in the home and during leisure activities often comes down to proactive habits and a general mindset of vigilance. When it comes to swimming gear, snorkels, masks, or any equipment that involves breathing apparatuses, regular maintenance is your first line of defense. Even products not currently under recall can degrade over time due to exposure to chlorine, saltwater, sun, and physical wear. It is wise to routinely inspect the interior tubes and mouthpieces of your swim gear for any signs of cracking, discoloration, or material breakdown. If you notice any loose particles, unusual odors, or changes in texture, discontinue use immediately. Simple cleaning with mild soap and water after each use can prevent the buildup of bacteria and mold, which are common hazards in moist environments that are often overlooked.

Beyond physical inspection, staying informed about product safety is a powerful tool for any consumer. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) maintains an extensive database of recalls that affects millions of households annually. Subscribing to email alerts or regularly checking the CPSC website can help you stay ahead of potential issues before they become dangerous. Many manufacturers also offer registration cards with their products; filling these out ensures that if a safety issue arises, you are contacted directly and quickly. This simple step bridges the gap between a manufacturer’s awareness of a defect and your ability to act on it, ensuring that free repairs or replacements reach you without delay.

Finally, context matters when assessing risk. Understanding how a product is intended to be used—and how it might fail—helps you make smarter decisions. For instance, snorkels are designed for recreational use in calm waters; using them in rough conditions or with children who may not have the coordination to clear a mouthpiece increases the inherent risks. Always follow the manufacturer’s age recommendations and usage guidelines strictly. If a product feels unfamiliar or difficult to use, it is better to seek guidance or choose a different model. By combining regular physical checks of your gear with ongoing education about safety standards and proper usage, you create a robust layer of protection that goes far beyond waiting for a recall notice.

• Inspect regularly: Check all breathing apparatuses for cracks or debris before every use.
• Register your products: Ensure the manufacturer has your current contact information for direct safety notifications.
• Follow guidelines: Adhere strictly to age limits and usage instructions provided in the manual.
• Stay informed: Sign up for CPSC alerts or check recall databases periodically for peace of mind.