This is also a great mask for any folk out there with stubborn stubble thats hard to keep at bay the double feathered skirt creates a great seal even on semi-stubbly skin. So, if youll be using your mask in cold water, youll want one with big buckles that can be adjusted easily even with gloves on. If you have a slightly unusually shaped face, then a frameless mask could be the way to go. As the name suggests, this mask offers incredible unobstructed views of the marine world thanks to its large window and clear sides. The nose pocket itself is nice and spacious too, and the single-pane design reduces pressure around the bridge of the nose, making this a super comfortable mask for people with large noses. Personally, Im a big fan of frameless masks, but it really is a matter of personal preference. These masks typically sport a large lens and a built-in snorkel. Dual colored frameless single-lens design for significantly increased field of vision. On top of that, the small size, squishiness, and light weight make this an incredibly travel-friendly mask too! Its soft and lightweight nature also makes this mask a great option for those who are lucky enough to travel frequently on their snorkeling endeavors. will accommodate the mask mount for the new galileo hud hands-free dive, The double-seal provides a leak-proof diving experience and pairs well with a dry top snorkel, Rugged enough that a small GoPro mount could pair well with the Synergy, Built for comfort, you can use this for an entire day of diving with the right snorkel tube, High price, making it unfriendly to beginners or casual hobbyists, Can sometimes be difficult to find in stock unless ordering online, Comes with less than most other masks at a similar price point, The single lens provides an unobstructed field of view, This mask features more benefits than many other more simple models in the same price range, A purge valve, fog-resistant coating, and sun-blocking lens are all highly useful features, The Anti-UV and Anti-Glare coating make diving not just clearer but safer. be sure to, Enhanced features- the patent pending angled tube design allows for less restricted, two-way airflow, The full-face design helps to fend off leaking, especially with the design of the silicone seals, A focus on airflow helps with proper breathing, Several different sizing options help make this mask great for any user, Others feel the snorkel piece is difficult to remove, making cleaning a hassle, Some feel that this mask doesnt work at speeds, such as with scuba fins, due to limited airflow, The cressi duke & bonete is the new 2019 adult snorkeling gear designed for those who want to enjoy, The full-face mask is designed with safety in mind. TWO: Dual-lens masks feature two windows that are separated at the nose area. It features easy adjusting buckles for convenience, and an easy-access nose pocket for equalization. Snorkeling is an awesome sport thats soared in popularity in recent years. THREE OR FOUR: Although not as common as one- and two-window masks, there are some masks out there with three or four windows. So, how do you know which mask is right for you? Here are four vital things to look for when buying your diving mask, whether you pick a traditional snorkel mask or another form. If youve been curious about the best snorkel mask, were here to help. The lens type relates both to the style of the lens of the mask and the material its made with. rotating buckles work with a micr. Designed and tested in the usa - the seaview 180 v2 snorkeling mask was created by our team of, Important sizing tips- full face snorkel mask adult sizing is important to get right. Plus, the lack of a center piece leaves your view wide open without obstruction. This low profile also helps it pair well with snorkel fins, as bulk wont become an issue at higher speeds. Generally, fullfaced masks are more popular among beginners and nervous snorkelers, but even some advanced snorkelers enjoy using them from time to time, so why not give one a try and see? This mask fits well for facial hair, larger individuals, or others that may struggle on a well-fitting mask. As with anything, a mask that was built well will last longer. But if youre after a truly stress-free snorkeling experience then you dont want any old mask, you want one thats right for you trust us, theres nothing worse than missing that dolphin that swam past you because you were fiddling with your mask! Plus, some masks come in various models catered to different sized faces. Each of these focuses on being an easy-to-use mask that beginners can use to start learning how to snorkel and scuba dive. It also comes with a fabric strap to help with comfort, especially if the mask runs a bit tight. The Atomic Aquatics Subframe mask is a super stylish snorkel mask available in a huge range of color combos, but thats not the only reason we love it so much. Flowtech advanced air intake system- breathe naturally and comfortably through your nose and mouth, Frameless masks are loved by many divers for their low-profile and ability to fold flat for easy car, Cressis frameless design bonds a high-grade silicone skirt directly to a single lens for the ultimat. Finally, we love that this mask is available in several sizes (regular, medium, and slim), so you can be sure to get the perfect fit. Buckle tabs are flexible, enabling the mask to be folded flat for traveling. If you arent diving far, a dry snorkel and a diving mask will likely work just fine. These will rarely last long as they may break or be outright unusable. You might have heard tales of fullfaced masks not providing enough fresh air, but fear not the dual chambers and multiple intake valves of the Wildhorn Outfitters Seaview 180 ensure awesome airflow and keep CO2 levels within safe limits. A clear mask lets in more light, which can help some divers with feelings of claustrophobia. They also create less drag because they dont extend as far from your face this is why freediving masks are always low volume masks. We pull back the curtain and show you the best places to dive to maximize your travel time. MATERIALS: Silicone, single tempered glass, PROS: Easy to clear and equalize, exceptional value for money, travel-friendly, durable, CONS: Not ideal for large noses, adjusting the strap can be a little tricky. If you have further questions or concerns, feel free to contact us for more information. Check for tears, holes, or uneven areas around the edge of the skirt to make sure it can hold a proper seal. All lenses are tempered glass for the best clarity and lenses are joined in a special way to minimize, The pano 4 is designed in italy by cressi and made in taiwan. NOSE POCKET: If you have a large nose, then make sure the nose pocket of the mask youre looking at is a decent size if youre looking at it and worrying that its too small, then it probably is. Cheaper masks may use plastic instead. The techno-polymer frame has been designed to withstand some serious abuse not only is the glass anti-shatter but its also shock absorbent. Another cool feature that we cant get enough of is the removable camera mount that lets you get some awesome footage without even using your hands. Despite being the same brand, there are some important differences between this and the Cressi F1. Some people also prefer to have a mask that sits further away from their face, so that they feel less claustrophobic, and this distance can also help with unusual face types. We provide recommendations and reviews for our favorite scuba gear. This protruding frame, however, has made them popular among snorkelers who like some separation between themselves and their gear (reducing the feeling of claustrophobia). This single-pane mask lacks a frame and is constructed from super supple silicone that offers far more than just incredible comfort. Another mask ideal for larger faces, the Ocean Owl features sizable seals. Adjustability is also vital for comfort and getting a proper seal. If its too large, it may not fit properly on your face. This also means that strap is less likely to snap, and the adjustment system is super easy to use too. Its also a little on the expensive side but if you dont have a broad face or large nose, and are after a mask that meets all of your snorkeling, freediving, and even scuba diving needs, then the Aqua Lung MicroMask should be a serious contender! tempered glass lens. If you struggle to find a good, comfortable fit, one of these three may be perfect. Thinner skirts are generally more comfortable and will mold to the shape of your face more easily, but theyre more prone to tears than thicker skirts. Though it may seem more complicated, this mask is also a strong option for beginners. Another thing to bear in the mind is the color clear skirts allow more light in and can boost peripheral vision, but darker skirts reduce glare (so they tend to be popular among photographers). What Is Divers Ear & How Do You Treat It? Another amazing beginner-friendly option, the Scubapro Spectra Low Volume 2 has everything a diver needs. On top of that, some of the more expensive masks use tempered glass with special properties that can reduce distortion and even prevent fogging. Whether youre looking to get into scuba diving, or are already trained, there are plenty of options available to start or advance your diving education. If youre really struggling, you could always consider going for a full-faced mask instead. Whatever your preference, youre sure to find an excellent option for your best mask on this list. Ideal for large faces (face seal size w4 5/8 * h4) with oversized and double edge seal skirt for com. Plus, by reducing reflections off both sides of the lenses, more light enters the mask, so youll get brighter views. ), you have unobstructed views, you can breathe through your nose, your snorkel wont fall off, and your make up will even stay put! Two-lens and single lens masks are the most common. SKIRT SEAL: Molded silicone (black and clear models available), PROS: Lifetime warranty, stylish, internal frame minimizes bulk, anti-reflective coating. This mask features an extremely compact design (the clue is in the name really! On top of that, unlike regular masks, fullface masks have integrated snorkels, and this one is angled just right to reduce water intake even when youre splashing around. These programs are designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and other affiliated sites. Brett loves diving in any location, but favorites include Cozumel, Mexico and Roatan, Honduras. A dual-lens design helps the mask fit closer to the face and provides clear visuals. For our final three, full face snorkel masks are making an appearance. with a 30% larger viewing area, snorkelers can s, The valves design gives the user effortless and natural breathing, with a wide breathing area around, The cressi bonete are short open heel fins with adjustable straps. For example, a full face snorkel mask is often more sturdy and works better in deeper, foggier water. Plus, the buckles hold very well, so once youve found your perfect fit, youll rarely have to faff around with them in the water. This is the most important part of getting a good seal, making the skirt a crucial part. Typically, these fit better for divers that have enough experience to know the differences between a low-end and a high-end mask. Tempered glass for safety with a extra wide and long window offers incredible field of view. The nose area is a tad stiff at first, so be careful on your first few duck dives, but this improves with time, so I wouldnt let it put you off. To that end, we made sure that the masks on this list have a great field of view. New-generation trufit technology design uses two skirts for creating a comfortable, watertight seal. The Scubapro Solo is a great, no-frills mask for people who just want clarity and ease of use, The double-sealed silicone provides a comfortable and reliable fit, A low-profile build helps make this option more portable and reduces drag while diving. Unsurprisingly, this mask is great for freediving and scuba diving as well as snorkeling, so you wont have to lug around several masks if youre into various watersports. Frameless masks sit closer to your face, so youll get a better field of view and the volume is lower, so theyre easier to clear. On top of that, the breathing chamber is separated from the eye area and features clever one-way valves, which means that you wont fog up your mask when you breathe out. Oh, and this mask is available in heaps of different colors, which is great if you like to color-coordinate your gear. Overall, its a strong contender for the best snorkel mask, especially for full face snorkel mask lovers. Comes with a comfort strap. Our third mask for larger faces, this option focuses heavily on comfort. On top of that, unlike traditional masks, the Atomic Subframe boasts an incredibly durable internal frame (AKA the subframe) that sits below the silicone skirt and provides support while reducing the need for a bulky external frame what a win. Im keen to share all the info I learn along this journey with you! GLASS: Your typical snorkel mask will be constructed from tempered glass, which is designed to absorb shock on impact and is relatively shatter proof. These are great for certain facial structures, larger individuals, or even divers with facial hair. The buckles attach to the skirt itself (not the frame) for added flexibility and to further increase comfort. Finally, the edge of the silicone skirt itself is rounded to reduce pressure even more and to prevent those annoying mask marks that ruin all your post-snorkel photos! But they certainly arent for everyone. Arguably the most important factor is the material and durability. Also, because the mask sits closer to your face, you generally get a wider field of view with low volume masks compared to high volume masks. Its not the widest mask around and you might feel some pressure build up at the bridge of the nose if you have a broad nose. Framed or frameless? However, be wary of masks that are too large as well. Flowtech advanced air intake system- breathe naturally and comfortably through your nose and mouth. Your peripheral vision is important to catch the sights and fend off feelings of claustrophobia. One thing to bear in mind is that full face snorkels are not designed for snorkeling below the surface of the water (AKA duck diving), which more advanced snorkelers may find frustrating. This mask features a lower profile than other full face snorkel choices often do. In-depth reviews of the best lightweight backpacking gear, and comprehensive guides to the worlds most amazing trail hiking destinations. It also features not a single lens as the F1 does, but four lenses for a deep field-of-view. While seemingly complex, this mask is amazing for beginners for its simple use. The low volume also means the mask sits close to your face, offering an unprecedented field of view, making sure that no exciting sightings will pass you by unnoticed. For the next three masks, we focused on finding masks that fit larger faces. Starting our list is the Cressi F1 Frameless Mask, a popular option among beginners. These include higher costs, more features, or otherwise a higher quality mask. Our third Cressi option on the list is the brands full face mask option. They also make some people feel more protected, and some people even prefer to view the underwater world through a slight border ultimately, the choice will come down to personal preference (and dont forget, you can always go in the middle with a medium volume mask too). Different uses and preferences will likely have different bests. ONE: Single-lens masks have just one window that stretches across the whole mask. Mirrored lens option delivers a glare-free view of the underwater world. Push-button buckles that attach to the skirt adjust easily to achieve a perfect fit. But the comfort doesnt stop there the strap buckle can rotate up to 180 degrees, allowing for multiple configurations that accommodate various head shapes. Experts can enjoy this Cressi mask for a casual day out, while beginners can benefit from the ease of use as they learn snorkeling. Prioritize a high-quality construction for a good mask. PROS: Unique skirt designed for comfort, fits most face types, good field of view despite frame, CONS: Expensive, frame limits portability, not ideal for beginners. Look into what sort of diving and snorkeling you intend to do to decide what sort of snorkeling mask youll want. First and foremost, you need your snorkel mask to fit you properly. So, to give you a helping hand, weve put together this list of the best snorkel masks around. BUCKLES AND STRAPS: Although most snorkeling takes place in warm waters, some people do decide to don a wetsuit and a weightbelt and snorkel in cooler places. Note: painted finish may be damaged if cleaned with abrasive products. Unfortunately, this mask does come with an above average price tag, but you can rest assured that its worth every penny. But not only does the skirt provide an awesome seal, its also incredibly comfortable, and those of you without stubble will be amazed by how soft it feels. It also has a tiny internal volume, so you can clear it in an instant and you can easily equalize the space inside your mask as the pressure increases with depth. Here are two of the most frequently asked questions in the diving community. In absolutely no way do these affiliate programs influence our recommendations we value and respect our readers, and our reputation which is why we only provide completely honest and unbiased reviews. MATERIALS: Silicone, Saint-Gobain DIAMANT glass, PROS: High-quality glass provides great optics, wide field of view, easy to clear, portable. One thing that we have to tackle first is how many snorkeling masks there are. Its a strong contender for the best snorkel mask for anyone still learning what theyre doing. These sports are especially popular in coastal areas such as California or Florida. If youre after a mask that can survive being knocked around in a suitcase, on a boat, or en route to your favorite snorkel spot, then youre in luck the Aqua Lung Teknika Double Lens has to be one of the most durable snorkel masks out there! An uncomfortable mask is bearable for a short while, but if youre spending an entire day scuba diving, discomfort can become painful. Featuring double-sealed silicone, this mask is built for comfort. The soft silicone around the nose area, combined with the low volume of the mask, makes it incredibly easy to equalize and clear the mask, so its an awesome choice for snorkeling newbies. Still, if you wear glasses or contacts, you may want a prescription lens or a corrective lens mask, which may narrow down your options. Crystal clear double sealed silicone skirt for superior fit and comfort. Prevents ear clogging when divers get into deep water. The buckles move at various angles for a truly unique fit, and we love the broad headpiece that keeps your mask snugly in place. Some modern masks even use dual skirt designs to ensure a solid seal as well as comfort, and others feature fancy textures to ensure your seal doesnt slip. And, of course, you need to make sure that its a good fit too. We sometimes earn affiliate links when you click through the affiliate links on our website. The SeaDive Eagleye is a strong, rugged mask that can withstand the elements for an entire days use. If you loved this gear review article, then you'll likely love reading our other snorkeling and diving related content: Im a keen hiker who is passionate about lightweight backpacking. Sadly, this mask comes with a pretty hefty price tag but if youre the kind of person that likes an au natural feel in the water, then this incredibly comfortable, glare-reducing mask could be right up your street! Disclosure: Ultimate Gear Lists participates in affiliate marketing programs, including the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. This can help you see the pros and cons of each to your personal taste rather than what others are telling you. And speaking of years, this mask is also incredibly durable, despite being one of the most affordable masks on the market. All Rights Reserved, Buying Guide: How to Choose a Snorkel Mask, Scubapro Spectra Low Volume 2 Window Dive Mask, Cressi Pano 4 Wide Multi-Lens View Snorkeling Mask, SeaDive Eagleye RayBlocker HD Mask with Purge, ScubaMax Abaco Oversize Single Lens Dive Mask, HEAD Sea VU Dry Full Face Snorkeling Mask. And, on top of that, you also get an awesome field of view thanks to the single pane and low volume. In fact, this option is popular among hire-end diving gear enthusiasts. Finally, the design of this mask lets you breathe through both your mouth and nose for a truly natural breathing experience. Others may prefer a lens type that provides your full face mask with a wide view or a built-in snorkel to avoid using a silicone mouthpiece. Low-profile design is great for packing and travel, Made from high-grade silicon: comfortable yet sturdy, Low internal volume means easy clearing and reduced drag, Lenses are made from tempered glass for safety and long-term durability. And its easy to why its great exercise, its fun for all ages, and it gives you a unique insight into the underwater world. We cover the basics and essentials that you should know before getting certified. This is one generous mask when it comes to overall space, so you wont find the edge of the mask pressing on the corners of your eyes, obstructing your views, and causing irritating leaks what a win. theyre are ideal for travelers th, The duke is entirely designed and developed in italy by cressi. We also absolutely love that this mask is available with mirrored lenses too, so you dont have to worry about pesky glare ruining your views. There are many places to dive, but many are a divers best-kept secret. No BS, ever. Most skirts are made of soft silicone or rubber. Our website is supported by our users. The additional windows are found at the side of the mask, and they extend the wearers peripheral vision as well as letting more light in. This means that we may receive a small commission if you make purchases through those links. If you cant adjust your mask, it might prove difficult to get the soft silicone to seal and keep out water. Well, you need to think about several things, like how often you travel, how experienced you are, and whether youll use your mask for other sports (like diving or freediving). To start our list, we have three options for beginners. The ScubaMax Abaco Oversize is great for those of us that struggle with a fit. Although we like that the buckles fold down completely flat, making this a travel-friendly option (as far as framed masks go), we wish the buckles were a tad easier to operate we probably wouldnt recommend this mask for a total beginner. Fullface masks have taken the marketplace by storm in recent years and, if youre new to snorkeling (or thinking about switching from a regular to fullface mask), then we definitely recommend the Wildhorn Outfitters Seaview 180. On the plus side, this makes them super easy to clear (because you dont need to breathe out as much fresh air to expel the air and water inside the mask). Having said that, more experienced snorkelers will love how easy it is to equalize using the super squishy nose area, and mask clearing is a breeze too thanks to the low volume. Some lenses work better if youre moving fast, such as while using swim fins. While there are countless options on the market, your snorkel mask is one of the most important things in your snorkeling gear loadout. Rigged and a bit more complex, the Synergy suits divers with experience better than those still learning. There are full face snorkel masks, diving masks, snorkeling goggles, and other things that we have to consider. Our third contender is a second Cressi option, available in black, lime, yellow, and orange. Well, we have good news the TUSA Freedom Elite might just be the perfect mask for you! Featuring a single tempered glass lens, the Eagleye also features a fog-resistant coating. This size also comes with the benefit of a wide view and a double facial seal. But a word of warning to anyone with a particularly broad face or large nose this might not be the mask for you. These can feel cramped, be uncomfortable or even painful, and cut off blood circulation. A long, thick snorkeling tube helps make sure that youre getting proper airflow. If comfort is a top priority for you, then you should definitely check out the Scubapro Synergy Twin Trufit mask. However, you may struggle to create a good seal with your mask, especially on larger or coarser beards. We also love how easy the buckles are to use too in fact, you wont have any trouble using them even if youre wearing gloves, so this is an awesome mask for anyone brave enough to snorkel in cooler water. Understandably, many people still have questions about scuba diving and snorkeling, especially about gear. A modern low profile, clear and open-view single lens mask. Intuitive, travel-friendly, durable, and affordable whats not to love?! Home Gear 12 Best Snorkel Masks For 2022. Alternatively, framed masks are sturdier and can be taken apart for cleaning and maintenance. Our final mask, the HEAD Sea VU, presents an excellent dry snorkel option. The wide number of colors helps make the Scubapro Spectra a customizable option, Beginners will enjoy the push-button buckles and comfortable silicone skirt as well, Mirrored lens option gives divers a glare-free diving experience, High price, especially for a beginner-focused mask, Many reviews state that long-term use can become uncomfortable, Without the proper treatment, many also feel the Scubapro fogs up a bit too quickly, The pano 4 features a four-lens panoramic design for maximum light and great field-of-view with. Weve included quite a mix so, whether youre a new to snorkeling or are half fish by now, there should be something for you! DiverBelow.com 2022. With so many amazing options, its tough to know how to pick! This mask offers incredible optics thanks to the high-quality glass used for its construction not only does it reduce distortion and green tints so you can see the marine world in its true glory, but it also optimizes the transmission of light, which means youll get popping colors even when the sky is grey. Some buckles can even rotate slightly, which aids removal but also accommodates different facial structures. Our first mask away from the beginner options is the Scubapro Solo Snorkeling Dive Mask. JUMP TO: HOLLIS M1 / CRESSI F1 / WILDHORN OUTFITTERS SEAVIEW / TUSA FREEDOM ELITE HD SNORKEL MASK / AQUA LUNG MICROMASK / SCUBAPRO SYNERGY TWIN TRUFIT / AQUA LUNG TEKNIKA DOUBLE LENS / ATOMIC AQUATICS SUBFRAME / BUYING ADVICE, Best Fullface: Wildhorn Outfitters Seaview 180, Best for Broad Faces: TUSA Freedom Elite HD Snorkel Mask, Best for Comfort: Scubapro Synergy Twin Trufit, Best for Traveling: Aqua Lung Teknika Double Lens Dive Mask. Plus, the ultra-soft construction makes equalizing in this mask a walk in the park, so its a popular mask among snorkelers who love spending as much time below the water as they do on top of it! But with so many snorkel masks on the market these days, finding the one can be a daunting task. Without a strong, reliable build, your mask can prove useless within seconds. One of the most important is that this mask is not frameless. LOW: Low-volume masks have less air inside them than high-volume masks. Adjustability also helps with accessibility, especially for larger divers. Plus, fullface masks are heavier, harder to pack, and typically more expensive than ordinary masks. So, here are a few things to keep an eye on when youre online shopping: SIZE: It might seem obvious, but the easiest thing to do if your face is particularly broad or narrow is check the dimensions of the mask youre looking at. A purge valve also helps to keep everything clear, providing a pleasant diving experience all around. MATERIALS: Shatterproof tempered glass, silicone, SKIRT SEAL: Texture silicone bands (black and clear models available), PROS: Super low volume, great field of view, doubles up as an awesome freediving mask, CONS: Expensive, not ideal for broad faces or large noses. Whats more, you dont need heaps of complicated, expensive gear just grab your mask, fins, and snorkel and youre good to go! If you find yourself asking these kinds of questions, then be sure to check out our buying advice at the bottom of the article. Some people are simply used to traditional masks and dont like the feel of fullfaced masks. If water is constantly pouring into your mask, youll have no reason to wear it. Your use heavily impacts which is the best, so think about your situation before you buy. Although we wouldnt recommend this mask for anyone with a particularly narrow face (youll probably get some leaks), it has plenty to offer snorkelers with larger features!