If you are really going to snorkel right, you need some important accessories such as swimsuits, swimming fins and, most importantly the snorkel mask. Since snorkeling involves swimming underwater for long, breathing often becomes impossible and this can affect your swimming.
Obviously, you cannot wear your normal swim goggles when snorkeling since it doesn’t solve the breathing issue. With a snorkel mask in place, you can swim for long and breathe comfortably.
Whether for a short vacation, laps or recreation activities, you need to have the best snorkel mask for the occasion. Unfortunately, there are many snorkel masks with different captivating features, making it difficult to find the best one for you.
The entirety of this article is well-detailed to aid decision-making. Also, I have sorted out the best snorkel masks to consider and included a simple buying guide and other useful tips.
More Swim Gear Reviews:
- Swimming Snorkels
- Triathlon Wetsuits
- Nose Clips for Swimming
Table of Contents
- My Top Picks
- Comparison Chart
- The 17 Best Snorkel Masks Reviews
- 1. Cressi Frameless Ultra Clear
- 2. U.S. Divers Icon
- 3. Scubapro Solo
- 4. Wildhorn Outfitters Seaview 180 Degree V2
- 5. Scubapro Spectra
- 6. Cressi Panoramic Wide View
- 7. OCTOMASK
- 8. WACOOL
- 9. Copozz Tempered Glass
- 10. Ocean Reef Aria
- 11. Greatever Foldable Panoramic View
- 12. Kraken Aquatics
- 13. Phantom Aquatics Velocity
- 14. Promate Optical
- 15. Cressi Palau
- 16. Tribord Easybreath
- 17. WSTOO
- Choosing the Right Snorkel Masks
- 1. Size
- 2. Comfort
- 3. Vision
- 4. Breathing
- 5. Additional features
- Benefits of Snorkel Masks
- How Do Snorkel Masks Work?
- How to Use Snorkel Masks?
- How to Clean Snorkel Masks?
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Swim Network Overview
My Top Picks
The snorkel market is full of various products from different brands with different features, design, and appearance. Having done a thorough analysis of the snorkel mask market, I was able to collate the best 17 snorkel masks to buy. Below are some products.
- Best Overall: Cressi Frameless Ultra Clear
“Frameless design, Tempered Glass, provides great visibility to swimmers.” - Best Budget: U.S. Divers Icon
“Stylish, adjustable straps, has a snorkel clip, offers great value for money.” - Best for Beginners: Scubapro Solo
“Rugged, frameless, low profile design, comes with a user-friendly buckle.” - Best Full Face Snorkel Mask: Wildhorn Outfitters Seaview 180 Degree V2
“Panoramic view, anti-leak, reliable window, offers full air intake.” - Best With UV Protection: Scubapro Spectra
“Mirrored lenses, UV protection, anti-glare, dual-lens, made from high-grade silicone.” - Best With Purge Valve: Cressi Panoramic Wide View
“Lightweight, soft nose pocket, anti-splash, purge valve included, has a weight of 7.2 ounces.” - Best for Large Faces: OCTOMASK
“Hypoallergenic build materials, Frameless design, lightweight, offers support for Gopro cameras.” - Best for Small Faces: WACOOL
“Low volume, Splash-guard, tempered glass, has an ergonomic, soft, silicone mouthpiece.” - Best for Beards: Copozz Tempered Glass
“Shatter-resistant, PVC frame, quick-release strap, tempered double-lens arrangement.” - Best Anti-Fog Snorkel Mask: Ocean Reef Aria
“Fog-resistant, panoramic view, camera support, available in various sizes and colors.” - Best With GoPro Mount: Greatever Foldable Panoramic View
“Dry-top snorkel, panoramic view, anti-leak, comes with a detachable mount for Gopro cameras.” - Best for Freediving: Kraken Aquatics
“Simple buckle system, lightweight, tempered glass lens, offers both performance and comfort.” - Best for Lap Swimming: Phantom Aquatics Velocity
“Splash-proof guard, simple push-button buckle, comes with a double-sealing arrangement.” - Best With Prescription: Promate Optical
“Impressive design, efficient gasket, available in various prescriptions.”
Comparison Chart
Looking to save time, here is a quick comparison of the 17 selected best snorkel masks I reviewed. However, you should consider reading the detailed review below for accurate decision-making.
| Snorkel Masks | Weight (Oz) | Color Options | Full Mask Type | Material | Anti-Fog | Camera Mount |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cressi Frameless Ultra Clear - Best Overall(Editor's Choice) | 16.8 | 13 | No | Silicone and Glass | No | No |
| U.S. Divers Icon - Best Budget | 17.6 | 2 | No | Silicone, Polycarbonate, and Glass | Yes | No |
| Scubapro Solo - Best for Beginners | 11.2 | 3 | No | Silicone and Glass | Yes | No |
| Wildhorn Outfitters Seaview 180 Degree V2 - Best Full Face Snorkel Mask | 16+ | 6 | Yes | Silicone and Polycarbonate | Yes | Yes |
| Scubapro Spectra - Best With UV Protection | 14.4 | 7 | No | Silicone and Glass | Yes | No |
| Cressi Panoramic Wide View - Best With Purge Valve | 7.1 | 5 | No | Silicone, Polycarbonate, and Glass | No | No |
| OCTOMASK - Best for Large Faces | 9.6 | 5 | No | Silicone and Glass | No | Yes |
| WACOOL - Best for Small Faces | 16.8 | 6 | No | Silicone, Polycarbonate, and Glass | Yes | No |
| Copozz Tempered Glass - Best for Beards | 22.4 | 5 | No | PVC, Silicone, and Glass | No | Yes |
| Ocean Reef Aria Full Face Snorkeling Mask - Best Anti-Fog Snorkel Mask | 16 | 4 | Yes | Silicone and Polycarbonate | Yes | Yes |
| Greatever Foldable Panoramic View - Best With GoPro Mount | 16+ | 7 | Yes | Silicone and Polycarbonate | Yes | Yes |
| Kraken Aquatics - Best for Freediving | 4 | 3 | No | Silicone and Glass | Yes | No |
| Phantom Aquatics Velocity - Best for Lap Swimming | 15.8 | 11 | No | Silicone and Glass | No | No |
| Promate Optical - Best With Prescription | 16+ | 12 | No | Silicone, Polycarbonate, and Glass | No | Yes |
| Cressi Palau - Best With Complete Snorkeling Set | 16+ | 7 | No | Silicone and Glass | No | No |
| Tribord Easybreath | 16+ | 4 | Yes | Silicone and Polycarbonate | Yes | Yes |
| WSTOO - Best for Kids | 16+ | 9 | Yes | Silicone and Polycarbonate | Yes | No |
The 17 Best Snorkel Masks Reviews
What’s the best snorkel mask? If you’ve come here looking for an answer to your question, then you are just in the right place. A good snorkel mask to offer great visibility, comfort, hydrodynamic and, of course, last well.
There are many snorkel masks in the market which can really impact choice-making. Here are the full reviews of the top 17 best snorkel masks you should consider.
1. Cressi Frameless Ultra Clear
(Best Overall – Editor’s Choice)
The Cressi snorkel mask is a frameless option that affords you portability. Due to its lightweight, it should not be too heavy to carry and swimming should be effortless.
It has a strongly hydrodynamic design with most parts made from soft hypoallergic silicone material for comfort. With the aid of the silicone strap and simple push-button buckles, the gasket wraps around the face, creating a watertight vacuum.
The mask comes with a tempered glass lens that bears other parts. The snorkel tube is fitted with a soft silicone mouthpiece. It employs the dry top feature and splash guard to keep water from entering. Although impossible, if water comes into the tube, a purge valve built into the mouthpiece to drain out water.
If you care about fashion, the mask is sold in various colors, numbering up to thirteen.
Pros
- Low-profile frameless design.
- Anti-splash end.
- Available in 13 colors
- Simple strap and button buckle system.
- Purge valve.
Cons
- Fogs up easily.
- May shatter after diving.
- Small nose pocket.
William’s Take: Frameless snorkel Mask, just like this Cressi product, obviously comes with no frames but thick silicone layers that increase comfort and leak resistance.
See Also: Ear Plugs for Swimming
2. U.S. Divers Icon
(Best Budget)
The U.S. Divers snorkel mask is a user-friendly option to go for. It is hydrodynamic with a low-profile design that constitutes less drag to swimmers. It uses a two-window arrangement, meaning you get two separate lenses. The windows are tempered glasses with fewer possibilities of shatter and fogging.
Although the snorkel tube doesn’t have a splash guard, the manufacturer built-in a purge valve to help clear the tube of water. The snorkel tube itself is slightly bent to offer less drag while swimming. To the mask’s resistant to leak, the strap employs a user-friendly, three-way buckle system.
Pros
- Low-profile design.
- Simple one-way purge valve.
- Leak-free and anti-fog.
- Ergonomic mouthpiece.
- It comes with a snorkel clip.
Cons
- Made for Adults.
- No anti-splash feature.
- It comes in two colors.
William’s Take: The mask is quite economical. Despite its price, it offers premium performance. It is fog-resistant and leak-free.
3. Scubapro Solo
(Best for Beginners)
The Scubapro Solo mask is for those looking to stay unique. The mask is not a full-face mask but has a unique and modern design. Just three components make up the mask, the lens, skirt, and strap. Yes, there is no frame which implies no tough material to dig into your face. It is a low profile mask that is more streamlined to your face than most masks.
A flooded mask is most likely to result in discomfort, injuries, and even death. Thankfully, you can enjoy a leak-free experience since the mask comes with a double-sealed skirt made from soft silicone. Its strap is the non-slip type which is joined to an adjustable and user-friendly buckle.
The lenses are tempered and wide enough to offer a wide viewing angle. To cap it all, the manufacturer offers a one-year warranty on the product.
Pros
- Low profile design.
- Frameless.
- Double silicone skirt.
- User-friendly adjustable buckle.
- One-year warranty.
- Non-slip strap.
Cons
- No camera mount.
- No carry bag.
William’s Take: This user-friendly mask offers both quality and comfort. It is durable with the absence of those hard frames. To cap it all, it has a one-year warranty.
See Also: Swim Bags
4. Wildhorn Outfitters Seaview 180 Degree V2
(Best Full Face Snorkel Mask)
With a patent-pending feature, the Flowtech air intake system, the Wildhorn Outfitters Seaview snorkel mask is able to provide natural breathing. Unlike the regular one air passage snorkel, the snorkel comes with two chambers with four intake valves for proper ventilation. With the mask on, you can still up to 180-degrees wide of what’s below.
A sturdy build is one of its strengths that provides its durability and ability to mount GoPro cameras. When it comes to fitting, the gasket makes it possible for the mask to hold firmly on your face. At the same time, it stays leak-proof all through your snorkeling session. In case of any leak, the chin drain system is there to the rescue.
Pros
- 180-degree wide view.
- Full air intake technology.
- Anti-leak and anti-fog.
- Supports GoPro Cameras.
- Drain system.
Cons
- Some may Carbon Dioxide build up.
- Some may experience breathing difficulties.
William’s Take: Full Face Masks are difficult to drain if water strays into it. Ensure you purchase those with drains that are easy to use.
5. Scubapro Spectra
(Best With UV Protection)
You’ve got so much comfort and protection with the Scubapro Spectra Snorkel Mask. It is one unique mask to own if you are going for serious snorkeling. The mask is sold in seven most-demanded colors.
The mask is a two-window type with the lenses made from Tempered Glass. The windows are made treated to be anti-fog, anti-glare and offers UV protection. The gasket is made from soft silicone to provide comfort.
It employs simple push-button to buckle the mask properly. It comes with a one-year warranty to cap it all.
Pros
- It comes in seven colors.
- One-year warranty.
- Push-button buckles.
- Anti-glare, anti-fog, and UV protection.
- Tempered glass.
Cons
- No carry bag.
William’s Take: This mask offers premium protection from harmful UV rays from the sun. It also has a decent design that makes you stand out.
6. Cressi Panoramic Wide View
(Best With Purge Valve)
With a panoramic mask, you earn more areas of view with a minimum of fuss. Despite not being a full face mask, you have viewing angles as wide as 180 degrees. The mask is constructed from silicone to ensure comfort and firm sealing. Most swimmers complain of a hurting nose pocket but the reverse is the case with this product.
At just 7.2 ounces, you barely feel the weight of the mask, giving you a chance to focus better on the snorkeling session. Every session is made top-notch with its anti-splash and purge valve that helps to keep water from entering the tube. Even if you have to dive, the dry top feature takes care of that, sealing the tube from water.
It has a silicone skirt which is double-edged to improve sealing. Also, it has an easy-adjust strap buckle. The strap is a split type that ensures added comfort.
Pros
- Panoramic view.
- Dry top valve.
- Lightweight.
- It comes from a reputable company.
- Soft nose pocket.
Cons
- The mask may not accommodate large noses.
William’s Take: The mask is quite impressive in design. It comes with a purge valve to force out any water from the snorkel tube. Interestingly, it is lightweight.
7. OCTOMASK
(Best for Large Faces)
Recording while snorkeling just got easier, thanks to the well-designed Octomask snorkeling mask. It is a frameless option that provides more flexibility and fitness. You no longer have to experience a “digging effect” as the silicone skirt relies on the lens for support, instead of a hard frame. Interestingly, the skirt is ultra-soft, doesn’t irritate and seals properly.
The mask itself is lightweight and guarantees 100% comfort so you can wear it for long hours. You’ve got a safe shatter-proof tempered glass lens all to yourself. With the top-mount aluminum-made thumbscrew, it supports most GoPro cameras, even the GoPro Hero 8. The mask is available in five colors and comes with a travel bag.
Pros
- Great support for GoPro cams.
- Frameless design.
- Available in 5 colors.
- Hypoallergenic build materials.
- It comes with a travel bag and a thumbscrew.
- Lightweight.
Cons
- The strap may fall apart sooner.
William’s Take: The OCTOMASK has a Frameless design which means there is no hard material digging into your face.
8. WACOOL
(Best for Small Faces)
The Wacool mask is a low volume mask that sits closer to your face. Obviously, it constitutes less drag and fatigue is minimized effectively. It is a nice option for adults and also not bad for teens. Its adjustable straps and face skirt, made from silicone, makes it possible to sit well on many face types.
The mask uses a clear single lens which has anti-fog treatment, however, the field of view isn’t as wide as the Cressi’s frameless. The snorkel tube is a full dry type with features such as splash guard to prevent water overflow and a purge valve to drain the tube
The mouthpiece is designed to ensure maximum comfort, allowing it to be worn for long. In addition, the manufacturer offers a lifetime guarantee on the product.
Pros
- Soft silicone mouthpiece.
- Efficient purge valve.
- Anti-fog, tempered glass lenses
- Simple strap adjustment system.
- Dry snorkel and splash guard
- It comes with a carry mesh bag.
Cons
- Might ruin the fun for small faces.
- Glass lenses cannot withstand impact from diving.
William’s Take: Regardless of your face size, your mask should be able to sit properly. Thankfully, the WACOOL Snorkeling Mask had a simple strap adjustment that keeps the mask in place at all times.
9. Copozz Tempered Glass
(Best for Beards)
Wanting a traditional mask with great quality vision? Simply try out the Copozz snorkel mask. The mask comes with a double lens that offers a 180-degree wide view in water. The lens is a tempered glass type that is also clear enough to provide undistorted vision. It is also enhanced to be shatter-resistant so as to withstand pressure at various water depths.
The entire frame is made from PVC and can bear rigors from several hours of swimming as well as varying pressure levels. The mask is kept water-tight by its high-quality hypoallergenic silicone gasket, which also improves the comfort level of the mask. Furthermore, fitness is ensured by the inclusion of an adjustable strap.
The mouthpiece is ergonomically designed to ensure fitting and reduce jaw fatigue. The flexible snorkel tube is fixed to the mask by a quick-release snorkel strap. It comes with one-way purge valves to keep water from entering.
Pros
- High-quality silicone gasket.
- 180 degrees wide view.
- Adjustable, Hypoallergenic strap.
- Five color schemes.
- One-way purge valves.
- Shatter-resistant, scratch-resistant lenses.
Cons
- Lacks anti-fog properties.
- It cannot withstand height or impact.
William’s Take: Be careful not to dive with Snorkel Masks. Although they can withstand pressure at various water depth, their lens lenses can break very easily.
10. Ocean Reef Aria
(Best Anti-Fog Snorkel Mask)
Looking for a decent mask for your vacation with camera support, try the Ocean Reef Aria mask. With its advanced design, you can breathe through your nose and mouth. It relieves you from the common problem associated with traditional snorkels, jaw fatigue. At the same time, you no longer have to suffer gag reflexes.
Do not doubt the efficiency of this mask as it does well in keeping water out regardless of depth. The gaskets do well and the snorkel doesn’t disappoint. The snorkel prevents water entry with the aid of its anti-splash and dry snorkel feature. The highlight of the mask is how it nicely eliminates warm exhaled air without creating fog.
With a fog-resistant design, the 180-degree wide, polycarbonate lens provides a large viewing area even from one spot. The masks come with side panels that increase light and peripheral vision.
See Also: Anti-Fog Sprays for Swim Goggles
Pros
- Available in various sizes and colors.
- Hypoallergenic build materials.
- Camera support.
- Fog-resistant.
- Panoramic view.
- Lightweight.
Cons
- No warranty.
- Some may experience breathing issues.
William’s Take: If visibility is poor, one will be frustrated underwater and fun is obviously lost. This product comes with an anti-fog feature that keeps your vision clear even if used for hours.
11. Greatever Foldable Panoramic View
(Best With GoPro Mount)
If you’re out for a snorkel mask that offers both style and performance, you should consider checking this product. The design is exquisite and it is made available in seven different most-liked colors. It captivates the crowd and should match your swimsuit and fins.
Just like most Full-Face Snorkel Mask on this list, it comes with the dry Snorkel feature. It is also designed to keep splashes from entering the snorkel. A wide tempered glass window affords you a 180-Degree Panoramic View of action. The mask is fog-resistant and anti-leak.
A drain is built into the chin to remove any stray water from the mask. Just by raising your head, the water is removed from the mask. For video recording, it has a mount for Gopro cameras that is even detachable.
Pros
- Removable camera mount.
- Fog-resistant and anti-leak.
- Dry-top snorkel.
- It comes in colors and sizes.
- 180-degree panoramic view.
Cons
- Snorkel clips may break under intense use.
- Possibility of Carbon Dioxide buildup.
William’s Take: The Greatever mask has a way of helping us relive the moments if you won’t be stepping into the water soon. A GoPro camera mount allows you to record various snorkeling session in a seamless way.
12. Kraken Aquatics
(Best for Freediving)
Better Snorkeling experience is a function of high-quality Masks. The mask strikes a balance between performance and comfort. You can use the mask for Scuba diving or Snorkeling.
The skirt is the most important part of any Snorkel Mask. For this product, the mask is made from soft, flexible silicone which comfortably conforms to the contour of your face. The skirt is high-grade and doesn’t leak, except if improperly worn.
It has a single lens made from a tempered glass lens for protection. The strap comes with a simple buckle system to keep it intact. Despite all the features, it is lightweight and offers less drag. In addition, you have a choice of three colors to pick from.
Pros
- It comes with a Tempered Glass lens for protection.
- Simple buckle system.
- Lightweight.
- Soft, flexible, hypoallergenic seal.
- Available in three colors.
Cons
- Not sold with a snorkel tube.
- No carry bag included.
William’s Take: Low profile Masks such as the Kraken Aquatics product, brings the windows closer to the eyes and offers less drag.
13. Phantom Aquatics Velocity
(Best for Lap Swimming)
Buying this product means you are buying a scuba and snorkel mask. Yes, it is two-in-one. Since scuba diving is associated with deep diving, the mask is made stronger and sturdier to bear pressure at various depths. If it is used for snorkeling alone, it can only mean one thing, longer useful life.
The mask comes with a double-sealed skirt constructed from silicone that ensures all-round comfort and fitting. The frame is durable, capable of withstanding stress, and designed to last. The snorkel is bent and features a splash-guard and a food-grade silicone mouthpiece. A clip is also fixed to the tube to help it stay firm on the frame while swimming.
A simple strap adjustment helps to maintain the mask on your face. You also have a whopping eleven colors to pick from.
Pros
- Simple push-button buckle.
- Double-edge silicone seal.
- A broad field of vision.
- Splash-proof guard.
- High-grade silicone.
Cons
- No warranty.
- No carry bag.
William’s Take: When swimming in oceans, it is possible to have your Snorkel flooded when hit by waves. The Phantom Aquatics Velocity Snorkeling Mask beats this issue with the inclusion of a splash-guard.
14. Promate Optical
(Best With Prescription)
If you are either long-sighted, short-sighted or both, this snorkeling mask is for you. Although the mask is available in clear lenses, there are modified ones sold with prescription lenses. Remarkably, there are up to 40 prescriptions you can pick from. Since you can’t wear glasses under masks, you do not have to keep yourself out of the action.
It will delight you to know that ever lenses are made from tempered glass, meaning you are safe even if any breakage occurs. The skirt is made from a hypoallergenic material, silicone, making the mask a safe option. It also comes with a GoPro mount for live-action recording.
See Also: Prescription Goggles for Swimming
Pros
- Available in sizes and colors.
- Tempered glass lenses.
- Availability of prescription lenses.
- Impressive design.
- Robust gasket.
- GoPro mount.
Cons
- May leak on broad faces.
William’s Take: You do not have to stay off snorkeling. This product is readily available in clear lenses and prescription lenses. Interesting, it offers great comfort and performance.
15. Cressi Palau
(Best With Complete Snorkeling Set)
What else do you need for snorkeling? Cressi has everything in one place for you, all at an affordable price. Don’t expect to find a swimsuit anyway. In a single set, you have a carry bag, snorkel tube, snorkel mask and a pair of short fins. Impressively, it comes in various sizes and colors for both male and female swimmers.
For the important part, the snorkel, it is fitted with an anti-splash end that saves you from saltwater during waves. Also at the top of the snorkel tube, a special valve is built-in to seal the tube when you take a deep dive. The mask has a gasket and strap made from silicone, however, the strap comes with a quick-adjust buckle.
Pros
- All accessories for snorkeling in one pack.
- Anti-splash end and special valve on snorkel tube.
- Includes a carry bag.
- Available in various sizes for both male and female.
- Great value for money.
Cons
- Fins may fall off in action.
William’s Take: Buying this Cressi product is an economic advantage because you have all you need for snorkeling in one place.
16. Tribord Easybreath
Here is one of the full face masks with a warranty, interestingly, it’s two years. This brings an atmosphere of confidence about the Tribord Snorkel mask. The masterpiece is manufactured in different sizes and colors. It can be worn by adults and kids of any gender.
With this product, you will stay long in water since you can breathe naturally and still see those beautiful sights over and over again. Thanks to a 180-degree wide window, you can easily observe and enjoy a large view with a minimum of fuss. For protection, the window is shatter-proof, clear, and free of allergenic and toxic substances. The frame is durable and also comes with a GOPro camera mount.
The snorkel is equipped with the dry snorkel feature and anti-slash for great breathing experience. It comes with a lock to secure the snorkel when swimming.
Pros
- GoPro camera support.
- Two-year warranty.
- Shatter-proof lens.
- 180-degree wide field of view.
- Availability in multiple sizes and color schemes.
- Made for males and females.
Cons
- No carry bag.
- Some may experience difficulties in breathing.
William’s Take: With this product, you enjoy a two-year warranty. This goes to confirm the manufacturer’s confidence in its product.
17. WSTOO
(Best for Kids)
Investing in the WSTOO Snorkel Mask is a very good idea. It offers great value for money. The mask is quite comfortable on the face and has a quick-release strap that makes it stable during use.
Just like regular full face masks, the window is wide and offers a wide view angle. The mask when fully sealed is anti-fog and anti-leak. The mask is built for durability and comfort. In addition, it has a free replacement even 12 months after purchase.
See Also: Swimming Goggles for Kids
Pros
- Available in different sizes and colors.
- Great for kids.
- It comes with free replacement 12 months after purchase.
- Anti-leak and anti-fog.
- Quick-release strap.
- Wide view angle.
Cons
- Possible carbon dioxide build-up.
William’s Take: With a free replacement scheme, the mask breeds confidence to buyers.
Choosing the Right Snorkel Masks
So you are set to go shop for your new snorkel mask. It might be a bit difficult to settle for a product, especially if it’s your first time. Either you’re a first-timer or veteran, you need to consider some things before you finalize which snorkel mask to buy.
Your budget is indeed an important factor, however, the price of a product doesn’t mean it’s the best for you.
The best snorkel mask for you should fit comfortably without leaking. You should be able to be comfortable even for a long period of time. Below are the most important factors to consider when buying the best snorkel mask for yourself.
1. Size
Of course, snorkels come in a definite size, however, some are advertised as “one-size-fits-all”. Indeed, they can fit all because of their skirts. However, it shouldn’t be too bulky on the face. It is should be hydrodynamic and fitting. Always check the sizes on the packaging as some come in varying sizes.
2. Comfort
Without maximum comfort, you cannot enjoy snorkeling! In a bid to make it leak-resistant, you should be very comfortable while swimming. Whether you are opting for a full-face or the traditional snorkel mask, it should stay leak-proof and comfortable.
The frame should dig into your face. Take a look at the skirts, silicone skirts offer more comfort and durability. The strap should be easy to buckle or unbuckle, should pull your hair or dig into your head. The mouthpiece should also
3. Vision
Apart from comfort, if you are not seeing clearly, you should not continue snorkeling. The underwater view is what makes snorkeling interesting. The best snorkel mask for you should be able to provide clear vision all through.
It should be anti-fog and leak-proof. You may also buy snorkel masks that offer wider view angles and anti-glare.
4. Breathing
Breathing is one important reason for wearing a snorkel mask. If it hasn’t solved that, then it’s a useless piece. The tube should be able to eliminate CO2 and supply fresh oxygen always, except if you are diving. Some modern tubes now come with splash-guard, purge valve, and dry-top feature.
The splash-guard stops splash from entering. The purge valve drains out water from the snorkel in case it’s flooded. The dry-top feature seals the tube when taking a dive, preventing water from entering.
5. Additional features
After all the previous features have been checked, you may also consider some other features such as camera mount which allows you to record underwater. The design may also be looked for, as well as, the colors.
Benefits of Snorkel Masks
Snorkeling is so much fun when you are wearing a good snorkel mask. The experience is intriguing and awesome as you get to see the beautiful view lying at the bottom of the water. It’s such a great way to enjoy your vacation.
Besides this, snorkeling is known to offer some health benefits such as relieving stress and improving cardiovascular health. Below are some benefits of swimming with snorkel masks.
Healthy Breathing
Of course, breathing is essential to man. We just have to inhale and exhale. However, since you want to enjoy the fun in water-related activities, withholding your breath is the most appropriate thing to do. This will work well with regular swimming but never with underwater swimming (snorkeling).
With a quality snorkel mask, you no longer have to hold your breath. You can breathe comfortably underwater using them. You are relaxed and agile with less fatigue and tension on you. It is just as easy as wearing the mask and entering the water.
Quality Eye Protection
The snorkel mask is divided into two segments, the goggle-like part, and the breathing (snorkel) tube. The lenses are made quite durable enough to keep water from entering your eyes. Since there is no water reaching your eyes, you have no worries about dirt, debris, microbes, and chemicals. Also, there is nothing like red, itchy eyes.
Maximum Comfort
Snorkeling feels so great when there is so much comfort. You do not have to worry about breathing, choking or even hold your breath. There are less fatigue and weariness and you can swim for several hours. You also don’t have to worry about itchy eyes. You can keep your head down all through the swimming session without straining your neck.
Visibility
What’s the fun in swimming when there is poor visibility? Snorkel masks come with top-notch lenses that are designed to offer 99% clear vision underwater. You know that the view must be perfect. No itchy or red eyes.
How Do Snorkel Masks Work?
Have you ever wondered why it is possible to breathe underwater with a snorkel mask? Well, here’s the answer. Snorkel masks are not some over-complicated swimming gadgets. It is unlike the regular swimming practice where you need to breathe by removing your face from the water. Snorkel masks make it possible to breathe and swim under the surface of the water whilst you watch the fascinating view below.
Snorkeling involves the use of two separate accessories – snorkeling goggles and a swimming snorkel (a tube) where it top part remains outside the water. The tube allows you to breathe either through your mouth or nose. However, modern snorkel masks are more advanced and come with the tube built into it for convenience.
How to Use Snorkel Masks?
Now you’re set to start snorkeling and you need to put your mask on Using a snorkel mask is quite easy, the main aim is to keep it comfortable and well-sealed. Here are tips on how to use them:
- Pack your hair into a bun or ponytail.
- Loosen the straps and place the mask on your face.
- If it is not a full-face mask, put on the snorkel tube and clip it to the mask.
- Position the mask rightly and make sure that the seal sucks a little. Put the snorkel tube in your mouth.
- Gently buckle the strap but never too tight.
- Slowly go into the water. Some masks may not withstand dive.
- Leave the water in case of any leak or breathing problem.
- Do not dive into the water except if you are sure your mask can withstand the impact.
- While swimming, always put your face down. If you dive in, always remember to clear water from the snorkel tube by forcefully exhaling.
Watch Video: How to Use a Simple Snorkel?
How to Clean Snorkel Masks?
You should clean your mask regularly to ensure great performance and longevity. Below are some tips on how to clean them.
- After every swimming session, clean the mask with toothpaste and a soft cloth, then rinse thoroughly and gently.
- If you won’t be using for a long time, wash with few amounts of mild detergent. Don’t forget to wash the seals and mouthpiece. Rinse the snorkel set thoroughly and gently too.
Always store in a cool dry place and never attempt to sundry or you will damage the silicone parts, especially the seals.
Watch Video: How to Clean Your Snorkel Gear
See Also: How to Clean Swimming Goggles
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Missed some important information? Here are some frequently asked questions on snorkel masks for a recap.
Can You Wear a Snorkel Mask With Glasses?
No. From the design, it is obviously impossible. However, there are many snorkel masks with prescription lenses.
What Is a Purge Snorkel Mask?
It is a mask with a purge valve that helps the swimmer to clear water from inside the mask or snorkel tube.
Why Does My Snorkel Mask Leak?
This may happen if your mask is too big or the seals are damaged. In any case, you need to change your mask.
How to Keep Snorkel Mask From Fogging?
The best way is to wear your masks properly. However, you may purchase an anti-fog spray to contain the situation. If the issue still persists, you should consider ditching your mask for another that comes with the anti-fog feature.
Swim Network Overview
Snorkeling is so much fun if done right. It might be risky if the right equipment is not used. The abundance of snorkel masks in the market proves to be a problem and also a delight. While finding a suitable one for you might be difficult, it is also thrilling to know that you are not confined to a certain brand, design or size.
From my study of the snorkel market, the Cressi Frameless Ultra Clear ranks as the best overall snorkel mask. The U.S. Divers Icon is the best budget snorkel mask. However, my simple buying guide is there to help in case you do not like any of the listed products.
Help get your friends and relatives to find the best snorkel mask by sharing my post with them on Twitter, Facebook and other social platforms as listed below. Have you used any of the products listed? Kindly share your experience in the comment section below.
