By: Torben Lonne
Our writers and editors look for the best Snorkel Masks available. We test, research, and review the best products in different categories with a focus on quality, performance, and the overall value for the price.
Fancy going on a snorkeling holiday or just looking to upgrade your old mask There are many reasons why you might need to purchase a mask.
Choosing a snorkel mask can sometimes seem like a hard task.
With so many varieties (there are even prescription snorkel masks), shapes, sizes, and colors on offer, how are you to know which one is right for you?
Learning the different components of a mask and how you can use them to your advantage is a good start.
The whole point of a mask is to provide comfort, security, and clear vision once you go into the water.
So, you’re standing in front of a wall of masks, they all look professional and reliable, but how do you know which one will work for you?
Well, this is why we have created this snorkel mask guide, to help you decide, whatever your level is, on the perfect mask to suit you.
If you’re looking for a Full Face Snorkel Mask, go here.
The Top 5 Snorkel Masks in 2023
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1
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2
Improved Vision: Atomic Aquatic Subframe ARC -
3
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4
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5
Great Quality: Phantom Aquatics Panoramic
All the Snorkel Masks we've reviewed
Kraken Aquatics prides itself on being a company focused on innovation in the design and functionality of high-quality diving equipment. They are dedicated to providing top quality products at reasonable prices so that everyone can have access to this incredible sport.
The Dive Snorkel Mask by Kraken is an ideal product for beginner free-divers, snorkelers, and scuba divers who are looking to get a head start on their underwater adventures.
When you’re scuba diving or snorkeling, vision is so important to the experience – but it’s hard to get a clear view through a mask with a small lens or one that doesn’t fit your face.
That’s why the Kraken Aquatics Dive Snorkel Mask is designed with a single-piece, tempered-glass lens and flexible silicone skirt; this enhances the comfort of the fit and improves the watertight seal, ensuring that you can see as much detail of your underwater surroundings as possible, minimizing leakage.
Specs & Features
- Dimensions: 8.9 x 4.57 x 3.62 inches
- Weight: 0.24 Kg
- Materials: Soft silicone skirt, downwards-sloping tempered glass lens
- Universal skirt size
- Available in Red, Black and Clear Colours
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
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Excellent mask for beginner divers or snorkelers -
Tempered glass less susceptible to fogging
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Buckles are convenient
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One-piece lens enhances a focused field of vision
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Stylish colors available in red, black or clear
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Universal skirt design fits many sizes and forms of faces
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Tempered glass lens seems durable and provides safety
Things we don't like:
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Field of vision is on the narrower side
There is nothing worse than being hit with a bright reflection whilst on the surface snorkeling. Atomic Aquatics have sorted this issue out by providing an anti-reflective coat on the glass of this snorkeling mask. The ARC mask technology not only reduces reflected light but also increases the amount of light available to the divers eyes. This can improve vision dramatically, especially on a sunny day.
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
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Sub steel frame for strength and rigidity, making it virtually indestructible.
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Lifetime guarantee for breakages.
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ARC mask anti-reflection technology.
Things we don't like:
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Quite an expensive mask.
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Slight distortion where the seams of the glass meet.
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The ARC lenses scratch quite easily removing the protective anti-reflection coating, so scrubbing this mask and using anti-fog on it is out of the question.
Where to buy:
Cressi have been frontrunners in the underwater gear industry for decades. They have provided high quality products to ocean sport enthusiasts all around the world including beginners, pros, kids and adults.
The Cressi F1 is an extremely popular dive mask for snorkeling and scuba diving. The frameless design offers a wide field of view and a great fit for most faces. The silicone skirt is soft and flexible, making it comfortable to wear for long periods of time.
The CE certified tempered glass lens has no distortion or coloration and provides excellent visibility in all light conditions.
Specs & Features
- Dimensions: 11 x 9.5 x 6.5 inches
- Weight: 0.31 Kg
- One-piece lens
- Adults skirt size
- Soft silicone skirt
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
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Comes at half the price of similar masks on the market
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Excellent mask for beginner divers or snorkelers
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CE tempered glass lens is scratch resistant
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Micrometric buckles allow for quick and easy adjustments
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A one-piece lens allows for a wider field of vision
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This mask is also available in a stylish White
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Tempered glass lens seems durable and provides safety
Things we don't like:
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No rigid protection from a frame
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No built-in anti-fog technology
The Ocean Reef Aria is one of the most comfortable full face snorkel masks on the market.
Specs & Features
- Strap type: Soft Elastic
- Field of view: 180°
- Distortion: A little
- Dry snorkel: Yes
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
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Comfortable straps
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Good fit on most faces
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Lightweight
Things we don't like:
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Slight distortion on side
This mask is both a snorkel mask and a scuba mask. Sometimes buying a scuba mask when you’re using it for snorkeling can be a good option as scuba masks are built to endure pressure deep under the water and can be stronger than an average snorkel mask.
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
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This mask has a clear, double sealed silicone skirt around the frame that provides comfort and an excellent fit.
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Has two seamless side glass panes for excellent panoramic views.
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Has a durable frame, which makes it built to last.
Things we don't like:
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The frame of the mask can sometimes press against the bridge of your nose, so make sure to test out this mask before purchasing it.
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The silicone edging can sometimes put pressure on your forehead.
Excellent for beginner free divers, snorkelers, and scuba divers, the Oceanic Predator snorkeling gear will provide a comfortable and easy diving experience free of disruptions.
The patented soft squeeze buckles on the Predator Mask make simple and quick adjustments possible while the soft universal skirt has been constructed so comfortably it feels like you could wear it all day. The lenses are tinted for extra UV protection and are assembled with stronger, long lasting, and highly sturdy tempered glass.
As far as the Predator Snorkel goes, Oceanic has taken us back to basics with a traditional snorkel design that is simple yet practical for every entry level free diver. Its simplicity gives rise to the fact that freedivers don’t have to worry about any extra moving components getting in the way of their dive.
With its striking blue camo print, this Predator Snorkeling Gear also bears a low volume and lightweight design for a more streamlined swim, making it an ideal kit for less experienced, beginner free divers who want to explore the ocean’s treasures without being noticed.
Specs & Features
- Mask: Silicone skirt
- Mask: Tempered glass lenses with mirror tint
- Mask: Adjustable straps
- Mask: Patented soft squeeze buckles
- Snorkel: Traditional ‘J’ design
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
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Excellent snorkeling gear for beginners
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Cool camo like the Predator Dive Fins
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Buckles are great
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Snorkel design great for long apnea dives
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Stylish color and design to camouflage free divers who spearfish
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Low-volume design enhances streamlining and facilitates easier mask-clearing
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Universal skirt design fits many sizes and forms of faces
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The flexible mouthpiece is very comfortable
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The glass lenses seem very durable
Things we don't like:
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Without the dry-top deflector, water can get in the snorkel at the water surface
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If visibility is lacking, or if you are diving in the evening, the tint in the lenses will not be helpful
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It is recommended that anti-fog spray is applied to the mask lenses before use
Our first pick of the four-window masks, the Panoramic offers divers an increase in peripheral vision. The lenses fit together exactly for an uninterrupted panoramic view.
The mask is available in a huge variety of colors and comes with either a clear or black skirt. If you are an underwater photographer, you may want to consider buying a black skirt to help to eliminate reflective light.
The Cressi Panoramic comes complete with a dry-top snorkel to prevent water from entering. This is another good budget option for entry-level to pro divers.
Specs & Features
- Window style: Panoramic (four windows)
- Skirt material: Liquid silicone
- Volume: Low
- Color: Black or clear skirt with trim in a variety of color options
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
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The wide variety of color options.
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Wraparound lenses offer a great peripheral vision.
Things we don't like:
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Some users complain that the ridge at the front digs into the bridge of the nose.
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The side windows are positioned slightly too far back.
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Customers complain of fogging even after treating the mask.
This mask is in the slightly more expensive range, however you cannot scrimp on quality.
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
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Rotational buckle system.
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Provides 180 degrees of viewing.
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Large frame with rounded-edge skirt to help you see what’s going on around you.
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This mask is perfect for any and every shape face as it has a 5-positioned strap angle adjuster.
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Low volume masks means it’s easy to clear.
Things we don't like:
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The frame of the mask can sometimes press against the bridge of your nose and between your eyebrows.
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If it is not adjusted properly to your face it can leak easily.
Where to buy:
This unique mask is a top contender for our best snorkel/scubadiving/skindiving/freediving mask. It uses a single pane of glass with enhanced brightness so that you’re able to see more vibrant colors under the water. This mask is slightly wider providing a great field of vision.
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
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Due to its width, this is a great option if you’re looking to freedive or skindive at night.
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The skirt is made from high-grade silicone, making an excellent bond to the face.
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This mask is great for longer usage as it sits comfortably against the face.
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Anti-glare coating on the lens as well as UV protection.
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This coating has been designed to enhance the color red, which you cannot see past 3m below the surface.
Things we don't like:
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Tends to fog up quite quickly.
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Quite expensive.
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Can sometimes sit too close to the face and cause headache, so make sure it fits before purchasing.
Like all Cressi equipment, this mask was made in Italy from top quality materials.
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
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Has been designed to be compact and extremely hydrodynamic to help divers get through the water easily especially in small spaces.
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Low internal volume.
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Swiveling micrometric easy to adjust buckles for increased comfort and excellent fit.
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Double-feathered silicone skirt provides a perfect fit to the face.
Things we don't like:
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You may need to purchase an anti-fog solution to help protect against the mask fogging up.
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It is not for all face shapes and size, so make sure you try it before you buy it.
Where to buy:
Cressi’s Penta+ mask is the latest version of its popular Penta model. Like the original, it features a four-window design but it also incorporates elements from Cressi’s Matrix and Lince masks.
The well-known scuba company is known for producing excellent quality yet affordable masks, and the Penta+ continues in this tradition. Want to get your hot little hands on the latest offering from Cressi? Click the link below for the best prices. Or, read on for our full review of the Cressi Penta+.
Specs & Features
- Four-window design
- Ultra-low volume
- Hypoallergic silicone skirt and strap
- Tempered glass front lenses
- Weight: 6.2 ounces (175 grams)
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
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Ultra-low volume
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Super soft silicone is comfortable
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Suits small and narrow faces well
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Buckle adjustment is easy to manage
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Good price point
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Black and clear silicone models available (also see below)
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Small enough for BCD pockets
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Quality brand, you can expect this mask to last
Things we don't like:
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If you get the black silicone models, there is no side window, which rather defeats the purpose
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Four-window masks are not for every diver
Related Reviews
General things to know before buying a mask.
Out of the thousands of masks available, not only have we narrowed down the selection above, but also, you’ll find a great guide to helping you decide what mask to go for, below…
When buying a Snorkel Mask, check to see if the mask creates a seal.
This is one of the most important steps to follow when choosing a snorkel mask as there is nothing worse than not testing your mask out and arriving on your snorkel boat, getting kitted up, jumping in and being welcomed into the sea with a face and nose full of water. Testing your mask out before buying it is essential.
Here is the best way to see if your mask creates a perfect seal around your face.
- Hold the mask up to your face without securing it with the straps.
- Make sure all hair is out of the mask.
- Inhale through your nose slightly until you feel the mask grip your face.
- If it fits you, you will be able to release the mask and it should stay in place without the straps and your hands.
- If the mask does not stay in place or you cannot get a good grip when inhaling through your nose, then the mask does not fit you properly and it is time to try a different one.
What to look for in a snorkel mask
Feathered, Double Skirt Seal – this is the seal around the mask, make sure that whichever mask you choose, has this feature as this will be more reliable when it comes to leaking and will also be more comfortable against your face.
Enclosed Nose – whether you are using your mask for snorkeling, scuba diving, freediving or skindiving, make sure that it has an enclosed nose, within the eye pockets. This way it is easier to equalize if you are going below the surface and will also prevent you from inhaling any water in through your nose whilst snorkeling.
Tempered Glass – Plastic masks tend to fog up easily and can spoil your dive or snorkeling trip. If you choose normal glass, then this can be extremely hazardous if an accident should occur under the water. If you choose normal glass, you won’t be able to use your mask for scuba diving as the pressures can cause this glass to crack and shatter under the water. Tempered glass is your safest option.
Low Volume – low volume masks tend to sit closer to your face and reduce the amount of drag in the water. However, sometimes divers or snorkelers may require a slightly larger volume mask, so choose the one that best suits you. Low volume masks are also easier to clear when under the water.
Wide Head Strap with Touch Adjustment Buckles – a mask should fit comfortably around your head and should also be easy to adjust, if necessary under the water.
Shaped Lens Panel – When choosing a mask you should think about how much of the ocean you would like to see. If you’re hoping to have peripheral vision to see what is going on around you, shaped lens panels are the choice for you as this will give you the ability to see side to side as well as up and down.
Additional Extras
If you’re looking for a little bit extra from your mask, you may want to consider a purge valve. A purge valve isn’t 100% necessary as you can still blow the water from your mask without one, this just makes it slightly easier. Prescription Lenses, if you wear glasses on a daily basis, there is absolutely no reason why your mask should not be fitted with the same prescription. If you cannot see well without glasses on land, it won’t change when you’re under the water so make sure you look into getting your new mask fitted with your prescription lenses.
Types of Mask
There are so many different types of mask that one can get lost in a sea of information, so here are the 7 most common types of mask to choose from…
Side Window Masks
Side window masks have 2 extra panes of glass found on the sides of the mask. These not only allow for extra light to penetrate the mask, it also increases the snorkelers, skindivers, freedivers and scuba divers field of vision. These types of masks are usually slightly larger than other masks, so they may require slightly more air to clear them.
Two Window Masks
Two window makes are known for having two panes of glass that are separated by a frame. The shape of these masks usually means that they sit very close to the face, making it easier to clear and to equalize. One thing to be aware of when choosing a two-window mask is to make sure that the frame does not press against the bridge of your nose. In the event of a snorkeler not seeing you behind them and kicking out this can be extraordinarily painful and can cause an issue when under the water.
Corrective Lens Mask
There are many mask production companies who provide a wide variety of corrective lenses for their clients. If you wear contact lenses or glasses, make sure you look into this option, as it will be extremely beneficial to you when under the water. Some manufacturers even create masks that have interchangeable lenses.
Single Window Mask
Single window masks have a continuous window of glass that covers the whole mask. Many divers opt for this particular style, as it has no frame between the divers eyes, providing comfort and maximum viewing ability.
Color Correcting
At around 3m below sea level the color red is lost and at 6m below sea level the color yellow is lost, so having a color correcting mask can help to define objects under the water in a clearer way and provide a clearer depth perception.
Built In Purge Valve Mask
These masks are much easier to clear when under the water. Divers find these masks much more convenient than snorkelers. Additionally, if you’re considering this mask, it would be good to know that if the purge valve breaks, then the whole mask can flood, ending your dive or snorkel almost immediately, however this is very rare.
Take a look at our guides if you are looking to pair your mask with a classic snorkel or a dual tube snorkel system.
Frequently asked questions
The Best Snorkel Mask depends on your individual needs. At DIVEIN, our divers tested a whole lot of Snorkel Masks and reviewed the best of them.
These are their top picks:
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Improved Vision: Atomic Aquatic Subframe ARC
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Great Quality: Phantom Aquatics Panoramic
Before buying a Snorkel Mask, it is important to be aware of some basic features to choose the Best Mask for your snorkeling activities.
These are most important Snorkel Mask Features to consider:
Comments
Hi Roz,
It’s always difficult, but possible.
To find a large mask, go for models like the Panoramic(front and side lenses) here the Cressi Panoramic from this guide, or go to our: Scuba Mask guide and look at a mask like the Mares X Vision or Cressi SF1
Here are a few options. Hope it helps.
My sons have very large heads. Genetics LOL It’s been very difficult finding a comfortable mask. Recommendations?
Hi Terrie,
Uh, that’s a hard one. You might need to go the hard way and try when on in shops until you find one that fits.
I have a small face and have trouble with masks pressing on my brow when I tighten to get a tight seal. Any suggestions for a mor comfortable mask?
Hi Ox,
That’s a good point, but to be honest I don’t know. This is not our strong sides, we know a lot about the gear, but not that much about viruses.
My experience with snorkels is a bit dated. I stopped diving a while ago.
My experience is that sputum or saliva and mucus, from the mouth and lungs, gets into the mouthpiece. In order to expel such, blowing out is necessary. The pressure would be determined by model of snorkel and amount of sputum.
In this Covid 19 day of masks and social distancing, isn’t that a problem in a pool? Doesn’t that ejection send potentially dangerous sputum spayed up in the air? If so, isn’t that a potential danger to others in the pool?
I’ve looked online and am puzzled why I can’t find articles on this.
Thanks So Much,
OX (That’s my entire legal name.)
What, they wouldn’t let you try it, or they won’t let you try it in a pool?
I have never been to a place where you can try on masks; wish the article explained this….
This was a great article! Glad I found this site. Will be following from now on. Thank you for putting it together!
Have you tried a low volume mask? – these are often used for skin diving but might solve your issues.
A nose clip and Googles might help you if you stay at the surface all the time. You can not dive down with the googles as you can’t equalize the airspace in the googles.
Every snorkel mask I’ve used leaks water! I have a thin, small upper lip and any movement of my lips is enough to break the seal. I dont like the new style full face masks. Any suggestions? Googles and nose clip?
Hi Don,
You can, but you’ll not be able to swim down, as this will create pressure on the mask that you can not equalize. MIght also consider a nose clip 🙂
I’d still suggest you find a fitting mask.
Hello
I have had problems with my mask sealing. I feel I have bought quality masks in past with a small leak under nose. My question is as I am just a snorkler could I just use mask without nose piece or just swim googles or any suggestions on a good sealing snorkel mask
Thanks
Don