Cressi F1, Scuba Diving Snorkeling Frameless Mask

Best 10 Snorkeling Masks

What’s the difference between a Snorkeling Mask and a Scuba Diving Mask? This and much more we explain in our Guide.

OMGear Snorkeling & Diving Mask

There is not much difference between a Snorkeling Mask and a Scuba Diving Mask. Both should come with a silicone skirt and tempered glass lenses.

Why is it important to have tempered glass in a Snorkeling Mask?

What is Tempered Glass?

First of all we need to know what tempered glass is. Tempered or often also called toughened glass is a type of safety glass processed by controlled thermal or chemical treatments to increase its strength which results in about 4x the strength compared to normal glass. Tempering puts the outer surfaces into compression and the interior into tension.

Tempered Glass Broken

Such stresses cause the glass, when broken, to shatter into small granular chunks instead of splintering into jagged shards as ordinary annealed glass does. The granular chunks are less likely to cause injury. That’s the reason we use this kind of lenses in scuba diving and Snorkeling Masks. If the lenses of your snorkeling mask do break due to certain circumstances it shatters into pieces you can hardly hurt yourself on. Usually everybody is walking around barefoot on the boat.

It is not about the pressure with increasing depth as many of the manufacturares claim. Because you equalize the Snorkeling mask on the inside with exhaling into it. so you have the same pressure on both sides of the Mask. If you would’nt exhale into the mask while descending you’d risk a Mask Barotrauma (Mask Squeeze).

Tempered glass is always easy to recognize on masks because the words “Tempered Glass” or “Temp Glass” are printed on the lenses.

Mask barotrauma risk

The negative pressure that arises when not equalizing the Mask can lead to ruptured blood vessels in the eyeball or even to a detachment of the retina.

Why not using Polycarbonate lenses instead?

Polycarbonate are plastic lenses and are very prune to scratch and mechanical force! Nevertheless some freediving Masks and pretty much all swimming goggles do have Polycarbonate lenses but need to be packed properly best in a hard box.

Silicone skirt

You want to get a mask with a silicone skirt because it will seal much better than the pvc or rubber skirts. Even better if you choose the one with the very smooth liquid silicone skirt.

Another advantage of the silicone masks is that they have no odor.

Rubber and PVC skirt are cheaper but not recommended at all due to fact that they do not seal properly and rubber has an odor.

However the silicone skirt masks will be a bit more expensive but it is worth going for it.

Black or transparent Silicone?

Many Snorkelers and Divers ask what kind of Silicone skirt Black or Transparent is better? It actually depends on your preference.

Mares-X-Vision-Mask
Mares-X-Vision-Mask
Kraken Aquatics 2 Lens Scuba Diving Mask
Kraken Aquatics 2 Lens Scuba Diving Mask

However we always recommend the black silicone skirt because there is less reflection inside the snorkeling mask on the lenses since in black masks there is no light entering the mask hence your iris opens up. Compare to a transparent mask especially in clear water and lots of sunshine while snorkeling on the surface you’ll have a lot of mirror reflection on your lenses.

Some people tend to claustrophobia with a black skirt which leads to recommending the transparent silicone skirt snorkeling masks.

Nose Pocket

Nose Pocket Mask

If in case the Snorkeler dives down to see some fish on a close up it is important that the Snorkeling mask must have a nose pocket so that the snorkeler can exhale through the nose into the mask in order to compensate for the increasing pressure with increasing depth inside the mask in order to prevent mask barotrauma. (Mask Squeeze)

The nose pocket of the mask also needs to be flexible to allow the diver to perform an equalization maneuver such as the valsalva maneuver or the frenzel maneuver when equalizing pressure in the middle ear.

Ear equalization

With increasing depth, the water presses on the eardrum, which arches inward. Now the snorkeler has to equalize the pressure before it starts to hurt where he holds his nose with his thumb and forefinger and, on the other hand, breathes but does not let air out of the nose.

As a result, air is passed through the Eustachian tube into the middle ear and the eardrum is returned to its normal position, so that the pressure in the ear is no longer present because the pressure inside and outside is the same.

On your ascend you don’t have to do pressure equalization because it works by itself. Similar to when you sit on a plane and go up your ears pop automatically.

In this Video you can see a real Eardrum while doing an equalization.

You can see the eardrum is moving outwards. That happens when you blow air against your blocked nose and the air is instead moving into your eustachian tube and moves your eardrum. The eustachian tube is connected to the back of your throat.

If you are sensitive you might not like to watch it!


Mask Strap

Also the Mask strap is made of Silicone and should be wider on the back of your head to support a good hold on your face. Hold on to it when you jump in the water as the Snorkeling Mask can otherwise come off easily.

2 Mask Band black (Mask not included)

An alternative especially for Women and Men with long hair is a Mask Band which prevents Hair getting entangled into the Mask Strap.

Prescription Lenses

If you thought you can’t go snorkeling due to your bad eyesight think again. You can have Snorkeling Masks where you can replace the normal lenses with prescription lenses. If they are not available for your Mask go to your optometrist and ask for yours. The only thing you need is a two lens Mask.

The Alternative is to wear Contact lenses. Just close your eyes in case water gets inside your Mask. probably a good Idea to wear daily Contact lenses just in case you loose them.

Cleaning and Storage of Masks

Mask-Bag

Masks should always be rinsed inside and out with clean, fresh water after each day’s use, and dried off after washing.

A mask should not be stored in direct sunlight for long periods of time as ultraviolet light degrades the silicone. A well-maintained mask will last for many years.

Most Masks come with a hard Plastic Box but in case you’d like to have a better fit for you or your hard plastic container is broken there are alternatives like soft carry bags.


Our Snorkeling Mask Recommendations

All masks presented and recommended here can also be used for Scuba Diving!


COPOZZ Snorkeling Mask

COPOZZ Snorkeling Mask

  • Double-Lens Panoramic View snorkel mask with double lens offers a 180 degree superior view for underwater exploration. Wide and high-grade soft silicone 3d sealing face gasket which molds perfectly to fit any face shape. Diving in style.
  • Tempered Glass Lenses Scuba mask with shatter-resistant glass lenses Scratching resist lens instead of polycarbonate enables you a clearer view under water and hardly to leave any scratches to your lens.
  • Great Seal Comfortable Skirt Diving mask seals great with wide field of view. The silicone would be comfortably soft and seals on your face very well, which is the most important thing for preventing leaks.
  • Fit Different Face Shapes The goggles strap attaches to the skirt instead of the frame as this allows for a variety of face shapes and the mask should seal very well with many of them. Wider nicely shaped skirt help to seal and prevent leaking. Perfect for both diving pros and beginners.
  • Adjustable Headband Simply pull the snorkel mask straps to desired fit and the buckle will hold the straps securely in place. Adjust to fit any swimmer. Perfect for snorkeling, diving, swim training, etc. A great gift for snorkeling lovers.
  • 8 different colors and styles available


OMGear Snorkeling Mask

OMGear Snorkeling Mask

  • SILICONE STRAP&SKIRT OMGear swimming mask is with soft food grade liquid silicone strap&skirt, environmentally friendly and healthy, providing an extreme comfortable using experience. The highly easy adjustable mask buckles and flexible face skirt, perfectly engineered to fit virtually any face shape and heads in different sizes.
  • EASY-ADJUSTABLE SIDE BUCKLES OMGear scuba mask fit to users with head in different sizes. The key point to avoid the leakage is to tighten the mask and you can feel that the silicone skirt is fully absorbed on your face.
  • NEOPRENE MASK STRAP COVER With 3mm quality and softy neoprene mask strap, avoiding hair tangling and providing more comfort. The strap cover will worked great to protect your hair from pulling it as you put it on and took it off, providing an extreme comfortable using experience.
  • 180°WIDE VIEW SAFE TEMPERED GLASS LENS OMGear diving mask is with nose cover, which is perfect for users who do not know how to stop breathing by nose when swimming, snorkeling or diving. Lens of our diving masks are made by tempered glass, which is safe and different from normal swimming goggles with plastic lens.
  • 100% SATISFACTION POLICY Every OMGear snorkeling mask are under strict QC standard before shipment. Please contact OMGear after-sales service team if you have any issues with this snorkel mask, we will reply you ASAP. And we can provide FREE replacement or even a full REFUND if you are not satisfied with it.
  • 8 different colors and styles available


Pro Shot Tidal Mask

Pro Shot Tidal Mask

  • Tidal tempered glass lens. Built in proprietary advanced anti-fog technology that prevents fogging in all circumstances – longest lasting and replaceable anti-fog technology
  • Tidal tempered glass lens
  • High quality silicone skirt and two-way adjustable strap; creates a comfortable and perfect seal that will not leak.
  • Two window low volume design for maximum field of view; designed to eliminate any pressure points, especially on the bridge of your nose or brow.
  • Tidal tempered glass lens. Mask fits almost all face sizes and shapes. Two Year Manufacturer Warranty.
  • 3 different colors and styles available


OMGear Snorkeling & Diving Mask

OMGear Snorkeling & Diving Mask

  • SILICONE STRAP&SKIRT OMGear swimming mask is with food grade silicone strap&skirt, environmentally friendly and healthy, providing an extreme comfortable using experience. The highly adjustable mask strap and flexible face skirt, perfectly engineered to fit virtually any face shape and heads in different sizes.
  • TEMERED GLASS LENS OMGear Lens of diving masks are made by tempered glass, which is different from normal swimming goggles with plastic lens.
  • NEOPRENE MASK STRAP COVER With 3mm quality and softy neoprene mask strap, avoiding hair tangling and providing more comfort.
  • FIT Easy adjustable buckles and softy liquid silicone strap&skirt make OMGear scuba mask fit to users with head in different sizes.
  • 100% SATISFACTION POLICY Every OMGear snorkeling mask are under strict QC standard before shipment. Please contact our OMGear after-sales service team if you have any issues with this snorkel mask, we will reply you ASAP.And we can provide FREE replacement, or even a full REFUND if you are not satisfied.
  • 2 different colors and styles available


Snorkeling Mask with Mount for Action Camera

Diving Mask with Mount for Gopro

  • Update – Frameless design (High-precision LSR injection technology for one molding). Perfectly engineered to fit virtually any face shape and heads in different sizes for adults and kids over 12 years old.
  • Material – Soft food grade liquid silicone (the highest quality) strap&skirt. Tempered glass certified by the CE (Communauté Européenne) with anti-fog treatment.
  • Feature – Anti-Fog and Anti-Fall. The mask came with Gopro adapter and aluminum thumbscrew . It works with all Gopro models.
  • Service – If you have any problems. We will provide 24-hour uninterrupted service.
  • Amerca’s most recommended swim goggles with mount for camera
  • 2 different colors and styles available


For a great Snorkeling Experience you will need a good Snorkel too!

Dry Snorkel

Guide

Simple Snorkel

Guide

Regular Snorkel

Guide


Snorkeling Mask with Mount for Gopro

Snorkeling Mask with Mount for Gopro

  • WORKS WITH ALL GOPRO MODELS including the new GoPro Hero 8, in addition to all other previous models.
  • 100% MASK FIT GUARANTEE to ensure you have the best possible diving experience with our products!
  • FEATURES AN ULTRA SOFT SILICONE SKIRT made from the highest quality silicone to ensure one of the best fitting masks you have ever had.
  • INCLUDES ALUMINUM THUMBSCREW AND TRAVEL BAG with your mask to make easily storing and attaching your GoPro camera a breeze anytime you go scuba diving or snorkeling.
  • 100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEE we are confident that after trying our mask you will agree that its one of the most convent ways to use your GoPro Camera on your next scuba diving or snorkeling adventures!
  • 2 different colors and styles available


EXP VISION Snorkel Diving Mask

EXP VISION Snorkel Diving Mask

  • 100% soft silicone and 100% tempered glass
  • Lightweight Comfortable Wear: Our diving mask frame with 100% soft silicone skirt for Perfect Seal on Face enables you feel fit and no leaking when snorkeling.
  • With Anti Fog Film: Our diving mask used anti-fog film avoid fog appear on the inside lens with an exhalation from nose, making you see clear under water.
  • Tempered-Glass Lenses for Safety: Dive Snorkeling Mask lens is made from tempered glass with a good impact resistance., which resists scratching and shattering.
  • Double Lens Snorkeling Mask Design: Snorkel mask should help you see better, not obstruct part of your view. Now you can enjoy all the underwater scenery clearly.
  • Dive Mask One Size Fit All: Adjustable head straps and a high-grade soft silicon face skirt fit virtually any face shape. The ribbed design provides extra support and ensures a water-tight seal.
  • 5 different colors and styles available


Cressi F1 Scuba Diving Snorkeling Frameless Mask

Cressi F1, Scuba Diving Snorkeling Frameless Mask

  • Frameless masks are loved by many divers for their low-profile and ability to fold flat for easy carrying, even in a BC pocket.
  • Cressi’s frameless design bonds a high-grade silicone skirt directly to a single lens for the ultimate in simplicity.
  • The lens is made of tempered glass and certified by the CE (Communauté Européenne).
  • The low-internal volume allows for effortless clearing and quick-adjust strap buckles are molded directly into the skirt for a flexible fit and reduced drag. It also represents an unbeatable value, with a cost roughly half that of similar masks.
  • 5 different colors and styles available


Kraken Aquatics Snorkel Dive Mask

Kraken Aquatics 2 Lens Scuba Diving Mask

  • Flexible Silicone for Leak-Proof, Comfort Seal: Skirt and strap come in soft, supple silicone, which molds to the shape of your face for comfortable fit and watertight seal. No more leaks or discomfort.
  • Tempered-Glass Lenses for Safety: Forget flimsy plastic lenses! This mask has quality tempered glass double lenses, which resists scratching and shattering.
  • Convenient Buckle for Easy Adjustment: Simply pull the straps to desired fit and the buckle will hold the straps securely in place. Presto: customized comfort.
  • Rugged Enough for Scuba Diving: Thanks to its sturdy construction, your mask can stand up to all kinds of wear – from snorkeling in the pool to deep-sea scuba diving.
  • Double Lens Design: A snorkel mask should help you see better, not obstruct part of your view. Now you can enjoy all the underwater scenery clearly.
  • 2 different styles available


Cressi Evolution Dive and Snorkel Mask

Cressi Evolution Dive and Snorkel Mask

  • The Air mask is one of the adult high-end masks in the market suitable for scuba diving and snorkeling.
  • Available in Black or Clear silicone. The clear is Crystal Silicone, a Cressi trademark formula for avoiding yellowing after years.
  • The easy-to-use Integrated Buckles (Cressi patented technology) are integrated with the frame with a swivel system for quick strap length adjustment.
  • Features inclined and inverted tear-drop lenses for improving downward visibility, a Cressi patented design (US 6272693).
  • The field of view is particularly wide, laterally and in the lower zone. The lenses are made of tempered glass.
  • 11 different colors and styles available


You might also be interested in:

Underwater Smartphone Housing

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Underwater Camera

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Underwater Scooter

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This was our list of the Best Snorkeling Masks 2021! We hope you enjoyed it and if so, please share the article with your friends and family or on your social platforms and leave us a comment below with your favorite we would appreciate it a lot and you’d make the Oceans a little better! Thank you!

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