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Best Snorkel Masks Reviewed
Snorkeling is a well-known recreational activity especially around tropical areas.
Snorkeling is the act of diving and swimming through a body of water while wearing a diving mask with snorkel attached, often called a snorkel mask or dive mask. Generally, you can wear a dive mask alongside other swim gear like swim fins, wet suits, training aids, among other dive gear.
While almost three-quarters of the world is water, what lies underneath is an enthralling and mystical world.
When your slip your eyes into one of today’s best snorkeling masks you can see sights lost to human eyes, and hidden beneath the surface.
You can experience life on another new level while you view the underwater life in it’s natural setting. Views of wonderful corals, canyons, and even dazzling marine life will be yours to behold.
Moreover, you can come face to face with some of the most elaborate and fantastic marine species, different fish, reefs, and hues of brilliant color. You also get to see all the unique events that only take place underwater.
However, you obviously cannot breathe or see in water as you normally do on land. So picking the right snorkeling equipment is vital for a smooth and comfortable snorkeling experience. Naturally, you might consider buying low-cost and flimsy snorkeling gear because you want to save some money, right? However, bargain basement dive masks have significant downsides, like poor fit, discomfort, water leaks, and constant fogging.
Bargain snorkeling sets have straps and buckles made using cheap quality plastics which may degrade quickly and break after only a few uses. Additionally, the snorkel mouthpiece and mask skirt made with these plastics will mean that your mask will not seal properly, causing leakage. Another common failure is skin irritation from poor finish and design. Your skin also might get irritated by cheap plastic, and you may develop a rash. For all these reasons, we recommend avoiding cheap and flimsy snorkel equipment.
Fortunately, you can avoid all this by purchasing a quality snorkeling mask. Ensure that the gear you buy meets all the safety standards, and gives comfort and high-quality performance. After all, you don’t want to sacrifice an enjoyable and comfortable time exploring the world beneath the water surface to save only a few dollars.
It is best to ensure that your snorkeling gear is designed to last, is comfortable, and will give you the performance you need. In the end, you will prove wise to avoid cheap quality gear can ruin your entire snorkeling experience.
Check Out Our Favorite Snorkel Mask
When planning on snorkeling, it will be best to find a comfortable snorkel mask that fits comfortably and gives you a clear view of the aquatic world without leaking or even fogging. The best snorkeling gear offers ease of use, comfort, and will last longer than bargain options. However, with so many choices available, from different sizes, shapes, and designs, purchasing a suitable snorkeling mask can be a bit overwhelming.
If you want to purchase a snorkel mask for the first time, or you want to upgrade your old one and do not know where to start, fear not. Take a look at our detailed reviews of the best snorkel masks, and we are sure our insights will help you to make a well-informed decision.
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1. Atomic Venom Frameless Snorkel Mask
Atomic Venom Frameless Snorkel Mask
Unlike the framed masks, which have a metal or plastic structure around the faceplate edges, the atomic venom frameless snorkel mask lacks a frame, as the name suggests. Moreover, it has a skirt with two silicones which are fixed directly to the faceplate itself.
If you are looking for a snorkel mask with a quality lens, then the Atomic Venom Frameless mask might be what you have been searching for.
It offers a broader and clearer view than a standard scuba mask. The Atomic Venom lens known as the Schott Superwite UtraClear lens is undeniably one of the best to buy.
Furthermore, it has swivel buckles that turn in different directions depending on how and where you pull the strap. While you adjust the strap, the swivel will assist to move and fit the mask right where you want it.
Moreover, it does not leave you with the pressure-point outline around your face after snorkeling. You can get an Atomic Venom Frameless Snorkel Mask at an affordable price and enhance your snorkeling experience.
One of the best things is that this mask is convenient for you if you have facial hair because its blended silicone will prevent leaks even when you have beards. If you pay attention to style, the Venom frameless masks got you covered because they come in various colors like gray, red, and black.
The advantage of the atomic venom frameless snorkel mask is that it has extra strength to withstand the pressure, and it enables the equipment to offer outstanding performance.
2. Pro Shot Tidal Mask Advanced Anti-Fog Snorkel Mask
Pro Shot Tidal Mask Advanced Anti-Fog Snorkel Mask
It is unique because it has a built-in anti-fog technology which comes in handy in preventing fogging in all circumstances. The anti-fog technology is replaceable in case of any damage.
Moreover, this snorkel mask has a tidal-tempered glass lens. This is good because the tempered glass is strong enough to withstand any pressure or wear and tear, making it safe for you.
Also, the pro-shot tidal advanced anti-fog snorkel mask has a high-quality silicone skirt and a two-way adjustable strap which ensures that your face is correctly sealed to prevent leaking. Furthermore, this property makes this mask comfortable for the wearer.
Additionally, it also has a two-window low volume design that offers you a maximum field of view. It is well designed to do away with any pressure points, particularly on the bridge of your brow or nose. You do not have to worry about its fit because the pro-shot tidal mask fits nearly all face shapes and sizes.
3. SEAC Libera, Full Face Snorkel Mask
SEAC Libera, Full Face Snorkel Mask
This is because it has your breathing figured out. You get to breathe naturally through your nose and mouth with the lowest effort while using this full face dive mask. You can get sufficient airflow, which is not typical with the other full face masks.
It has entirely separate circuits for air intake and exhalation, respectively, with the air you exhale being expelled via a SEAC patented exhaust circuit.
Moreover, this mask’s leaps and bounds are better than other masks because if it has a good fit on you, you will not be vulnerable to water getting into the valves used for air circulation.
Like the pro-shot tidal mask, it also has an anti-fogging system; however, it is by the continuous flow of incoming air. Additionally, it has one-way valves with a large cross-section to expel the remaining carbon dioxide and effortless exhalation.
It also has an anatomical hypoallergenic liquid silicone skirt designed to adjust to all kinds of facial contours. And above all, the SEAC Libera Full Snorkel Mask is not only the best for breathing, but it also meets all the safety and comfort standards.
So you can have a remarkable diving or snorkeling experience. The most exciting thing is that you can get one for your kids since there are some affordable Libera masks for children with a non-silicone skirt.
4. OCTOMASK – Snorkel Dive Mask w/Mount for All GoPro Cameras
OCTOMASK – Snorkel Dive Mask w/Mount for All GoPro Cameras
It has a hundred percent guaranteed fit which ensures that you have the best snorkeling experience ever. In addition to this, it has an ultra-soft high-quality silicone skirt that ensures your mask has the perfect fit.
Due to the thick frame and good fit, the Octomask is less likely to leak; hence you will be sure of enhanced safety. Moreover, its strap is comfortable and easy to adjust while you experience exceptional visibility provided by the dual lenses.
What’s more, the octomask comes with an aluminum thumbscrew. Also, a travel bag to provide storage space for your mask and GoPro camera anytime you want to go snorkeling or diving.
Many can affirm that the snorkel dive mask with mount for all GoPro cameras offers a hundred percent satisfaction to its users. After using this diving equipment, you will attest that it is one of the most efficient and convenient ways to use your GoPro camera to have an adventurous and thrilling snorkeling experience.
5. OCEAN REEF Aria Classic Full-Face Snorkeling Mask
OCEAN REEF Aria Classic Full-Face Snorkeling Mask
It also has a patented design, and it is tested for safe carbon dioxide levels because the more hardened you breathe, the less carbon dioxide building up. However, unlike the SEAC, the Reef Aria has three separate tubes where the middle one is for inhaling, and the two outer ones are for exhaling.
One thing that will make you want to purchase an Aria Classic Full-Face Snorkeling mask is that it offers full visuals beneath the water surface. The Aria mask will take your experience to a whole new level since you will get a 180-degree view of all the things taking place around you underneath the water.
Additionally, you will not have a hard time drying your Arial mask because it comes with a reusable carry bag with a mesh bottom to enhance easy drainage after use. There is also a child version of the Aria mask – do not let your kid miss all the adventure and the fascinating features underwater.
Top Boat Deck Chair Features To Consider
If you search for the perfect snorkeling mask for diving, snorkeling, and scuba diving, it will be best to find high-quality gear. However, getting the most suitable snorkel mask for you may prove challenging. Fortunately, there are various vital features you should look for in the snorkel gear you want to buy. Here are a few essential characteristics you need to consider.
Tempered glass
You have probably seen tempered glass in various things like car windscreens, shower doors, among many others. Tempered glass has been treated using special chemicals and thermal treatments to make it stronger than the normal untreated glass. Specifically, tampering with a glass causes high compressive stress on the outer surfaces, balanced by high tensile stress in the glass body.
That said, tempered glasses are essential in diving masks. Why is this? This is because snorkel masks with tempered glasses can safely handle the pressure changes at the water depth. Moreover, they can also take daily tear and wear that –can occur when packing, cleaning, or getting bumped. The best thing about diving masks with tempered glasses is that they will less likely crack or scratch, and if this happens, the faceplate will securely shutter into blunt granules rather than splinters or shards.
High-Grade Silicone
High-grade silicone is essential for your snorkel mask’s skirt. The mask’s skirt is the soft rubbery part that makes the mask seal against your face. The silicone will come in handy since it is very soft and comfortable. It is hypoallergenic, resistant to UV damage, and the best part is that it withstands continuous exposure to chlorine and saltwater. Additionally, a mask with high-grade silicone will last longer.
Enclosed Nose
Ensuring that your full face dive mask has an enclosed nose within the eye pockets is vital when searching. The enclosed nose will help prevent you from taking in water from your nose while diving or snorkeling.
Low Volume
Masks with low volume reduce the amount of drag in water since they sit closer to your face. And, they are easy to clear when underwater. Regardless, sometimes you may need a mask with a slightly larger volume. So, it will be best if you choose the one you find most suitable for you.
Shaped Lens Panels
When selecting the proper mask, it will be wise to consider how much you will want to explore the ocean. If you wish to have a peripheral vision of what’s around you, you may wish to purchase shaped lens panels. This is because they will enable you to see in various directions; side-to-side and up and down.
You might be wondering why you need to buy expensive quality snorkeling gear. Yet, you can buy some cheap masks and have a fun experience, right? While you might know that cheap is expensive, there are various benefits you will reap from purchasing quality snorkeling gear. For instance, it will be best to buy a quality full-face snorkel mask if you are a beginner. This is because it will enable you to breathe comfortably using your nose. Additionally, quality diving masks will last longer and give a satisfying performance for divers.
Conclusion
While you might need snorkeling masks to explore the fascinating world beneath the water surface, it will be best to keep in mind that your snorkeling experience depends on the condition and quality of your snorkeling gear. So, it will be best to look for quality equipment using the given characteristics.