Whether you’re a beginner planning to give snorkelling a go on holiday this year or an avid diver looking for a slightly less equipment-intensive excuse to get in the water, picking the right snorkelling mask is one of the most important decisions you will make. After all, the beauty of snorkelling is that it offers an accessible way to glimpse of marine life from the surface - without a mask, this experience simply isn’t possible.
It’s important that your snorkel mask both fits correctly and matches the environment you plan to explore, otherwise you’ll find yourself having a pretty leaky and uncomfortable trip! However, with lots of different styles and types of snorkelling masks to choose from, knowing which is right for you can be tricky. That’s why we’ve created this complete guide designed to help you find exactly which kind of snorkelling mask you need.
What To Consider When Choosing Your Snorkelling Mask
Before diving into the huge range of snorkelling masks available, it’s important to take some time to work out which kind of features and characteristics you want from yours. There are three things you must consider to get the right fit and type of mask: face shape, field of vision, and mask volume.
- Face shape - Everyone’s face shape is different and finding a mask that works with yours is key to preventing leaks and discomfort. Wider faces may require a broader skirt for a comfortable seal, while those with a bigger forehead will need to check the mask frame sits comfortably without pressing too heavily.
- Field of vision - Some snorkelling masks offer a wider field of vision than others and it’s ultimately up to you whether you prefer the widest view possible or wish to have a more focused and intimate experience.
- Mask volume - The internal volume of a snorkel mask refers to the space inside it. Low-volume masks sit closer to your face and are easier to clear if any water gets in. High-volume masks can feel more spacious but are less suitable for beginners as they require more equalisation.
Types Of Snorkelling Mask
Once you’ve got a better understanding of your snorkelling ability level and fit priorities, it’s time to get stuck into finding the right snorkelling mask to match. Expect to see the following types while you’re shopping.
Single Lens Snorkelling Mask
A single-lens snorkelling mask like the superb Apeks Vx1 dive mask features one continuous pane of glass which offers a wide and uninterrupted field of vision. This design is particularly perfect if you want to see as much as you possibly can without any form of frame in the middle restricting your view. However, it is important to note that they tend to have a higher internal volume than some of their counterparts featured below. While this does provide a more open and immersive feel, such volume can be trickier to clear when necessary.
Twin Lens Snorkelling Mask
In contrast, twin lens masks are designed with two separate lenses split by a sophisticated frame like the Cressi Fiji mask. This design is typically lower volume than a single-lens mask but can be bulkier and restrict the field of vision more due to the presence of a frame splitting the lenses. However, the separate lens configuration does give you greater options when it comes to customisation and changing the lenses, as we’ll come onto in a second…
Prescription Snorkel Mask
For those who wear glasses or contact lenses, a prescription snorkel mask can be a game-changer. The twin-lens mask style allows for lenses to be changed to corrective ones tailored to your eyesight where necessary, ensuring all can enjoy the underwater scenery with complete clarity. The Scubapro Zoom mask is a particularly good example of this, offering a low-volume design able to be precisely tailored to your prescription.
Full Face Snorkel Mask
On your quest to find the perfect snorkelling mask, you might also come across full-face styles such as the Cressi Duke. A full-face snorkel mask covers the entire face, allowing you to breathe naturally through both your nose and mouth. They also provide typically a 180-degree field of vision and the convenience of an integrated snorkel. However, a full-face snorkel mask isn’t suitable for diving below the surface and is best suited for beginners taking only a glimpse from above.
Can I Wear My Diving Mask For Snorkelling?
The eagle-eyed will have noticed that there’s quite a lot of crossover when it comes to the brands and features offering the types of snorkel masks outlined above and the dive masks you already know and love. For divers, one of the most common queries is whether their existing mask is suitable for snorkelling too and the short answer is yes. Getting the right fit is the most important thing so if your dive mask already fits well and is comfortable then you can absolutely use it for snorkelling.
However, it’s important to bear in mind that dive masks are designed to withstand significant depths and are typically more durable and heavy to be able to do so. If it is simply surface swimming you’ll be wearing your snorkelling mask for, then you might prefer something more lightweight and lower-volume.
Find The Right Snorkelling Mask With Aquanauts
Finding the right snorkelling mask clearly requires careful thought but there’s no reason why these considerations should be challenging. Prioritise fit first and you’ll always have a mask which offers a comfortable view of the world below.
At Aquanauts, we stock a huge range of high-quality snorkelling masks designed to suit every face shape and preference. Whether you need a prescription mask or a wide-view single-lens option, our team is on hand to help you find the perfect solution. Simply browse the full snorkelling range online today or get in touch with us for tailored advice and guidance to help you select your next snorkelling mask.