If you intend to pursue scuba diving professionally or on a vacation, you need to find the right gear for the activity. This is because it will determine the amount of fun or frustration you derive from the activity.
When out shopping, you will come across multiple brands of scuba diving masks. As a result, you need more time to identify the one that suits you best by considering its resistance to leakages or fogging. Other factors to consider include how well the mask fits, the comfort experienced in it, its construction material, and the innovations featured. The best scuba diving masks are convenient, durable, and have adjustable straps.
Below are some of the top scuba diving masks that we identified based on the above features.
Comparison Table
| Product | Important features | Important characteristics | View |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scubapro Synergy 2 Twin Scuba Diving Mask (Editor’s Choice) | Trufit technology Silicone outer skirt Comes in 13 colors Dual lens | Easily adjustable buckle straps Matte finish for adequate frame support |  |
| Cressi Panoramic 4 Window Dive Mask | Is available in 8 colors Tempered glass Universal skirt design | Low volume lens Ultra clear view |  |
| Phantom Aquatics Panoramic Scuba Snorkeling Dive Mask | Comes in 8 colors Push-button buckle Tempered glass Tri-window design | Low volume lens Durable Swivel system for a flexible fit |  |
| Atomic Aquatics Venom Mask | Subframe design Dual layered and colored skirt Ultra-clear Schott superwrite glass | Squeeze-to-adjust buckle system Ideal for all faces |  |
| Cressi Big Eyes Evolution Crystal | Cressi patented technology Inverted and inclined lens Tempered glass Silicone make | Easy to adjust buckles Crystal clear view |  |
| Hollis M1 Frameless Scuba Diving Dive Mask | Made with 100% superior adjusters Saint-Gobain Diamant technology Frameless | Soft material for comfort Low volume lens |  |
| Tusa M1001 FREEDOM HD Scuba Diving Mask | 5-position strap angle adjuster Single lens Buckle system rotates 180° | Round-edge for a perfect view Large frame with low volume |  |
| ScubaPro Spectra Dive Mask | Dual lens Tempered glass 7 colors | It is designed for narrow and small faces |  |
| Mares I3 Sunrise Scuba Mask | 3 colors available Tri-comfort technology Two-buttoned buckle X-shaped straps | Straps are easy to adjust Made with premium quality silicone |  |
| Atomic Aquatics Frameless Mask for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling | Computer designed Frameless Comes in 15 colors Squeeze to adjust buckle system | Wide field of view as you can view upwards, downwards and sideways Hydrodynamic look |  |
Mini-reviews of the best scuba diving masks
1. Scubapro Synergy 2 Twin Scuba Diving Mask – Best dual lens mask (Editor’s Choice)
This scuba diving mask features a wide field of view and is highly reliable since it keeps water of your eyes. It has dual lens so your sight is amazing.
The silicone outer skirt is relatively thicker than that of other brands for rigidity. Further support is provided by the matte finish that is done close to the frame. You, therefore, are sure that the firmness will make the mask super comfortable under all conditions. Since your face is delicate, the mask is made with a thin silicone contouring to make sure it fits well, feels soft, and seals fine. It also has a ribbing texture thanks to the Trufit Technology.
- It is designed to fit most faces comfortably.
- It comes in 13 colors providing a wide variety of choices for you.
- The mask is high performing due to its superior quality.
- It has strap buckles that you can adjust to attain the right fit for your face.
- Some users feel that the mask is a bit difficult to adjust and might have leaking issues.
- If you have a very wide or narrow face, this scuba diving mask may not be ideal for you.
2. Cressi Panoramic 4 Window Dive Mask– Best universal skirt
Are you looking for a scuba diving mask that will provide a superior field of view? If you are, you are in luck because this pair features side lens that fit accurately to the main frame for a perfect view. With it, you will receive optimal lighting and be able to view everything that passes by you in the ocean.
The lens is ultra-clear and low volume to give you an easy time when clearing. The design is further enhanced for durability using tempered glass that also makes them safe for you.
This scuba diving mask is unique because it comes with a universal skirt design that allows it to fit a wide variety of faces (size and shape) comfortably.
It is sold in 8 colors that you can choose from based on your taste and preference.
- The mask has rubber straps that are comfortable and adjustable for a proper fit.
- Their design gives them a comfortable fit on a wide variety of facial shapes and sizes.
- This mask is easy to clean and maintain.
- The mask does not fog.
- Some users argue that the mask may leak, which is a great inconvenience.
3. Phantom Aquatics Panoramic Scuba Snorkeling Dive Mask – Best for a full view
This scuba diving mask comes with a patented tri-window design to give you a full view. It is also unobstructed due to the side windows that are made seamlessly.
The straps feature a revolutionary push-button buckle that you can adjust easily and quickly. This is complemented by a buckle attachment that is not only flexible but also swivels depending on how your face moves.
The mask’s design works alongside the great seal to ensure that you have no problems despite the conditions you dive in. The edges of the mask are feathered and the straps widely split to fit perfectly on your face.
The mask is available in 8 colors to give you a wide choice as you shop.
- You can adjust the straps on the mask easily to get the best fit possible.
- The lens is made from tempered glass, which is highly durable.
- The viewing capability is amazing thanks to the 3 windows used on the mask.
- Some users claim that the mask tends to pinch around the nose, making it uncomfortable.
4. Atomic Aquatics Venom Mask – Best for all types of faces
This black/red scuba diving mask features a black skirt and will give you added viewing abilities. This is because it features the new and improved ultra-clear Schott superwrite glass lens that comes designed for top-level optical clarity.
They also feature a branded subframe design that has no additional frame. This subframe design also features a hydrodynamic styling that helps prevent leakages as you dive into water.
For strength and a secure fit, the skirt is made with a dual-layer of high quality silicone that is also dual-colored.
The mask is made in a one-window design that can also be said to be low volume. This gives you a wide viewing angle and eliminates any obstruction for a clear forward vision. To adjust the mask strap for a comfortable fit, you only need to squeeze-to-adjust.
- The fit of this mask is amazing no matter how wide or narrow your face may be.
- The view provided by this mask is unbelievably great thanks to the ultra-clear lenses.
- Some users complain that the silicone on the lens tends to cause intense fogging and you may need to torch it before use.
5. Cressi Big Eyes Evolution Crystal – Best for a clear downward view
If you are searching for a diving and snorkeling mask, then this is the right brand for you because it takes the clarity of your view into account. It is designed with inclined and inverted teardrop lenses so you can have a clear downward view as you undertake that fun outdoor activity.
The lenses are made of tempered glass for a lifetime satisfaction guarantee. Their field of view is in the lower zone, ensuring that it is wide enough. The mask has a Cressi patented technology that includes easy-to-use buckles that feature a swivel system so you can adjust the length of the straps fast.
It is available in 5 colors from which you can choose your favorite. You will get a clear plastic box where you can store the mask when not in use.
- The mask is made of crystal silicone that protects it against a yellowing that would affect its durability and appearance.
- It is designed by one of the leading manufacturers of scuba diving gear.
- Some users feel that the quality of the straps could be improved since they might break when you try to use the mask.
6. Hollis M1 Frameless Scuba Diving Dive Mask – Best multifunctional mask
This mask might just be the most versatile mask in the market because you can use it for scuba diving, free diving, spearfishing etc. It comes in black without snorkel.
The skirt of this mask is not only frameless but is also made from 100 percent pure silicone that makes it firm for a lifetime usage.
The mask features the Saint-Gobain Diamant technology, which means the lenses are clear and capable of providing an open view.
It has a wide vision and a low volume that gives you a large field of view while diving. This makes your experience in the ocean breathtaking.
The mask comes with a case where it is safely kept for travel convenience. Its straps are easy to adjust, ensuring that you can fit the mask on your face excellently.
- This mask provides a distortion free vision as you go diving since it is designed to provide high optical quality.
- It is made with premium quality tempered glass that is highly durable.
- Its inside is made with a super soft material so your face is comfortable.
- You may need to burn the silicone on the lens to prevent a fogging effect that could affect your vision.
7. Tusa M1001 FREEDOM HD Scuba Diving Mask – The best single lens mask
This Tusa scuba diving mask has a single lens whose vision is clear and field of view is amazingly wide. Its buckle system rotates to 180° so you can easily get the mask to fit you correctly. Moreover, the mask allows micro-adjustments thanks to its five-position strap angle adjuster.
It has a large frame whose internal volume is incredibly low to maximize your view of the surrounding. The skirt of the mask comes with a round-edge so your view is unimpeded. It comes in 9 colors providing a variety of choices for you.
- This mask gives you an excellent value for your money.
- It is available in different sizes.
- It features a design that makes it ideal for stylish divers.
- Some users experienced a bit of leakage while scuba diving with this mask.
8. ScubaPro Spectra Dive Mask – Best for small and thin faces
This mask has dual lenses that are made from tempered glass that has undergone intense strengthening for guaranteed firmness and durability. Its lenses are low volume for a clear view for convenience. The mask is made to provide maximum visibility despite the diving conditions.
It has a swivel system on the buckles. As such, it fits well after an easy and quick adjustment.
Its frame is coated with a superior quality paint, making it stylish and elegant while underwater. Moreover, it comes in 7 colors that allow you to pick your favorite color.
Its compact two-window design makes it comfortable on your face. A silicone skirt further enhances its firmness for durability.
- The buckles are adjustable so you can embark on your diving adventure.
- The mask is a sophisticated eyewear that is ideal for people going for a dandified look.
- The mask will fit narrow and smaller faces comfortably.
- The mask may not be a good choice for people with wide and larger faces.
- Some users claim that the mask tends to fog a lot.
- Several users feel that the mask could be improved since it leaks around the nose.
9. Mares I3 Sunrise Scuba Mask – Best for peripheral vision
One of the unique features about this mask is that it utilizes the Tri-comfort technology around the skirt for reliability and convenience.
It is designed with an X-shaped strap that positions it securely on your face.
The buckles come with two buttons that are ergonomically designed for ease of use. They can be adjusted quickly so the mask is ideal for beginners.
Furthermore, you can work and adjust the straps even when you have thick gloves on. As such, it might be the best mask for people with a wide face.
The mask features a wide central glass complemented by smaller panels fitted on either sides for a side view. It is available in 3 colors.
- It comes with a huge field of vision so you can get a clear view of where you are diving.
- It is made from premium quality silicone.
- Some users feel that the mask could be improved since it leaks and tends to fog a lot.
10. Atomic Aquatics Frameless Mask for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling – Best for a panoramic view
This mask comes with large lenses so you can have a wider field of view. This works well with the close fitting skirt to ensure that your view is unobstructed even when it is foggy outside.
The mask has easy to use squeeze-to-adjust buckles that secure the mask on your face. This gives the mask a sleek hydrodynamic look. Besides its sleek look, it is frameless.
The mask is computer designed to maximize your field of vision. This is because it works upwards, downwards, as well as sideways.
- The mask is available in varying sizes and 15 colors that you can choose from based on your needs and taste.
- Its design gives it a comfortable fit.
- The panoramic view of the mask is on another level.
- Some users feel that the silicone used is low quality and might peel off after just a few uses.
Buying guide for the best scuba diving mask
Factors to look out for
When buying a scuba diving mask, you need to make various decisions. These include:
The type of lenses
There are single, dual, and multiple lenses featured in diving masks. Although this does not affect the performance and comfort of the mask, some people prefer one to the other. The most important thing is ensuring the mask is comfortable and capable of providing a wide field of vision as you dive. The view should also be clear enough; this is usually provided by low volume lens.
Nevertheless, the single lens masks do not have a nose bridge that could narrow the field of view. Be it as it may, these single lens masks are large, and it is impossible to use them alongside prescription lenses.
However, if you put on prescription glasses, you may need replaceable lenses since one eye might need more clarity and lens correction than the other do.
The multiple lens masks have narrow windows and are ideal for enhancing your field of view upwards, downwards, and on the sides.
You should go for masks that provide peripheral vision; those designed in a panoramic style are the best.
Moreover, the quality of the lens matters and going for those made of tempered glass is a great decision since they are strong and durable.
Mask frame
Some masks come fitted with a frame while others are frameless. Each has its pros and cons. For instance, the framed scuba diving goggles are easy to repair and are ideal for people using prescription lenses.
On the other hand, the frameless masks are lighter and slimmer so you can pack and carry them easily. They are also low volume meaning you can adjust your view better. Moreover, most users argue that frameless masks fit more comfortably and have minimal or no leakage issues.
Mask skirt
This is among the most crucial features of a mask because it influences how well it fits around your eyes and in your face. The best mask should have a high quality silicone skirt so it is flexible and tensile for a proper fit based on the shape and size of your face.
Straps and buckle system
Now that you have a well designed scuba diving mask, you need to consider how secure it will stay in place. The best mask should have silicone straps to stay intact. However, most manufacturers use rubber on their straps or a buckle system. If you opt for the latter, the buckles should be of high quality and easy and fast to adjust.
The best buckle system comes fixed on the skirt rather than the frames, ensuring that the facemask fits better. For comfort, the straps should not be too tight. To prevent leakages, they should not be too loose.
How to maintain a scuba diving mask for lifetime use
Like any other gear, the way you care for the mask will greatly determine how durable it will be.
Avoid leaving the mask under the sun for too long because the silicone or plastic used might develop weaknesses, fade, or even crack.
If you dive in salty water, chances are that the salt will build up around the seams if not well cleaned. As such, always rinse the mask in clean water and allow it enough drying time by leaving it in open air.
Additionally, make sure to use the case or travel bag it comes with for safekeeping.
Conclusion
Now that you know enough about scuba diving masks, we recommend that you get yourself a pair instead of renting one. This way, you will always have a comfortable and durable mask that provides peripheral vision for a larger field of view.
When shopping, go for masks fitted with the new buckle systems since they are easier to handle.
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