Snorkel Masks

When you want to explore below the surface of the water, but you prefer a more casual and inexpensive experience than scuba diving, snorkeling is a great alternative.

To go snorkeling, all you need is a snorkeling face mask and a snorkel tube. You can also add fins to your kit for easier and more effective swimming.

Wear a Snorkel Mask for Hassle-Free Snorkeling

Snorkel masks cover your eyes and nose so you can see clearly underwater. They come in a few different configurations depending on your preferences.

The two main varieties of masks are full-face snorkel masks and traditional snorkel masks. 

Full-Face Snorkel Masks

Full-face snorkels cover your entire face and the snorkel tube is built into the mask itself. Many swimmers prefer full-face snorkel masks because they tend to feel less restrictive and provide better unobstructed visibility.

If you prefer a full-face mask, you should keep in mind that some types of valves in the snorkel prevent fogging but can also prevent the carbon dioxide you exhale from fully evacuating the mask. Make sure you know how to use your mask safely, and stop using it if you become dizzy or lightheaded.

Traditional Snorkel Masks

Classic snorkeling masks cover only the eyes and nose, so swimmers must inhale and exhale through their mouths. Some snorkel masks feature frames with separate lenses for each eye, while others have a single lens.

Two-lens masks often conform better to the shape of the face and head for improved comfort and reduced fogging.

Snorkeling Mask Skirts

All snorkel masks have a “skirt,” which is a soft rubber or silicone portion that comes in contact with the face. The skirt creates a watertight seal to let you see clearly underwater. Before using your snorkeling mask on an excursion, make sure it fits snugly against your face for a waterproof seal.

Types of Lenses

Choose snorkel goggles with tempered glass since they are tough, reliable, and provide clear vision underwater. Plastic lenses can crack easily and are more prone to discoloration and breakage. If you wear glasses, on the other hand, you may opt for masks with corrective lens compatibility.

Shop for High-Quality Snorkel Masks at Scuba.com

Choose from brands such as Blue Reef, Cressi, TUSA, US Divers for well-made, comfortable, and long-lasting snorkeling gear.

FAQs

What are the different types of snorkeling masks?

Full-face masks and classic snorkeling masks are the two most popular varieties of snorkeling masks. Classic snorkeling masks go over your eyes and nose so you can see clearly below the surface, while full-face snorkel masks cover your entire face so you can breathe through your nose or mouth.

How do you keep snorkeling masks from fogging up?

To prevent your snorkel mask from fogging up, add anti-fog solution or a bit of saliva to the inside of the mask lenses. Try to avoid touching the inside of the mask or exhaling through your nose.