If you love exploring the wonders of the underwater world, you know how important it is to have a good snorkel mask. Standard snorkel masks can be uncomfortable and inconvenient, especially if you have to deal with a mouthpiece and limited coverage. That’s why you should try a full-face snorkel mask instead. They can improve your diving experience by covering your whole face, letting you breathe naturally, and eliminating the need for a mouthpiece.
So get ready to dive into the best full-face snorkel masks and enjoy amazing aquatic adventures. But before we do that, let’s see how they differ from the standard ones.
Tribord SUBEA Easybreath
Cressi Duke Full Face Mask
Zipoute Full Face Snorkel Mask
Full Face Snorkel Mask vs. Traditional Snorkel Mask
A full-face snorkel mask and a traditional snorkel mask have some key differences that can affect your diving experience. Here are some of them:
- Coverage: A full-face snorkel mask covers your entire face, from your forehead to your chin, while a traditional snorkel mask only covers your eyes and nose. This means that a full-face snorkel mask can protect your face from water, sun, and cold, while a traditional snorkel mask can expose your mouth and cheeks.
- Breathing: A full-face snorkel mask allows you to breathe through your nose and mouth, just like on land, while a traditional snorkel mask requires you to breathe through a mouthpiece attached to a tube. This means that a full-face snorkel mask can make you feel more comfortable and relaxed, while a traditional snorkel mask can cause jaw fatigue, dry mouth, and gagging.
- Visibility: A full-face snorkel mask has a large, curved lens that gives you a wide and clear view of the underwater scenery, while a traditional snorkel mask has two separate lenses that can limit your peripheral vision and create distortion. This means that a full-face snorkel mask can enhance your enjoyment and safety, while a traditional mask can make you miss some details and feel claustrophobic.
If you want to learn more about the regular masks and other equipment, you can check out our comprehensive review of our snorkeling gear here.
Pros and Cons of a Full Face Snorkel Mask
Buying and using a full-face snorkel mask will have some advantages and disadvantages. To help you decide if this is the right equipment for your aquatic activities, consider the following list of pros and cons.
- Full-face masks are ideal for beginners. A full-face mask allows you to breathe normally without difficulty, while a regular snorkel requires some practice.
- No jaw fatigue! Your jaw can get tired when you wear a regular snorkel for a long time. A full face mask eliminates the need for a mouthpiece, which can cause jaw and tooth pain after extended use. A mask like this might be helpful for longer trips or if you tend to clench your jaw.
- Full-face masks don’t limit your field of vision at all. These masks offer unlimited visibility in all directions because they cover the wearer’s face.
- They don’t fog up as much as other options. When you first get in the water, nothing is more annoying than having your mask fog up. Full-face masks, however, solve the problem because their unique breathing mechanism and airflow valves prevent fogging.
- The equipment is larger and bulkier than regular snorkeling gear. These masks are much bulkier than a single mask with a snorkel attached. As a result, they could be more convenient to carry on trips.
- You won’t be able to dive deep. The snorkel valve on a full-face mask won’t close during submersion, which is possible with regular snorkeling gear because of the dry top. If you go deep enough, the pressure inside the mask will increase, so you won’t be able to breathe without removing the mask. Therefore, a full face mask is not recommended if you often dive below the surface for close-up observation of the environment.
- You might have trouble breathing. Some users have trouble breathing when using a full-face mask, especially during intense exercise. Some people have reported breathing difficulties when submerged to the level of their faces. The fact that old air is trapped inside the mask for so long is a major factor.
The Best Full Face Snorkel Masks For Your Next Underwater Adventure
Choosing the best full-face mask from a reputable manufacturer is essential, as many cheap masks have yet to be tested properly and might pose significant risks to divers. Here is a summary of the best full-face snorkel masks we’ve tried and recommended.
Tribord SUBEA Easybreath – Best Full Face Mask for Travel
What We Like:
- Available in Four sizes
- Newly updated model
- Optional GoPro mount
What we Don’t Like:
- Expensive to import
- Some prefer silicone straps
This best full-face snorkel mask is the improved version of the first Tribord full-face snorkel mask launched in 2014. It offers the widest size range on this list, with four options (including one for kids ages 6 to 10), increasing the chance of getting a snug, leak-free fit. The mask’s soft fabric straps and the hypoallergenic silicone seal work together to provide hours of comfortable wear. Thanks to the molded polycarbonate lens, the mask’s flat front and slightly curved sides give you a clear 180-degree field of view without any distortion. The dry-top snorkel has a sturdy lock that prevents it from coming off while swimming, and the double-chambered circulation system allows constant airflow that keeps the mask fog-free. You can also buy a GoPro mount separately and enjoy a longer warranty period of two years.
Ocean Reef Aria QR+ – Best Full Face Snorkel Mask
What We Like:
- Available in 8 sizes
- Compatible with exclusive accessories
- Included GoPro mount
What we Don’t Like:
- Relatively expensive
- Most accessories are separately charged
The Ocean Reef Aria QR+ is your best choice if you want to snorkel with glasses. It has a dry-top snorkel, a 180-degree field view, and an independently verified air circulation system. It has a GoPro mount and features quick-release elastic straps for a customized fit. You can also choose from optional accessories, such as the Snorkie Talkie (a branded accessory that lets you communicate underwater) or matching Duo travel fins. If you need corrective lenses, you’ll be glad Ocean Reef offers an Optical Lens Kit that can be used with this best full-face snorkel mask. They come in three different sizes and eight unique colors, all with a black silicone face seal to reduce glare. Besides its performance, this mask has a two-year warranty and a mesh bag for easy storage and drying.
WildHorn Outfitters Seaview 180° V2 – Best Advanced Full Face Snorkel Mask
What We Like:
- Action camera mount
- Designed and tested in the US
- Flowtech system for increased air intake
What we Don’t Like:
- Lesser-known brand
- Only under warranty for one year
The Seaview from Wildhorn Outfitters is a US-made kayak that might be less famous, but you shouldn’t overlook it because of its quality and safety standards. (Their products for mountain riding are also awesome.) The Seaview has a polycarbonate, flat lens that offers clear, 180-degree peripheral vision and a silicone, medical-grade frame. Another remarkable feature of this mask is Flowtech, a patented air circulation technology that combines two chambers and four intake valves to deliver air with minimal resistance. According to most reviews, this is the most user-friendly full-face snorkel mask they’ve ever used. The Best for Breathability? Yes. It prevents fogging, drains water automatically, and can even mount a GoPro camera. The latter is a great option for people who want to record their dive. The mask comes in three different sizes and a variety of colors.
Ocean Reef Aria UNO – Most Comfortable Full Face Snorkel Mask
What We Like:
- Compatible with optional accessories
- Safety tested by a third party
- Simple yet classic design
What we Don’t Like:
- Only two sizes to choose from
- Fewer colors available
The Aria UNO is Ocean Reef’s most budget-friendly full-face mask, but it has passed the same rigorous safety tests as its more expensive products. It has all the features, including the 180-degree field of view and the innovative air circulation technology, that prevent deadly carbon dioxide buildup. Thanks to a dry top snorkel and water purge valve, you won’t have to worry about getting any seawater in your eyes. A silicone strap gives the mask a snug and comfortable fit (although some might find the plastic hard to adjust over wet hair). It comes in two sizes and has fewer color options. But if you can wait for more money, you can use any Ocean Reef aftermarket accessories with the mask.
Cressi Duke Full Face Mask – Best Quality Full Face snorkel Mask
What We Like:
- 30 percent larger field of vision
- A Fog Stop system ensures clear vision
- Newly updated model
What we Don’t Like:
- Only available in two sizes
- More expensive than some competitors
The Duke is the latest full-face snorkel mask from Cressi, an Italian company that has led the snorkeling industry since 1946. The innovative Fog Stop feature, which uses a special deflector to improve airflow and keep vision clear, makes this model our top choice for people who want a fog-free experience no matter what. The improved mask offers a wider viewing area of 30% and more breathing space around the nose and mouth. A dry top snorkel and a one-way safety valve let you expel any water that might enter the mask. The face skirt is hypoallergenic silicone, while the frame and lenses are scratch-resistant polycarbonates for long-lasting comfort and a leak-proof fit. It comes in two sizes and ten color options, and you can adjust the fit with the crisscrossed fabric straps.
Zipoute Full Face Snorkel Mask – Best Budget Full face Snorkel Mask
What We Like:
- Made with medical-grade silicone
- 180-degree panoramic view
- Attachment for GoPro is available
What we Don’t Like:
- Initial adjustment might be difficult
If you have sensitive skin or allergies and want to explore the underwater world without sacrificing comfort or clarity, you might want to try the Zipoute Snorkel Mask. This mask is made of high-quality PC and medical-grade silicone that won’t irritate your skin or cause allergic reactions. It also has a snug and comfortable fit that prevents water from leaking in and fogging up your vision. You can breathe easily through your nose or mouth with the separated channel system that keeps the air flowing smoothly. The mask has a bright black color that makes it easy to spot in dark waters. It comes in two sizes to fit different faces and folds up for convenient travel and storage. With all these benefits, it’s easy to see why this mask is a favorite among snorkelers.
Best Full Face Snorkel Mask Buyer’s Guide
If you love snorkeling, you know how important it is to have a good mask. A bad mask can ruin your experience by letting air escape, causing discomfort, or blocking your view. That’s why you need a Full Face Snorkel Mask that fits your face perfectly and has all the necessary features.
Full Face Snorkel Masks differ from regular diving masks because they cover your whole face and let you breathe through your nose and mouth. They also have a special valve that prevents exhaled air from fogging up the mask.
One of the pioneers of this design was the Tribord, which solved the air leakage problem that plagued earlier versions. Since then, Full Face Snorkel Masks have evolved to include more advanced features, such as the Ocean Reef Aria with Walkie-Talkie, which allows you to communicate with your snorkeling buddies.
But not all Full-Face Snorkel Masks are created equal. You must choose one that suits your face shape, size, and preferences. You must also consider the material, the snorkel attachment, and the mask’s visibility. Don’t worry; we’ve done the hard work for you. We’ll guide you how to pick the best Full Face Snorkel Mask for your snorkeling adventures.
Fit
A Full Face Snorkel Mask covers your entire face, so you must ensure it fits you well. Otherwise, you might end up with water leaking into your mask, which can be annoying and even dangerous. Trust us; we’ve been there.
You need to measure your face length to find the right size for your mask. You can use a tape measure or a string for this. Start from the top of your eyebrows to the bottom of your chin. This will tell you how long your face is and help you choose the best size for your mask.
Most Full Face Snorkel Masks have adjustable straps that fit different face widths. They also have silicone edges that seal the mask to your face and prevent water from getting in. But if you still feel the water in your mask, you should tighten the straps or try a smaller size.
A well-fitting Full Face Snorkel Mask will make your snorkeling experience more enjoyable and safe. You’ll be able to breathe easily and see clearly without any distractions.
Materials
When you buy a Full Face Snorkel Mask, you want to make sure it’s well-made and comfortable. One of the things you should look for is the silicone skirt surrounding the mask. This part keeps water from your mask and makes it feel soft on your face. If you have sensitive skin, choose a mask with hypoallergenic silicone that won’t irritate your skin.
Another thing you should pay attention to is the snorkel itself. You want a snorkel that has a dry top and a wave guard. These features prevent water from entering your mask through the tube, even if you dive or encounter waves. If you don’t have these features, you’ll have a wet and unpleasant snorkeling experience.
Finally, you should consider the materials and the weight of the mask. Some masks are more durable and lightweight, making them easier to pack and carry on your trips. You want a mask that can last long and won’t weigh you down
Strap
A good full-face snorkel mask should have easily adjusted and comfortable straps. The straps should fit snugly around your head to prevent water from seeping into the mask. You should also check the type and quality of the straps before buying a mask.
Some straps are made of plastic or rubber, which can hold the mask securely. But if you have long hair, you might find them annoying. They can get tangled in your hair and make it hard to remove the mask. You might end up pulling your hair or hurting your scalp. A better option is to choose a mask with soft, elastic straps. These straps are gentle on your hair, making it easy to wear and remove the mask. Another feature to look for is quick-release attachments.
These allow you to detach the straps quickly and easily. This can be useful if you need to remove your mask in a hurry, for example, if there is an emergency, if water gets into your mask, or if you just feel uncomfortable. However, be careful with quick-release attachments with velcro or other sticky parts. They can also catch your hair and cause pain or damage.
Field of view
One of the main reasons why people choose full-face masks over regular snorkeling masks is that they offer a wider view of the underwater world. Full-face masks cover your whole face and have a large window that lets you see more than regular masks. Some full face masks can give you a 180-degree view, which is amazing.
However, not all full-face masks have the same quality of vision. Some masks can distort your view, especially on the edges. This can make you feel dizzy or confused when snorkeling. You might miss some of the beautiful sights or even bump into something. You should look for a mask with a clear, undistorted window that gives you a wide and natural view.
Another thing you should consider when buying a full face mask is how easy it is to breathe in it. Breathing comfort is essential for a safe and enjoyable snorkeling experience. A poorly designed mask can cause problems with your breathing and even put your health at risk.
You should check that the mask has one-way valves on the snorkel and the orinasal part. These valves prevent air from mixing and fogging up the mask. They also prevent water from entering the mask if you dive or encounter waves. You should also ensure the mask fits your face well and doesn’t leak water.
People Also Searching for!
How We Identified The Best Full Face Snorkel Masks: Comparing The Top Full-Face Snorkel Masks Of 2023
We wanted to find out which snorkel mask is the best on the market, so we did a lot of research and testing. We looked at the products from the most trusted brands in the world and tried them ourselves. We also watched a lot of YouTube videos and read a lot of reviews from other snorkelers. We talked to experts in dive shops and snorkeling tours, and even consulted marine biologists. Here’s what we did:
- We watched many YouTube videos that explained and demonstrated different models of snorkel masks.
- We searched for the best full face snorkel masks on Amazon and read the customer reviews and ratings.
- We read articles from reputable websites that compared and reviewed various snorkel masks.
- We visited dive shops in Australia and Indonesia and talked to snorkeling, freediving, and diving gear specialists about their recommendations.
- We asked snorkeling tour leaders and marine biologists about their opinions on the performance and durability of snorkel masks.
- We have a lot of experience with snorkeling in different water conditions, so we know what to look for in a good mask.
- We also asked other snorkelers we met about their gear and what they liked or disliked about it.
Conclusion
Pack a full-face snorkel mask if you want to spice up your next trip to a tropical paradise or a sandy shore. This amazing device lets you explore underwater wonders with ease and comfort. But before you dive in, make sure you follow some safety tips.
Check that your mask fits snugly and securely, and have a backup plan if you have trouble breathing. You should also add extra features to your mask, such as a camera mount to capture your memories or a pair of prescription lenses to see clearly. The best full-face snorkel mask will give you a smooth, natural breathing experience and a stunning view of aquatic life.
