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Are you looking for the best snorkel masks of 2022? Of course, you are. You wouldn’t be here otherwise. Well, you’ve come to the right place, because we have seven of the all-time best snorkel masks lined up for you.
What’s the Best Snorkel Mask?
Whether you have a trip planned, want to head to the beach, or only want to putter around in your pool, there’s a snorkel mask for you. Depending on your needs and budget a mask will be better or worse for you.
Budget and type of trip are usually the deciding factors. Each mask chosen was carefully selected for its unique qualities. Here’s our lineup and why they stand out:
Our Picks for the Best Snorkel Masks
- Best Overall: Wstoo Snorkel Mask
- Best Budget: U.S. Divers Icon Mask Set
- Best Kids: QingSong Kids Snorkel Mask
- Best Full-Face: QingSong Full-Face Snorkel Mask
- Best Two Piece: Greatever Dry Snorkel
- Best Half-Face One Piece: Fuiyooncan Snorkel Mask
- Best with GoPro Attachment: Tawak Anti-leak Panoramic Snorkel Set
No matter your style or experience level, one of these masks is sure to impress you. Are you surprised at how many types of masks there are? Well, there’s a reason for that. It’s vital to use a good mask. Here’s why:
Why You Need a Good Snorkel Mask
Danis Moskvinov/Shutterstock
With summer just around the corner and travel becoming easier by the day, many people are booking trips in anticipation of sunny weather. Many of us use the summer to go to the beach, resorts, or cruises, and in many instances, we get the perfect opportunity to snorkel.
Whether you’ve been snorkeling before or not, you know how important it is to find a good mask. Going under and having water rush into the mask or clog up the snorkel is an experience no one wants to deal with.
Prevent disaster by buying the best snorkel mask you can ahead of time. Depending on your age, experience level, swimming style, and where you plan to snorkel, you may need a different type of mask.
Kids often experience the most trouble finding a mask as many companies only offer cheap imitations. Well, worry not, because here we have for you the seven best snorkel masks for anyone and everyone.
Best Snorkel Masks: Our Top 7 Picks
No matter what type of mask you’re looking for, we’ve picked out only the best. These masks are top-of-the-line products that will ensure you’re best prepared for your next beach vacation.
1. Best Overall – Wstoo Snorkel Mask
- Many color options
- Leak-proof
- No fogging
- Can sometimes get sand around the drain hole
- Doesn’t fit all face shapes
The full-face Wstoo Snorkel Mask uses the latest technology for underwater breathing systems with three separate air channels. The face shield grants a perfect 180° view and won’t fog up. There is no distortion through the face shield.
The double exhaust system is responsible for preventing fogging by venting exhaled air out faster. This mask also has a double-lined ring made of food-grade silicone to prevent leakage. By using a double ring, the mask can prevent leaks without putting undue pressure on any part of your face.
The entire mask stays on easily and comfortably thanks to a wide rubber headband that adjusts on the sides. There are also quick-release buttons on the side in case of an emergency.
The snorkel detaches from the top of the mask for easy storage and transportation. This mask also has optional attachments for an underwater camera or GoPro.
Users of this mask love the total comfort they feel when snorkeling in this mask. The mask never fogs up or leaks, and the breathing tube prevents water from getting in if you go underwater.
Happy customers describe snorkeling in this mask as an effortless and fun experience that can change their entire perspective. They also praise the lack of a learning curve and love that first-time snorkelers can jump right in.
2. Best Budget – U.S. Divers Icon Mask Set
- Comfortable fit
- Easy to use
- No fogging
- The mask strap attachment can be a bit fragile
- Leaks occasionally
The Divers Icon Mask is the best budget mask; it is a two-piece set with a half mask and a breathing tube. The divided eyepieces help prevent fogging and provide more comfort and support.
Not only is this mask very affordable, but it is also designed by divers. The snorkel is ergonomic, and the whole set is flexible and adjustable for maximum comfort while diving.
The snorkel has a one-way valve to prevent any water from getting in, and the mask has an extra-wide fringe to seal and prevent leaks. The mouthpiece is also ergonomic to reduce fatigue while swimming.
This set is excellent for any experience level. Customers love how well this mask works for the price. It is super adjustable and works for any skill level or style of swimmer.
It can have issues with leaking and works best in warmer waters, but overall, customers are very satisfied with the product so long as they aren’t expecting a grade-A professional level mask.
3. Best Kids – QingSong Kids Snorkel Mask
- Works on young children
- Easy for kids to use
- Leak-proof
- Can’t hear kid through the mask
- Hard to get on
The QingSong Kids Snorkel Mask is a full-face mask with a top-mounted snorkel. It offers a full 180° panoramic view, and there is no distortion of fogging in the face mask. The shell is hard plastic with a thick silicone seal and a wide rubber strap to hold it on.
This mask is a perfect option for kids as it is easier to use than traditional two-piece masks and has fewer issues with leakage and fogging.
The snorkel has a floating ball stop to prevent water from getting in, and there is an optional mount for underwater cameras. This mask also comes in several colors and has a couple of options with UV-protected face shields.
Customers say that their kids love this mask. Kids from two to ten can effortlessly learn to swim underwater using this mask. It fits kids and doesn’t leak. Users rave about how much their kids enjoy using them.
4. Best Full-Face – QingSong Full-Face Snorkel Mask
- No fogging
- No leaking
- Comfortable fit
- Occasional sand problem
- Not suitable for strenuous swimming
The QingSong Full-Face Snorkel Mask for adults is just like the one for kids but comes in many more colors and sizes. This mask has a flat face shield that prevents distortion and fogging, and it seals perfectly around the face thanks to the wide silicone band.
This is a professional-grade mask that can filter out exhaled air faster than most other masks and uses three airway channels to keep air moving at all times.
This model also has a quick release on each side to get the mask off fast in the event of an emergency. You can adjust the straps to fit perfectly and get the best seal. This mask has anti-fog guarantees and an advanced design that will prevent leaks.
The snorkel has two air channels to vent exhaled air and bring in new air separately. It also keeps the water out if you go under and can fold down for easy storage and transportation. Users adore the comfortable fit and perfect visibility.
They love being able to pack down the snorkel for trips and not having to worry about discomfort. The quality of the mask is top-notch, though it has a similar sand problem to other masks on occasion.
Customers surprise themselves at how well this mask works. It keeps out all water and never fogs up. It also has a spot to attach a GoPro.
5. Best Two Piece – Greatever Dry Snorkel
- No fogging
- No leaking
- Great value
- Doesn’t fit every face shape
- The strap may loosen over time
The Greatever Dry Snorkel is the best two-piece snorkel mask on the market. It has separate glass eyepieces that resist fogging. It is also tempered glass, just in case. The glass is so tough you can use this mask for scuba diving.
The thick food-grade silicone seal keeps out all water and is comfortable against your face. This mask is easy to adjust and has a great reputation among divers. It fits many face sizes and shapes.
The sides of the mask are clear silicone to offer a wider range of vision while diving, and the snorkel has separate channels to keep air flowing consistently. The snorkel and mask are professional-grade and will prevent all water from getting in.
People who have bought this mask say they have no issues with leaking and surprise themselves at the quality, considering the price is fairly low. Customers find the snorkel easy to breathe through and praise the mask and mouthpiece for their comfortable fit. People are also impressed with the anti-fog system.
6. Best Half-Face One Piece – Fuiyooncan Snorkel Mask
- Unique breathing system
- Light-weight
- No mouthpiece
- Forehead discomfort after a while
- Water may get in eyepieces
The Fuiyooncan Snorkel Mask is a unique design. It is a half mask with an attached snorkel that comes out the top like a full mask.
This peculiar design is lighter and more comfortable than full-face masks and comes in two sizes. The seal is liquid silicone that molds perfectly to your face shape to prevent leaks, and the huge plastic eyepieces are anti-fogging.
This mask is easier to use than most two-pieces as you don’t have to breathe through your mouth. It is lightweight and super adjustable. The snorkel runs down the front of the mask over the nose. It is separate from the eyepieces, so it won’t cause fogging.
It also keeps water out if you go under. Customers are super impressed with how well the snorkel works. Even if water gets in the sides of the eyepieces, it never gets in the snorkel.
They also love that they don’t need to mouth-breathe to use it, and since there is no mouthpiece, many people can use it. Customers also say that it fits almost anyone very well, and the view stays clear and fog-free.
7. Best With GoPro Attachment – Tawak Anti-leak Panoramic Snorkel Set
- High quality
- Large, clear view
- Water-sealed snorkel
- Doesn’t fit smaller faces
- Doesn’t fit all face shapes
The Tawak Anti-Leak Panoramic Snorkel Set is the best for capturing underwater footage. The huge mask screen gives you a full panoramic view, is anti-fogging, and prevents glare.
The mask seals with a wide band of food-grade silicone and prevents all leaks. The snorkel is also leak-proof and has a perfect water seal at the top to keep water out if you go under.
The mask is lightweight for its size, easy to clean, and perfect for long sessions of freediving. The camera attachment on top is nearly universal and works with any sports camera, including GoPros. It is super secure and easily detachable.
Users like that this mask comes with earplugs, nose plugs, and a carrying bag. It also has a perfect seal, and the glass stays clear.
They feel impressed with the quality and price and commend the mask for being of near-professional quality. Some people have some issues with leakage, but most people found the experience flawless.
Finding the Best Snorkel Mask for You
Ruslan Grumble/Shutterstock
To ensure you get the best mask for you, here are some things to consider first:
Type
The first thing you need to look at when buying a mask is the type. We’ve gone over many styles of masks above, but what do you need to know to decide which one will work best for you? The first thing to look at is your experience level.
If you are a first-time or casual diver or you are buying for a child, then a full-face mask is probably the best idea as they are easy to adjust to.
Experienced divers may prefer a lighter weight and more customizable two-piece masks. If you want to avoid the mouthpiece, but still want something light, then a one-piece half-mask might be best.
Fit
Depending on your size, face shape, and age masks won’t fit the same. Some men find that facial hair gets in the way of a proper seal with certain styles of masks. Some women find that wider masks tend to leak at the sides.
Take time to figure out what your face shape is and where the seal of the mask will end up sitting on your face.
Wrinkles and low hairlines are other things to consider. One thing that many people forget too is glasses. You can wear glasses under some snorkel masks, but not all of them. The style of the nose piece is often the biggest factor.
Shield
You are snorkeling to look around underwater, so visibility is a priority. Glass masks are often clearer, but are more likely to fog in colder waters. Plastic masks may cause distortion and scratch more easily. Additionally, two flat eye lenses won’t offer as wide a view as a full face shield.
Price
The last consideration is the price. All the masks on this list are fairly inexpensive, but professional masks can get quite pricey. If you want something cheap, the quality is sure to be lacking, but mid-range masks are usually enough for casual snorkelers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are black or clear snorkel masks better?
Clear masks offer more visibility and are the better option for people who tend to feel catastrophic, but black masks are better if you plan to swim somewhere where glare is an issue. Generally, black or opaque edges are best for bright conditions, and clear ones are better for low light.
Are full-face snorkel masks worth it?
Mask type is entirely up to personal preference, but most people who use full-face masks report feeling freer and more relaxed in them. The field of view is wider and you can breathe through your mouth or nose.
Are scuba and snorkeling masks the same?
The short answer is no. They serve the same function, but scuba masks are generally of a higher caliber and can handle more intense pressure. You can use a scuba mask to snorkel, but it’s a lot more important to have a high-quality scuba mask than a snorkel mask.
Can you swim underwater with a full-face snorkel?
Yes, swimming underwater is fine in a full-face snorkel. So long as the snorkel has a stopper valve to prevent water from getting in, then you can stay underwater as long as you can hold your breath.
What is a snorkel mask made of?
Most snorkel masks are silicone; either food, medical, or liquid silicone. Silicone offers a good seal and is safe both in the water and on your face.
The body of the mask is usually harder plastic, and the lenses are either glass or plastic. The strap can be rubber or cloth. There isn’t usually any metal in snorkel masks.
So, what’s the Best Snorkel Mask?
The best snorkel mask is one that seals well, stays clear, and makes you feel comfortable.
- Many color options
- Leak-proof
- No fogging
- Can sometimes get sand around the drain hole
- Doesn’t fit all face shapes
The Wstoo Snorkel Mask does all that and more. Snorkeling is about having fun and experiencing life below the surface safely and visibly.