TripSavvy Trip Planning The 8 Best Full Face Snorkel Masks of 2023 Upgrade your snorkeling trip with the SEAC Libera Mask, our top overall pick By Jessica Macdonald Jessica Macdonald Facebook LinkedIn King's College London Jessica Macdonald lives in South Africa's Eastern Cape province and has been TripSavvy's Africa Expert since 2016. She also covers travel products and has written about everything from camping knives to climbing chalk. TripSavvy's editorial guidelines Updated on 07/26/22 Share Pin Email We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products—learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. TripSavvy's Picks The best full-face snorkel mask depends on your budget and individual requirements. However, the SEAC Libera ticks all our boxes as a model from a well-respected and tested brand with an equal emphasis on safety and performance. For a budget option, we like Ocean Reef’s Aria UNO. Created in 2014, full-face snorkel masks revolutionized the sport by allowing the wearer to breathe normally through their nose and mouth. Chris Denney of UK-based dive store Denney Diving offers other benefits, including “reduced jaw fatigue and fogging, a wider field of vision, and a dry-top snorkel that eliminates the need to clear water from the snorkel tube.” Overall, the masks have made vacation snorkeling experiences more accessible and enjoyable—especially for beginners. However, after a series of fatalities involving people wearing full face masks, concerns were raised about the dangers of potential carbon dioxide buildup. Several studies have been conducted, including one by Divers Alert Network and the Duke University Center for Hyperbaric Medicine and Environmental Physiology. The results found that full face masks manufactured by established brands with strict testing regulations were safe—but cheaper, untested models may not be as reliable. For this reason, we have focused exclusively on products from respected snorkel and scuba brands in the following roundup. Here are the best full-face masks currently on the market. Table of contents Expand Our Picks What to Look For FAQ Why Trust TripSavvy Best Overall SEAC Libera Full Face Snorkeling Mask Amazon View On Amazon What We Like A flat lens eliminates distortion Oversized valves for easier breathing Quick-release straps What We Don't Like More expensive than some competitors Some may prefer fabric straps The ZIPOUTE Snorkel Mask Full Face is one of the highest-rated full-face snorkel masks on the market. It offers superior comfort with a hypoallergenic silicone skirt that creates a leak-free seal around your face. The wide window allows for a 180º panoramic view that will never be obscured by fog, thanks to a separate breathing chamber that creates an airflow away from your main viewing visor. The snorkel’s drainage valve should help clear out water quickly—simply lift your head above the surface to allow it to drain out of the valve near the chin. There are two sizes: S/M for petite adults and children over 10 and L/XL for larger adults. The mask comes with a camera stand, so you can mount a GoPro and film everything you see, so you'll never forget it. Best Runner-Up TUSA Sport Full Face Snorkeling Mask Amazon View On Amazon View On Dick's What We Like Rigorous in-house and external testing A flat lens minimizes distortion Orinasal seal designed for peak performance What We Don't Like Only available in black Some may prefer silicone straps TUSA’s full-face snorkeling mask offers a progressive flat lens shape at a slightly lower price. The brand is widely respected in the snorkeling world and tests its masks in water with actual ocean use in mind. This model features a patented and independently tested air circulation system, which removes the risk of carbon dioxide buildup while also ensuring that the mask never fogs—giving you an unobstructed, 180-degree view of the reef below. Again, the dry top snorkel is designed to prevent water from entering the snorkel tube, even in rough water. If any flooding does occur, a specially designed orinasal seal stops the water from leaking into the eye section of the mask before being expelled through the purge valve at the chin. Choose one of three sizes, then adjust the fabric straps for a customized fit. Best Budget Ocean Reef Aria UNO Full Face Snorkel Mask Amazon View On Amazon What We Like Simple yet classic design Safety tested by a third party Compatible with optional accessories What We Don't Like Only two sizes to choose from Fewer colors available Designed as a simple, entry-level option for those on a budget, the Aria UNO nevertheless benefits from the same stringent safety testing as the higher-end Ocean Reef full face mask models. The basic features are the same, too, including the 180-degree panoramic view and the patented air circulation system that reduces fogging while preventing dangerous carbon dioxide buildup. A dry top snorkel and water purge valve keep your eyes saltwater free. The mask is held in place by a silicone strap that allows for a durable, precision fit (although some may find that the plastic is uncomfortable to adjust over wet hair). There are just two sizes to choose from and a reduced selection of colors; however, if you find a little more room in the budget later on, the mask is compatible with the full range of after-market Ocean Reef accessories. Best for Easy Breathing WildHorn Outfitters Seaview 180° V2 Full Face Snorkel Mask Amazon View On Amazon View On Seaview180.com What We Like Flowtech system for increased air intake Action camera mount Designed and tested in the US What We Don't Like Lesser-known brand Only under warranty for one year Designed and safety tested in the US, the Seaview from Wildhorn Outfitters might be lesser known, but don’t overlook them. (We also dig their mountain biking products.) The Seaview features a polycarbonate flat lens for accurate, 180-degree visibility; and a frame made out of medical-grade silicone. Most significantly, this mask also boasts the patent-pending Flowtech air circulation system, which uses two chambers and four intake valves to deliver air with minimum resistance. Multiple reviewers claim it is the easiest full-face snorkel mask to breathe through. It’s fog-resistant, has a purge valve that automatically drains water, and a mount for attaching a GoPro camera. The latter is an excellent facility for those that want to record their underwater adventure. The mask comes in three sizes and multiple colors. Best Visibility Mares Sea Vu Dry + Snorkel Mask Mares View On Amazon What We Like Combined flat surfaces for optimum visibility Effective air circulation system Five color combos to choose from What We Don't Like Available in two sizes only Not suitable for children under 10 This innovative full-face snorkel mask from top diving, freediving, and snorkeling brand Mares features combined flat surfaces around the side of the face as well as across the front for the perfect vision that’s free from distortion even on the periphery. There are five color combinations to choose from, with White/Clear offering see-through silicone all the way around, letting in the maximum light for the best possible clarity. The rest of the design follows the same pattern one would expect from a high-quality full-face mask, including large airflow sections for the optimum exchange of carbon dioxide and oxygen; and effective anti-leaking technology. You can make precise adjustments to the fit using the durable silicone straps—however, the mask comes in just two sizes and isn’t for younger children. The brand recommends supervision for children over 10. Best Anti-Fog Cressi Duke Full Face Mask Dick's Sporting Goods View On Amazon View On Dick's What We Like Newly updated model A Fog Stop system ensures clear vision 30 percent larger field of vision 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 brand established in 1946 and has been a pioneer in the snorkeling industry ever since. It is our choice model for those who want a guaranteed fog-free experience, thanks to the new Fog Stop system that uses a specialized deflector to maximize airflow and keep vision clear. The upgraded mask also has a 30 percent larger viewing area and generous air spaces around the nose and mouth for easy breathing. Other features include a dry top snorkel and a one-way safety valve for purging any water that enters the mask. The frame and lens feature durable polycarbonate, and the face skirt has soft, hypoallergenic silicone for long-wearing comfort and a faultless seal. X-cross fabric straps adjust the fit, and there are two sizes and ten colors from which to choose. Best Fit Tribord SUBEA Easybreath Full Face Mask Amazon View On Amazon What We Like Newly updated model Available in four sizes Optional GoPro mount What We Don't Like Expensive to import Some prefer silicone straps This is the updated version of the original full-face snorkel mask launched by Tribord in 2014. With four sizes to choose from (including one intended for children aged 6 to 10), it offers the greatest range of sizes on this list and, therefore, the highest likelihood of finding a perfect, leak-free fit. Soft fabric straps hold the mask firmly in place without snagging your hair, while the hypoallergenic silicone seal should provide hours of comfortable wear. The mask also features a molded polycarbonate lens that’s flat across the front and curved at the sides, providing a 180-degree field of view with little to no distortion. A continuous airflow enabled by the double-chambered circulation system reduces fog, while the dry top snorkel comes with a secure lock to prevent it from detaching in the water. Other benefits include an optional GoPro mount and a generous two-year warranty. Best Customization Ocean Reef Aria QR+ Full Face Snorkel Mask Amazon View On Amazon View On Scuba.com What We Like Included GoPro mount Compatible with exclusive accessories Available in eight colors What We Don't Like Relatively expensive Most accessories are separately charged The Ocean Reef Aria QR+ includes all standard mask features, such as an independently tested air circulation system, a 180-degree field of view, and a dry top snorkel. It also has quick-release elastic straps for a customized fit and an included GoPro mount. If you want to accessorize further, you can choose from a range of extras: the Snorkie Talkie, perhaps (a brand exclusive that allows you to communicate underwater), or matching Duo travel fins. Those with glasses will be pleased to hear that the mask is also compatible with Ocean Reef’s Optical Lens Kit—a frame that can be installed inside the mask and fitted with corrective lenses. There are three sizes and eight striking colors, all with a dark silicone face seal to reduce incoming surface glare. Bonus: the mask comes with a two-year warranty and a mesh carry bag for easy drying. What to Look For in a Full Face Snorkel Mask Strap Type Full-face snorkel mask straps mostly contain either silicone or fabric. There are pros and cons to both—some prefer silicone straps because they dry quicker and are typically easier to adjust, while others, especially those with long hair, find fabric straps less prone to tangling and therefore more comfortable. Straps with a quick-release mechanism are preferable since they enable you to remove the mask with one click in the event of malfunction or flooding. Fit As dive store director Chris Denney says, “a badly fitting mask will leak and ruin your experience,” so properly consulting the manufacturer’s sizing guide is vital. If you can try it before you buy, an excellent way to check the seal is to put the mask on without using the straps. If it stays in place while you inhale, it should fit. Denney also advises that those with a beard will likely experience leaking—but a trim should solve the problem quickly. Anti-Fog By definition, full-face masks are less prone to fogging than traditional snorkel masks because—as a freediver, scuba instructor, and Cressi ambassador Marcello Pastonesi points out—“the eye area is completely separate from the mouth and nose area.” However, some higher-end masks, including the Cressi Duke, use patented anti-fog technology to ensure that your vision stays clear throughout your snorkel trip. Price Although it’s possible to find non-branded full-face snorkel masks for roughly half the price of those listed here, Denney recommends spending the extra money on a “branded model from one of the established diving manufacturers who have lots of experience in product design and ensure all of the models they produce are carbon dioxide tested.” This is about more than functionality or brand loyalty—it’s about avoiding a potentially life-threatening situation. Frequently Asked Questions What is a full-face snorkel mask? Full-face snorkel masks create a seal around your entire face so that you can breathe normally underwater. According to our experts, they are ideal for “beginners or those that don’t feel comfortable using a regular snorkel” and are “predominantly designed for surface snorkeling on vacation.” Because you can’t access your nose, equalizing is impossible; therefore, full-face snorkel masks are unsuitable for duck-diving or freediving. What is distortion? Distortion refers to how objects can appear wavy or bent when viewed through a curved surface. Some full-face snorkel masks have a curved lens and therefore result in minor distortion—which can be barely noticeable for some and result in dizziness or vertigo for others. An excellent way to avoid this is to opt for a flat lens model that allows you to view the underwater world correctly. Why Trust TripSavvy Jessica Macdonald is a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor with several years of experience working in diving and snorkeling equipment stores. For this article, she consulted two full-face snorkel mask experts: Chris Denney, director of Northern England’s premier dive store, Denny Diving; and Marcello Pastonesi, a freediver, scuba instructor, and ambassador for Cressi. After listening to their advice, she decided to exclusively include safety-tested masks from trusted snorkeling brands, which were then evaluated according to price, features, and user reviews. Was this page helpful? 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