DIVE MASKS
Choosing the right scuba mask whether you are diving or snorkeling on vacation can make all the difference between frustration and a fantastic experience. No one likes a foggy or leaky mask and relying on a dive shop to have one that works for you is never ideal. In order to make this list, all masks had to satisfy certain requirements. Comfort, durability, construction quality and design were all factors. There is one mask not on our dive masks list that deserves special recommendation.
Ranked from divers scattered about the globe, these masks have been tested in various dive conditions and environments. From the tropical reefs of Belize to the majestic kelp forests of British Colombia soak in the view with ease. This is some of the best scuba equipment on offer. Any time something better comes along we will update this list with the latest and greatest scuba masks. Choosing your first dive mask as a beginner can be a little overwhelming, this scuba masks list is here to help you find the right scuba mask for your needs. Enjoy and of course…safe diving!
Scubapro Spectra Low Volume 2 Dive Mask
The Spectra Mask has a Double Feathered Edge High Quality Silicone Rubber Skirt and Wide Split Style Silicone Rubber Mask Strap that combine to create a Perfect Seal on the Face. The Dual Tempered Glass Lens Design allows for Maximum Underwater Vision and the Intake of Light. Mask is equipped with an Easy-to-Reach One-Hand Nose Pocket for Ear Equalization which can be utilized even when wearing thick gloves. The Mask is equipped with Easy to Adjust Swivel Buckle System. It’s Low-Profile Low Volume Personality means Clearing the Mask is an Effortless Task. Because the Spectra Mask has Two Lenses, you’ll be able to Clearly-and-Easily see more of what surrounds you. The Lenses of the Mask are made from an Ultra Clear Glass. Standard Glass has a Green Tint. The Green Tint you see is the result of Iron Impurities left over in Lower Quality Float” or Window type Glass. That Green Tint Distorts True Colors and Blocks-Out some of the Light that Reaches the Eye. Ultra-Clear is a new and exciting Optical Quality Tempered Glass with Exception
SeaDive Oceanways Superview-HD
Oceanways Superview SL High Definition Mask.This mask has OMC (Optical Multicoating) technology that minimizes UV and glare. It reduces light nanometers for better eye comfort and changes white light harshness to bluish light for improved contrast. The TrueColor lenses are specially formulated to pick up red (lost at ten feet) and yellow (lost at twenty feet) and define objects and give better depth perception.
ScubaPro Solo Scuba Diving Mask
We couldn’t end this list with only one mask from ScubaPro! This is a great single lens mask with an amazing fitting silicone skirt that seals well even for those with facial hair. Extremely durable and sturdy build quailty, unless you lose it, this mask should last you a lifetime. Only drawback is the premium level price point but for sheer quality it can’t be beat. For those divers looking to invest in their gear and really put it to the test. Truly one of the best scuba masks on the market.
Cressi Panoramic 4 Window Mask
A popular scuba equipment brand, the Cressi Pano 4 Mask is a four-lens panoramic design for excellent peripheral vision. A lightweight, durable polycarbonate frame made with a soft silicone skirt fits a wide range of face shapes. Equipped with fast-adjust ratcheting strap buckles and easy-access nose pocket for equalization, this mask is perfect for any scuba diver or snorkeler.
Scubapro Ghost Dive Mask
A GHOSTLY GOOD FIT. Spooky name aside, this frameless dive mask gets the job done without scaring anybody. The new single lens low-volume frameless GHOST offers a comfortable fit, a superb field of vision and flexible easy-adjust buckles that allow for a wide range strap angles to achieve a good fit, plus enable the mask to be folded flat for packing. Available with either a standard mask strap or an EZ-Open mask strap (with a standard strap included in the box).
Tusa M-1001 Freedom Scuba Mask
The M-1001 Freedom HD mask is the latest design to come from Freedom Technology. It is a single lens masks with an incredibly wide field of vision. This mask boasts a 180° Rotational Buckle System, which allows it to fit a variety of face sizes while maintaining a low profile.
Cressi Big Eyes Evolution Crystal Dive Mask
The mask rests on the face with unprecedented comfort and does not leave any marks on the skin, even after extended use. Naturally, to obtain such a result the entire structure of the skirt is differentiated, with internal ribs that stiffen the parts of the mask that are most stressed. The raked lenses, with their inverted drop shape (Cressi patent), are quite small and are brought as close to the pupils as possible, so that the already extraordinary visibility of the Matrix is increased by 25%. The thickness of the headband has been reduced to such an extent as to make it practically invisible when the mask is being worn. Big Eyes Evolution has been created to take prescription lenses. The Big Eyes Evolution packaging can be completely recycled and the lower black part has been made from recycled material: Cressi also cares for the environment!
Omer Zero Cubed Dive Mask
Revolutionary free diving mask, the field of vision is 30% higher, compared to a classic free diving mask such as the Alien. The internal volume is so low that if a mask like the Alien is normally equalized starting at 25′-30′ (7.6- 9 meters) depth, the ZERO3 doesn’t require clearing before a depth of 60′ (18.3 meters). Every detail on this mask has been conceived keeping in mind its design and functionality. The mask skirt features some milled surfaces that prevent the refraction of sunlight and make clearing easier, gloves don’t slip when you hold the nose. The finish of the skirt which has a carbon fiber appearance was designed specifically to avoid glare. Mask has Safety Tempered Lenses, a Double Feathered Edge Silicone Rubber Skirt Skirt for a great fit and a Wide Split Strap for added comfort. The Omer Zero 3 Mask is commonly used for Open Water Diving, Snorkeling, Spearfishing and more.
Single or Dual Lens Dive Masks…Which is Better?
We get emails all the time asking about which style of scuba diving mask is better, a single large front lens, or a two lens design. Our answer is…whatever you prefer! The most important thing is that the mask is comfortable and fits your face correctly. Dual lens masks can sometimes be lower volume which is nice if the glass sits closer to your eyes, but in general the difference is not usually too noticeable between one lens or two. One thing to note is, that if you require prescription glasses, it is much easier to find a prescription dive mask with 2 replaceable lenses, due to the fact that each eye can require a different level of lens correction. Another option for the diver with glasses is Stick on Bi Focals, there are many brands and magnifications to suit. Here are just a few recommendations. Stick on Bi Focals.
Lens SIZE one the other hand can make a big difference. If your diving mask is too small, it can cause a claustrophobic feeling due to the silicone skirt and frame obscuring your peripheral vision. Panoramic style masks can help certainly help alleviate this problem, but in that case you might have a small seam in the corners where the side lenses join which can sometimes cause minor distortion. This isn’t too big of a problem for most people, but some divers don’t like this effect.
Quick Tip: Scuba Mask Cleaning And Care
Almost every diver knows to rise their gear after every dive, especially those diving in salt water. Your dive mask is no exception, so be sure to thoroughly rinse it EVERY time! Anyone who travels a lot and has been stuck with a rental mask has most likely noticed salt buildup in the seams and general disrepair. This is never a good sign, so switch the mask if you can. That is why owning your own scuba mask is so great, if you treat it well it should last you many enjoyable adventures underwater. 30 seconds of rinsing can help it stay in top shape for years to come. Always leave it in an open air space to dry, or it will quickly start to stink. Finally, avoid leaving your mask out in the sun, this can damage the plastic and silicone over time, leading to fading, warping or cracking of the skirt. Just let it dry and then toss it back in your dive bag!
