Best Snorkeling Mask Reviews 2020

There are cheap snorkel masks out there, but it’s best to invest in a good-quality snorkel mask, as they make a huge difference in enjoying your snorkeling experience. If you’re looking for a bargain, the best bet is to buy one of the snorkel kits, which will run you anywhere from $30 to $60 and include the mask, fins, and snorkel.

A good snorkel mask will increase your field of vision, be comfortable to wear, and suit your style. You can purchase one for around $20 to $50, depending on the brand and what comes with the purchase.

If you need special features, like a full face mask in extra-large or a snorkel mask that is compatible with active camera gear like a GoPro, then you can expect to spend a little more, around $50 to $120.

These days, you can go way beyond your basic snorkel mask, so there are a few features you may want to consider before making your purchase. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with the classic snorkel mask, but if you’re adventurous, you might as well take a peek at some of the optional features on the market these days.

Here are a few of the optional features you can look for when purchasing a snorkel mask:

• A full snorkel kit with fins, mask, and snorkel
• A classic profile snorkel mask
• A low-profile snorkel mask
• A full face mask with a built-in snorkel
• GoPro-compatible face mask
• Snorkel mask with a splash-proof snorkel
• Anti-fogging technology
• Bonus gear like a carrying bag or waterproof case
• Stylish color options

Of course, you’ll want to buy the right size as well. Many snorkel masks come in children’s sizes, if you want to get one for the kiddo.

We’ve come a long way since the creation of the first snorkel, which was basically just a piece of rubber hose.

Snorkel masks started to hit the scene around the 1940s to make your snorkeling experience more enjoyable and improve your underwater vision drastically. Since then, there have been some remarkable innovations in snorkel mask construction and design.

You can go frameless for a wider view of all the action; of course, technically there is still a frame, it is just less obtrusive then the classic snorkel or diving mask, which is also known as a low-profile snorkel mask.

You can also buy a full face snorkel mask, which is a completely different feeling than using a traditional snorkel mask. With a full face mask, you can breathe through your nose, as your entire face is covered, not just your eyes.

Some snorkel masks are sold separately in case you prefer to piece together your snorkel kit individually, or already have a snorkel you like to use. Many snorkel masks come with a snorkel included with purchase. These snorkels can incorporate features like a splash-proof guard at the tip, or a brightly colored tip to make you more noticeable to passing boats. Other innovations include positioning the snorkel above your head and centered, which is available with a full face mask.

Photography has become so popular with the advent of smart phones and active cameras like the GoPro. Obviously, you’ll want to capture the moment on film if you come across some spectacular underwater beast, so you can also pick up a snorkel mask that has an attachment for your GoPro camera for hands-free movie-making. We’ve featured one in our top five picks.

One of the best ways to simplify the task of purchasing snorkel gear is to just get a full snorkel set. Plenty of manufacturers offer a combo kit including a mask, fins, snorkel, and gear bag to take the fuss out of buying each individually.

If you like to feel free and unfettered by your gear while underwater, a frameless or low-profile snorkel mask is a great choice. These tend to weigh less and don’t interfere as much with your peripheral vision.

Tip: I know it’s a little unladylike for the women, but rubbing some spit in your face mask, then rinsing it out before donning it will help keep the mask from fogging up while swimming underwater.

Now on to some of our fave picks in snorkel masks…