Is Easybreath Full Face Mask Good For Snorkeling?
The Easybreath full face mask for snorkeling appeared on the snorkel gear market a few years ago, and it quickly became a best-seller product of the Decathlon’s Tribord/Subea watersports line. It changed a way of snorkeling; some people say they will never go back using the classic mask-snorkel combo again, while other say such mask types are dangerous.
If you are also thinking about getting a full face snorkel mask, I’m sure you will get valuable information reading this Easybreath review where we share our impressions, the pros and cons and give you tips on how to choose the right size!
Is the Easybreath full face mask good for snorkeling?
Let me clarify the most important things first, if you don’t know or heard just a little about the Tribord Easybreath full face snorkel mask. Why is this snorkeling mask different than classical snorkel goggles?
If you think back on your first snorkeling experience, you might remember that it takes a little time to learn how to snorkel; breathing through your mouth using a snorkel tube and getting comfortable with your mask requires practice. Some people give up snorkeling because they find this way of breathing uncomfortable. Others have problems with putting their head underwater.
These common snorkeling difficulties inspired the product development team of Decathlon to invent the revolutionary Easybreath full face mask for snorkeling. The aim was to provide a carefree snorkeling experience by launching the world’s first full face snorkeling mask that allows you to see and breathe in water as easily and naturally as on land.
The Tribord Easybreath was the first full face snorkeling mask with a patented design. This innovative product quickly became a best-seller because it allowed people who found using traditional snorkel gear difficult to enjoy the underwater world.
The Decathlon Easybreath mask underwent many changes, simplification and upgrades in the past few years. Lately, even the brand name changed and now the whole Decathlon watersports product range runs under SUBEA – which means SUBaquatic Experiences are Amazing! The latest, 2nd Generation 2023 Version is available under the name of SUBEA Easzbreath 500.
Pros
- it provides natural way of breathing through nose
- it has wider field of view than traditional masks
- the advanced air circulation system prevents fogging
- dry top snorkel limits water entry to snorkel
- it gives more comfort for women (not pulling hair) and men (it’s a good choice for those who want to snorkel with a mustache)
Cons
- you cannot dive down with it (only if you have the version 900)
- it is recommended only for casual snorkeling in calm water (no intensive swimming – it can lead to a lack of oxygen in your mask)
- it takes more space in your luggage
- the plastic lens is sensitive; it can break, so you need to store and transport it carefully
- sand/salt can cause scratches on the window; it is important to rinse it with fresh water after each use
Tip: Before purchasing an Easybreath full face mask for snorkeling (or any other brand) we recommend you read our full face snorkeling mask dangers post! In that article, we explain in detail what full face snorkel masks are safe to use and what to avoid.
Full Face Snorkel Mask Sizing
Sizing is an essential factor when buying a snorkeling mask. Your mask should fit properly to prevent leaking and provide the best view. If you want to purchase a Tribord Easybreath full face mask for snorkeling, here is a little help on choosing the right size.
The original Subea Easybreath 500 mask is currently available only in 2 sizes: S/M and M/L. Before, they had four sizes, but Decathlon decided to discontinue the XS and L/XL since the remaining two sizes cover 90% of the face sizes of users aged over 10.
The explanation for this decision was that XS was considered as kids size and they don’t recommend the Easybreath for users under age 10. Keep this information in mind if you are considering buying a full face mask for your kids! Personally, I think children shouldn’t use such masks, they learn in minutes how to use a traditional snorkel mask.
Moreover, the feedback showed that L/XL size is not very common. Thanks to this optimization, Decathlon managed to reduce manufacturing costs resulting in lower prices.
To choose the right size full face snorkel mask, measure between the bridge of your nose and the bottom of your chin with your mouth closed. Choose S/M if it measures 10-12 cm (3,9”-4 ¾”) or M/L if it’s 12-13 cm (4 ¾”-5 1/8”).
Tip: This size information is valid only on the original Subea Easybreath full face snorkeling mask. The sizing might differ for each brand, please always double-check the size chart and manufacturer’s recommendation.
Easybreath full face mask review – What we experienced during the test
We were skeptical when we first saw this new type of snorkeling mask. It seemed weird and bulky compared to the classical snorkeling mask + snorkel combo. But we have seen many snorkelers happily using these masks, we became curious about it. We felt that we must try it to be able to share an honest Esybreath full face mask review with you.
When testing the Easybreath, our first impression was that it was super easy to put it on thanks to the wide, soft strap. For women, it is always a problem that the mask strap pulls the hair (this is why I use neoprene mask strap or multifunctional head bandanas when I snorkel with a classical snorkeling mask).
But by using a full face snorkeling mask, you can just forget about this! To cut it short, the mask provided a comfortable fit without discomfort (we tried the size S/M).
When I started to swim, it took me a couple of minutes to get used to breathing through my nose! I used to breathe through my mouth while snorkeling, so I needed some time to realize that I can breathe naturally as I do on land.
It is good to remember that these masks are intended for casual snorkeling only. Intensive swimming might lead to breathing difficulties.
We snorkeled in calm, relatively shallow water and found breathing easy. We did not experience fogging on the lenses. Using an Easybreath full face mask for snorkeling you get a wider field of view than with a regular mask.
The only thing that I did not like was the increased reflection. I will try to explain what I mean. I found that swimming in very shallow water over white sand I was squinting, could not open my eyes fully.
The reflection is always so strong when snorkeling over a sandy sea bottom and I think it became stronger for my eyes because of the big plastic lens of my mask.
When I was swimming in deeper water, or where the sea bottom was covered with seagrass and corals, it was much better and did not bother me anymore.
Another important thing to mention… Remember, you cannot dive down in full face masks, although some photos will show you can. Also, you might find reviews where people say they dove down without difficulties. The truth is you are able to freedive with it up to a few meters deep, but it is dangerous! You can’t equalize the pressure as you do with a traditional snorkel mask.
We tried it as part of the test, and it is true. As soon as you submerge, you will feel that the mask is sticking to your face because of the pressure. This can lead to discomfort as well as panic. Another thing is that normally, you equalize by pinching your nose and blowing gently.
But this you cannot do either with a regular full face snorkel mask. It can be dangerous for inexperienced snorkelers! They can get stressed because of pressure on the face and not being able to equalize ears. Never freedive a with full face mask. Use it only for surface snorkeling!
Update: the new Easybreath 900 allows equalization; see more information below!
Upgraded Models – Easybreath 900 and 540
Here I list what other product versions are available besides the original Easybreath 500. Note that these special types may not be available in your country, even if the original version is.
Subea Easybreath 900
Decathlon made an innovative upgrade and launched the Easybreath 900. This version comes with a soft nose part that makes pinching your nose and equalizing the pressure possible so you can dive down to explore the underwater world even better. However, only within limits; the recommended depth is only 3m/10ft.
Easybreath 540 Freetalk
If your biggest concern is how to communicate with your dive buddy when snorkeling, then consider trying the Easybreath 540. This version is called “Freetalk” because it has an aquatic valve that enables easier surface communication while providing all the functions and benefits of the original Easybreath 500 version.
Easybreath full face mask parts
We find it good that Decathlon takes care of the environment and sells parts for the Subea Easybreath mask. If your snorkel tube or strap is broken or you lost the white covering part of full face snorkeling mask, Decathlon is not forcing you to buy a new mask! You can order these missing/broken parts from Amazon and also from their outlets.
Full face mask prescription lenses
Glass wearers could find only traditional snorkel mask with corrective lenses for a long time, but the good news is that you can buy full face snorkel masks for glass wearers! Just insert prescription lenses into the mask, and you are ready to go!
Easybreath Alternatives That We Recommend
If the original Subea Easybreath mask is no option for you (maybe it is not available in your country), these are the best seller full face snorkel masks:
SeaView 180 Panoramic
The Seaview 180 is perfect for people who casually snorkel. A trusted product that provides you with a safe and enjoyable water experience. The wide lens gives a truly panoramic view. An upgraded version with a new airflow system and side snorkel design is also available.
Head Sea Vu Dry
Mares/Head is a trusted manufacturer in the sports equipment market, including swimming and diving. Head Sea Vu Dry mask has a patented design and the company follows the latest regulations in order to make their product safe to use.
SEAC Unica
Featuring a patented design and meeting EU standards, SEAC Unica gives a natural breathing experience with the lowest effort.
Tip: We noticed that sellers sometimes flood the market with very cheap products and disappear a few months later. Try to avoid these. Of course, a higher-priced product does not mean better quality, but don’t decide just on the price! Try to look for a reliable retailer that offers good-quality products with patented design and has trusted ratings.
Conclusion
Probably we won’t be full-time full face snorkeling mask users since we always dive down, but this Easybreath full face mask test allowed us to understand how this product works and why many snorkelers use and love it. Do we recommend it or not?
Although we think that using a tempered glass snorkel mask with a dry-top snorkel is the best for recreational snorkeling, but we see that using a full face snorkeling mask has advantages that traditional models don’t. Thanks to the special full-face design, it makes snorkeling a lot easier for those who are afraid of putting their face in the water while allowing natural breathing through the nose, it gives a more comfortable feeling. If you think this product will be a good match for you, make sure to pick up the right size and allow yourself time to try it in shallow water first until you get used to it before heading out to open water.
Inspired? Pin it!
