Snorkel Mask Models We Recommend For Recreational Snorkeling
We have owned and tried a variety of snorkel masks over the years, including double and single-lens versions and even full-face masks. Some were good, while some didn’t meet our needs, either from a quality perspective or due to inadequate fit. It took some time to find masks that are comfortable, durable and provide a good fit (hint: we use traditional 2-window models because we think that the classic masks work best for recreational snorkeling and skindiving). Based on our experience, other snorkelers’ feedback, and extensive research, we concluded that we showcase some generally recommended models to you here.
Although you can find good non-branded, the models we recommend here are all made by big dive gear manufacturers; we always buy our gear from such companies because we found that the cheaper products are often made of low-quality materials, and break down easily, while masks made from quality silicone and tempered glass are more comfortable and last a lot longer.
Here is a brief summary of the snorkeling masks we recommended to try for various face types:
- Cressi Pano 4 – fits well for wider faces
- ScubaPro Spectra Mini – good choice for small, narrow aces
- Cressi F1 – single lens mask that provides a wide field of view
- U.S. Divers Icon – budget-friendly classic two-window mask
- Subea Easybreath – reliable full-face snorkel mask
- Cressi Ondina – a smaller version of the popular Onda mask, designed especially for kids
Below, we also included a short description of each mask so you can get more information about them.
Cressi Pano 4 – Recommended for wide face
The Cressi Panoramic mask is a long-time favorite among snorkelers. We like this mask as it is one of the few snorkeling goggles that come with side windows that ensure extra-wide, peripheral vision. It is available in a wide range of colors, so it is easy to find one that matches one’s outfit and liking.
This snorkel mask fits various faces but is most suitable for slightly wider-faced divers. It has a sturdy yet lightweight frame and a soft 100% silicone skirt, making it very comfortable and durable to wear.
Cressi Pano Mask
- Panoramic design with a wide field of view
- tempered glass lenses
- durable polycarbonate construction
- available in various colors both in single lens and 2-window design
- high-grade silicone skirt
Cressi Pano is also available in single-lens version, it is the Pano 3.
ScubaPro Spectra Mini – Good fit for small, narrow faces
If you have a narrower face, you might know that it is difficult to find a good-fitting snorkel mask that is comfortable and seals well. I was pleasantly surprised to find a product designed to fit smaller faces, the Spectra Mini from ScubaPro. This snorkel mask is the mini version of the beloved Spectra, offering the same great features with a slightly smaller design to fit narrower faces.
The Spectra Mini has wide, teardrop-shaped dual lenses that give the mask a modern look (it is also very elegant, in my opinion) and provide wide, uninterrupted views. The double-sealed, soft silicone skirt prevents leaking and ensures maximum comfort.
ScubaPro Spectra Mini Narrow Face Snorkel Mask
- designed for small, narrow faces
- stylish, teardrop-shape twin lenses
- maximum field of view
- water-blocking double-sealed silicone skirt
- buckle and strap easy-adjust system
Cressi F1 – Frameless single-lens mask
The F1 is the most popular Cressi mask. Thanks to its outstanding quality and affordable price, it is often mentioned as the best snorkel mask by divers and snorkelers. Its single lens ensures an exceptionally wide field of view.
Cressi F1 Mask
- frameless single lens design for a wide field of view
- lightweight and durable construction
- high-grade soft silicone for maximum comfort
- micrometric easy-adjust buckles
- available in various colors to match any outfit
It has a frameless design, meaning the silicone skirt bonds directly to the lens, making it super light and foldable. The micrometric quick-adjust buckle system is mounted to the skirt to provide a streamlined design, resulting in less drag. The skirt is 100% silicone, which is comfortable and longer-lasting than cheaper rubber-blend models.
I discovered that this product has a smaller version called Cressi F1 Mini. It is designed for very narrow-faced adults and children.
U.S. Divers Icon – Allrounder affordable two-window snorkeling sask
The 2-window Icon is a best-selling snorkel mask from U.S. Divers. It is very popular because it fits various faces thanks to the one-size-fits-all comfortable silicone skirts. The low-profile design and expanded top-to-bottom lenses provide a wide field of view. The patented buckle system allows easy adjusting to achieve the most comfortable fit with little effort.
U.S. Divers Icon Mask
- one-size that fits a wide variety of faces
- ergonomic design for maximum comfort
- easy strap adjustment
- comes with submersible dry snorkel
- designed by US Divers – Aqua Lung
The best thing about this U.S. Diver mask is that it is very affordable, plus it comes in a set that includes an ergonomically designed hypoallergenic dry snorkel. If you already have a good-fitting mask, I still recommend you get this as a spare one!
Decathlon Subea Easybreath – Best Full-Face Snorkel Mask
Decathlon was the first manufacturer to launch the innovative full-face snorkel mask that allows you to breathe naturally through the nose, and they definitely succeeded with it. Since then, many models are available on the market, but we still think that the original Subea Easybreath is the most reliable one; therefore, we recommend trying this version for those stuck on this new mask type.
The Easybreath has a shatterproof polycarbonate lens to provide 180-degree panoramic vision. The double air-flow system supplies fresh air, clears CO2 out, and keeps the lens from fogging.
Subea Easybreath full-face snorkel mask
- best-selling full-face mask with exclusive anti-fog anatomic construction
- shatterproof window providing a 180-degree view
- upgraded design with secure lock snorkel
This mask has an integrated, highly visible dry top snorkel that prevents water entry, while the bottom purge valve drains water if you raise your head.
What we like about this product is that they still put a lot of effort into keeping the quality outstanding and constantly improving it, listening to customers’ feedback and needs. If you want to learn more about Subea Easybreath, check out our full article, where we shared our thoughts after testing a full face snorkel mask.
Cressi Ondina – Snorkel Mask For Kids
Choosing snorkel gear for kids requires special attention as you need to find the best-fitting pieces to ensure that little ones have a safe and enjoyable experience. Many kids’ snorkel masks are out there, but only a few are high-quality. Therefore, our pick is the Cressi Ondina, which has tempered glass lenses and hypoallergenic, pure silicone skirts like adult snorkel masks but it is designed specifically for kids.
Cressi Ondina Kids Mask + Snorkel
- single lens mask designed for kids
- double feathered skirt made of hypoallergenic silicone
- comes with semi-dry youth snorkel
The best is that this mask comes in a set with a semi-dry youth snorkel, so you only need to get a pair of flippers, and your child is ready to discover the underwater world!
Conclusion
A good-fitting mask is one of the most important pieces of snorkeling equipment. There are some general tips for choosing the best one, but if you don’t want to spend too much time searching, the products we listed here are good to start with.
First, determine your face type and look for one that is recommended for it. Try it in a shop or the comfort of your home (if you order it online), and check if it fits, seals well, and is comfortable. It might take some time until you find the model you are the happiest with, but the best is to choose branded, quality products from trusted manufacturers such as Cressi, ScubaPro, US Divers, etc… because they are made from materials that are ergonomic and last long.
