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5 Best Full-Face Snorkel Masks

5 Best Full-Face Snorkel Masks

Written by Fernando Lopez
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Published on August 6, 2018
woman holding full face snorkel mask by the shore

Snorkeling is a fun underwater activity that allows you to explore the beauty of marine life. And the best thing about it is that it doesn’t require any professional skill or training—you simply need to learn how to swim and breathe through a snorkel from underwater, and you’re good to go.

But before you jump into the water with just any old snorkel, remember that it helps to have the right equipment. There are several types of snorkels that you can use, and a popular one that many beginners love is the full-face snorkel mask, which is basically a revolutionized version of the traditional J-shaped snorkel. In this article, we’ll explain why you should consider using it and give you a couple of product recommendations so you can enjoy your underwater adventures to the fullest.

Why You Should Use a Full-Face Snorkel Mask

man swimming underwater with full face snorkel mask

A full-face snorkel mask is an underwater face mask and snorkel in one. The snorkel is built into the mask, with its end extending from the top of the mask. Here’s why many beginners and experienced snorkelers prefer to use it for their underwater dives:

  • The full-face coverage provides complete protection for the entire face.
  • The clear, durable, and shatterproof window provides a wider 180-degree field of vision.
  • They typically feature silicone skirts and adjustable straps to create a leak-free seal while maintaining the wearer’s comfort.
  • The integration of the snorkel tube keeps the diver from having to restrain the snorkel from floating around underwater.
  • Ideal for divers with jaw problems and those who prefer to breathe naturally with their mouths free.
  • They’re specifically designed with air vents to let air circulate and prevent fogging.
  • They provide the option to mount an action camera for underwater photography and videography.

Best Full-Face Snorkel Masks

If you’re looking to invest in a full-face snorkel mask, you may want to go for some of the best ones out there to ensure a great snorkeling experience. Check them out below!

Ocean Reef Aria Full Face Snorkeling Mask

The Ocean Reef Aria is one of the most comfortable and easy-to-use full-face snorkel masks on the market. Aside from offering super-clear views, the mask has an inner partition that keeps the eye area from fogging and a dry top system to prevent water from leaking into the mask. It also has a soft and flexible surgical-grade skirt that creates an excellent and very comfortable seal on the face.

A self-purging valve has also been integrated at the chin area, so any water that leaks in can drain out without the need to take the mask off. The snorkel, which uses a plastic ball bearing to keep water out, can be detached for easier packing and transport.

The Aria is available in seven different colors and four different sizes to suit every age and face type. Also, unlike other snorkel masks on the market, it comes in an extra-small size for kids.

Features:

  • Detachable snorkel
  • Anti-fog breathing circulation
  • Wide field of vision
  • Large face gasket and soft silicone skirt
  • Purge valve
  • Lightweight and durable
  • Mountable with camera (with camera mount accessory)

Head Sea Vu Dry Full Face Snorkeling Mask

Another widely popular choice is the Head Sea Vu full-face mask. Unlike the Ocean Reef Aria, the Sea Vu mask has its snorkel built into it. Some may find this to be an issue due to the added bulk when packing, but it actually ensures that there won’t be any problems with correct attachment and leakage. The mask also allows the user to breathe naturally without worrying about fogging the glass up.

The dry top of the snorkel keeps waves and splashes of water out, and its built-in purging valve makes it easy to expel water when you dive deeper underwater. It’s also capable of creating a perfect, watertight seal while ensuring long-lasting comfort with its flexible silicone skirt.

The Sea Vu comes in seven different colors and six different sizes, so you’re sure to find the right one for you!

Features:

  • Fixed snorkel
  • Naturally fog-resistant
  • Purge valve
  • Flexible silicone skirt
  • Comfortable to wear for extended periods of time
  • Available in seven different colors and six different sizes

Aqua Lung Smart-Snorkel Full Face Mask

Aqua Lung Smart-Snorkel best full face snorkel mask

The Aqua Lung Smart Snorkel boasts of the lowest breathing resistance compared to other full-face snorkel masks available today. This top-rated gear’s low volume design offers a closer, 180-degree field of view with a shatterproof lens that efficiently eliminates fogging and condensation. This allows you to enjoy crystal-clear visions both underwater and above the surface of the water.

The dry snorkel tube is detachable for easy storage and transport, plus its internal design features a valve that automatically closes the snorkel tube whenever you submerge and reopens it once you resurface. Its strap is easily adjustable, with innovative buckles and fitting holes to help achieve a comfortable and airtight fit. It also features an ultra-glide coating to prevent it from pulling your hair whenever you put it on or take it off.

Features:

  • Dry top snorkel
  • Low volume mask
  • Anti-fog for clear vision
  • Shatterproof polycarbonate design
  • Wide 180-degree field of vision
  • Comes with mesh bag

US Divers AirGo Full Face Snorkel System

US Divers AirGo Full Face Snorkel System best full face snorkel mask

If you prefer detachable snorkels, the US Divers AirGo is another top-notch choice. This full-face snorkel allows you to detach the entire dry top snorkel (from the base) for compact packing and features a low-profile design that allows your face to sit closer to the lens, so you get even wider views and reduced water drag. It also has a dual-chamber exhaust system and an efficient purge valve to reduce fogging and condensation buildup.

The AirGo has smooth and wide rubberized straps that are designed to prevent hair entanglement and ensure equal and balanced pressure (thanks to the tri-pad connector) around the head. A SmartLock head strap has also been integrated with swivel buckles to allow quick and convenient adjustment and removal.

As a bonus, you get a mesh carry bag—all for a pretty reasonable price.

Features:

  • Detachable dry top snorkel
  • Low volume design
  • Dual-chamber exhaust
  • Tri-pad connector for even and comfortable fit
  • SmartLock head strap with swivel buckles
  • Comes with mesh bag

Seac Unica Full Face Snorkel Mask

Like any good full-face snorkel mask, the Seac Unica features a dry top snorkel to keep water out whenever you submerge yourself, as well as a liquid silicone skirt and polycarbonate frame that makes the mask very comfortable on your face even after prolonged use.

It also has an efficient water purging system, thanks to a dump valve near the chin. Its front vent features an exclusive patented system that eliminates the noise that purge valves typically make. Meanwhile, a separate channeling system promotes good air circulation to prevent fogging, so you can thoroughly enjoy 180-degree views under the surface of the water. Finally, its flexible straps are super comfortable and easily adjustable for the perfect fit.

It shares the same price point as the more popular Aqua Lung, but the brightly-colored Unica may be better for beginners who need to be more visible (to boats, surfers, and other swimmers) in the water.

Features:

  • Dry top snorkel
  • Exclusive patented air vent system
  • Dual channeling system reduces fogging
  • Reduced purge valve noise
  • Comfortable liquid silicone skirt and polycarbonate frame
  • Full-spectrum 180-degree field of vision