Snorkeling is one of the most enjoyable outdoor activities out there and is not dangerous as long as you do it safely. It’s a great way to get in the water, get some exercise, and catch a glimpse of some of the amazing marine life that dwells in our oceans.
Whether you’re on vacation in the Caribbean or taking a weekend trip down to the coast, there’s nothing like cruising around for the day and taking everything in.
Having your own set of snorkel gear is much better than renting.
Not only does this allow you to snorkel whenever and wherever you want, but it also ensures you’re using quality gear that works well and fits you properly.
But if you’re not an expert it can be hard to know where to start, and that’s why many brands offer snorkel sets.
A snorkel set includes two to three components; a mask, a snorkel, and sometimes fins.
Buying everything together takes away the hassle of searching through seemingly endless options, and it usually works out cheaper.
Table of Contents
To build this list of the best full-face snorkel masks, I researched different masks based on the products I’ve encountered as a Divemaster in Florida, Amazon Best-Seller Lists, and the latest masks I’ve come across at industry conferences.
I then ranked the full face snorkel masks on criteria such as their C02 intake safety technology, build quality, price, materials, brand reputability, weight, field of views, and sizes.
I then personally ordered the five most promising masks, out of my own pocket, and took them to Blue Heron Bridge, a famous local snorkel site in South Florida to test them out.
OtterAquatics Review Team: An experienced PADI Divemaster, Austin Tuwiner works in the scuba diving tourism industry in South Florida. He’s dove and snorkeled some of the best dive sites in the world, across 300+ dives and 12 countries. He’s the main contributor for OtterAquatics, and wrote this version of the full face snorkel mask guide.
Best Mask & Snorkel Sets
If you’re looking to save money but still want some flexibility, a snorkel set without fins is a great option.
You get the convenience of buying a mask and snorkel together whilst still being able to choose a pair of snorkel fins that are perfectly suited to your needs.
If you’re looking a set including fins scroll a little further down where you will find our full reviews.
Seaview 180° Kradan Dry Snorkel Set
- Incredible comfortable
- Hypoallergenic silicone
- Ergonomic mouth-piece prevents jaw fatigue
- 2 part snorkel for easy packing
- Dry snorkel top & self-draining purge valve
- Uninterrupted 180° views
- Durable design
- Tempered glass
- Requires a few treatments of defogger
The Widhorn Kradan mask and snorkel set is the ideal choice for both beginner and experienced snorkelers alike! With a wide-view single lens made from crystal clear tempered glass, this mask offers you an epic panoramic view of the underwater world.
The snorkel’s comfortable bite valve is made from hypoallergenic silicone, as is the mask seal, which makes the Wildhorn mask and snorkel set incredibly comfortable to use and watertight, for prolonged snorkeling sessions.
This innovative dry snorkel valve system helps prevent you from ending up with a mouth full of seawater, either on the surface or if you dive down.
And even if a little water manages to sneak in, there’s a quick-drain purge valve built-in that makes it super easy to clear.
The tube easily twists on and off, splitting the snorkel into two parts to save packing space, and can be quickly assembled when you’re ready to snorkel. But even with this ability to come apart it still does not leak.
This high-quality mask and snorkel set really does have it all it even comes with a handy travel bag.
Product Specs:
- Material: Tempered Glass/ Rubber
- Compactness: Breaks down into 2 parts
- Colors: Eight options
- Size & Weight: 15 ounces
- Anti-fog design: Yes
- Snorkel design: Dry top valve and bottom purge valve
- Adult or kids: Adult
- Visibility: Panoramic
Cressi Pegaso & Iguana
- Super soft & hypoallergenic silicone
- Ideal for smaller faces & mouths
- Easy to clear purge
- Easily adjustable straps
- Solid construction
- Long-lasting
- Variety of colors available
- Not the widest field of vision
This Cressi snorkel set is our top recommendation for anyone who’s buying for kids. It features Cressi’s top-quality construction and ergonomic design just in a smaller package that’s perfect for smaller faces.
With an extra-wide skirt made from super-soft, high-grade hypoallergenic silicone, the mask creates a secure seal and snug fit on almost every face shape. It also works well for women who struggle to get a good seal with adult-size masks.
We particularly like that the buckles are on the skirt itself, rather than the frame. That makes it much easier to adjust without disrupting the seal.
The snorkel has a slightly smaller build than the standard Cressi snorkels. You don’t notice a huge difference with the snorkel tube itself, but the mouthpiece is definitely more comfortable and manageable for smaller mouths. Like the mask skirt, it’s also made of durable hypoallergenic silicone.
You can choose between a semi-dry or dry-top snorkel. Both also feature a large and easy-to-clear purge valve.
For the quality, this snorkel set is an absolute bargain. It’s ideal for introducing young ones to snorkeling without having to make a big investment or financial commitment. Like all Cressi products, this set should last for several years of use.
Product Specs:
- Material: Tempered glass/ rubber/ silicone
- Compactness: Normal
- Colors: Three options
- Size & Weight: .75lbs
- Anti-fog design: Yes
- Snorkel design: Dry top valve and bottom purge valve
- Adult or kids: Best for kids
- Visibility: Average – Dual lense
Cressi Pano 4
- Exceptional panoramic views
- Very secure and comfortable seal
- Suitable for scuba diving
- Quick-adjust buckles
- Dry-top snorkel with self-draining purge
- 2 year-warranty
- 12 different colors available
- A little pricey
- Requires a few treatments of defogger
If you’re after the best possible views of the underwater world, then this is the snorkel set for you. It’s also ideal for scuba diving as well as snorkeling.
The mask has a unique design that provides one of the best views we’ve seen on a snorkeling mask. It’s the same basic shape as the other masks we’ve looked at, but it extends further around the edges of your face to give you the widest and most realistic view possible. Because the panels are flat and not curved, you don’t get the fish-eye effect that many other wraparound designs create.
A double silicone skirt creates a super comfortable and better seal than the other masks on our list. This also means that you can use this mask for scuba diving as the double-edged seal is better adapted to handle the pressure than single-edged masks.
As with most masks, this one will require a few anti-fog treatments before it remains totally fog-free. The snorkel in this set is just as great as the mask. It’s a dry top model, with a valve to stop any water coming in and a flexible midsection, like our other recommendations.
The self-draining purge valve works very well, although you’ll rarely have to use it because the dry top works so well.
Product Specs:
- Material: Tempered Glass/ Rubber
- Compactness: Normal
- Colors: 17 options
- Size & Weight: .45lbs
- Anti-fog design: No
- Snorkel design: Dry top valve and bottom purge valve
- Adult or kids: Adult
- Visibility: Panoramic – Single lense
Best Mask, Snorkel & Fins Sets
On the other hand you may be looking to purchase an entire set including the fins. This is sometimes a more convenient way to purchase a set without having to mix and match. These set will often come out a little more cost effective.
Seavenger Advanced Snorkeling Set
- Lightweight and compact for travel
- Durable and hard-wearing
- Affordable
- High-quality silicone mask that doesn’t fog easily
- Easy to use and adjust sizing
- Comes with a durable carry bag
- Dry top snorkel
- Wide field of vision
- Small but powerful fins
- Stylish aesthetic
- Wide variety of colors available
- Fins are a little too narrow for boots
- Snorkel needs to be kept at the right angle for the dry-top valve to work efficiently
This compact and lightweight snorkel combo is from Seavenger. It comes complete with short yet powerful fins, a comfortable silicone mask, and, a dry-top snorkel. If you’re after a high-quality and stylish snorkel set, this is an ideal choice.
A large single-window lens, made from tempered glass, provides you with a wide and unobstructed view that won’t fog up easily. The liquid-injection silicone mask molds smoothly to the shape of your face to create a reliable and super comfy seal. Plus the ergonomically designed strap allows for easy and flexible positioning.
Despite their small size, the open-heel fins offer fantastic maneuverability and power in the water. And the dry-top snorkel features an intuitive ball float valve and dry-top baffle system that automatically detects when it needs to deflect water.
What’s more, this sleek-looking snorkel set comes in a variety of fun and striking colors that will suit everyone’s tastes. It also comes with a robust and convenient carry bag.
When it comes to performance, quality, and price, this snorkel set is fantastic value for money. It’s a great option for beginners and more experienced snorkelers as well as lightweight enough for travel.
Product Specs:
- Material:Tempered glass/ silicone
- Compactness: Small but includes fins
- Colors: Only one option
- Size & Weight: 3lbs (including fins)
- Anti-fog design: No
- Snorkel design: Dry top valve and bottom purge valve
- Adult or kids: Both
- Visibility: Panoramic – Single lense
Cressi Palau
- Very powerful and agile fins
- Excellent dry-top snorkel
- Mask can be used for scuba diving
- Top-quality materials and construction
- Durable and long-lasting
- Compact and lightweight
- Ideal for frequent or experienced snorkelers
- Different colors available
- Stiffer fins can be tiring for beginners
- Fins may rub on bare feet so you’ll need neoprene socks or boots
- Pricey for a one-off trip
This is one of our all-time favorite snorkel sets from one of the industry’s most trusted brands. With Cressi you can be confident that you are investing in top-quality gear that will last you a long time.
More experienced snorkelers will appreciate the performance of this snorkel set, but it’s also super easy to use for beginners. It’s also ultra-compact and lightweight which makes this snorkel set ideal for travel.
The Palau fins provide surprising power and agility in a small, travel-friendly package. They’re supple and flexible, but with a slightly longer length and a snappier response than most other travel models.
We particularly like how the blade extends above the foot pocket. This gives you more surface area without adding length or bulk to the fin. The resulting kick is fluid and untiring while giving you superior propulsion. You’ll find it easy to navigate any currents and keep up with marine life.
As with the Seavenger fins, the Cressi fins are open-heeled and adjustable. They fit a couple of different shoe sizes in each fin size, so it’s easy to get a precise fit. Plus, you can share these fins with friends or family.
The snorkel is a dry-top model with a soft silicone mouthpiece, flexible mid-section, and a robust snap bracket to attach to your mask. Previous buyers had nothing but praise for this one, and most said that water never once came in the top valve.
If that’s not enough the low-volume mask offers a superb fit thanks to the feathered silicone skirt and secure strap. Made from anti-fog tempered glass, it’s also perfect for scuba diving as well as snorkeling.
This snorkel set is more expensive than most of our recommendations, but the premium quality and performance it offers make it well worth the investment.
Product Specs:
- Material: Tempered Glass/Silicone
- Compactness: Normal
- Colors: Eight options
- Size & Weight: 15 ounces
- Anti-fog design: No
- Snorkel design: Dry top valve and bottom purge valve
- Adult or kids: Adult
- Visibility: Panoramic – Single lense
Should I Buy A Snorkel Set Or Individual Items?
Snorkel gear is sold both as individual components and in sets, which usually include most or all of the components you’ll need to get started.
All snorkel sets will come with a mask and a snorkel, and many come with a pair of fins as well.
But is it better to buy a snorkel set or purchase each of the items individually?
The main advantage of buying a snorkel set is the cost. It’s substantially cheaper to buy snorkeling gear as a set than to buy each component individually. It’s also more convenient, especially for new or casual snorkelers to be able to buy everything in one go.
If you’re new to snorkeling, buying snorkel gear for a one-off trip, or don’t have any specific needs then a snorkel set is a better option. It’ll save you time and money.
Brands put effort and care into creating snorkel sets that suit the same skill level, activity, style, and budget.
However, packages are built for the average person in a given category. This means that they might not fit you perfectly.
Masks, in particular, fit differently on each face, and a one-size-fits-all approach is sometimes a poor choice. Buying individual components allows you to pick items that best fit and suit your specific needs.
It will be a little more expensive, you can choose the style of mask that best fits your face, for instance, and pair it with fins that suit your strength level and foot shape. Instead of approximating or compromising, you can get a perfect fit in each area.
Additionally, if you want to use the items for scuba diving as well, then it’s better to buy individual items. Most snorkel sets are not suitable for scuba diving.
If you want to save money but still have some flexibility then we recommend opting for a two-component mask and snorkel set and choosing your fins separately. This allows you to choose a pair of snorkel fins that are better suited to your individual needs and conditions.
What To Look For When Choosing A Snorkel Gear
A good snorkel set will consist of high-quality equipment that fits comfortably and suits your needs. Here are the main things to consider when choosing the best snorkel set.
Durability
When you’re shopping for a good snorkel set you’ll want to make sure you’re buying equipment that will last as long as you need it to.
A high-quality snorkel set can last for several years, if not longer. However, if you’re just shopping for a one-off vacation, you probably don’t need a snorkel set that’s super durable.
One of the easiest things you can do to ensure you’re buying a durable product is to look at the warranty. Cressi and some other brands we’ve recommended offer up to 2-year coverage on their snorkel sets, which is a good indication that they’re well constructed.
Equally, look for a snorkel set that’s made from high-quality materials. For example, silicone is much stronger and more comfortable than plastic.
Budget
On the whole, the more you pay the better the quality of the snorkel set. And remember that quality ensures your safety when you’re in the water.
Packages with two components are cheaper than snorkel sets that include fins. Similarly, the more expensive options will often have more reliable, durable, and sophisticated features such as a dry-top snorkel or adjustable fin straps.
So How Much Does A Good Snorkel Set Cost?
You don’t have to spend a fortune to get good snorkel gear. There are some reliable options starting from around $30 which are ideal for beginners or those on a tight budget. For more frequent snorkelers or those looking for a more premium option, the best quality snorkel sets cost between $60 and $100.
The Components Of A Good Snorkel Set
Whether you choose to buy a snorkel set or mix and match individual items to create your own, these are the key components of a good snorkel set:
Mask
The mask is arguably the most important part of snorkel gear. Your snorkel mask should fit comfortably, keep water out of your eyes, and give you a clear, unimpeded view of your surroundings. After all, the views are the whole point of snorkeling!
Snorkel masks come in a huge variety of styles and which one is the best snorkeling mask for you is mostly down to personal preference. Some prefer a single lens so their vision isn’t interrupted, while others prefer to have two windows. You can also find frameless masks that offer more panoramic views.
Many cheap or rental snorkel masks have plastic skirts. These are more prone to splitting than silicone skirts. Silicone is much longer-lasting and creates a more reliable and comfortable seal.
We also recommend checking the lens is made from tempered glass for better protection for your eyes.
If you want to take a look at more individual options, we’ve put together a whole guide to help you find the best snorkel mask.
Snorkel
Ultimately, a good snorkel is one that sits comfortably in your mouth and allows you to breathe easily. But you’ll also find snorkels with additional features that can improve your snorkeling adventures.
Semi-dry snorkels will feature a splash guard at the top to reduce the amount of water that comes down the snorkel. As well as a purge valve and/or self-draining mechanism at the bottom making it easy to remove any water that does find its way into the snorkel.
A dry snorkel takes this a step further as it has a valve at the top of the snorkel that completely seals if it gets submerged. This keeps the water out if you dive under the surface. The valve will open as soon as you return to the surface. This means you don’t have to struggle to catch enough breath to blow out the water. A dry snorkel set is an excellent choice if you like to dive down when snorkeling.
Want to review more snorkels?
Check out our complete guide to the best snorkels.
Fins
While it’s not essential to have fins for snorkeling, they do make it much easier, safer, and more efficient. So we highly recommend adding a pair of fins to your snorkeling set.
For snorkeling, you want a pair of fins that are soft and comfortable enough to use for several hours at a time without getting sore or tired. You need something with enough power and response to deal with any currents and keep up with marine life or your fellow snorkelers.
You can use open or full-foot fins, depending on the location. Typically open fins are used for snorkeling as warmer waters won’t require extra protection from the elements.
To learn more and review some different options, take a look at our full guide to the best snorkeling fins.
Snorkeling Accessories
In addition to the basics, there are some additional items that will make a good snorkel set even better.
Snorkel Vest
If you’re not a strong swimmer then you may also want to consider adding a snorkel vest to your snorkel gear.
A good snorkel vest helps keep you afloat effortlessly whilst ensuring you’re highly visible in the water. It’s a great piece of safety equipment that can significantly improve your overall snorkeling experience.
Take a look at our guide to the best snorkel vests to review our top recommendations.
Waterproof Camera
Another piece of equipment we recommend adding to your snorkel gear set is a waterproof camera. You’ll definitely want something to capture all those epic underwater sights and once in a lifetime marine life encounters.
Not only can you use this to remember and identify what you saw snorkeling, but you can also make all your friends and family jealous they didn’t join you!
And if there’s no photographic evidence, did you really see that manta ray?
Neoprene Socks & Booties
And lastly, a pair of neoprene socks or booties are a great addition to your snorkeling set.
They’ll help keep your feet warm and comfortable when snorkeling for longer sessions. Especially if you’re wearing open-heel snorkeling fins.
Booties provide a bit more protection and help protect your feet against the sharp and rough surfaces you may encounter on the ocean floor.
Once you’ve used them once, you’ll wonder how you ever snorkeled without them!
Dive Gear Bag
A dive or snorkel bag is super important for keeping all of your gear and snorkeling equipment in one place. Depending on the amount of gear you’re bringing, you’ll want a different size bag. More durable options are made of Nylon, while lighter and cheaper options are typically mesh.
Rash Guards/ Reef-Safe Sunscreen
A rash guard is a popular but optional piece for snorkelers and watersport. Depending on the specific features, a rash guard can provide sun protection, thermal protection, and of course, rash prevention.
If a wetsuit is too much extra weight or uncomfortable for you while snorkeling, than a rash guard is a solid option.
You will be shallow and there will be spots that the rash guards and your clothes won’t cover make sure you have sunscreen on and especially reef-safe sunscreen to protect the corals and yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can A Snorkel Mask Work as a Dive Mask?
We recommend getting a mask that’s specific for the job, but assuming the mask will hold fine under pressure and is water tight, there should be no issues. As always, consult the manufacturer and see what they deem the gear safe for. For more information about scuba masks, take a look on dedicated scuba mask review page.
What is a Good Snorkel Set?
A good snorkel set is comfortable, durable, and easy to use. For us, the Wildhorn Seaview 180° Kradan Snorkel Set ticks all these boxes, plus it’s affordable and the single-lens mask offers an epic panoramic view.
All of the sets we’ve recommended above are good snorkel sets. Which one is best for you will really depend on your personal preferences, your budget, and your experience level.
What is the Best Mask For Snorkeling?
As we’ve already mentioned, the best gear for snorkeling is the gear that suits your needs and budget. The best mask for snorkeling is one that sits comfortably on your face without leaking, fogging, or pinching, even after a few hours of wear.To learn more and check out some other options, check out our reviews of the 7 best snorkel masks.
What is a Dry Snorkel Set?
A dry snorkel set is where the snorkel included in the set features a specially designed valve that prevents any water from getting into the snorkel. Even if the snorkel is completely submerged, this float valve will seal the tube so that no water enters (hence the name ‘dry’).
The Wildhorn Seaview 180° Kradan Snorkel Set is a dry snorkel set so you never have to worry about clearing your snorkel – just another reason why it’s our top choice!
What are the Best Flippers for Snorkeling?
The best flippers for snorkeling really depend on your experience level and how you like to be able to move in the water. A good pair of snorkeling flippers are comfortable, durable, and fulfill your personal needs.
For example, if you’re a strong swimmer looking for power and speed, then the best snorkeling fins will be reasonably stiff with channeled blades that offer stronger propulsion and help you cut through the water efficiently. Whereas a complete beginner may prefer softer, more flexible snorkeling flippers that require less effort from their leg muscles.
If you’re after multi-purpose snorkeling flippers, these hybrid snorkeling fins from Wildhorn are our top choice!
If you want to review some more options, check out our reviews of the best fins for snorkeling. (Don’t forget – they’re called fins, not flippers!)
What is the Best Snorkel Set for Kids?
For kids, the best snorkeling set is the Mini Palau Junior Set from Cressi. Exactly the same as the adult’s set we reviewed above, this mini version comes with a mask, snorkel, and fins.
Each component is comfortable and high quality, designed and built to look after you (and your kids) in the water and last a long time. Just as you’d expect from Cressi, one of the most well-known and trusted brands of dive gear.
What is the Best Snorkel Set for Beginners?
Our top choice for beginners is the Wildhorn Seaview 180° Kradan Snorkel Set. The dry top snorkel prevents any water from getting inside and the ultra-soft silicone provides a comfortable, leak-free fit on almost every face, making this set super easy to use for beginners. Plus it’s affordable and durable.
What is the Best Freediving Mask?
If we had to recommend a snorkel and freediving mask, we’d recommend the Aqua Lung Micro mask. It’s an extremely comfortable, and super low volume mask, that offers an unrivalled vision. On top of that, it fits almost every face perfectly due to its advanced mask straps.
Now you’ve got all the information you need to pick or create the best snorkel gear and sets for you. So it’s time to start making some decisions.
Have you purchased a snorkeling set before? Or do you prefer to mix and match items to create your own?
Let us know your top tips for buying snorkeling gear in the comments!
