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.
A full face snorkel mask is a game-changer for snorkelers seeking a more immersive and comfortable underwater experience.
The right full face snorkel mask combines a mask and snorkel into a single unit, allowing for easy breathing, panoramic views, and a hassle-free snorkeling adventure.
There are so many different brands with full-face snorkel masks on the market, with a majority of them being unsafe, making picking a full face snorkel mask a daunting task.
As a PADI Divemaster working in the South Florida scuba diving industry, we often have snorkelers on board who prefer full face snorkel masks over the traditional mask and snorkel.
There are very specific models that I deem to be safe, that we carry on board our boats.
I’ve purchased all of the leading full-face snorkel masks, and narrowed down the best masks based on the following metrics:
- Anti-fogging technology and clear visibility
- Comfortable fit and sealing
- Integrated snorkel design and dry-top system
- Ease of breathing and airflow
- Durability and quality materials
- Brand reputation and customer reviews
- And much more!
In the following sections, I’ll review the full-face snorkel masks and jump into a buying guide.
Lastly, I answer many of the frequently asked questions that come up when purchasing one of these masks.
Best Full Face Snorkel Masks
- Our Top Pick : Seaview 180 V3
- Runner Up: Subea Tribord EasyBreath
- Safe Budget Option: SEAC Unica
- Best for Travel: Cressi Duke Dry
- Most Expensive: Ocean Reef Aria
Best for: Surface Snorkelers | Strap Material: Silicone | Lense Material: Polycarbonate | FOV: 180° | Sizes: S, M, L | Weight: 1.4 lbs/.62 kg | Return Period: 30 Days | Warranty: 1 Year
I personally believe the Wildhorn Seaview 180 V3 is the best full-face snorkel mask on the market in 2023.
This is Wildhorn’s 3rd version of the mask, and their safest and most breathable mask yet
To construct this mask, Wildhorn worked along side the state of Hawaii after a series of full-face snorkel mask related drownings in their state, and discovered that poor breathability (Work of Breath) was the cause of the incidents.
During my testing, the mask didn’t leak water once (even with a short beard), as it’s constructed with a high quality seal, and I made sure to purchase the right size.
In the event of a leak, the mask automatically drains when you pick your head above the water.
The mask can also be broken down into two pieces, by removing the snorkel tube, to make it easier to pack. Most importantly, the mask comes in seven exotic colors. Lastly, the mask comes with a GoPro mount for the photographers out there.
Pros:
- Effortless breathing experience
- Leakproof without having to pull straps super tight
- Stays perfectly in place once adjusted
Fog-resistant - Beautifully clear 180-degree views
- Removable snorkel for travel
- Gopro mount on top
- Sleek and more stylish design
- Variety of colors available
Cons:
- Somewhat bulky for travel
- Not the “cheapest” option
- Not suitable for freediving below the surface
- Looks a little dorky
SEAC Unica
Best for: Surface Snorkelers | Strap Material: Soft Elastic | Lense Material: Polycarbonate | FOV: 180° | Sizes: Junior, S/M, L/XL | Weight: 1.4 lbs/.62 kg | Return Period: 30 Days | Warranty: 1 Year
I had the chance to try out the SEAC Unica full-face snorkel mask and it certainly didn’t disappoint.
The wide frame provided an impressive 180-degree panoramic view and didn’t fog up at all, thanks to the separate inhalation and exhalation channeling system.
I found the mask to be incredibly comfortable with its elasticated fabric retaining straps that ensured a perfect fit. The mask’s hypoallergenic facial skirt was also a nice touch.
Overall, I would highly recommend the SEAC Unica to anyone who loves snorkeling.
Pros:
- Effortless breathing experience
- Comes in junior size
- Cheapest safe full face snorkel mask
- Light weight for travel
- Hypoallergenic skirt
Cons:
- Not constructed from premium materials
Cressi Duke Dry
Best for: Surface Snorkelers | Strap Material: Silicone | Lense Material: Polycarbonate | FOV: 180° | Sizes: S, M, L | Weight: .55 lbs/.25 kg | Return Period: 30 Days | Warranty: 2 Years
At its price point, the Cressi Adult Snorkeling Full Face Mask was awesome.
I was amazed by the 30% larger viewing area (compare to other masks), making my snorkeling experience more enjoyable as I could see more.
The dry snorkel and specialized deflector kept water out and prevented fogging.
It has a soft hypoallergenic silicone skirt that was comfortable and the seal secure seal but the fit was also not as comfortable as I had hoped.
Pros:
- Available in 3 different sizes
- Great colors to choose from
Cons:
- A little pricey
Ocean Reef Aria
Best for: Surface Snorkelers | Strap Material: Soft Elastic | Lense Material: Polycarbonate | FOV: 180° | Sizes: S, M, L | Weight: 1.72 lbs | Return Period: 30 Days | Warranty: 2 Year
If you are looking for a comfortable/ secure snorkeling mask with an unobstructed view, the OCEAN REEF Aria QR Snorkeling Mask might be a good option for you.
With its full-face design and dry snorkel system, I enjoyed my snorkeling experience without any water leaks.
If you plan to go deep diving, this mask might not be suitable. Overall, it’s a solid choice for surface snorkelers like myself who seek a high-quality snorkeling experience.
Pros:
- Available in 3 different sizes
- Comfortable fit
Cons:
- A little pricey
- Heaviest mask on the list
Tribord Subea EasyBreath
Best for: Surface Snorkelers | Strap Material: Soft Elastic | Lense Material: Polycarbonate | FOV: 180° | Sizes: S, M, L | Weight: 1.41 lbs | Return Period: 30 Days | Warranty: 2 Year
The Tribord Subea EasyBreath was actually the first full-face snorkel mask on the market. While many brands have tried to imitate the design, the Tribord remains securely at the front of the pack thanks to its patented easy breathing system and superior construction quality.
It comes in 4 different sizes. That’s a huge advantage over the cheaper models because it allows for a more precise fit. This means significantly fewer leaks and a much more comfortable snorkeling session.
Special vents help prevent fogging without impeding your air supply. After an initial wash with dish soap (always a good idea), you won’t have any visibility issues.
The innovative air channel makes sure you’re not breathing in the same air you’ve just exhaled. That’s a crucial difference between this mask and cheaper imitations. This model also has a dry valve snorkel tube and a one-way drain valve on the chin.
The snorkel top is designed with safety in mind. The super-bright end is visible from 4x the distance you’d spot a normal snorkel. That’s a huge plus for parents keeping an eye on kids, and new snorkelers who might not be as confident going it alone.
Pros:
- Great field of view
- 4 different sizes
- Fog-free
- Very visible
Cons:
- Highest priced mask on the list
- Not as breathable as other masks
Full Face Snorkel Mask Buying Guide
Know What You’re Getting
With traditional snorkel masks, there are many different brands that each have a distinct style and design. But the full-face market has only a few reliable brands, and many other companies are offering cheap, and often shoddy, imitations.
Tribord created the very first full-face mask and they own quite a few patents for certain features of their design. It has a very effective design for making sure you can breathe easily without fogging or having hot air back up.
Be wary of cheap Chinese-made products, as these often mimic Tribord’s shape but don’t actually feature a proper breathing system.
As a result, many of the cheaper options tend to fog up more easily, fit more awkwardly, or fail to function. Not only is this frustrating but it can also be dangerous. If the mask does not ventilate properly CO2 builds up, leading to dizziness, and eventually blackouts.
Whilst you should avoid the super cheap full-face snorkel masks, there are still some reliable and safe options for those on a budget. Just make sure you check out reviews and choose a mask from a reputable brand and retailer.
All in all, we think it’s worth spending the extra money to get the real thing. However, we’ve gone out of our way to recommend the best imitators, so cash-strapped shoppers don’t have to settle too much.
Think About Fit
One of the most important things to consider when buying any type of diving mask is the fit. If your mask doesn’t fit properly, it’ll be uncomfortable and you’ll probably end up with leaks.
Remember to check the sizing chart when choosing a full face mask. Models with multiple sizing options usually give you the best chance of finding the perfect fit.
Make sure the strap system doesn’t easily come loose and that the full face snorkel mask has a tight seal. Having a soft silicone skirt helps to create a snug, yet comfortable seal.
Look For Additional Features
When choosing a full face snorkel mask you want to make sure it has these key features:
- A separate chamber for breathing to prevent fogging.
- A dry top snorkel that prevents any water from going down the tube.
- A drain or purge valve in the chin area helps expel any water that gets inside the mask
- Quick-release buckles that allow you to remove the mask fast in case of flooding or an emergency
And lastly, if you want to easily capture all those magical underwater moments, look for a full face snorkel with an action camera mount.
Traditional Snorkel Mask or the Full Face Snorkel Mask?
So you’ve reviewed the options but you’re still not sure which is best for snorkeling. Honestly, this really comes down to personal preference and what you feel most comfortable using.
In general, we’ve found that those who are completely new to snorkeling and not very confident in the water tend to prefer a full-face snorkel mask. There’s less chance of leaks, super easy to use, and allow more natural breathing.
At OtterAquatics, we prefer a traditional snorkel and mask set because they can be used for freediving and scuba diving as well as snorkeling. Plus they’re easier to pack for traveling and tend to be more reliable.
Check out this video for a more detailed comparison between a full face snorkel mask and a traditional snorkel and mask.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Full Face Snorkel Masks Actually Dangerous?
This is a very controversial topic. But in general, full-face snorkeling masks themselves are not dangerous.
However, if they’re used incorrectly, or you use a cheap, shoddy model that doesn’t properly expel the stale air, then there’s certainly safety concerns. This is primarily due to a build-up of carbon dioxide which can lead to a blackout and potentially drowning.
Whenever you head out snorkeling, whether that’s with a full face or regular mask, make sure that you know how to use your equipment properly and you’re fully aware of any potential hazards in that area. Assess the conditions and avoid heading out snorkeling by yourself.
And as we’ve already mentioned, choose a full face snorkel mask from a reputable brand to avoid badly designed breathing systems that could lead to issues with CO2 buildup.
Can You Breathe Underwater With A Full Face Snorkel Mask?
No, you can’t breathe underwater with a full face snorkel mask.
When you are using a full face snorkel mask you are breathing air from the surface through the snorkel tube. They don’t have a self-contained air supply for you to be able to breathe underwater.
To be able to breathe underwater, you’d need to go scuba diving where you have a self-contained tank of air that you take down with you. Which requires you to be properly certified so you understand how to do this safely.
Full face snorkel masks aren’t suitable for freediving and don’t really allow you to dive under the surface like you can with a traditional mask and snorkel set.
This is mainly because the structure of the mask makes equalizing very difficult. Full face snorkel masks don’t give access to the nose, and most people struggle to equalize their ears without being able to pinch the nose.
Do not use a full-face snorkel mask as a dive mask or freedive mask.
Are Full Face Snorkel Masks Good For Visibility?
Full face snorkel masks can be a lot of fun and are a great piece of snorkeling gear for those who don’t get on with a traditional snorkel and mask set.
They’re very easy to use and eliminate many issues that can often put people off snorkeling such as water leakage in the mask, aching jaw from holding on to the mouthpiece, or not being able to clear the snorkel of water. Plus they give an increased field of view.
Ultimately, it’s about what you feel most comfortable with. Many snorkelers love full face snorkeling masks for surface snorkeling, and will never use a traditional style set again. Others hate them and prefer to stick with the separate mask and snorkel.
Why Use a Full-face Snorkel Mask?
Firstly, the curved lens gives you a much wider and uninterrupted view of the underwater world as the frame seals far beyond your line of vision.
Because it seals around your entire face there is much less chance of water getting in. With a normal snorkeling mask, you only have to smile slightly and it’ll start to flood.
They’re perfect for kids, or people with respiratory issues who need something a bit less constrictive than a traditional snorkel.
They also allow you to breathe through your nose and mouth underwater, which is much more natural than only breathing through your mouth. This helps keep you calmer and more relaxed in the water
Plus, it’s more comfortable as you can fully relax, rather than having to constantly clench your mouth to hold the snorkel. So you can snorkel for longer.
What’s Next?
Now you’ve got all the information you need to choose the best full face snorkeling mask.
Each of these products fit comfortably, seal securely, and breathe easily. Plus they’re from reputable brands that guarantee the safety of their design.
Looking for a more traditional mask for snorkeling? Check out our complete guide to the best snorkel masks.
Have you tried a full face snorkeling mask before? Or do you prefer a mask and snorkel set?
Let us know in the comments!
