Snorkeling Mask – How to choose the best one?

Snorkeling is a popular recreational activity in coastal tourist destinations like Singapore. Unlike scuba divers, snorkelers don’t go deep in the water. Instead, they enjoy the beauty underwater from the surface, in the shallow waters. Even though it does not require a bulk of gear like scuba diving, it does require the basic gear such as the mask. The snorkel mask is a crucial piece of gear when it comes to snorkeling. Without it, you cannot keep your eyes open and have clear vision underwater. Read on to learn everything you need to know about the snorkel mask. This is how you can choose the best one.

What Is a Snorkel Mask? Why Do You Need It?

Simply put, the snorkel mask is what you wear to keep your eyes dry during snorkeling. It is quite similar to a scuba diving mask by appearance, but it cannot be worn deep in the sea. The snorkel mask usually comes with a snorkel that you have to grip between your teeth, through which you breathe when in water. 

When wearing a snorkel mask, your mouth and nose are covered, and you have distinct spaces for inhaling and exhaling. When you exhale, the air does not exit through the valve but rather through a pipe and side channels. You can’t ever breathe your own air again because of this. Through the glass, the air escapes. This has the additional benefit of preventing fogged glass.

The newly invented full face snorkel mask has made the sport a lot easier for everyone. With this new mask, you don’t have to go through the hassle of breathing from your mouth, with a snorkel stuck in your mouth. Instead, you can breathe normally through your nose without experiencing dry mouth. 

What Are the Types of Snorkel Masks Available on the Market?

Snorkeling masks or snorkeling goggles come in different types. If you are looking to buy one, you have a wide range of options.

1. Two Window Snorkel Mask

These masks have two lenses. They are connected by a frame. As the lenses are close to the face, reducing the mask volume, it helps clear and equalize the mask easily. However, when wearing a two window mask, make sure that the frame does not press the bridge of your nose too hard. 

2. Single Lense Snorkel Mask

The single lens mask provides a wider vision compared to the two window masks. As it does not have a frame running between the eyes, it is a popular choice among most divers and snorkelers.

3. Full Face Snorkel Mask

The full face snorkeling mask is the most comfortable to wear. It covers the entire face of the snorkeler, allowing him or her to breathe normally through the nose. With this, the snorkeler does not have to worry about getting jaw pains caused by gripping the snorkel between teeth for too long. 

What to Consider When Buying a Good Snorkel Mask?

If you are a novice diver with less experience, buying a snorkel mask for yourself can be daunting, considering all the specifications available on the market. These are the key factors you should pay attention to when choosing a snorkel mask.

 1. The Fit

The better the fit is, the better your snorkeling experience will be. If the mask is too tight, it might hinder your blood circulation and bring you discomfort. If it is too loose, it will allow water to flush in continuously, blocking your vision completely. What makes your mask watertight is the silicon frame around it. The best way to pick your fit is to try it on before purchasing. To avoid hassle, pay a visit to your nearest dive shop and try a few masks on rather than ordering online. 

2. The Cost

The cost does not always define the quality. However, it is no secret that relatively expensive masks come in better quality than the cheap masks that you can buy at supermarkets and roadside shops. If your budget allows, make sure to go for a strong, durable mask manufactured by a reputed brand as you can turn it into a long-term investment. If your budget is too tight, it is recommended that you rent a mask rather than buying a cheap, off-brand one that would possibly break or disfigure after a few dives. 

3. The Size and The Accessories

Snorkel masks come in different sizes to fit each and every diver. Certain masks allow you to fix other accessories such as a Go-Pro or prescription lenses to it. Depending on your requirements, ask your dive shop employees to give you the best options to choose from. 

4. Number of Lenses

As mentioned above, snorkel masks come with one or two lenses. The choice of the number of lenses always depends on the snorkeler’s personal choice. Generally, if you like to have a wider vision, you may go for a single lens mask.

5. The Skirt Color

The skirt is the silicon frame that runs around the lenses. Generally, they are made of black or clear silicon. Masks with clear skirts allow more light to penetrate into the mask while masks with black skirts reduce glare and distraction. Depending on the lighting of your dive spot, you can make a fair choice.

Buy the Best Snorkel Masks in Singapore

Are you looking for a high-quality snorkel mask that is comfortable as well as durable? Visit Scuba Warehouse Singapore and choose the best for yourself. We have top-notch snorkel masks from leading brands like Cressi in stock, and you can make your purchase online or in-store at your convenience. Click here to have a look at our catalog and make your pick! 

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