Freediving Mask Buying Guide

Freediving is a sport that requires minimal equipment, but having the right freediving mask is essential. With so many manufacturers offering a variety of low-volume models, choosing your first mask can be overwhelming. But we are here to help you. In our guide you can learn what features you should consider when buying a freedive mask!

Freediving Mask vs. Scuba Mask – Key Differences

If you already own scuba or snorkeling equipment, you might consider using your existing mask for freediving. While this works for shallow dives during your early adventures, a freediving mask becomes crucial as you progress.

Freediving masks differ significantly from scuba masks in design and functionality. Here’s a quick comparison to help you understand why:

As you dive deeper, the low-volume design of a freediving mask makes equalization easier and helps conserve your air for longer dives.

Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Freediving Mask

In order to find a freedive mask that will fit your needs the most, these are the most important features you need to consider:

Low Volume – The Most Important Feature

Freedive masks are designed to have low internal volume to reduce the need of equalization as you descend. Lowest volume freediving masks almost doesn’t need equalization like OMER ZERO CUBED mask. As you descend, you will need to equalize your mask too to avoid sucking on your face. The lower volume your mask has, the less air you need to exhale into it to equalize.

Normal scuba masks have large volume that require more air for equalization, which means you will waste your air for equalization and not using it for diving. Therefore, a good freediving mask has always low internal volume. (For easy hands-free equalization it is recommended to use freedive nose clip.) An other advantage is, that the low profile mask design places the lenses closer to your eyes providing a wider field of view.

Comfort – Fit for Your Face

Masks made with soft silicone skirts offer superior comfort. They adapt to your face without pressing too hard, even as pressure changes during your descent.

Shape and Design – Why Fit Matters

The mask must form a perfect seal on your face. Every face is different, so prioritize finding a mask that fits well over choosing one that looks stylish. A poorly fitting mask can ruin your dive.

Color – Clear vs. Dark Silicone Skirts

Although there are some clear freedive masks on the market but it is recommended to have a dark silicone mask. Why? A clear skirt lets in too much light that can create reflection on your lenses, disturb your vision and/or concentration. A dark skirt keeps light out and therefore provides you with a clear view.

Lenses – Choosing the Right Material

Most freedive masks have tempered glass lenses that are durable and don’t scratch. However, some special curved lens models like the AQUASPHERE SPHERA come with plastic lenses. The plastic lens provides you with some advantages like wider field of view but can scratch easily.

Also, you find masks with tinted lenses available (yellow, blue, mirror) that look cool for sure, but for freediving, it is essential to use a mask with clear lenses out of safety reasons. Your dive buddy always needs to see your eyes in order to identify even the smallest signs of dizziness that can happen when ascending, therefore always use a clear lens freediving mask.

Durability – Making Your Mask Last

Once you find a good fitting freedive maks, you want to use it as long as possible, right? Silicone is a long lasting material so if you take care of your mask, you can use it for a long time. Buy from trusted manufacturers that made their products from high quality materials. To use your freediving mask for the longest time possible, rinse it with fresh water after each use and store in a plastic case to avoid damages.

How to Find the Best Fitting Freedive Mask

If you have a chance to try different models prior your purchase, do it as the following: place the mask on your face by leaving the strap off and inhale. The suction should keep the mask in place without holding on. If you find it comfortable and it makes a complete seal, that mask fits you.

Not only the seal is important, but it is crucial that the freedive mask has to fit on your nose too. Check if the nose pocket provides you with a comfortable space, it is not to small or big. If the noose area is too big: you cannot pinch your nose which will cause problems until you don’t learn how to equalize hands-free. If it is too small, your nose will start hurting after a while. This will make you feel uncomfortable, and you cannot concentrate on your diving.

Your mask strap should be adjusted in a comfortable position. It should be tight enough to make a good seal but loose at the same time not leaving indentation on your face.

Pro Tip: Shave any facial hair before diving. Even a well-fitting mask can leak if the silicone skirt doesn’t seal properly due to stubble.

If you’re buying online, read manufacturer guidelines on fit and reviews from other freedivers. Many masks are tailored for specific face shapes (e.g., narrow or wide faces) and nose sizes.

Inspired? Pin It!