Freediving Masks & Snorkels

What’s the most important scuba diving gear when free-diving? Obviously, a free-diving mask!

If you like exploring the underwater world with minimal gear, you still need the best free-diving masks to protect your eyes and help you stay in the water and enjoy the beauty around you.

Free-diving masks are designed to provide optimal visibility, comfort, and hydrodynamics. They help you dive deeper and stay underwater longer with greater comfort and for maximum enjoyment of your sport.

Free-Diving Masks Explained

Low volume design

One of the most important features of a dive mask is its low internal volume.

Low-volume masks reduce the amount of air needed to equalize the pressure as you descend to make it easier to balance the pressure in your ears and sinuses. This feature is particularly important in free diving, where you need to conserve air for longer and deeper dives.

Wide field of vision

Free-diving masks are designed to offer a wide field of vision so that divers can fully appreciate the underwater scenery and maintain better awareness of their surroundings. Free-diving masks come with specially shaped lenses and a close-fitting design that minimizes obstructions in your peripheral view.

Comfort and fit

Just like with any other mask, you need it to be well-fitting and comfortable.

Free-diving masks, snorkels, and diving fins are made with high-quality silicone skirts that create a secure, watertight seal around the face. The soft, flexible silicone adapts to different face shapes, for better comfort and to prevent leaks. Adjustable straps and practical buckles further improve the fit and help divers adjust the mask to their face.

Durable construction

Free-diving masks are built for frequent use and exposure to saltwater. Lenses are often made from tempered glass, which is resistant to scratches and breakage. They are the best for clear vision and safety.

The frames are typically made from durable materials that can withstand the pressures of deep dives.

Hydrodynamic design

The sleek, hydrodynamic design of free-diving masks minimizes drag and resistance in the water. Divers can move around smoothly. This streamlined shape helps reduce effort and conserve energy, essential for free diving where every breath counts.

Anti-fog and scratch resistance

Many free-diving masks come with anti-fog coatings and scratch-resistant lenses for clear underwater vision. These masks prevent fogging while the lenses remain clear throughout the dive.

Different Types of Free-Diving Masks

Single-lens masks

Single-lens masks have one large lens that spans across both eyes. This design gives an uninterrupted field of vision, with a wide and panoramic view. The absence of a central frame improves the sense of openness and can be particularly enjoyable for divers who want to appreciate the underwater scenery fully.

Double-lens masks

Double-lens masks feature two separate lenses, one for each eye. This design often allows for a lower internal volume than single-lens masks: they are easier to equalize. Double-lens masks are popular for their snug fit and compact design.

Frameless masks

Frameless masks have lenses that are directly bonded to the silicone skirt and eliminate the need for a rigid frame. This design reduces the mask’s overall volume and weight and boosts flexibility. The mask can be folded flat which is easy to pack and store. Frameless masks provide a comfortable fit and a wide field of vision.

Low-volume masks

Low-volume masks are specifically designed with minimal internal space to reduce the amount of air needed for equalization. These masks are ideal for free diving, where conserving air is crucial. Low-volume masks often feature a snug fit and streamlined shape.

Tinted and mirrored masks

Some free-diving masks come with tinted or mirrored lenses. Tinted lenses reduce glare and boost contrast in bright conditions. They are great for diving in sunny environments. Mirrored lenses reflect light away and provide additional glare protection. They help divers observe marine life without revealing their eye movements.

The Right Free-Diving Mask for You

You want your free-diving mask to fit comfortably and snugly on your face. That’s the first thing you need.

Fit and comfort

You want your new mask to fit snugly without being too tight. The silicone skirt should create a good seal around your face without discomfort. Test the mask by placing it on your face without the strap and inhaling through your nose; the mask should stay in place without leaking.

Field of vision

Choose a mask with a wide field of vision to improve your underwater experience. Look for masks with lenses that extend close to the eyes and reduce the frame's obstruction.

Ease of equalization

Opt for a low-volume mask that makes equalizing easier and conserves air. Masks with nose pockets that are easy to pinch can help with equalization.

Durability

Select a mask made from high-quality materials, such as tempered glass lenses and a durable frame so you can enjoy them for years to come.

Full scuba packages

Complete your scuba equipment with essential gear like fin accessories and snorkel accessories for better propulsion and comfort, functional scuba gear bags, weight belts for optimal buoyancy, reliable regulators, comfortable wetsuits, and dive computer accessories for accurate underwater data.

Additional features

Consider masks with anti-fog coatings, scratch-resistant lenses, and practical straps for added convenience.

Free-Diving Masks from Divers Supply

At Divers Supply, we have free-diving masks at the best price guarantee and only work with the top manufacturers. Shop now, enjoy free shipping on all orders above $25, and discover the ultimate diving experience!

FAQs

Why is a low-volume mask important for free diving?

A low-volume mask requires less air to equalize. This is important for freedivers who need to conserve their breath for longer and deeper dives. It also reduces the pressure on the face as you descend and makes the diving experience more comfortable.

What is the difference between a free-diving mask and a regular scuba mask?

Free-diving masks have a lower internal volume than regular scuba masks: they are easier to equalize. They are designed to minimize drag and maximize comfort for divers who rely on breath-holding.

Scuba masks may have more features suited for longer underwater sessions with breathing apparatus, but they usually have a larger internal volume.

Can I use a free-diving mask for snorkeling?

Yes, free-diving masks can be used for snorkeling, although their low-volume design is particularly practical for free-diving.