The Best Freediving Masks of 2021

Freediving is a breathtaking aquatic activity as well as effective exercise.

However, it is also a challenging watersport that takes a lot of training to master.

If you do not have the correct diving mask, you won’t be able to get the most out of freediving.

There are a handful of safety and function factors to consider before choosing a mask.

This article aims to help you consider many options that best complement your diving standards, preferences, and skill level.

Now that you know what to expect, let’s discuss our top picks for the best freediving masks of 2021.

What Is the Use of a Freediving Mask?

Any hobbyist or veteran freediver will tell you about the importance of learning breath-holding techniques.

Unlike snorkeling, freediving masks do not have pipes for breathing near the surface.

Instead, freediving equipment designs help divers hold onto their air for as long as possible.

Like other underwater facial coverings, freediving masks help protect your eyes from potential contaminants in the water and improve your vision.

Not all masks are equal in terms of vision, however.

Choosing one that best accommodates your desired field of vision is critical.

What Is a Good Freediving Mask Brand?

Mares, Aqua Lung, and Cressi are some of the best brands, each having a few representatives on this list.

Each of these brands has different masks suitable for freediving, spearfishing, skin diving, and more.

However, a mask’s performance is far more crucial than its brand.

Let’s begin discussing each of our recommended products in detail.

We will describe each as well as what we like and do not like about each choice.

Best Freediving Masks

Freedivers’ only limits are their experience and equipment.

To lengthen each period underwater, divers need facial equipment they can rely on.

Here are three of our top choices for freediving masks.
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The Aqua Lung MicroMask ranks high on our list of general-purpose freediving masks.

The MicroMask features a patented lens design located on your ocular orbit, which is closer than other models.

It has a compact, low-volume shape to reduce buoyancy and increase movement underwater.

Specifications

• Price: $110-115
• Air Volume: Ultra-low
• Materials: Tempered glass lenses, silicone body
• Field of Vision: Good

What We Like

• Outstanding lateral and peripheral visual field
• Ultra-low air volume
• Free shipping and returns for the contiguous United States

What We Don’t Like

• Scarce and hard to find
• Strap isn’t very durable
• Price is a bit expensive

Cressi Diving Mask with Inclined Teardrop Lenses

Cressi products are made in Italy and are solid choices for your underwater adventuring.

The most notable feature of this mask is its inclined lenses which grant the wearer better downward visibility.

The transparent elements of the design have special Cressi crystal silicone that reduces yellowing over time.

Specifications

• Price: $70-$85
• Air Volume: Very low
• Materials: Tempered glass lenses, crystal silicone skirt
• Field of Vision: Excellent

What We Like

• Exceptional lateral and downward visual range
• Low cost and insured with a 2-year warranty
• Fits larger face shapes and noses

What We Don’t Like:

• Air volume could be improved
• Does not seal appropriately with facial hair
• Strap buckle is prone to breaking

Omer Alien Diving Mask

The Omer Alien mask is a solid pick for people who want to get into freediving without spending big bucks on professional equipment.

It has mirrored lenses and a silicone body, which together weigh about half a pound.

It’s a one-size model with the same dimensions as the Cressi.

The skirt is made of soft silicone and is hypoallergenic.

Specifications

• Price: $60-$72
• Air Volume: Low
• Materials: Soft silicone skirt and plastic lenses
• Field of Vision: Good

What We Like

• Economical price
• Mirrored lenses are available
• Soft, comfortable, and hypoallergenic skirt

What We Don’t Like

• Plastic parts are cheap and break often
• Relatively high internal volume for unwanted air
• Not a trusted brand

Best Low-Volume Freediving Masks

In general, the lower a mask’s internal volume, the lower a diver can comfortably go.

If you want to observe wildlife up-close, you will need low-volume equipment to maintain as much air as possible.

Here are three options for low-volume freediving masks, each focusing on different qualities.

Aqua Lung MicroMask Double Lens Dive Mask

We have included the Aqua Lung MicroMask twice to highlight its effectiveness for both general and low-volume uses.

Its ocular orbit lens placement makes its internal volume very low, which is ideal for experienced freedivers.

Wearers also benefit from an extended vision range peripherally.

Specifications

• Price: $110-115
• Air Volume: Ultra-low
• Materials: Tempered glass lenses, silicone body, and strap
• Field of Vision: Good

What We Like

• One of the lowest internal air volumes on the market
• Durable quality components aren’t prone to wear and tear
• Insured with a 2-year warranty

What We Don’t Like

• Hefty price tag
• Strap is the weakest part
• Difficult to find and purchase online

Kraken Aquatics Freediving Mask

The Kraken Aquatics mask is a decent all-rounder for a suitable price.

It has tempered glass lenses and is primarily made of silicone.

The double-lens design increases visibility forwards, but it does lose some peripheral vision compared to other models.

It has a leak-proof skirt and a buckle for easy adjustment. Each Kraken Aquatics mask comes with a storage case.

Specifications

• Price: $45-$60
• Air Volume: Low
• Materials: Silicone and tempered glass
• Field of Vision: Good

What We Like

• Very beginner-friendly
• Scratch-proof and yellow-resistant lenses
• Comes with a free plastic storage case

What We Don’t Like

• Only comes in black, isn’t customizable
• Fogs easily and may need excessive or daily wipedowns
• Air volume could be better

Scubapro Spectra Low Volume 2 Window Dive Mask

The Scubapro dive mask is difficult to beat in terms of vision range.

It has wide, outward-facing, ultra-clear lenses made of tempered glass.

You can also order it with mirrored lenses which can reduce glare even further underwater.

This low-volume mask has push-button buckles, so it is difficult for the strap to unintentionally come undone.

Specifications

• Price: $110-$130
• Air Volume: Low
• Materials: Double-sealed silicone, no-tint tempered glass
• Field of Vision: Excellent

What We Like

• Exceptional peripheral vision range with fog-resistant lenses
• High-quality, long-lasting silicone components
• Mirrored lens availability

What We Don’t Like

• One of the most expensive masks on this list
• Paint finish comes off easily
• Air volume is very high for such a costly mask

Best Freediving Mask for Skin Diving

People often use the terms “skin diving” and “freediving” interchangeably, but skin divers often use less equipment than freedivers.

In the absence of snorkels, fins, and wetsuits, divers rely on skin diving masks to have ultra-low internal volumes.

This feature helps them stay under the water for as long as possible to observe aquatic life.

Here are three of our best equipment picks for skin diving.

Mares X-Free Freediving Mask

The Mares X-Free is an extremely low internal volume mask, making it an excellent choice for skin diving.

The design is ergonomic, anti-reflective, and efficient in the water, and the nose area has a clip design such that many different facial types can comfortably wear this model.

Overall, it is quite small, making it a suitable choice for narrower faces or younger divers.

Specifications

• Price: $62-$86
• Air Volume: Ultra-Low
• Materials: Tempered glass, silicone, matte finish
• Field of Vision: Good

What We Like

• Mask lenses are very close to the eyes
• Matte finish reduces glare and improves visibility
• Reasonably cheap but still reliable quality

What We Don’t Like

• The mask dimensions are only 6″ x 4″ x 4″
• Still needs anti-fog maintenance despite its lens technology
• Somewhat limiting field of vision

Mares Star LiquidSkin Mask

Just like the X-Free, the Mares tar LiquidSkin is a very low-volume model.

The design features two different silicone types that work together to create a pliable, comfortable feel.

The skirt is 45% more comfortable than other silicone mask skirts.

The lens shape is half-circular, giving the wearer decent upward, downward, and lateral vision.

Specifications

• Price: $108
• Air Volume: Ultra Low
• Materials: Double-layered silicone, tempered glass
• Field of Vision: Excellent

What We Like

• Unique lens shape that reliably aids distance perception
• Extremely comfortable, soft, and virtually pinch-free
• Comes with a complimentary mask box

What We Don’t Like

• Hard to find and often only on backorder
• Expensive compared to similar Mares products
• Won’t fit many facial types with its small dimensions

Cressi Nano HD Mirrored Lens Mask

Cressi’s Nano HD incorporates patented dual-frame technology.

Through this system, the mask integrates two rigid frames that are joined together to minimize inner volume.

Like the other Cressi mask, this design has teardrop-shaped lenses which help downward vision.

It features a strong buckle system that is anchored for stability.

The strap and skirt aren’t that comfortable, but Cressi sells a strap cover to alleviate the problem for about $8 more.

Specifications

• Price: $70-$80
• Air Volume: Ultra-Low
• Materials: Silicone rubber, mirrored lenses
• Field of Vision: Excellent

What We Like

• Very low internal volume
• Fair price backed up by a 2-year warranty
• Firm buckle and strap won’t typically break

What We Don’t Like

• Visual clarity is comparable to any other fair-quality mask
• Fogs often
• Strap and skirt aren’t comfortable

Best Freediving Masks for Spearfishing

Spearfishing is a honed cultural art that became a popular modern aquatic sport.

Experienced spearfishers want equipment that improves their maneuverability and speed in the water.

Vision range is also critical for a spearfishing mask to help divers keep an eye on the fish they’re hunting.

With these qualities in mind, here are three of our best picks for spearfishing masks.

Mares Viper Mask

The Mares Viper spearfishing mask has an iconic, pointed shape that enhances hydrodynamic movement.

Mares created this design collaboratively with many aquatic athletes.

It is small but stays thoroughly secure through its double-button strap adjustment system.

Plus, it is ergonomic by design and fits many different facial physiognomies.

Specifications

• Price: $78-$100
• Air Volume: Very Low
• Materials: Silicone rubber, glass, matte finish
• Field of Vision: Good

What We Like

• Secure double-button strap fastening system
• Iconic mask shape is hydrodynamic and performs well
• Ergonomically reduces facial strain while wearing

What We Don’t Like

• Somewhat expensive
• Skirt isn’t very secure and sometimes leaks
• Not a particularly spectacular visual range

SeaDive Eagleye RayBlocker HD Mask with Purge Valve

The SeaDive Eagleye is a unique addition to this list, with many features that other masks lack.

It has slick, orange, UV-blocking lenses and a purge valve that helps to pump out any water inside.

It has a vast field of view and ample internal volume.

This combination of features makes it a strong choice for shallow waters.

Specifications

• Price: $105
• Air Volume: Medium/High
• Materials: Tempered glass lenses, soft silicone rubber
• Field of Vision: Excellent

What We Like

• Nice field of vision with large, UV-protected lenses
• Comfortable, reliable, and durable
• Purge valve for handling leaks

What We Don’t Like

• Not suited for deeper dives because of its volume
• Rather expensive
• Only available in one color and style

SalviMar Noah Mask Freediving Mask

The SalviMar Noah is an economic spearfishing mask composed of silicone, tempered glass, and elasticized fabric.

It has a standard vision range and a semi-clear window for the nose.

The hypoallergenic skirt won’t itch or pinch easily.

This model does not have a lot of additional or unique features, but it can still be a solid choice for beginners.

Specifications

• Price: $46-$53
• Air Volume: Low
• Materials: Tempered glass lens, elastic fabric strap, silicone skirt
• Field of Vision: Decent

What We Like

• Economical and great for first-timers
• Insured with a 2-year warranty
• Skirt and strap are comfortable and hypoallergenic

What We Don’t Like

• Only decent vision range, similar to a standard snorkel mas
• Does not seal well, particularly with facial hair
• Clips on the strap are cheap and flimsy

Alternative: Best Freediving Goggles

If you want to enjoy diving but do not want to pay for expensive masks, I suggest trying goggles.

You cannot take advantage of low air volumes, but goggles have many of the same qualities as masks.

For instance, some of them have comparable vision ranges and lens types.

Here are two of our best picks for alternative options.

Cressi Adult Wide View Silicone Anti-UV Swimming Mask Skylight

Goggles are a cheaper alternative to freediving masks that do not cover the nose.

However, goggles like the Cressi Skylight still grant the benefits of clear lenses with large vision ranges.

The Skylight’s long lenses provide a substantial lateral vision range and are 100% UV-protected.

You can order these goggles with tinted, mirrored, or standard lenses.

The straps are soft and comfortable.

Specifications

• Price: $26-$38
• Air Volume: N/A
• Materials: Plastic lens, silicone rubber skirt
• Field of Vision: Good

What We Like

• Comfortable strap design
• Many customization options for lenses, colors, and styles
• Treated with anti-fogging solution

We Don’t Like

• Cheap, thin, plastic components
• Rigid frame may irritate certain facial types
• High price tag for goggles

Aqua Sphere Seal 2.0 Smoke Lens Swim Mask

Aqua Sphere makes accessible and comfortable fitness goggles, and the Seal 2.0 is no exception.

The design features wrap-around lenses that increase visibility and soft silicone components that feel comfortable and seal well.

In addition, the lenses are 100% UV resistant and do not fog regularly.

Specifications

• Price: $35
• Air Volume: N/A
• Materials: Plexisol lenses, silicone rubber
• Field of Vision: Good

What We Like

• Solid vision range for goggles
• Made with stronger plexisol lenses
• Skirt seals well and prevents a lot of leakage

What We Don’t Like

• Strap slips off frequently
• Goggles only fit narrow-faced people comfortably
• Price tag is a bit high for infrequent use

Freediving Mask Buying Guide: Features to Look For

To make the right choice when buying a freediving mask, you will want to remember certain aspects.

Even if you are new to freediving, consider the elements that professionals look for when you buy.

These are the air volume, design, lens type, and fit.

Let’s talk about these in a little more detail.

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1. Air Volume

Whether you are freediving for leisure or sport, the most predominant quality of a mask is low air volume.

The less internal space it has, the less buoyant and resistant it is.

If you are interested in snorkeling or diving in shallow waters, you may not need to prioritize air volume as much.

Ultra-low volume masks are designed for divers who want to reach further depths and stay underwater for a long time.

If you are shopping for a design that will help you competitively, I advise pursuing ultra-low capacity options.

If you are still learning freediving breathing techniques or are new to the sport, I recommend starting with a low-volume mask and moving to an ultra-low over time.

As you learn the breathing techniques of professional freedivers, you will get more experience with using minimal-volume masks.

2. Hydrodynamic Design

Freediving equipment designs aren’t just for looks.

Instead, masks with pointed and compact designs are more hydrodynamic, granting you faster speeds and less resistance in the water.

Spearfishers know the importance of maintaining a high speed while in pursuit of fish.

Pairing functional diving fins with a compact, pointed mask is the best way to reach top speeds underwater.

The Mares Viper is an excellent example of a hydrodynamic design.

The lenses recline slightly backward, making a pointed arch at the nose.

If speed is your aim, I highly suggest a small, hydrodynamic mask.

3. Lenses Type

As you’ve seen, there’s a large variety of different lens types to consider.

In some ways, this is the most critical quality of any mask.

After all, if you cannot see, it is not a very useful tool.

Consider your vision needs.

Whether you want UV-protected, mirrored, tinted, or standard lenses, there’s plenty of choices for each.

Some masks accommodate a prescription lens, and others do not.

Likewise, some lenses have anti-fogging solutions, while others do not.

Although, any diver will tell you that all masks fog.

You may need to apply a home remedy before each dive to reduce fogging incidents.

If you know how to deal with lens fog, you have more choices on the market to pick from.

If you are a beginner, I suggest looking at masks with anti-fog treatment for convenience.

Lens shape is also worth considering since some shapes grant more lateral vision, while others grant more downward vision.

Remember that peripheral vision is crucial if you are spearfishing or freediving competitively. Masks with wrap-around lens designs excel in these categories.

Think of what activity you’ll wear your mask for.

Generally, freedivers and skin divers want downward visibility to observe the aquatic life below.

For snorkeling or spearfishing, you may want some lateral range too.

In general, for beginners, an ample vision range is always nice.

Many freediving newcomers struggle with mask claustrophobia, but equipment with a wide visual field reduces those problems.

5. Fit

Lastly, consider the fit.

Most freediving masks feature silicone rubber, designed for comfort and seal.

However, it is difficult to find a model that fits everyone.

Whenever possible, I highly recommend trying the mask on.

Some frames are too rigid and won’t bend. Some straps are too tight.

You won’t know if it fits perfectly until you wear it.

If you have facial hair, you might have more difficulty finding well-fitting masks that seal correctly.

I suggest looking for designs with large dimensions and flexible silicone skirts that conform to your face shape.

Wrapping Up

Now you know what to expect and what to look for when shopping for a freediving mask.

You have to consider air volume, materials, design, vision, fit, and price.

Once you have the best freediving mask for you, pair it with freediving fins, a dry snorkel, or other freediving gear to complete your ensemble.

Then you can dive securely, knowing your equipment has your back.

If you want to learn more about freediving and how to pick the right aquatic equipment, visit us at diverbelow.com.