Are you looking for the best diving goggles ans masks for your next diving adventure? Every face shape is unique and therefore the decision to buy diving masks is not always easy.
What many people don’t know:
Important factors for choosing the right diving masks should always be safety, comfort and value for money.
Avoid buying mistakes:
Beyondsurfing has taken a closer look at over 53 models of the most popular diving masks at 2024 and presents the 7 best models reviewed.
By the way: Did you know that a lighter can protect your diving masks from fogging up? Find out how in our FAQs!
Content
- 1 The top diving masks 2024
- 2 Bestseller: The most popular diving goggles
- 3 Buy diving goggles:
How to find the right diving goggles
- 3.1 What you need to consider when buying diving goggles (incl. checklist)
- 3.2 Diving masks with prescription help spectacle wearers
- 3.3 Colorful selection – diving masks are available in all colors
- 3.4 Diving masks tested by Consumer Reports and Which?
- 3.5 Well-known brands and manufacturers of diving masks
- 3.6 Diving masks and long hair
- 4 FAQ:: Frequently asked questions and answers about diving masks
- 4.1 How do diving masks work?
- 4.2 How should diving masks fit correctly?
- 4.3 How to clean diving masks?
- 4.4 What do diving masks cost?
- 4.5 What to do if your diving mask fog up?
- 4.6 Avoiding the mask fogging up underwater becomes more difficult:
- 4.7 Why do diving masks fog up?
- 4.8 Are diving masks from Decathlon good?
- 4.9 What is the difference between diving goggles, diving masks, swimming goggles and snorkeling masks?
- 5 Conclusion: The most popular diving masks reviewed
- 6 Specialist literature, sources & further links
In a hurry? Our favorite diving mask:
- Eyewear buckles that can be rotated through 180
- Large frame with small internal volume
- Extra large field of vision
Diving mask checklist
- Safety: Be careful with all-glass viewing windows, they can easily shatter and injure the eyes.
- Children: Adult diving masks are not suitable for children. Find out more here: Diving masks for children.
- Spectacle wearers: For spectacle wearers, there are glue-in spectacle lenses in diving masks.
Also interesting: The best diving fins 2024.
The top diving masks 2024
1. Tusa M1001 Freedom HD
Advantages
- Eyewear buckles that can be rotated through 180
- Large frame with small internal volume
- Extra large field of vision
Disadvantages
- No video accessories
- Single glazing
Summary
The Tusa M1001 Freedom mask has a rotatable buckle system and thus clearly stands out from other models. No annoying buckles in the field of vision, with an unrestricted view at all times. This also makes the glasses easy to adjust to different faces.
With the rounded, wide frame, you can see a lot of the underwater world. Despite the large field of vision, the volume is kept low. This is pleasant underwater, because the less air behind the mask, the lower the pressure! The masks are therefore ideal for divers who like to dive deep or are sensitive to pressure.
The diving masks are available in different colors and designs, so there should be something for everyone.
Product details
Weight: 385g | Material: silicone and tempered glass | Dimensions: 5 x 10 x 20 cm
Customer ratings
Customers particularly praise the flexible adjustment of the glasses to different face shapes. In addition, the field of vision is larger than with many other masks. The seal is repeatedly praised as being very stable.
A full 5% are neutral about the product, while 8% rate the product as inadequate and insufficient.
Some customers find the simple glazing hard and feel pressure on their forehead. Other negative reviews related more to delivery problems, such as the wrong color or delays.
FAQ
2. cressi panorama 3 – window diving mask
Advantages
- 3 lenses panorama design
- Particularly lightweight polycarbonate frame
- Quickly adjustable strap system
Disadvantages
- Small color selection
- High volume
Summary
The Pano 3 Mask is a 3-lens panoramic mask for a clear view on all sides. Unlike other masks, the sides are glazed. The silicone frame normally restricts the view here.
The lightweight and durable polycarbonate frame with soft silicone adapts very well to the shape of your face. Diving goggles are a thing of the past!
The diving mask is equipped with quick-adjustment buckles that snap into place.
The mask is particularly suitable for divers who feel constricted by the opaque frame on the sides of other goggles.
Product details
Weight: 542 g | Material: tempered glass, polycarbonate and silicone | Dimensions: 40.64 x 5.08 x 5.08 cm
Customer ratings
Most customers are very positive about the panoramic windows on the sides, which make them stand out from other diving masks. The transport weight is also praised and is lighter than conventional diving goggles thanks to the material.
A full 9% are neutral about the product, while 5% rate the product as inadequate and insufficient.
Some customers find the panoramic windows annoying. For a few, they cause irritation due to the reflection and the changed incidence of light. Others complain that the buckle system wears out quickly, causing the straps to loosen during the dive.
FAQ
3. cressi Big Eyes Evolution diving mask
Advantages
- Optical lenses available (compensation for defective vision)
- Angled viewing window extends viewing angle
- Minimum internal volume
Disadvantages
- No video accessories
- Frame under high tension
- Not everyone likes the unusual design
Summary
The diving mask is made from high seal silicone and is therefore exceptionally comfortable to wear. The structure of the mask body is achieved using 2K injection molding technology. Two types of silicone in different densities are combined here. This ensures perfect stability on the face.
The lens is aligned at an angle of 15º, which widens the viewing angle by 30% when reviewed against conventional glasses.
If you value comfort and foresight, this is the right choice.
Product details
Weight: 318g | Material: silicone, tempered glass | Dimensions: 11.8 x 10.6 x 19.6 cm
Customer ratings
Most reviews praise the high wearing comfort. The very good water resistance is also often praised. Also very positive: the wide strap distributes the pressure comfortably on the back of the head. The quality is perceived as high.
A full 6% are neutral about the product, while 15% rate the product as inadequate and insufficient.
Some customers complain about the material. It would be under high tension and would have cracked. Not all customers like the design. Some complain about rapid fogging in the field of vision.
FAQ
4. seac unisex one pro mask
Advantages
- Video accessories for GoPro
- Extremely soft eyewear body
Disadvantages
- Waterproof cover for GoPro not included
Summary
The mask from Seac allow you to record your underwater adventures with both hands free. This allows you to fully enjoy the dive while the camera automatically follows your every move.
The company has used particularly soft material for the diving mask to ensure a high level of comfort.
Product details
Weight: 330g | Material: plastic | Dimensions: 20.2 x 12.5 x 10 cm
Customer ratings
The free protective cover is positively emphasized. Customers enjoyed diving with the camera and some found the look particularly “cool”. The weight is well distributed by the bracket.
A full 5% are neutral about the product, while 12% rate the product as inadequate and insufficient.
Customers describe that the brackets are mounted in such a way that air bubbles permanently cloud the picture.
FAQ
5. SCUBAPRO – Spectra diving mask
Advantages
- Mirrored field of vision
- Metallic design
- High-quality workmanship
Disadvantages
- No video accessories
- Narrow nose bridge
- Not for narrow faces
Summary
The ScubaPro Spectra is a quality mask with a special design. The company used high-quality silicone to manufacture the seal and belt. The material is waterproof and fits comfortably.
The metallic color and mirror finish give the mask a particularly futuristic look.
You will be easily recognizable underwater and above water. Ultra-clear lenses are part of Spectra’s quality standard.
Product details
Weight: 408g | Material: silicone and tempered glass | Dimensions: 30.5 x 20.3 x 15.2 cm
Customer ratings
Several customers with beards describe that, unlike others, these goggles held very well despite the hair. The design is always positively emphasized. The price-performance ratio is also praised.
A full 9% are neutral about the product, while 21% rate the product as inadequate and insufficient.
Several customers complained that the strap broke off after a short time. The workmanship is not commensurate with the price. Scratches are particularly visible and irritating on the mirror coating.
FAQ
6th Oceanic Shadow Scuba Diving Mask
Advantages
- Frameless model (light and flexible)
- Low volume
- Two versions for large and small faces
Disadvantages
- No video accessories
- Small selection of colors
- Vulnerable strap seam
Summary
The Oceanic mask is made entirely of soft silicone. This makes it particularly light and compressible. It can be folded so that it can even be easily carried in a trouser pocket.
The mask strap is also equipped with neoprene, which you have to buy separately for additional comfort with other goggles.
The manufacturer has launched two versions of this mask on the market: the standard and mini version – covering almost all face shapes.
Product details
Weight: 385g | Material: silicone, tempered glass | Dimensions: 22.9 x 10.2 x 10.2 cm
Customer ratings
Some customers describe that they have already bought the diving goggles for the second time. They were very satisfied, especially with the small pack size. It is well suited for traveling. It is described as dense and comfortable. Diving instructors are also among the satisfied customers.
A full 3% are neutral about the product, while only 10% rate the product as inadequate and insufficient.
The few dissatisfied customers complain about the diving mask fogging up. Positive reviews refer to this: You should thoroughly remove the silicone film from the glasses after purchase to avoid this.
FAQ
7th Dorlle diving mask Anti Fog
Advantages
- Anti-fog and anti-scratch protection
- Odorless silicone
- Tempered glass
Disadvantages
- No video accessories
- Included snorkeling set scores poorly with customers
- Not suitable for wide faces
Summary
This diving mask from Dorlle comes with a free snorkeling set and carrying bag. The extra-hardened glass protects against damage even under high pressure.
The manufacturer uses food-grade silicone for these glasses. This means that it is particularly low in odor and does not smell unpleasant even immediately after production.
If you don’t like the smell of plastic after buying other diving goggles, you’ll be better off with this one! The diving masks are also available in yellow, blue and black.
Product details
Weight: 442g | Material: Food-grade silicone, tempered glass, PVC, PC | Dimensions: 175 *90 mm
Customer ratings
Customers are generally satisfied with the quality of the product. The snorkel set supplied is positively emphasized. So you can go diving and snorkeling on vacation without having to buy two sets.
A full 4% are neutral about the product, while 12% rate the product as inadequate and insufficient.
Some of the critics complain about the goggles fogging up despite the anti-fog technology. The quality of the snorkel is not described as being equivalent to the goggles.
FAQ
More articles you might find interesting:
Bestseller: The most popular diving goggles
(**Last update 2024-09-16)
Buy diving goggles:
How to find the right diving goggles
The underwater world captivates us again and again with its colorful fish and fascinating creatures. This makes diving trips a real adventure!
Did you know that diving is one of the most popular water sports?
In 2019, there were around 0.5 million people in the German-speaking population aged 14 and over who frequently went diving in their free time.
Especially when on vacation in regions with reefs, such as Indonesia or Australia, it is worth taking a look under the surface of the water. But the local river can also become a treasure hunting adventure. Such an experience should not be spoiled by poor rental equipment.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of having your own diving goggles?
- The right size guaranteed
- Decide on hygiene yourself
- Selected extras such as Go-Pro mount
- Less worn than rental material
- Personal visual aid can be fitted
- Purchase price
- Transportation to your vacation destination
- Loss and theft possible
- Rental equipment can be changed more often
What you need to consider when buying diving goggles (incl. checklist)
Which diving goggles are right for you depends ultimately on your preferences, face shape and desired extras. The best diving goggles are a combination of fit, feel and comfort.
When making your purchase decision, you should definitely pay attention to the following features and characteristics:
- Processing and material
- Size of the glasses
- Quality
- Wearing comfort
- Correct visual acuity
- Design
- Beard and hair length
The workmanship and material of diving masks
The material of the diving goggles must be robust as well as soft and flexible. Likewise, no cracks or sharp edges should be visible during processing.
The best material for the three components of diving masks:
The viewing window
The viewing panel is usually made of tempered glass, which is very break-resistant due to heat treatment. High-quality diving masks sometimes use laminated glass as a viewing window, whereby plastic and glass lie on top of each other in different layers and are therefore particularly scratch and break resistant.
Cheaper models, on the other hand, have screens made of Plexiglas. Although these are also break-resistant, they can scratch easily.
There is single and double glazing: double glazing has a slight downward slope in the outer glass. This provides a better view, as the main focus when diving is usually diagonally downwards. However, single glazing does not always mean poorer vision, but possibly a poorer fit (pressure on the nose bridge).
The mask strap and buckles
The strap and buckles must be adjustable when the glasses are put on. The mask must not cause any pressure points on the entire face. The goggle strap should be as wide as possible to distribute the pressure over a large area of the head.
Straps that are too stiff pinch more quickly – so make sure they are snug! The buckles should be stable and quick to operate. Underwater, a quick grip should be enough to securely adjust slipped goggles.
The frame of the glasses
The sealing rim of the spectacles refers to the body of the spectacles that fits snugly against the face. A double sealing rim ensures that no water penetrates into the diving goggles when submerged. It also helps to reduce fogging of the glasses.
The frame of the diving goggles can be sturdy or flexible. It is important that it lies gently but firmly on the face and does not cause any uncomfortable pressure points. Whether flexible or stable is up to you.
The right size of diving masks
The most expensive diving masks in the wrong size can turn out to be a nightmare. How can I tell if I have chosen the right size?
This is how a thorough size test works:
- Hold the mask to your face without fastening the strap.
- Breathe in deeply and suck in the mask.
- Loosen your hands and check that the mask is firmly suctioned in.
- Shake your head.
- If the mask holds tight in this way, it will also be tight underwater. But of course put the glasses strap on there.
- You can extend this test in the bathtub. Just take a dip and see if any water gets in!
Interim conclusion:
The diving mask should rest comfortably on the face, eyes and nose and not cause any pressure points.
The size is determined by the nose:
When diving, the nose must be completely enclosed by the diving mask. The so-called “nasal dungeon” is a cover made of dense but soft silicone.
The material should be flexible enough so that the nose can be easily held shut from the outside. This is the only way to equalize pressure when diving.
If the water gets colder or deeper, it must be easy to equalize the pressure even when wearing gloves. The fit of the glasses must also be right, i.e. neither too small nor too big! Note: Diving masks for children are not suitable for adults!
Diving masks with prescription help spectacle wearers
Are there diving masks for spectacle wearers? Almost – a visual impairment no longer has to spoil the underwater experience.
There are now lenses that can be fitted to diving masks with prescription. Simply ask at your local Empty store or order the appropriate thickness online (e.g. here).
Colorful selection – diving masks are available in all colors
The design selection is large. From metallic, matt and neon to mirrored, everything is included.
Perhaps a model that suits you well is not available in neon? In this case, do not opt for the worse-fitting option with a better design. You will regret it under water if you look stylish but get pressure marks.
BeyondSurfing recommends:
Never base your purchase decision primarily on the color; the right fit and the quality and workmanship of the material should play a much more important role in your decision.
Diving masks tested by Consumer Reports and Which?
So far there has been no diving masks test from Consumer Reports or Which?. However, there are scientific studies that indicate what to look out for.
Did you know, for example, that some plasticizers in the silicone of the seal can have a negative effect on the human hormone balance? Details of the test can be found here: OEKOTEST snorkel sets.
In general, pay attention to the material used, its quality and compatibility!
Well-known brands and manufacturers of diving masks
High-quality models and other diving accessories are available from manufacturers such as:
Aqua Lung, Subgear, Scubapro, Mares, Cressi, Hollis Onyx, Phantom Aquatics AGPtek, Bechhat or Esska
What you should know about the well-known manufacturers and brands:
- Aqua Lung International: “Aqua Lung International” in particular has made a name for itself in the field of diving equipment and offers high-quality sports equipment for recreational and professional divers.
- Cressi: “Cressi” is also one of the leading companies in the field of diving equipment. For example, the “Cressi” diving masks from Cressi were the first mask with a flexible nosepiece, allowing divers to easily equalize their pressure.
- Subgear/Scubapro: Diving masks under the brand name “Subgear” come from the production range of “Johnson Outdoors”. The label has since been renamed “Scubapro”. The brand is also one of the leading providers of diving masks on the market.
Important: When choosing, place more emphasis on the facts and figures of the glasses than on the good name of the manufacturer. There is no question that you are on the safe side when it comes to quality with one of the leading providers.
Diving masks and long hair
Pia Padi ★★★★
Open water diver from Amsterdam
Long hair and silicone do not always go well together. Individual strands can quickly become wrapped around the glasses band and knotted, and removing them can be painful. Sometimes the belt has to be pushed up or down underwater – tugging is inevitable.
Always tie your hair in a plait to avoid unpleasant tugging and pulling underwater. Alternatively, a neoprene protector can be pulled over the mask strap.
FAQ:: Frequently asked questions and answers about diving masks
How do diving masks work?
With diving masks, the light rays do not hit the cornea directly from the water. They fall through the viewing window and through the air space inside the glasses. This gives the diver visual acuity under water that is equivalent to that on land.
How should diving masks fit correctly?
In addition, nothing should pinch or hurt. Adjustable straps are an advantage here.
How to clean diving masks?
The diving masks can be dismantled for particularly thorough cleaning. Tools that are not too sharp-edged should be used for this purpose. This is important so that the silicone or soft material of the glasses is not damaged.
First loosen the connecting tap on the frame and remove the glass. Now the pins that hold the frame in place must also be loosened. Once this is done, the jars are loose and can be removed from the holder. The traces of dirt are then often clearly visible at the edges and can be carefully removed.
What do diving masks cost?
What to do if your diving mask fog up?
On the one hand, there are “anti-fog” sprays from suppliers such as Cressi. Alternatively, a touch of toothpaste or spit can also help. Yes, it really works.
Avoiding the mask fogging up underwater becomes more difficult:
Fresh from production, there is silicone residue on the viewing window. These were to be “burned down”. This is the only way to remove them safely and completely. You can see how it works here:
Why do diving masks fog up?
The following applies: cold air cannot absorb as much moisture as warm air. As the air in the mask cools down, it releases the absorbed moisture into the environment and settles on the glass of the mask: the mask fog up.
Here you will find a helpful video on how to avoid fogging:
Are diving masks from Decathlon good?
The diving masks at Aldi and Lidl are a little cheaper. You can find out how to recognize good quality in the diving masks reviewed by Beyondsurfing.
What is the difference between diving goggles, diving masks, swimming goggles and snorkeling masks?
However, diving goggles urgently need a pressure equalization option, e.g. a flexible silicone nose. Fully glazed snorkeling masks offer advantages for superficial snorkeling, but are not suitable for deep dives.
Simple swimming goggles only cover the eyes, without the nose, and should not be used for diving – water could enter the nose. Diving goggles is a misleading term in this sense, but has become firmly established. It can be used successfully in shops and online searches to find diving masks. However, it is not technically correct.
Conclusion: The most popular diving masks reviewed
Your own glasses fit better than rental glasses and you don’t have to worry about hygiene and care. The mask strap remains individually adjusted and therefore always ready to go.
This means:
Each model fulfills different requirements, while rental companies often fall back on standard equipment.
The result:
If you want your dive to be a crystal-clear, safe and comfortable experience, your own diving mask is essential.
Specialist literature, sources & further links
You can find more information on this topic here:
- Statistics on diving: https://de.statista.com/statistik/daten/studie/171152/umfrage/haeufigkeit-von-tauchen-in-der-freizeit/
- Pressure equalization: https://www.lexibo.com/de/blog/druckausgleich-beim-tauchen
- Anti-fog tips: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8zSdQ2amlXg
- Which?: https://www.oekotest.de/kinder-familie/15-Schnorchel-Sets-fuer-Kinder-im-Test_107291_1.html
- Simple explanation of misting: https://kinder.wdr.de/tv/wissen-macht-ah/bibliothek/kuriosah/alltag/bibliothek-warum-beschlaegt-die-taucherbrille-100.html
Note: BeyondSurfing is not responsible and is not liable for the content of external websites.
*Price includes VAT, plus shipping. Customer reviews, prices, delivery times and costs may change in the meantime. By linking to selected online shops and partners, we may receive a small affiliate commission. There are no additional costs for you.
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