Nothing dampens a dive faster than a mask that is uncomfortable or leaks. Finding the right mask though is a challenge. Strap on a mask that’s too big, and you won’t get a seal; if it’s too small, it will pinch your face. Stiff silicone skirts don’t seal as well as more pliable designs (plus a softer skirt is more comfortable). A buckle system that offers plenty of range of motion lets you fine-tune adjustments. And, of course, there’s a plethora of other choices: single-, dual- or tri-view lenses, clear or black skirts, and whether you want a purge. Check out our review of 12 new masks to find the one that’s perfect for you.

FOR LARGE FACES

1) IST SPORTS PROTEUS
» Lenses sit close to the eyes, decreasing volume and increasing field of view
» Push-button buckles make strap adjustment a cinch
» The dual-lens design accepts corrective lenses

This two-tone mask fits like a glove, accommodating a range of facial profiles. It also has a large nose pocket for easy equalizing and folds for easy packing.

Contact : istsports.com
MSRP: $75

2) CRESSI BIG EYES EVOLUTION
» Mask skirt made from a new high-seal silicone molds to facial contours
» Buckles that connect to flexible mounts on the frame provide strength and allow the mask to fold flat
» Lower lenses angle inward to increase downward visibility

This low-volume mask offers a comfortable skirt and a lot of visibility. The dual lenses will accommodate prescription lenses.

Contact : cressi.com

MSRP: $88.95

3) SEASOFT ULTRA DIVE

» Special lenses with Crystal ARC anti-reflective coating improve visibility and virtually eliminate glare
» The flaring skirt is a liquid-crystal silicone design that’s comfortable against the skin
» A choice of black and clear skirts are offered to cover any diving scenario

Seasoft’s top-of-the-line frameless mask comes with a soft case, neoprene strap, bottle of anti-fog spray and a lifetime warranty against breakage.

Contact:seasoftscuba.com
MSRP: $99.99

FOR SMALL FACES

4) ATOMIC AQUATICS SUBFRAME MEDIUM FIT
» Internal frame molds directly beneath the silicone rubber skirt for a durable, streamlined fit
» Lenses are removable for divers who need corrective inserts
» Distortion-free UltraClear glass enhances the underwater view

This bulletproof mask comes with a lifetime warranty against frame breakage, and includes a compact travel case for safekeeping on road trips.

Contact : atomicaquatics.com
MSRP: $114.50

5) MARES X-VU LIQUIDSKIN
» Skirt uses two types of silicone: a firmer portion for support structure and a softer portion for contact with the face
» Additional soft silicone is injected in the nose area to act as an anti-shock bumper
» New push-button buckle system delivers near-effortless strap adjustment

This mask capitalizes on comfort and throws in above-average field of view, a winning combination for smaller divers.

Contact : mares.com
MSRP: $84

6) BARE DUO COMPACT
» Face seal is specifically designed for women and children
» Low-volume double-flanged silicone skirt keeps water out
» Easy-pull button tabs allow for quick and easy strap adjustment

This scaled-down, lightweight version of a classic two-window design — with a soft and supple silicone skirt — makes getting a good, leak-free seal on small faces possible. Available with tricolor frames.

Contact : baresports.com
MSRP: $49.95

BUDGET FRIENDLY

7) TILOS HAWK EYES
» Buckles not only fold flat, but they swivel up and down and in and out to optimize strap positioning
» Easy-access nose pocket is textured to make equalization easier
» Compatibility with the COM480 Gauge Reader Prescription Lens equals a clearer picture of the underwater world

This comfortable mask offers a soft silicone skirt and above-average field of view, especially looking down.

Contact: tilos.com
MSRP: $65.95

8) SHERWOOD SCUBA MAKO
» One-piece lens improves the view over the bridge of the nose
» Subframe design provides stability and enhances fit
» Virtual Pivot Point swivel buckles place the pivoting points forward for easy adjustment

High-quality silicone and a unique subframe design combine in a comfortable and economical mask that’s ready for any diving situation.

Contact : sherwoodscuba.com
MSRP: $59

9) SCUBAMAX NAVIGATOR
» Built-in purge quickly expels any water that seeps in
» Buckles swivel up and down to help dial in the leak-free fit
» Optical lenses from -1.0 to -8.0 and +1.0 to +4.0 diopter improve the underwater view

Classic dual-lens purge mask uses tempered safety glass, and offers a choice of a black or clear skirt, and a frame that’s available in a rainbow of colors.

Contact : scubamax.us
MSRP: $43

FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS

10) AQUA LUNG INFINITY
» Close-to-the-eyes frame design produces an excellent upward and downward view
» Double-jointed buckles offer both up-and-down and in-and-out movement to optimize adjustment
» Tiny side lenses offer just a hint of light to brighten the picture

This very cool-looking mask offers a deep downward view for making camera adjustments. Over molded rubber corners provide some shock resistance.

Contact : aqualung.com
MSRP: $90

11) TUSA M-211 FREEDOM ONE PRO
» Dimpled skirt pattern on the forehead and cheeks improves the seal
» Silicone thickness varies under the nose to increase flexibility when clenching a mouthpiece
» Stability ridges resist compression during descents

With three specific design features to maximize fit and minimize leakage, this mask comes with crystal view glass lenses with an anti-reflective/ultraviolet coating.

Contact : tusa.com
MSRP: $115

12) SCUBAPRO SPECTRA TRUFIT
» Narrow ribs molded into the silicone enhance skirt softness while maintaining shape
» Unique paint process creates a stylish powder-coat effect
» Strap buckles that attach to molded tabs on the skirt allow the mask to be folded flat for packing

Mask skirts don’t come much softer than this. It molds comfortably to facial contours, creating an excellent seal on a variety of face shapes.

Contact : scubapro.com
MSRP: $99

Want more tips? Click here for info on four features that may matter the most in choosing a mask.