A freediving mask is one of freediver’s most essential pieces of equipment. Freediving masks are low-volume when compared to standard scuba diving masks. The low volume is so that freediver’s use less air to equalize and clear water from their mask. 

To test whether a mask fits, hold it to your face (without the strap) and inhale, if it sticks to your face it’s a suitable fit. Find a mask that you find easy to equalize and fits the shape of your head. The best piece of advice is try before you buy. Try out different models to see which is best suited. Usually most freediving centers will have a variety of masks available to rent which suit different sized and shaped heads.  

The main difference between a scuba diving and freediving mask is the low volume of the freediving mask. This makes it easier to equalize and uses less air to do so. You can wear a scuba diving mask to freedive but it’s not ideal as it will require more air to clear. With their low volume, freediving masks sit closer to the diver’s face and reduce drag in the water. Something that is less important for scuba divers with all their other equipment. 

When it comes to finding a mask, it’s about finding the right fit for you. Fit is the most important thing when it comes to selecting a freediving mask. The right fit will make sure the leak doesn’t leak so you won’t have to waste air clearing your mask. Select a freediving mask with a suitably sized nose pocket. If it’s too low or goes over your hairline, water will leak in.  A rental mask may not be suited to your face and leak as a result. This has the potential to ruin your training session. By purchasing your own mask, you can ensure that it’s the right fit, doesn’t leak or fog, and will help your performance.

Top 10 freediving masks 

Mares Star Liquidskin Mask

Designed to reduce drag in the water, this close fitting mask still gives the diver a wide field of vision.It has a small nose so better for petite faces. 

Seac One 

This mask fits most face sizes and shapes. Most freediving centers use this mask so often a freediver’s first experience freediving is while using a Seac One mask. The camouflage design allows you to get up and close with marine life. 

Hollis M1 Frameless Mask 

For those of you that freedive, scuba dive and tech dive, this multi-purpose mask. It’s low volume makes it ideal for both tech diving  and freediving. The Hollis M1’s lens is made from Saint-Gobain Diamant tempered glass which gives you a crystal-clear vision underwater.

Mares Viper

Meant to fight condensation, the silicone adapts to fit various face types. Popular amongst freedivers and spearfishes. The mask is designed for minimal drag and ease of equalization.  

Cressi Nano

With inverted teardrop lenses, this mid-range mask is known for its comfort. It uses a special two frame system that doesn’t fog. There’s the option to have mirrored lenses for sun protection.

Aqualung Micromask

At a premium, the Aqualung Micromask is worth the extra money. The low profile mask is great for all types of recreational and professional freedivers. It gives the diver wide peripheral vision. 

Kraken Aquatics

An affordable mask for beginner freedivers, the Kraken Aquatics is an all-round great mask. It may not be as low-profile as the other masks but it’s a good mask to get started. 

Salvimar Noah

A mask is one of the lowest volumes on the market. It’s extremely lightweight and low profile. Fitting close to the face, it gives the diver a large scene to view. The hypoallergenic silicone is comfortable and provides a good seal. 

Aqualung Sphera X

Providing the diver with a 180 degree field of vision, the Aqualung Sphera X has been a freediver’s favorite for many years. The plexisol lenses provide a clear view. This mask is often used in competitions by professional freedivers. 

XS Scuba Apnos Freediving Mask 

A low-volume freediving mask that fits snugly to your face. Few other masks have such a low profile while offering the same peripheral view. The mask doesn’t have a frame and instead a very stiff internal structure to keep the lenses in place. 

To conclude

Freediving masks are designed to be low profile and reduce drag in the water. For scuba divers, their mask is the least of their worries when it comes to being streamlined. Freediving masks are made of a variety of materials for different levels of comfort and durability. The softest masks are made from high-quality silicon which tend to be pricier. The more rigid the silicone, the less comfortable the mask will be. Tempered glass is the best when it comes to lenses as they are durable and do not tend to scratch. 

The color of the silicone skirt also makes a difference. For spear-fishers and photographers, they opt for black which blocks out any unwanted light and helps to focus on what’s appearing through the lens. Transparent silicone masks are great for those wanting a full field of vision as they let more light in. They are also better for places where the water tends to be darker. The right freediving mask depends on the size and shape of your face. Try out a few different ones before finding the right mask for you.