New snorkelers will have a good time with just about any snorkel or set of fins, but the mask is a different matter. A mask that doesn’t fit just right can pinch and cause headaches or leak water and distract from your view of fantastic underwater sights.
This quick guide will answer some of the most common questions beginners have about choosing a snorkeling mask: where to find one, and how to make sure it fits comfortably and securely (even if you’re ordering online!).
Where to Start Your Search
Different mask sources offer different benefits. Oftentimes, people who live far away from popular snorkeling locations are going to have difficulty finding a good mask in the first place. Others are going to encounter inexperienced salespeople and stores without the facilities for a proper equipment demonstration. This section will walk you through your options.
1. Local sporting goods stores
For the most part, many sporting goods stores cater to local activities – if you don’t live anywhere near the ocean or a large enough lake, your local sporting goods stores probably have far more hunting gear and river rafts than diving or snorkeling equipment. The good news is that many sporting goods stores have all these items available by catalogue if you have time to wait.
If you are lucky enough to find a sporting goods store with snorkeling equipment, make sure to check out the brands online to ensure that you’re looking at legitimate snorkeling/diving masks. Masks made for teens splashing in a pool aren’t very good at holding up in choppy ocean water.
2. Trusted online dive shops
Don’t want to risk your chances with a local sporting goods store? The Internet is a fantastic resource for first-time snorkelers who want the expertise and selection of a real dive store without leaving home. Look for a trusted online retailer with a great return policy – this return policy will come in handy if you get the mask and find out it doesn’t fit. Seek out no cost “no questions asked” returns to cover all your bases.
Read descriptions carefully. Some products might list the actual measurements of the mask, while others simply describe what types of faces they fit (like whether they fit best for slim faces, wide faces, children, adults, etc). In many ways, it’s more convenient to shop for snorkel gear online because you can read about all the different features and specifications at your leisure instead of hoping the salesperson has it all memorized.
3. Dive shops at your destination
Popular snorkeling destinations often have an abundance of dive shops. On the other hand, waiting until you reach your destination is risky. You’re more likely to find experienced divers working in dive shops at tourist locations as compared to rural Montana, but there’s always a small chance of running into a disinterested salesperson that only cares about getting you to buy something.
Use your best judgment. Take some time to search for the locations you need online or call ahead to ask your hotel concierge. Your snorkeling tour company will probably have some recommendations as well. Try to find a dive shop with an in-house pool for equipment demonstrations so you can test the fit of your mask yourself.
4. A quick note about rentals
Rentals are by far the most popular option for first-time snorkelers – some tours offer their own rentals (sometimes the cost is included in the trip) and others can probably recommend independent rental agencies nearby. Fitting a rental is just as risky as buying from a local dive shop due to the last-minute factor, with the possible additional inconvenience of having a more limited selection. Most rental agencies have a fabulous reputation for customer satisfaction, and that alone is worth the price.
Starting Early
Overall, you will encounter the same risks anywhere, no matter where you buy your mask: either the person assisting you has experience with diving and snorkeling and sincerely want you to have a good experience, and there will be others that just want you to hand over money as quickly as possible. Use vendors with a good reputation and a good refund policy to avoid any of unpleasant exchanges.
Snorkeling is an incredible experience with the right gear – the best approach is to buy your mask early and make sure it fits so you can enjoy peace of mind leading up to the trip. Your eyes are worth it!