Best Flotation Belts for Snorkeling Review

Even though snorkeling is an activity with a low barrier of entry, unlike scuba diving, many inexperienced snorkelers spend a lot of time and energy flailing about, struggling to stay afloat instead of enjoying the underwater views.

The truth is, many beginners just want to casually stay afloat and would benefit greatly by using a snorkel flotation device. Whether you are still getting used to snorkeling or you just want to relax and remain buoyant effortlessly, a flotation belt for snorkeling could be the solution.

Our Top Picks:

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Aqua Jogger Pro Plus Jogger Belt

WaterGym Water Aerobics Float Belt for Aqua...

HYDRO-FIT Classic Wave Belt Large Blue/Black

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What is a Snorkeling Flotation Belt?

A flotation belt is just one type of flotation device that can assist snorkelers (and swimmers) by keeping them afloat without limiting their movements. It is worn like a regular belt and held in place with a buckle or clip. In addition to being used by beginner snorkelers, they are also a great tool to assist older snorkelers. Flotation belts can also help people with physical disabilities stay buoyant when swimming.

Recommended Flotation Belts for Snorkeling

AquaJogger Pro Plus Belt

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Aqua Jogger Pro Plus Jogger Belt

Aqua Jogger is the leader in aquatics exercise
Suspends body vertically in water
Quality construction and very durable

If a muscular or lean physique is making it hard to stay afloat, then the AquaJogger Pro Plus is the optimal solution. Though this belt is typically marketed to men, it can be used by people of either gender that require assistance in the water. It is extremely buoyant thanks to its thick foam. With a closed-cell foam design that is two inches thick, some users may find it awkward to use, but at least you won’t be sinking anytime soon.

The AquaJogger Pro Plus features a high-back cut, which means it will gently tip you forward, keeping you facing toward the water. For snorkelers, this is ideal as you want to be looking downwards anyways. However, those who want to remain upright should steer clear from this product, as you will be constantly fighting against it. For those users, we recommend looking for a belt that distributes weight more evenly around the body. Otherwise, the AquaJogger Pro Plus is great for leaner or more muscular individuals.

Features:

Extremely buoyant, perfect for those with lean or muscular physiques who are less buoyant.
2” thick closed-cell foam.
Though it is marketed to men, women can use it as well.

WaterGym Water Aerobics Float Belt

WaterGym Water Aerobics Float Belt for Aqua Jogging and Deep Water Exercise - Size Small-Blue

COMES IN 2 SIZES: Small & Med/Large. SIZE INFO below and SIZE CHART to left. This page listing is for size SMALL. M/L size also sold on Amazon on...
NEW ERGONOMIC TAPERED DESIGN: Ultimate comfort! Won't bruise, dig, pinch or tip you forward. New from manufacturer with IMPORTANT fitting...
SOFT FOAM: Unique custom molded, high quality, smooth foam feels soft and silky. Won't rub or chafe. Solid throughout. No coatings!

Snorkel in ultimate comfort with the WaterGym Float Belt, designed so that it won’t bruise or rub against your body. The soft foam is custom molded and will easily conform to your body. Soon after you put it on, you’ll hardly even remember it’s there because of how soft and silky the foam is. Furthermore, the foam is slightly tapered on each end, and the belt buckle fastens effortlessly.

Make sure it is tightly fastened so that it won’t ride up on you in the water. There are three sizes to choose from, so be sure to read the product description carefully to ensure you have the right size. For those who want a belt that provides significant buoyancy, this belt probably isn’t for you.

Features:

Custom-molded foam that is extremely comfortable.
Will not bruise or rub against your body, or ride up your armpits.
Multiple sizes to choose from.

Hydro-Fit Classic Wave Belt

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HYDRO-FIT Classic Wave Belt Large Blue/Black

The Classic WAVE Belt is made of soft and durable EVA foam for even buoyancy during water workouts.
With a unique contour shape, the belt fits your body and enhances correct posture and body alignment.
The quick-release buckle strap ensures a secure fit, so you can spend more time working out and less time adjusting your belt.

The Hydro-Fit Wave Belt has been in use for decades, and for good reason. Even though it is great for many users, we feel that it is especially beneficial for seniors due because it can be threaded with a velcro strap as a fastener instead of a buckle. Seniors or physically disabled individuals may have trouble using a buckle, and a hook-and-latch design is easier on their bodies.

Furthermore, the Wave’s tapered design will help you remain vertical with no effort on your part. Also, you’ll not find it riding up your torso and into your armpits. Many customers agree that the Wave belt is much better at this than its competitors. The Hydro-Fit Wave will eventually conform to your body shape for an even better fit after subsequent uses. And of course, you can expect that the Hydro-Fit Wave is made from high-quality EVA foam.

Features:

Velcro strap instead of a buckle makes this an ideal choice for seniors, the physically disabled, or people with arthritis.
Will not ride up your armpits.
Tapered foam design helps you remain vertical.
Conforms to your body.

Water Gear Instructional Swim Belt

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Instructional Swim Belt - Four Module

Floatation for swim training or aqua aerobics
Soft, comfortable closed cell EVA foam
Will not chip, break or absorb water

For those wanting to improve their swimming and snorkeling skills, look no further the Water Gear Instructional Swim Belt. There are both youth and adult versions available at a great price point. The youth version has four 5” x 5” foam blocks connected to a lightweight strap. The adult version has a thicker strap, with five foam pads.

Each foam module can be adjusted along the strap so that it can fit your body shape comfortably. Additionally, you can remove some squares to adjust your buoyancy or to challenge yourself. Personally, we love the modular design because it makes packing it up for storage or travel so much easier. You can also lend it to other family members and add or remove the foam modules as needed for the optimal fit.

For those looking to get into snorkeling or want to improve their swimming ability, the Water Gear Instructional Swim Belt is an excellent starting point to assist you.

Features:

Versatile foam modules that can be adjusted along the strap, or even removed to reduce buoyancy as needed.
Youth and adult versions; the adult version can simply have some blocks removed and worn by a child as a hand-me-down.
Great price point, and a good way to get comfortable with swimming and snorkeling.

What to Look for In a Flotation Belt for Snorkeling

If you want to find the best flotation belt for snorkeling, there are some criteria that you should keep in mind to get the best bang for your buck. With so many on the market, you should carefully consider the brand, design, material, size, weight rating, and fit.

Size

You want a belt that fits comfortably around your waist. This shouldn’t be too difficult, as belts can be adjusted so that they fit without being too tight or loose. Keep in mind that it may be slightly uncomfortable the first time you wear one. However, once you break it in and get used to it, you’ll hardly even notice it’s there. Furthermore, most belts have a size chart that you can reference to determine the correct waist sizes each belt is made for.

Material

The most common belts are essentially a nylon belt with EVA, or “closed-cell” foam attached to it. The foam may also be dipped in vinyl, is unaffected by exposure to chlorine, and does not absorb water. The vinyl coating should make the foam glide off your skin; otherwise, it could rub painfully against your skin or cause rashes.

Other belts use an elastic material which also feels more comfortable to wear. Lastly, there are belts made of inflatable polyester, but they do not offer as much support in the water and are not very popular as a result.

Design

There are three common types of flotation belts for snorkeling. The first style is foam blocks attached to a belt as we discussed above. The next belt is essentially a long rectangular foam block with the ends attached to a belt fastener. This is the same kind of buoyancy belt that water-skiers use, and it can also double as a snorkeling belt.

The third design is a molded foam that secures firmly against your lower back and chest. This design is the best option for large individuals that require more buoyancy while snorkeling.

Brand

Unfortunately, this is probably the criteria where you’ll have the least flexibility. Though there are numerous brands on the market, they don’t necessarily provide the quality you deserve. We recommend sticking to reputable brands, especially ones that specialize in flotation devices such as snorkeling belts. They will be more reliable, have a manufacturer’s warranty, and will have more reliable customer feedback to take into account.

Weight Rating

All belts have a limit to how much weight they can support. Adult flotation belts are universal, so their maximum body weight rating should be nearly identical. However, children’s flotation belts tend to have different ratings. Before purchasing a belt, you must figure out how much weight it can support so that you (or whoever will wear it) can stay safe and afloat in the water.

In addition, the amount of buoyancy you want depends on how you plan to use the belt. For instance, people doing water aerobics should look for a belt that will give them more vertical lift. In this case, for snorkeling, you don’t exactly want to be rising high above the water.

As such, look for a flotation belt that can still keep your head above water, but prevent your midsection from being completely out of the water. This allows you to enjoy the views underwater without feeling like you’re going to sink.

To do so, one recommendation is to look for a snorkel flotation belt that has adjustable or removable sections of foam. That way, you have more options to increase or decrease the buoyancy to the optimal level. Women would benefit from this as well, since they are typically lighter than men and may want to decrease the buoyancy of the belt.

Fit

Typically, the standard sizes are small, medium, and large. For people in between sizes, you can adjust the strap for a better fit. For children the discrepancy between sizes will be large, and so you should carefully check the measurements to ensure it’s not too big or small for your child. Also consider whether removing any of the foam blocks would affect how the belt fits you.

Versatility

Even though the topic of this article is specifically about snorkeling flotation belts, we would be remiss to not mention the multiple applications any flotation device can be used for. If you want to try your hand at other sports, such as water-skiing, water running, aerobics, or just improving your swimming strength, you can use the belt to assist you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is A Flotation Belt Required to Snorkel?

No, most people need it, but don’t feel bad if you wish to use one. The point of the float belt is not only to provide safety, but also instill confidence in someone who is not a strong swimmer. Furthermore, if you plan on snorkeling for extended periods of time, even strong swimmers will eventually fatigue, so there is no shame in getting one. Older snorkelers or people with physical disabilities will still be able to snorkel if they wear a flotation device.

Is A Snorkeling Belt A Life Saving Device?

As useful as they are, snorkeling belts are not considered life-saving personal flotation devices and are not approved by the United States Coast Guard or other authorities as such. While they can keep you afloat, they are not rated to float a distressed or unconscious person in such a way that their face remains out of the water. To be safe, only go into the water with at least one partner or a group, and children should be kept under constant supervision.

Can You Snorkel Longer with a Float Belt?

Without using a snorkeling belt, snorkelers will need to spend energy just to stay afloat. That energy could have been better spent actually exploring the ocean or moving to a different location with better sights. With a flotation belt, snorkelers can more easily remain buoyant in a vertical position. With the energy they save, they can even venture further than before for even more adventures.

How Does a Float Belt Compare to a Snorkel Vest?

Though some snorkeling and swimming enthusiasts believe that float belts are the superior option, there are some who say otherwise. They argue that when snorkel vests are worn on top of a wetsuit, it doesn’t cause any drag at all. With that said, those who prefer float belts say they hardly notice it’s even there as well. At the end of the day, it seems like it’s just based on personal preference, so at some point you should try both to see which one you favor.

What Are the Advantages of a Float Belt?

For how affordable they are, float belts provide enough benefits that they easily justify their cost. And if you take good care of them, they can last you for years before needing a replacement. Maintenance is as simple as rinsing the belt with water after each swim, allowing it to fully dry, and then storing it until the next time you need to use it. Furthermore, they are compact and should not take up too much space next to all of your other snorkeling gear.

We’ve already covered the safety benefits for beginner snorkelers as well as how a flotation belt can help you conserve energy. Furthermore, some belts provide additional support to your torso, helping your spine remain straight in the water. This, in turn, can prevent any back pain caused by poor posture or maintaining an unnatural curvature of the spine for long periods of time.

Are Float Belts Safe for Children?

Yes, in fact, there are flotation belts designed specifically for children. If your child is not confident in their swimming skill, then the flotation belt can assist them in learning how to swim and snorkel. Once they are confident they are confident they can stay afloat on their own, then they can retire the belt.

With that said, float belts can also give parents peace of mind that their child has extra protection in the water. Furthermore, float belts don’t give parents license to leave their child unsupervised; they should only be used as back-up.

There are other flotation devices that children can use, such as a snorkel vest, which also provides excellent protection and comfort. The advantage of a snorkel vest is that they are easier to swim with.

Are Float Belts Only Meant for Beginners?

No, anybody can use a float belt for any reason. For instance, even professionals can use them. Sometimes, people just want to relax, even if they are expert level swimmers. Thus, float belts lets them do some “lazy” snorkeling, where they do not have any time limit and can remain in the water for as long as they want. With that said, if you are a beginner snorkeler, you can check out this article for some tips.

What Are Some Alternatives to Float Belts?

There are other snorkeling flotation devices that you can choose from. We’ve already mentioned the snorkel vest. You can also get a traditional life jacket, as well as a pool noodle.

A life jacket is a reliable flotation device, however the reason we generally do not recommend it is that they are bulky and hard to swim with. They should be used in situations where there is fast moving water, and are somewhat of a hindrance for someone that just wants to leisurely snorkel in shallow, calm waters.

A pool noodle should just be used as a practice tool in the swimming pool. As part of your research, you can try using a pool noodle to get a feel for how effective flotation devices are. With that said, in the ocean there is always a chance that a pool noodle can slip out from under you, and should not be relied upon. At that point, you should consider getting either a snorkel vest or buoyancy belt.

One fact that people neglect to mention is that wetsuits for snorkeling, especially the thicker ones, actually help you float. This is because there are air bubbles trapped in the neoprene material in a wetsuit, meaning you will stay afloat much easier just by wearing the suit.

What Are the Differences Between a Snorkeling and Swimming Belt?

With all of the buoyancy belts on the market, it can be quite confusing as to the exact purpose of each one. Both the snorkeling belt and swimming belt serve different purposes.

A swimming belt is intended to increase the swimmer’s endurance, strength, and performance. It essentially adds resistance to the swimmer’s body, making them exert themselves harder so that they can improve.

On the other hand, a snorkeling belt’s purpose is to keep you afloat by providing resistance to sinking, while simultaneously trying not to restrict movement in any way.

But wait, there’s more! Neither of these belts should be confused with a freediving or scuba diving belt, as they provide a level of negative buoyancy so that divers can remain neutrally buoyant (neither sinking or rising) underwater. If you need a belt for snorkeling, don’t get the wrong one!

Flotation Belt Care Guide

If you are an avid snorkeler, you will be subjecting your flotation belt through strenuous use. For those of you who don’t properly take care of it, you’ll find that it won’t last very long and you’ll have to keep replacing it. No matter how durable a belt is, proper maintenance is necessary to ensure that it keeps going as strong as you. Here are some tips to take better care of your flotation belt.

Rinse After Use

Even though snorkel flotation belts are constructed from durable materials that don’t absorb water and are resistant to chlorine, constant exposure to salt and chlorine water will eventually wear down all types of flotation devices. As such, you should rinse it off with freshwater immediately after each use.

Whether you just finished swimming in the pool or in the ocean, make sure to give it a good rinse. You don’t need any fancy detergent, just a few seconds of running it under freshwater should be sufficient. In addition to getting rid of salt and chlorine, you’ll also get rid of the smell.

Air Dry

After rinsing, you need to make sure the belt dries properly. Storing it when it’s soaking wet will lead to mold growth which, when inhaled, is damaging to your lungs and is generally unpleasant to deal with. If you’re heading back home in your car, just towel dry it first before putting it in your bag and once you’re home leave it out to air dry. If you have a home pool, just leave it in a dark, well-ventilated room to dry.

Some dry bags have mesh pockets that you can store your wet snorkeling belt in so that it can air dry even as you are on the move. This is perfect if you are snorkeling away from home since you don’t have to wait around for it to dry.

You may be tempted to leave your flotation belt in the sun to dry. Don’t leave anything in direct sunlight because the UV rays can crack and damage the material, compromising its effectiveness.

Beware of Children

Young children are curious and may see a flotation belt as just another toy they can thrash around. Depending on the age of your kids, you might want to consider putting the belt in a place that only adults can access. Though it may sometimes seem like it, children often mean no harm but they can still cause a lot of damage to expensive gear.

They’ll throw it, tear it, twist it, bend it, or even bite at the foamy material. Once again, no matter how durable the materials are, this level of wear and tear will quickly ruin a belt unless you can rein your children in.

Store Separately

The last tip to keep your snorkel belt feeling and looking like the day that you bought it is how to store it. Soft, foamy material should be stored flat and separately from other snorkeling equipment. Your other gear, specifically the fins and snorkel can prod and poke at a flotation belt, causing it to dent and tear. By storing the belt separately, you can help keep it puncture free and flexible.

The Bottom Line

Float belts are an excellent way to stay buoyant while snorkeling. Anyone can use it, but it is especially helpful for beginners, older snorkelers, or people with physical disabilities. Even the average snorkeler can use it to conserve energy and extend how long they can stay in the water. Additionally, they are cheap, effective, and help you maintain good posture. Observe the underwater life without having to worry about staying afloat.

When shopping for the best flotation belt for snorkeling, you should consider the following criteria: materials, size, brand, fit, and any additional features that makes it stand out from the rest. You can buy them online, in store at a local dive shop, or can be rented if you are just vacationing. If you decide to buy one, make sure to rinse and dry after each use, and it will last you for many years.

Photo Credit: Wusel007 [CC BY-SA]

Best Snorkel Masks with Purge Valve

You may have heard snorkelers and divers use the word purge valve when talking about cool features for their masks. There is an ongoing debate about how effective they are. One camp loves them and swears by them, and the other camp thinks it is gimmicky at best, and dangerous at worst. So what is a purge valve, what does it do, and do you need it?

For those unaware, the purge valve on a snorkel or dive mask is a one-way valve that forces water out of the mask when you exhale through the nose. In traditional snorkel and scuba diving masks, users have to manually clear their mask. This gets annoying really quickly if their mask is leaky. With a purge valve, you do not need to worry about this cumbersome process because water keeps getting vented out as you exhale through the nose. When it works, it is hands-free and hassle-free.

So why are some people so against it then? Read on as we explain the pros and cons of purge masks in greater detail below, as well as give our recommendations on the best snorkel masks with purge valve that you can get today.

Our Top Picks:

Promate Snorkel Scuba Dive Mask Snorkeling Set,...

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TUSA Sport Adult Imprex 3D Purge Mask and Dry...

Cressi Pano 4 & Supernova Dry, Black/Lime

Are Purge Masks Worth It?

As we mentioned above, this is a topic of an ongoing debate. For the most part, dive masks with valves are recommended by many divers. But there are also people who believe it isn’t worth it, at least for scuba diving, and that it should only be used for snorkeling or not at all. Why the difference in opinion? The best way to get a comprehensive overview is to look at it from both sides.

Advantages of Purge Valves

One Less Thing to Worry About Underwater

When you are in the water, especially if you are scuba diving, there are many things to worry about. People will pay a premium on their scuba gear if it can reduce the amount of work they have to do, and purge valves are no different.

With it, you do not have to deal with manually clearing your mask anymore. The water purges automatically as you exhale from your noise, and this is one less thing you have to worry about. You can then focus more of your focus and energy on the diving or snorkeling itself.

Hands Free Snorkeling and Diving

If you want to be able to do some underwater photography or videography, a mask with a purge valve is a godsend. Clearing your mask is quite difficult if you are also holding a big camera. You just want to focus on your next shot, and it would be a shame if you failed to capture something extraordinary on film because you were too busy clearing your mask.

Allows for Contact Lenses

A common problem with the traditional way of purging water is that the water gets into your eyes. If you are wearing contacts, this can greatly irritate your eyes. Even worse, it can sometimes wash away your contacts, and now you can’t see properly underwater. This is a huge issue when you are diving, so people who wear contacts should strongly consider getting a purge mask.

Perfect for People with Facial Hair

If you want to scuba dive or snorkel with a glorious beard and mustache, you may have to deal with lots of water leaks because the mask may not have the tightest seal with facial hair. There are ways to form a tighter seal, but the methods are not foolproof, and water may eventually seep in anyways.

With a purge mask, you do not have to worry so much about water entering the mask because it keeps getting vented out. Since people with facial hair have a higher chance of experiencing water leaks, this can keep your mask water-free even if the seal isn’t the greatest around facial hair.

Disadvantages of Purge Valves

Risk of Malfunction

The purge valve is typically found below the nose pocket. And when you introduce more parts to a product, there is always a chance that it can malfunction, and this would be especially bad if it happened while you were, hence why scuba divers recommend it only for snorkelers.

Don’t worry, it’s not the end of the world if a purge valve breaks while diving. Scuba divers typically carry a back-up mask just in case. If you don’t have a back-up, then you’ll just have to clear the water the good old fashioned way.

With that said, divers don’t want to purchase a mask that also requires a back-up mask. As some conservative divers have pointed out, more features just means more potential problems. If a mask has less components, then there’s less things to break.

Clogged Valves

People who are vehemently against snorkel masks with purge valves frequently cite how much they dislike cleaning the valve. As with any snorkeling and diving equipment, one must perform routine maintenance to ensure it is clean and clear of debris.

Just through normal use, sand will inevitably find its way into the valve. If the debris is not promptly removed, it could cause a leak through the valve, which results in the problem it was meant to prevent.

Equalizing Issues

When wearing a mask with a purge valve, it becomes difficult to pinch your nose through the nose pocket. Though this is not a dealbreaker, numerous divers prefer to pinch their nose to equalize the water pressure.

How restrictive this is depends on the specific mask. If you need to pinch your nose while diving, then you will have to read user reviews to determine if it is still possible with that specific mask.

Which is Better?

In the end, it is up to you to decide whether a mask with purge valve is worth it. If you do recreational snorkeling, most of its disadvantages become less of an issue because you will not be in any trouble by the water’s edge. It is more of a hassle for scuba divers since a malfunction means they need to have another mask prepared and ready to swap at any time.

With that said, scuba divers may still want to use a mask with purge valve to clear the water without using their hands which is helpful if they are holding other equipment. The best way to know if it is right for you is to ask a diving buddy if they are willing to lend you their mask for a trial run. Otherwise, you could buy one online and return it if it doesn’t live up to your expectations.

Overall, if you like the idea of having one less thing to worry about while in the water and freeing up your hands, then it may be worth it for you to invest in a purge mask. We recommend buying from a trusted and reputable brand such as ScubaPro, Cressi, Aqualung, etc. Otherwise, you could be at risk of encountering malfunctions with a purge valve while out in the water. Read our review of the best scuba diving and snorkeling masks with purge valve below.

ScubaPro Crystal Vu Plus

90 Reviews

Scubapro Crystal VU Plus Mask with Purge (Blue, Mask Only)

Patented single lens design with side windows creates a panoramic field of vision.
Ultra-clear no-tint glass delivers optimal clarity under water.
Crystal clear double-sealing skirt is comfortable against the skin and keeps water out.

This compact mask has the quality ScubaPro is known for in a hands-free, easy to clear purge model. The ScubaPro Crystal Vu Plus provides a panoramic view through a clear single lens and medium volume design. Peripheral vision is not a concern, as the additional side lenses increase your field of view to a 180-degrees, allowing you to see more of the underwater world.

Next, the nose pocket is raised which reduces the amount of pressure on the nose. And of course, the purge valve will get rid of any water that somehow makes its way inside whenever you exhale. The silicone diaphragm will prevent water from entering the hole it was expelled from.

Furthermore, the double-feathered transparent silicone skirt provides a waterproof, comfortable seal while allowing increased light entry. The split strap and easy to adjust swivel buckles lets you adjust the fit of the impact-resistant, durable frame on your face. Though this product is a bit on the pricier end, the ScubaPro Crystal Vu Plus offers some of the best views, with excellent, tight seals and even a purge valve just in case.

Pros:

Single-lens with additional side windows offers an unobstructed view.
Crystal-clear glass lens for excellent visual clarity.
Clear double-feathered silicone skirt lets more light in, seals well, and is comfortable.
Nose pocket allows easy equalizing.

Cons:

Pricey.
Cannot be used with prescription lenses.

Aqua Lung Pacifica Single Lens Dive Mask

Single lens mask gives an excellent field of view
Delivers an improved fit and more secure seal against the skin
Shatterproof, tempered glass lens

Keeping water from entering your mask can be a nightmare if your mask doesn’t seal properly or if you have facial hair. However, the Aqua Lung Pacifica makes it easier thanks to its excellent purge valve. Great for both beginners and advanced users, you can get the convenience of purging the water without needing to remove the mask.

With its single lens design, the Aqua Lung Pacifica gives its viewers an unobstructed, wide field of view much like that of the ScubaPro Crystal Vu Plus. Divers will be able to see in a 180-degree field of view, and absorb all of the sights available underwater. Due to its high volume, it is suitable for larger faces or people with facial hair.

Furthermore, the silicone skirt tends to seal well, so bearded divers can rejoice. The nose pockets on the Aqua Lung Pacifica are easy to reach and lets you equalize your ears effortlessly. This mask is popular among veteran snorkelers and divers, however it is a bit on the pricier side, but you get what you pay for and this mask is very high quality.

Pros:

One pane tempered-glass lens provides a classic wide-angle view.
Fits well on larger faces, or people with facial hair.
Comfortable and soft black silicone single-feathered skirt.
Easy equalization thanks to the easy to reach nose pocket.
Split strap connects to the frame and has adjustable metal buckles.

Cons:

Expensive.
Some users complained that their purge valve started leaking water after a few dives, however most users did not have this issue.

TUSA Sport Adult Imprex 3D Purge Mask

TUSA Sport Adult Imprex 3D Purge Mask and Dry Snorkel Combo, Smoke

PURE SILICONE - FDA regulation compliant. (Rubber articles intended for repeated use / 21 CFR 177.2600) TUSA Sport use pure silicone for the snorkel...
CLEARVU TEMPERED GLASS lenses provide superior clarity, color, transmission of light and safety over standard glass.
EZ STRAP and BUCKLE SYSTEM - Allows masks to be quickly and easily adjusted with minimal effort. Allowing for a precise fit and ease of removal when...

The Tusa Sport Imprex is great for both scuba diving and snorkeling. It features TUSA’s Hyperdry System, which is its purging system, to effortlessly clear the mask with a single exhale. The Tusa Sport Adult Imprex also comes with an elite dry top snorkel and a hypoallergenic silicone mask.

Additionally, thanks to its 3-window design, one main and two side windows, you will get excellent peripheral vision and an enhanced panoramic view. Being low volume, the lens will be closer to your face, providing a better view with minimal obstruction from the frame.

In addition, expect to have a superior fit and greater comfort thanks to TUSA’s round-edge skirt design. The mask will conform to the contours of your face, providing a snug and comfortable fit. Lastly, if fashion is really important to you even while snorkeling or scuba diving, then the TUSA Sport Adult Imprex comes in various colors, to help you match your other gear.

Pros:

3-window design provides excellent panoramic and peripheral views.
Hypoallergenic crystal silicone skirt and strap.
Dry top snorkel prevents water from entering, even if you accidentally submerge and inhale.
Flexible neck and mouthpiece snorkel.
Purge valve and drain chamber removes water easily.
Easy to adjust buckle technology.
Fits medium to large width faces.

Cons:

Tight around the nose area, not for people with a big nose.
Requires two hands to decompress.

XS Scuba Fusion Mask

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XS Scuba Fusion Purge Mask - Black Silicone

Clear out the water with ease through the one-way purge valve
Exhaled bubbles are kept out of field-of-view with patented skirt
Beveled and bonded tempered lenses

The wide frame 3-pane design of the XS Scuba Fusion Mask fits a wide range of face sizes while allowing for a wide field of view. Its double-feathered, soft silicone skirt forms an excellent water-tight seal and feels comfortable to wear for long periods of time. The oversized buckles can be adjusted even with gloves on, and the mask is held firmly in position thanks to its wide-split strap.

Next, the XS Scuba Fusion Mask lens has an anti-fog coating that will prevent fog from restricting your vision underwater. If color-matching your mask with the rest of your gear is important, then you’ll be happy to know that this mask comes in several colors, and the skirt comes in black or clear silicone.

The frame of the XS Scuba Fusion is made from a durable polycarbonate frame. Thanks to the higher volume, this mask feels more spacious and can fit larger faces. Of course, we like the included purge system for an easier time clearing any water that might enter, and for the price the XS Scuba Fusion Mask is great value.

Pros:

Good views, including peripheral, thanks to the side windows and single lens design.
Fits medium and large faces.
Wide-split strap and easy to adjust oversized buckles can be used even with gloves.
Available in many colors.

Cons:

Mask struggles to purge water for people with large noses.

Promate Dry Snorkel and Purge Mask

127 Reviews

Promate Snorkel Scuba Dive Mask Snorkeling Set, tBlue

Package includes Promate Pro Slender Purge Mask (MK285) and Cobra Dry Whistle Snorkel (SK680)
2-windows scuba dive (Rx-able) mask with purge function and channeled skirt design. Corrective Lenses available (Slender OP270).
Mask buckles on skirt directly makes swivel function more flexible and may fits a wide range of face shapes, compact size to fit limited space.

Many snorkel and dive masks provide excellent front views, but their side views are often lacking. This means missing lots of marine life or scenery, and constantly turning your head to check on your partner. The Promate Dry Snorkel and Purge Mask addresses this problem nicely, with its Avanti TL side-view that removes the vision breaks that multi-windowed masks have.

Additionally, in an effort to provide the best views, the channeled skirt design of the mask redirects bubbles away from the field of view. The purge system removes excess water that seeps in, but unfortunately it also makes the nose cavity very tight. The Promate Dry Snorkel mask was designed for medium to large-sized faces, but the nose cavity would be better suited for medium-sized noses.

With that said, the adjustable buckle, swivel, and hypoallergenic silicone skirt should provide ample comfort for those whose noses fit the mask perfectly. Once the mask has been adjusted to form a tight seal, leaks become a rare occurrence. The Promate Dry Snorkel features the Cobra snorkel, which keeps water from entering while simultaneously allowing air to enter and exit the tube for unrestricted breathing.

Pros:

Provides panoramic view without vision breaks.
The channeled skirt is comfortable and keeps bubbles away from the lens.
Cobra snorkel design keeps water out and air flowing.
Rotating the snorkel opens the whistle housing, allowing you to call for help by whistling if in trouble.

Cons:

Not ideal for bigger noses.
You must defog the lens yourself.

Aomais Dry Snorkel Mask

The Dry Snorkel Mask from Aomais provides the user with a simple and effective way to explore the underwater world. First, it comes with a removable dry-wet top float valve that lets you change between a dry snorkel and wet snorkel. Furthermore, the Aomais Dry Snorkel Mask is convenient to carry with you when folded, as it becomes small enough to fit in the palm of your hand.

Since it comes with a shoulder bag with a drawstring, you can simply keep it slung over your shoulder as well for hands-free carrying.Next, the purge valve will expel any water that enters the mask. The anti-scratch, anti-shock, tempered glass lens is durable and provides a clear panoramic view of the world underwater. Together with its silicone skirt and ergonomic mask design means you will feel comfortable and never have to worry about water in the mask.

Another feature is its quick release button that lets you remove the tube to prevent bobbing up and down if you so desire. The Aomais Dry Snorkel Mask has a removable mouthpiece and is highly adjustable, to the point that it can have a snug fit on both adults and children. The Aomais Dry Snorkel Mask is a great budget option if you want a mask with a purge valve.

Pros:

Highly compact, can be folded to fit in your palm and comes with a shoulder sling. Great for taking with you on travels.
Durable anti-scratch, anti-shock tempered glass lens.
Has a quick release button to detach tubing.
Very affordable.

Cons:

Will need to de-fog the mask as some users found it fogged up when you purge the water.

WACOOL Snorkeling Package Set

4,264 Reviews

WACOOL Professional Snorkeling Snorkel Diving Scuba Package Set with Anti-Fog Coated Glass Purge...

SIZE :Adults (suitable for almost any one at the AGE above 12 years old.)
ONE SIZE FITS Adults and Teens: This snorkeling set for Adults and Teens comes with fully adjustable head straps and a high-grade silicon face skirt...
ANTI-FOG COATED TEMPERED GLASS: Enjoy maximum under-water visibility. Advanced lens shape design and tempered glass with anti-fog treatment means...

You shouldn’t have to burn a hole in your wallet to get good quality snorkeling equipment. For those on a tighter budget, this universal set from WACOOL might be what just what you need.

First, even though it is marketed towards adults, know that it can also fit teens. Furthermore, the high-grade silicone skirt and adjustable straps provides flexibility to fit nearly every face shape and size. It doesn’t quite have the panoramic views that masks with side windows do, however its tempered glass lens provides excellent frontal clarity.

Furthermore, the lens has already been coated with anti-fog treatment, so you don’t have to worry about doing it yourself. Just enjoy the clear underwater scenery without worrying about fog ruining the moment. Additionally, the full dry snorkel will protect you from accidentally swallowing a mouthful of water. If that isn’t enough, the purge valve will drain any water that somehow makes its way through the skirt seal.

The manufacturer is even offering a lifetime hassle-free guarantee, in addition to its affordable price, which makes it an attractive option that is worth at least a try.

Pros:

Lens comes already treated with anti-fog.
Full-dry snorkel with silicone mouthpiece.
Anti-splash guard.
Budget-friendly, with lifetime guarantee.

Cons:

Large mouthpiece.
Fragile snorkel clip.

Cressi Pano 4 Wide View Mask

Cressi Pano 4 & Supernova Dry, Black/Lime

A great equipment ready to use to enjoy snorkeling or scuba diving without any trouble
The panoramic masks have been designed to give you great visibility, fit, durability and comfort
Mask made of hypoallergenic soft silicone to ensure a perfect sealing. Soft nose pocket for easy equalization. Lenses in tempered glass for safety and...

The Cressi Pano 4 is designed to give you better visibility, optimal comfort, and a great fit. This mask can be worn by both adults and children. The silicone skirt around the mask and adjustable straps help provide a great fit every time.

Like some of the other masks in this review, the Cressi Pano 4 has side windows that allow you to see your periphery clearly, just as if you were looking straight forward. These side lenses help give the “wide open” feel and better overall improved field of vision. Another notable feature of the Pano 4 are its large buckle straps, which are easy to adjust even while underwater for a snugger fit.

Some great features of the Cressi Pano 4 are the dry snorkel system and, of course, the purge system. Both of these are responsible for keeping the mask dry and water out. With proper maintenance, the mask will never fog up, meaning you can basically stay submerged for unbelievably long periods of time without surfacing for air. You’ll feel like you’re part fish wearing this mask.

Pros:

Excellent 180-degree visual clarity.
Large buckle straps are easy to adjust, even while submerged.
Dry snorkel system with purge valve.

Cons:

The silicone skirt rests low on the upper lip; a problem for people with mustaches.
Slight distortion around the lens near the seams.

If you are interested in more snorkel masks with purge valves, then consider getting a full face snorkel mask. Each one has a purge valve built-in so that you can easily get rid of water that has managed to enter the mask. Click here to learn more about full face masks.

Best Wetsuit for Kitesurfing Review

When you are shopping for the best wetsuit for kitesurfing or kiteboarding, you have to consider a few factors that will make all the difference when you’re out in the water. The most important of these factors are warmth, movement, and fit. Buying this kind of gear is not something you need to be doing often, so make sure you get it right the first time.

With the tips below, you’ll get a good idea of how to find the kiteboarding or kitesurfing wetsuit that fits you best. As a general rule of thumb, the best wetsuit for kitesurfing is the one that fits your body shape and allows you to accomplish the activities you want. There are so many brands and models on the market, and this review is just intended to be a starting point.

Once you’ve got more experience, you’ll begin to develop preferences like how dense you prefer the suit to be, how much mobility you have, hood or no hood, and so on. Without further ado, let’s begin the review.

Our Top Picks:

Sale

O'Neill Men's Reactor-2 3/2mm Back Zip Full...

4/3mm Men's O'Neill PSYCHOFREAK Fullsuit - Black,...

Rip Curl FLASHBOMB 4/3 Zip Free Fullsuit Wetsuit

Why Do You Need a Wetsuit?

The best wetsuit for kitesurfing depends on how you are planning to use it. For instance, if you intend to kite through the winter, then warmth is a priority. In this case, the thickest full-body suit is your best bet.

On the other hand, if you are vacationing in a tropical area in the summer and plan on practicing some leisurely kiting tricks while you’re there, then warmth is no longer as important. In this case, you’d probably prefer a suit that allows freedom of movement, so look for a short-sleeve and leg suit that has low millimetre thickness.

In the end, buying a wetsuit really depends on where you plan on surfing. If you plan on surfing in chilly areas, you may need to buy a suit with thick neoprene even during the summer seasons. On the other hand, if most of your kiting is done someplace like the Mediterranean, then you’ll want a thinner suit most of the time.

We really can’t stress the importance of having a good wetsuit. This is a crucial kit, especially in colder climates. Kitesurfing wetsuits provide year-round protection; warmth when it is cold, and protection against harsh winds, UV rays, and aquatic animals. Furthermore, kitesurfing wetsuits will keep you buoyant for the few times you’re in the water instead of on it.

What is the Optimal Wetsuit Fit?

In addition to warmth, your kit should have a snug fit as well. There should not be any bunching or sagging areas anywhere. It should feel as if your wetsuit is another layer of skin. Each section should wrap around your body tightly, especially around the wrists, ankles, and neck, as these are the points where water can seep in.

A suit that fits too loosely will allow water to enter. If too much water flushes through, it makes the wetsuit less effective at keeping you warm. Some users complain that their suit fits too snugly around their neck. To fix this, consider wearing a rashguard underneath to prevent a neck rash.

Wetsuits are not comfortable to wear outside of the water, hence why it is called a wetsuit. If you find it difficult to put on your gear, don’t feel as if you’ve made a bad purchase as this is the norm for a snug fitting suit. Over time you will get used to putting on and taking off your suit, and the whole process will be much smoother.

Best Wetsuits for Kitesurfing Review

Hyperflex Wetsuit

Hyperflex Mens and Womens 3mm Full Body Wetsuit – Surfing, Water Sports, Scuba Diving, Snorkeling...

HIGH QUALITY: Constructed from 3mm premium ultra supple neoprene this suit provides the function of warmth and durability while maintaining its focus...
HIGH QUALITY: Constructed from 3mm premium ultra supple neoprene this suit provides the function of warmth and durability while maintaining its focus...
WATERSPORTS: Great for all watersports including: swimming pools, lakes sports like tubing and water skiing and in the ocean when surfing, body...

$128.95
Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

If you’ve never owned a wetsuit before and can’t justify spending hundreds of dollars on one, then a good starting point is the Hyperflex. It is so affordable, we haven’t seen a cheaper suit anywhere else. But don’t think that the low price reflects its quality; it is surprisingly snug and durable.

The Hyperflex is so good at keeping you warm because it is made from a tight, celled material. According to customer reviews, thanks to its low profile seams the Hyperflex will not chafe your skin which is a common problem if you kitesurf for hours at a time. Furthermore, the smoothskin raw neoprene chest area will protect you against wind chill.

One thing to note is that customers that bought this online had issues with the sizing. Specifically, they tend to be a little on the small side, so we recommend buying one size up from what you’d expect to get. In a similar vein, Hyperflex wetsuits are durable but they may feel slightly more restrictive than the other wetsuits in this review. If you want maximum freedom of movement, then you should look to get a different wetsuit.

Rip Curl Flash Bomb

Rip Curl FLASHBOMB 4/3 Zip Free Fullsuit Wetsuit

50+ UPF sun protection
Sport type: Outdoor Lifestyle
Package Weight: 1.406 kg

Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Rip Curl is a well-known name, and their Flash Bomb wetsuit has some high expectations to meet. So how does it fare against the other wetsuits in this review?

Starting off, the Flash Bomb has an E5 flash lining for added comfort, and thankfully doesn’t sacrifice warmth to achieve it. Combined with the full hood and smoothskin on the chest and you’ve got the formula for warm wetsuit that is perfect for kitesurfing. Another thing, Rip Curl makes the bold claim that the FlashBomb dries faster than all other wetsuits on the market.

Next, let’s talk seam construction. Anyone who has had their wetsuit fall apart at the seams will be glad to know that the stitching and gluing on the Flash Bomb is a major step up and tearing at the seams won’t be an issue for the Flash Bomb.

As to how well you can move in this wetsuit, despite not being marketed as a surfing wetsuit, Rip Curl is a surf brand, so we don’t see why the Flash Bomb won’t hold up to that task. Many users have reported that this wetsuit does not restrict their arm movements in any way, so paddling on a surfboard should be fine.

One thing we’ve noticed about many of Rip Curl’s wetsuits is that they are pretty slim on the legs and arms. You will need to check the exact specifications for each suit, but for the most part, expect Rip Curl suits to fit better on an athletic/slim frame.

Mystic Majestic

Yet another wetsuit from a well-known brand, the Mystic Majestic is the main model that is leading Mystic’s current selection of wetsuits.

The first thing you’ll notice about this suit is how light it is despite its denseness. This is possible thanks to its featherlite neoprene and large cell material. If you’re worried about wind chills, Mystic have lined the inside of the Majestic with a fleecy material called Teddyprene which will keep you warm under cold conditions.

Furthermore, the Mystic Majestic has convenient back zip and chest zip variations to cater to what you’d prefer, and help smooth the process of putting it on and taking it off. With most wetsuits having a back zip design, perhaps you’re feeling a bit experimental and want to try something different? If so, then consider the Mystic Majestic.

O’Neill Reactor

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O'Neill Men's Reactor-2 3/2mm Back Zip Full Wetsuit, Black/Black, XL

Ideal Entry Level Value Driven Wetsuit; Perfect For Surfing, Diving, Paddle Sports, Lake Activities, And Beach Days
Backzip System Provides Easy Entry And Exit With A Water Resistant Closure
Ultra Stretch Neoprene: Incredibly Soft Premium Material Has Superior Feel, Flexibility, And Elevates Performance

$110.08
Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

For a budget wetsuit, the O’Neill Reactor is a great starting point for a thinner, basic 3/2 wetsuit that will keep you warm in chilly water and against cool winds. It is made from high quality fabric with a good zipper, flexible neoprene on the legs and arms, and wind resistant skin panels on the back and front.

The flat-stitched seam construction does let water in, and could be a dealbreaker if you stay in the water for long. However, for an activity like kitesurfing, where most of the time is spent above water, it’s not an issue at all. However, we recommend this suit only for warmer climates, and for that it does its job quite well.

O’Neill Psycho-Freak

4/3mm Men's O'Neill PSYCHOFREAK Fullsuit - Black, MS

Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

First of all, I’m not quite sure how O’Neill came up with the name for this wetsuit. Perhaps the Psycho-Freak is psychotically, freakishly comfortable and easy to put on? Made from O’Neill’s Technobutter fabric, many users say that it provides freedom of movement like never before while making it easy to slip into and out of.

The Technobutter Firewall material (seriously, who comes up with these names!?) adds extra protection to the chest and back, keeping you warm even during chilly, windy days. Furthermore, the hydrophobic neoprene prevents water from entering the suit. The light foam rubber core keeps the suit slim, and its quick-dry properties speeds up the drying process.

It seems this suit is all about providing comfort and mobility. And while those are nice features to have, you have to be aware that supple materials have a shorter lifespan because they are more susceptible to wear and tear. If you intend to put this wetsuit through heavy use, you may find yourself having to replace it very quickly.

You can purchase the O’Neill Psycho-Freak in 3/2 and 4/3 variations for warmer and cooler seasons.

Wetsuit Sizing

To ensure the user has a snug fit, wetsuits are sized in a two-dimensional manner of body length and width. In regards to width, regular clothing sizes should apply. For example, if you normally wear a large, then get a large wetsuit. If you wear a medium, then get a medium wetsuit, etc.

There are charts for general wetsuit sizing, however these can obviously vary from suit to suit. Make sure to look at the size chart for the specific suit you are planning on purchasing to get a better idea of how it fits. If a wetsuit is too big, too much water will enter the suit and flush out the warm water inside.

Wetsuit Warmth

Most wetsuits are made from neoprene, however there seems to be a trend of suits made from natural alternatives. The thickness of the neoprene in wetsuits varies, and as mentioned above you want thicker neoprene for colder conditions. If the cold conditions are really punishing in your area, consider looking for wetsuits with thermal base layers designed for water sports.

Next, the thickness of the neoprene is not uniform across the entire suit. There will typically be 2-3 thickness levels in each suit. For instance, a 5/4/3 thickness means that the wetsuit has a thickness of 5mm on the torso, 4mm on the arms and legs, and 3mm around areas that require more flexibility, such as the joints. Wetsuit design has come a long way, and these days even the thickest suits still allow for a surprising amount of movement.

Generally speaking, we recommend suits with a thickness of 3/2 to 4/3 in the summer. For the winter you should be looking for a 5/4 or 6/4 thickness.

Wetsuit Seam Construction

There are three types of seam construction to look out for. They are:

Flatlock Seams. This seam has an appearance similar to train tracks on both the outside and inside of the gear. It’s not ideal for colder climates because some water will still seep through flatlock seams, so only consider this for your summer wetsuits.

Sealed Seams. This is a combination of stitching and glue. Though some water may still seep though, this type of seam is appropriate for colder weather conditions.

Sealed and Liquid Taped Seams. If you really need to stay warm, this is the best option of the three. This seam combines stitching and liquid tape over one, or both sides of the kit. It is designed to prevent all water from entering the suit.

Wetsuit Care and Repair

Taking proper care of your wetsuit will help it last longer and maintain its performance. After taking it off, you should be washing and drying it to prevent issues like premature wear, mildew, tears, and the dreaded “wetsuit smell” which can be hard to get rid of. If left unchecked, wetsuits will become ground zero for bacteria that produces bad odors. So make sure to wash and dry them regularly!

Cleaning Your Wetsuit

Don’t wait to wash your suit. Always clean and dry as soon as you can. First, rinse it with fresh water. Do not wash your wetsuit using hot water, as this can damage the neoprene and reduce its flexibility. In the same vein, salt water or chlorinated water will wear down neoprene, so only use fresh, cold water to wash your wetsuit.

Next, apply mild, non-detergent soap and hand wash thoroughly. You can also buy wetsuit conditioners and shampoos. Baby shampoo can also work if you don’t have the special shampoo.

Drying Your Wetsuit

Once you’ve finished cleaning your wetsuit, you’ll have to dry it. Hang the wetsuit on a hanger designed specifically for wetsuits or padded clothes. Beginners often make the mistake of hanging their suit on a traditional wire hanger. Do not do this, as the metal wire can damage the neoprene by stiffening and cracking it. Over time the shoulder area will degrade.

Another mistake is sun drying. The UV rays can cause permanent damage to the neoprene, which will shorten the suit’s lifespan. Instead, hang it in a shaded area if possible.

Wetsuit Repair

Unfortunately, even if you are diligent with washing and drying your wetsuit, over time it may need repairs. After each use, make sure to inspect your suit for rips and tears. Wetsuits can be torn by small rocks or fingernails. Small rips (1-2 inches long) are easier to repair if detected early and can even be done at home.

Tears larger than this should be repaired by a professional repair service. Similarly, if the seams or stitches have been torn, you should also consider taking it to a professional for repairs.

Wetsuit Repairs at Home

So, for situations where the rip is small (1-2 inches) and you are up for some DIY repairs, you can fix it at home. Before getting started, you’ll need the following supplies:

Neoprene Cement/Sealant/Repair Adhesive. Look for brands of sealant and adhesive marketed specifically for wetsuit repairs. Alternatively, you can purchase a puncture repair kit from a bike store, as the glue used is similar.

Alcohol.

Small brush, such as a paint brush.

A heavy object.

If you aren’t feeling like going the MacGyver route, you can just buy a wetsuit repair kit which will contain all the supplies you need.

Steps

Before attempting a repair, first make sure the wetsuit is clean and completely dry.

Next, clean the ripped area with alcohol and wait until it evaporates.

Using a brush, apply a coat of sealant to the torn area, making sure to keep the two sides separate for now.

Wait 3-4 minutes for the glue to dry a little bit, and make sure the sides aren’t touching each other yet. You can proceed to the next step when the glue is tacky but not wet.

Congratulations, you’ve successfully applied the first coat of glue. Now for the second. Do the same thing again, but this time wait for 15 minutes. The sealant should feel like the sticky part of a sticky note.

Now, carefully bring the ripped sides together, making sure to align the edges on both the inside and outside. Any mistakes will be difficult to fix at this point, because the glue is extremely strong.

Get a heavy, flat object and place it on the tear for 1 hour or until it fully dries and seals.

How to Put On A Wetsuit

First, we recommend putting on the wetsuit on a smooth, clean surface. Any rough terrain or debris, such as rocks, splinters, or shells can damage wetsuits. Ideally, you should be standing on a changing mat, board bag, or a plastic bin. If not, then you will have to be really careful.

Unzip the wetsuit and turn it inside out until the halfway point. This is to make a bigger opening for you to put your lower body through. Next, wrap your foot in a plastic bag. The plastic bag makes it much smoother for your feet to slide through, otherwise you may get stuck. Stick your foot and leg through, and repeat for the other leg.

When grabbing your wetsuit, make sure you are holding it with your fingertips, not your fingernails. Also take off your watch or any jewellery, as these can damage your suit. When pulling the wetsuit up, use controlled motions and do not yank it or you can tear the suit or damage the seams.

Pull the suit up to your body and begin to fit it over your arms. Wrap the plastic bag around your hand and slide it through. Do the same for the other hand and arm. Before you zip the suit up, make sure there are no loose sections; the wetsuit should conform perfectly to your body and it should feel tight.

Zipping the suit up can be tricky if you are not flexible enough. To zip the wetsuit yourself, hold the section below the zip with one hand, while pulling the zip vertically upward with your other hand. Remember, use controlled motions, and don’t yank if it gets stuck. You may need to ask someone to help you zip the suit if the zipper snags on anything.

Taking the Wetsuit Off

Unzip your wetsuit all the way. Begin to remove the suit from the shoulders, being careful to use your fingertips and not your fingernails. Once your shoulders are exposed, begin to peel the sleeve from your arms one at a time. We recommend freeing your arms one at a time, because doing both simultaneously will restrict your movement and make you look like a penguin.

Once your arms are out, roll the suit down to your torso. Pull it down further to your hips and legs, and then gently roll it down your upper leg to your calves. If you find yourself losing your balance, you can do this while sitting down. Once the suit is down to your ankles, put your fingers inside and work your foot through it one at a time. Now that your suit is off, you should follow the steps above regarding cleaning and drying it properly.

Sometimes when you are out in the public, you may not have a good place to remove the suit privately. If you are worried about peering eyes, you can wrap a towel around yourself and shimmy out of the suit. If your car is nearby, open a door and stand behind it for cover.

Best Dive Knife Under $50 Review

Humans are at quite a disadvantage in the water, and it is very easy to be caught in a life or death situation if you’re not properly equipped for it. A dive knife is invaluable if you find yourself snared by a fishing net or rope, or if there are potential predators nearby. Knowing that your trusty knife is within arms reach and ready to be used will give divers of all levels some peace of mind.

With that said, there are many models on the market at various price ranges. For some, money is no object when it comes to buying equipment that can literally save their life. However, not everyone has that luxury, and especially for those starting out there are affordable options that can get the job done as well. In this review, we give our recommendations on the best dive knives under $50, as well as our buying guide, so that even those on a budget can enjoy their hobby knowing that they are prepared for the worst.

Our Top Picks:

Cressi Lima, Lime

$19.95
Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Promate KF510-Red, Sharp Tip Stainless Steel Knife

$49.95
Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Aqualung Squeeze Lock Stainless Steel Knife -...

Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Best Dive Knives Under $50 Reviewed

Cressi Skorpion

Sale

738 Reviews

Cressi Skorpion, Red

Skorpion is a modern knife of the latest generation design and medium dimensions, with a resistant tempered blade of tempered AISI 304 steel, with a...
The Skorpion is available in two different blades: pointed tip and blunt tip. The blade is long 4 3/8 in (11 cm). The total knife length is 9 1/8 in...
One side of the stainless steel blade is straight-edged, the other one is serrated right along the blade; they are both very sharp and effective for...

$25.95
Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Made of Japanese 420 stainless steel, the Cressi Skorpion is a medium-length knife with a durable blade. The blade measures in at 4 ⅜ in. or 11 cm, with the total length including handle measuring in at 9 ⅛ in. (23.20 cm).

The Skorpion features a stainless steel blade with a straight-edge on one end, with a serrated edge and wire cutter on the other side. You can get it in both pointed and blunt tip, and both are sharp and very effective at line cutting.

The included sheath has a locking mechanism which will keep the sheath safely on the blade, but it can also be released with just one-hand and a push of the polymer thumb tab. Two standard issue straps help connect the sheath to your leg.

Some users have reported that the knife tang (not the blade itself) has a tendency to rust on the surface level only. Make sure to thoroughly rinse with freshwater before storing.

Pros:

Blunt tip or pointed tip available.

Has both a straight-edged and serrated edge, with wirecutter included.

Locking mechanism keeps sheath in place and can be easily released with one hand

Cons:

Knife tang rusts easily if not properly rinsed.

Aqualung Squeeze Knife

Aqualung Squeeze Lock Stainless Steel Knife - Blunt Tip, Yellow

304-Series Stainless Steel Blade
Blunt Tip Design
Patented Squeeze-Lock Sheath

Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

The Aqualung Squeeze Knife features a 3” (7.6 cm) 304 stainless steel blade with line cutter. With the handle included, the total length is 6.5” (16.5 cm). A diver never wants to lose their knife, and that is why the locking mechanism for the Aqualung sports their patented “Squeeze lock” technology to ensure the knife stays secure in the sheath.

Accessing it with one hand is easy because with just a squeeze of the handle, the locking mechanism releases the knife from the sheath. The blunt tip of the Squeeze knife will prevent any self-injury or gear from being damaged.

The Aqualung provides numerous mounting options through the belt clip on the sheath, with included hose mounting straps and knife grommets for mounting on the BC inflator hose. You can also purchase optional rubber leg straps, as these are not included.

Pros:

Squeeze lock technology secures and releases knife easily

Can be mounted on BC for easy access

304 stainless steel blade

Blunt tip

Cons:

One user felt that the knife was not very sharp, even fresh out of the package.

Cressi Borg

Cressi Borg, Orange, Pointed Tip

The Borg is a modern, large knife with a futuristic design and a strong, tempered blade made of 304 Japanese stainless steel
One side of the stainless steel blade is straight-edged, the other one is serrated right along the blade; they are both very sharp and effective for...
The handle has an ergonomic design to ensure a secure grip even wearing gloves. It is separated from the blade by a small technopolymer thumb tab

Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

The Cressi Borg is one of the best dive knives with a long blade that can also be used for other water activities like snorkeling, swimming or spear fishing. With an overall length of 10.43 inches and a 5.51” inch blade, it is one of the larger knives on the market. Furthermore, the blade is constructed from 420 stainless steel, which is highly resistant to rust.

With that said, you should still make sure to rinse the knife with fresh water and dry it after each use. If done properly, then the Cressi Borg should last you for years. The blade of the Cressi Borg features a drop point tip, and it features both a serrated edge and a straight edge.

Furthermore, the Cressi Borg comes with a line cutter, which is atypical of a dive knife. Next, the handle has an ergonomic design with finger grips, thumb tab, and excellent grip. The metal butt below the handle can be used as a tap hammer to communicate underwater with a dive partner.

The included sheath is impact resistant, features a quick-release button, and can easily sheathe or release the knife with just one hand. Lastly, the dual leg straps of the sheath can attach to your arm or leg for easy access.

Pros:

Great for diving, snorkeling, swimming and spearfishing.

Has both a straight and serrated edge.

Includes a line cutter and a metal bottom.

Included sheath has a quick release button and can be used with just one hand.

Cons:

Some customers complained that the knife guard is made from lower quality materials and will rust if one does not rinse and dry it thoroughly.

Cressi Lima

Cressi Lima, Lime

The Lima is a great emergency knife for scuba diving and a very desirable knife for the spear fisherman. It is very small and compact. This allows it...
The blade is made of Japanese stainless steel 304, very resistant to the salt Sea water. The knife is long 6. 3 in (160 mm) and the blade 2. 44 in (62...
One-hand release sheath mechanism. Back clip for attaching it to the BCD strap or to the weight belt. Hose holder available allowing to attach the...

$19.95
Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

The Cressi Lima is a lightweight knife that is a bit on the small side. It comes with a durable sheath with a quick-release function that can be operated with just one hand. The blade is doubled-edged, with a straight edge on one side, and a serrated edge on the other that will cut through the thickest and robust ropes.

The blade itself is also highly resistant to corrosion and rusting, and comes pre-sharpened. The blade also has a notch which can be used as a line cutter. Furthermore, the sheath can be attached to numerous parts of your diving kit including your regulator. With how small this blade is, with only a 2.95” blade and weighing only 3.2 ounces, the Cressi Lima is a compact and portable knife. However, that also makes it harder to grip, especially with gloves on.

Pros:

Great for divers who want a knife that is easily accessible, with numerous ways it can be attached to your diving kit.

Lightweight and doesn’t take up much space.

Versatile double-edged blade that also features a line cutter.

Cons:

Its small size makes it harder to grip, especially with gloves. Consider roughing up the surface of the handle for extra grip.

Promate KF-510 Sharp Tip Stainless Steel Dive Knife

Promate KF510-Red, Sharp Tip Stainless Steel Knife

304 stainless steel blade
Stainless steel hammer on handle bottom
Quick release and adjustable straps and sheaths

$49.95
Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

The Promate Barracuda KF-510 features a grade 304 stainless steel blade and can be disassembled for easier cleaning and maintenance. The stainless steel butt cap beneath the handle can be used for hammering or getting the attention of other divers.

The lanyard hole located on the handle provides an easy way to carry the knife with you. Adjustable straps provide a tighter fit, and the sheath features a one-hand quick release. Users have found that the KF-510 is very sharp and sturdy.

Pros:

Sharp 304 stainless steel blade

Quick release sheath

Butt cap located beneath handle

Can be disassembled for easy maintenance

Cons:

Straps can dig into your legs

One user reported having issues with comfort when holding the knife

Promate Titanium Blade Dive Knife

Promate Sharp Tip Titanium Dive Knife - KF593, Blue/Black, Sharp Tip

Titanium blade with Easy grip rubber molded handle with sheath and adjustable straps
Requires little or no maintenance
Light weight

$74.95
Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

The titanium blade of the Promate dive knife measures in at 4.45” (11.3 cm) and has a total length of 9.45” (24 cm). It is corrosion and stain resistant, featuring a straight edge full tang blade on one side, and on the other side it has a serrated edge with line cutter.

The knife handle is ergonomic; the durable rubber handle with finger ridges will provide the grip you need no matter the situation. Beneath the handle is a titanium butt which can be used for hammering or as a tank banger to communicate underwater.

You can get the knife blade with a drop point or blunt tip. The blunt tip adds versatility since it can also double as a screwdriver. The sheath is made from a high quality styrene plastic with a double button push release mechanism. This knife comes included with 2 corrosion resistant rubber leg straps to secure your blade on.

Pros:

Both a straight and serrated edge with line cutter

Titanium blade is highly durable and sharp

Blunt or drop point tip

Titanium butt for hammering or signaling

Light weight

Cons:

Some users had issues with the locking mechanism jamming if grains of sand make their way inside, however others disagreed.

What to Look for in a Dive Knife

There are a few major things you should keep in mind when shopping for a dive knife. The material used in the blade and handle are important, as are the knife type and size. Before we get into the reviews, let’s discuss each factor in more detail.

Blade Material

There are two dive knife blade materials to choose from: titanium and stainless steel.

Both have their advantages, however titanium is typically more expensive and stainless steel is the budget option. Whichever material you prefer, you must determine if the blade can hold an edge for a long time, is durable enough to prevent breaking, and resistant enough to avoid corrosion.

Stainless Steel

For economic reasons, most dive knives are made from stainless steel. While it is sturdy and reliable enough, blades made from stainless steel are more susceptible to corrosion. This is important to keep in mind since exposure to salt water will cause it to rust.

If you buy one with a higher carbon count it will resist rust better, but will be tougher to sharpen. Higher grade stainless steel, such as Japanese 420 stainless steel or H1 steel will hold up much better. You must take great care of your blade to keep it from rusting. Rinse both the blade and handle in freshwater, dry it, and coat the blade with oil or grease for extra protection.

Titanium

We believe this is the better of the two materials. Titanium knives are more durable and better at resisting corrosion which is exactly what you need in a blade. One disadvantage is that because they are so strong, sharpening them is more difficult. But, they are lighter than steel and have such good edge retention so this won’t be something you have to worry about for a long time.

Blade Size

How large of a blade size you need depends on what you want to use it for. A blade length of 4-5 inches is a decent middleground best suited for the recreational diver. It will get you out of a pinch if you get tangled up in a fishing line or rope. For a professional such as a spear fisherman, blades larger than 5 inches are recommended. A beginner or casual diver who just needs a small backup knife, then a blade length of 3 inches will suffice.

Edge

There are three types of blade edge to consider: straight, serrated, or partially-serrated. Serrated blades are more effective at cutting tough material like seaweed or rope because their “teeth” can chew through them when used in a sawing motion. Straight blades are better for cutting lines and plastic. Get the best of both worlds with a partially-serrated edge.

Blade Design

Dive knives can have a sharp tip or blunt tip. Blunt tips are recommended for recreational diving because they are so versatile. You can ease them as screwdrivers or for prying things loose and never have to worry about stabbing yourself or poking your gear full of holes.

Sharp tips are the preferred choice for spearfishers and those who actually want to puncture something. Just be wary that you can accidentally injure yourself.

Knife Design

Folding

With a folding knife, the blade can be retracted into a groove in the handle. Folding knives are therefore compact and space efficient. When folded down, it can be easily kept in a BCD pocket, won’t snag on anything, and you don’t have to worry about accidentally cutting yourself when reaching for it. The downside to this type of design is that, in an emergency and especially if a diver is panicking or wearing gloves, they may struggle to open the knife.

Fixed

Fixed blade knives are what most people think of if you ask them to picture a knife in their head. They do not fold and are much more intuitive to use; just take it out of the sheathe and start cutting. They are kept in sheathes, and the sheathes are usually attached to one’s leg, deflator hose, or BCD pocket flap.

With that said, make sure that the knife you have in mind can be mounted the way you’d like because not every sheath provides every option. When diving with a fixed knife, try to find a sheath that has a quick release button so that the knife won’t unexpectedly unsheath, only when you want it to.

Length

The length of diving knife blades typically run between 3 to 6 inches. There are bigger knives but they are more uncomfortable to carry around and might get in the way. The reality is, a smaller dive knife is easier to carry and harness while diving. They can also cut just as well as larger dive knives and are generally more versatile.

With that said, larger knives can afford to have a more comfortable handle. If you are a big guy with large hands or intend on cutting hundreds of feet of line, then you’ll soon realize that a smaller knife with a smaller handle would have been hell to use for that purpose.

Attachments

Folding knives take up less space and can fit in your pocket, generally with a clip so it won’t fall out. Otherwise, blades will come with a sheath that can attach to your leg with straps. Some knives can be carried around your waist, arm, or attached to your BCD. Great care must be taken to avoid snagging it on passing environment, line, or your other equipment. The sheath must have a mechanism to allow the knife to be drawn easily, but firmly held in place when not in use.

Grip

Unless you plan on buying a new dive knife each time, you should consider getting a dive knife that has a good grip. It doesn’t matter what kind of cool features there are or how good the blade is at cutting rope if it ends up at the bottom of the seafloor. With that said, you would be surprised at how often grip design is neglected when shopping for a dive knife. For a knife to have a good grip, consider its shape, texture, and material.

First, consider the ergonomics of the knife. Does it conform to the shape of your hand, or is it awkward to hold and use? Also, will you be wearing gloves when using the knife? If so, consider getting a knife with a larger handle so that it is easier to grab. Grips vary in size, so keep into account your hand size and whether you’ll be wearing gloves.

Generally, dive knives have either pure metal grips, or grips made from rubber or a synthetic material to improve its grip. Some handles are completely smooth, and some have contours to accommodate your fingers. Furthermore, a textured handle increases grip, and a rubber handle helps with this as well.

Visibility

When you’re underwater, visibility can sometimes become an issue. If you have a knife that is a dark color, it will be harder to see it and much easier to lose it. If you lose your grip on your dark knife, it is as good as gone.

A bright colored knife with neon-colored handles might not look the best, but you’ll be able to locate it and reach for it faster. Especially in an emergency, every precious second you spend trying to find your knife could be the difference between life or death. Consider the safety benefits of a highly visible, bright-colored knife.

Sheath

When shopping for a dive knife, don’t neglect looking for a durable sheath because that is the tool that keeps your knife safely on your person instead of sinking into the depths of the ocean. Sheaths also prevent the knife from accidentally stabbing you when you’re not using it, which is most of the time.

When the time arrives, it will be where you will be reaching if you need to grab the knife. A reliable sheath should be securely attached to your body or diving equipment. It should also have a sheath retainer which keeps the knife firmly secured and stops it from unsheathing. If you are using a folded dive knife, many of them come with clips instead.

Metal Butt

When you’re already bringing a lot of equipment with you, you want tools that are versatile and can do multiple jobs so you don’t need to carry as much. Therefore, a dive knife can never have too many features, and a useful feature that only some models have is a metal butt. Essentially, it is just a metal cap beneath the handle. With it, you can use it as a tap hammer which is useful when communicating to your diving partner. Or you can just hit things with it.

Lanyard Hole

This is yet another useful feature that could improve your diving experience. If you have a fear of losing your knife, you’ll find the lanyard hole to be extremely useful because you can keep the lanyard around your hand which can act as a back-up in case you lose your grip. Divers that wear dive gloves and can’t trust their grip should look for a knife with a lanyard hole.

Intended Purpose

If you are in the market for a dive knife for spearfishing, then you want a knife made to dispatch speared fish. To do this, the blade must cut well but the knife must have tools for freeing or repairing spear points.

You may want a knife that can be used for prying, sawing, or heavy pounding. In this case, you need a knife that is durable and strong, with a thick blade, excellent grip, and a hammer on the butt end of the handle.

If all you need is a knife for emergency use, such as to cut entanglements like kelp, fishing lines, and rope, then a compact knife that can be easily accessed will get the job done.

With that said, you may need multiple knives or you may just need a single reliable one; it very much depends on how you want to use your tools.

Conclusion

You don’t want to be caught underwater without a trusty dive knife to get you out of entanglements. The best dive knife should be easily accessible, with a sharp edge to slice through lines, kelp, or other such dangers.

Proper maintenance of your dive knife is crucial in keeping its longevity. After every dive, make sure to rinse both the blade and handle thoroughly with freshwater. Apply some oil or grease for extra protection. If you do this each time, you should not notice any rust or corrosion which would quickly degrade the quality of your knife.

Photo: Eric T Gunther [CC BY-SA]

Best Snorkel Mask for Beards and Mustaches Review

Men with facial hair who also love snorkeling and diving face a pesky dilemma.

You see, a beard and mustache can get in the way of a tight seal when wearing a dive or snorkel mask. If the mask does not properly fit on your face, then water will slowly seep inside and force you to clear your mask every few minutes.

And that’s just something that you cannot abide by, nor is clean shaving your face an option. So what can you do to solve this problem?

The first solution is to apply mask sealer where the mask skirt touches your facial hair to close up any gaps. The second option is to shave a few millimeters from the top of your mustache so that the mask can seal on your bare skin. The third is to use one of the recommended snorkel or dive masks that fellow bearded people have successfully used to snorkel without water seeping in.

In this article we provide a few potential solutions for creating a tighter seal, as well as give our recommendations on the best snorkel mask for beards and mustaches.

Our Top Picks:

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Hollis M-1 Mask | Ideal for Scuba Diving and...

$95.00
Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

ATOMIC Aquatics Venom Frameless Scuba Diving Mask...
(221)

$169.95
Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Cressi Big Eyes Evolution, black/black

$51.00
Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

How to Prevent Water from Entering Your Snorkel Mask

You may have heard of people rubbing Vaseline along the skirt of the mask and facial hair to create a tighter seal. They have the right idea, but the petroleum found in Vaseline will eat away at the mask skirt. Instead, you should consider using the following:

Silicone Grease

Burt’s Bees Lip Balm/Chapstick

Mustache Sealer

Wax Hair Products

Now, completely shaving your facial hair is not an option. But we’re going to cheat a little bit and recommend that you shave a small section at the top of your mustache that is approximately an eighth of an inch to half an inch below your nose. This is where the skirt of traditional snorkel masks would contact against your skin and shaving only that area could solve all of your leaking problems. Otherwise you can try your luck with the sealants recommended above, and even then that may not be enough to provide a tight seal.

Can You Wear a Full Face Snorkel Mask with a Beard?

It gets a bit more complicated if you plan on wearing a full face snorkel mask with a big, bushy beard. We recommend you check out this video to get some great tips:

We really recommend you watch the whole thing, but here is a summary of the main talking points of this video:

Get a dive hood which can get your beard under control before wearing your mask.

You will probably have to try out different masks to get the optimal fit, because everybody’s face is shaped differently.

Shave only the areas of your face that the mask skirt will touch (you don’t have to shave everything off!).

If you don’t want to shave at all, use wax or Chapstick to seal areas where the mask skirt touches your facial hair, but this is not an optimal solution if you have a lot of hair.

If you’re still wondering if you should snorkel with a beard, then check out this article for additional tips. If you only have a mustache, you should consider using a full face mask instead. You can learn more about full face masks by reading this article.

Best Snorkel Mask for Beards Review

Now that you know how to prevent water from seeping into your mask, let’s go over some dive masks that numerous bearded divers and snorkelers have successfully used without issue. Keep in mind, even though customers found success with these products, we have to remind you that everybody’s face is shaped differently and what worked for one person may not work for you.

Hollis M1 Frameless Scuba Diving Mask

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Hollis M-1 Mask | Ideal for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling | Ultra Clear Glass | Comfortable, Frameless...

GREAT VISIBILITY FOR SCUBA DIVING AND SNORKELING: Ultra clear glass provides incredible optical quality - high light transmittance and reduced green...
COMFORTABLE FIT: The mask is frameless with a 100% pure silcon skirt that is soft and comfortable on the face
STRONG SEAL TO PREVENT WATER LEAKS: The silocone skirt wraps all the way around the nose and forehead to form a stong seal, even with facial hair

$95.00
Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

The Hollis M1 is a great mask in terms of quality and cost. It features a frameless design that is typically more comfortable that framed masks. It also offers a wider field of vision due to less material obstructing your sightlines. The rigid silicone melding and silicone skirt surrounding the lens allow the Hollis M1 to be frameless, reducing its overall size.

The lens is a Saint-Gobain Diamant Crystal Clear lens, which many people believe provides some of the clearest and crisp views possible. The silicone black skirt also improves your view, since it blocks out light from the sides and there will not be light around the side of the lens to distract your eyes.

Included with the Hollis M1 is a travel bag and case. You can place the mask in these two accessories to protect it from scratches, which would ruin your views when snorkeling or diving. Some people found this mask can sometimes have a fogging issue. You can fix this by cleaning it with toothpaste or burning off the coating on the mask with a lighter.

Pros:

Excellent value mid-range mask

Frameless design, less bulky than framed masks

Wide field of vision

Comes with a travel bag and case

Cons:

Mask can fog up

Can seal too tightly around your nose pocket area

Atomic Aquatics Venom Frameless Mask

221 Reviews

ATOMIC Aquatics Venom Frameless Scuba Diving Mask with Rigid Silicone Skirt | Comfortable...

EXCLUSIVE DESIGN - The Venom Frameless Swimming Mask will change the way you think about dive masks; A treat for the eyes, and face, this Snorkel Mask...
EXCEPTIONAL COMFORT - The Atomic Aquatics Diving Mask is co-molded with two silicone materials in two levels of softness to form the mask skirt; The...
ULTRACLEAR LENSES - This Venom Frameless Mask delivers excellent vision quality and maximum viewing area; The Schott Superwite UltraClear lens allows...

$169.95
Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

The Atomic Aquatics Venom Frameless Mask is a high-end mask by a reputable maker of scuba diving equipment. It is extremely comfortable thanks to its frameless mask features and silicone skirt. The blended silicone skirt is designed to prevent leaks even for bearded folks. Whether you have a mustache, beard, scars or anything on your face, the seal should be skin tight.

The lens on the Venom is reported to transmit up to 96% of light, compared to other masks that are around the 80% range. This makes a big difference in terms of how clearly you can see what you see underwater. Furthermore, the field of view is quite wide, so even your peripheral vision can be used when looking at your surroundings.

Wearing this mask is further simplified by the strap and adjusters, which will give you the ideal fit in mere seconds without needing to fumble around with it for a long time. Like the Holly M1, fogging can sometimes be an issue. You may have to perform some de-fog treatments, but afterwards it will be a near-perfect mask.

Pros:

Comfortable thanks to its specialized silicone skirt

Frameless design is soft and wraps around your whole face

Has a tight seal, even for people with facial hair

Allows more light in compared to other masks, increasing what you can see underwater

Cons:

May have some fogging issues

Not available with an anti-reflective coating, but the mask is so clear that this should be a minor issue

ScubaPro Synergy 2 Mask

SCUBAPRO Synergy Twin Dive Mask, Silver, One Size

Nest-generation Trufit technology includes a double-skirt design that molds to the contours of the face, optimizing comfort while providing a pliable,...
The ultra-clear, low-volume dual lens provides an excellent field of view, so you won’t miss a thing on your dive.
Dial in a comfortable, watertight fit every time with the easy-to-use rotating buckles and micro-adjustable strap.

$150.00
Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

The ScubaPro Synergy 2 Mask is great for people with beards thanks to its unique two-skirt system. The flexible skirts fit tightly against your face, with the outer skirt providing additional support and rigidity. Combined, they provide superior comfort and resistance to leaking compared to other masks.

People with facial hair often have to wear the masks extremely tightly on their face, causing a red ring to form once they take it off. You will not have this issue with the ScubaPro Synergy 2, thanks to how comfortable it is. When underwater, you will have good visibility and less eye-strain due to its due lens design. If you have a beard or mustache and want a solid mask, you can’t go wrong with this one.

Pros:

Two-skirt system provides an excellent seal and less discomfort

Provides excellent visibility

Dual lens design

Cons:

Some customers felt the mask was a bit small around the nose pocket.

ScubaPro Crystal Vu Plus with Purge

90 Reviews

Scubapro Crystal VU Plus Mask with Purge (Blue, Mask Only)

Patented single lens design with side windows creates a panoramic field of vision.
Ultra-clear no-tint glass delivers optimal clarity under water.
Crystal clear double-sealing skirt is comfortable against the skin and keeps water out.

$136.00
Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Thanks to its purge valve, high durability, and seamless view, the Scubapro Crystal Vu Plus mask is a great mask in general, and even better for snorkelers with facial hair.

To begin, the Crystal Vu Plus has a single lens viewing system, which is preferable to a split compartment or dual lens system, because they rarely fog up and drain water faster. Furthermore, the single lens provides a more precise, unobstructed view underwater.

With its purge valve, the ScubaPro Crystal Vu Plus is easy to clear and rarely fogs up. Should water enter the mask because the mask didn’t seal properly around your beard or mustache, simply exhale air through your nose to clear the water. Yes, literally just breathe out through your nose and the water is vented out. With said, the purge valve can fit a little tight around the nose, which may feel slightly uncomfortable for some people.

Another feature of this mask are the side viewing windows, which provide excellent peripheral vision in the water. Lastly, we wouldn’t be recommending this mask if it didn’t have an excellent seal which should allow it to fit snug and tight on your face, even with facial hair. Additionally, it can be adjusted even further for a tighter fit.

Pros:

Purge-valve is incredibly easy to use.

Adjustable fit.

Panoramic view thanks to single lens system.

Excellent silicone seal prevents leaks.

Cons:

For some, the purge valve pushes against their nose.

ScubaPro Solo Snorkeling Mask

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349 Reviews

SCUBAPRO Solo Scuba Snorkeling Dive Mask, BK

A modern low profile, clear and open-view single lens mask.
Dual colored frameless single-lens design for signifi cantly increased field of vision
Crystal clear double sealed silicone skirt for superior fit and comfort.

$75.99
Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

If you are looking for the most comfortable and best fitting snorkeling mask for mustaches, the ScubaPro Solo might be it. The double sealed silicone skirt conforms to nearly every face, including bearded ones, giving you a leak-free seal.

The ScubaPro Solo features a frameless, single tempered glass lens that is specifically designed to provide the widest field of view. In addition, its hydrodynamic design reduces drag in the water. Because of how close it sits to your face, the ScubaPro Solo has a low volume fit and easy clearing.

Other notable features include a wide-split style, non-slip strap with adjustable buckles, a clear silicone skirt that comes with double-feathered edge sealing that is effective even against facial hair, and a nose-pocket that allows you to pinch your nose to clear.

The reason why we’ve recommended so many ScubaPro products is because they are one of the most established brands in scuba and snorkel gear and their name is synonymous with durability and quality. The ScubaPro Solo is no exception, and at its premium price of around $100 USD at the time of writing, you should only expect the best.

Pros:

Single lens design provides a wide field of view.

Silicone skirt with double-feathered edge sealing means a leak-free seal even on facial hair.

Strap is easily adjustable and allows for a good seal.

Nose-pocket allows you to pinch your nose underwater.

Cons:

Expensive.

Nose-pocket is small.

Cressi Panoramic 4

Cressi Pano 4 & Supernova Dry, Black/Red

A great equipment ready to use to enjoy snorkeling or scuba diving without any trouble
The panoramic masks have been designed to give you great visibility, fit, durability and comfort
Mask made of hypoallergenic soft silicone to ensure a perfect sealing. Soft nose pocket for easy equalization. Lenses in tempered glass for safety and...

$51.74
Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

The Cressi Pano 4 features a 4-lens design that provides extra light translation and peripheral vision over many other masks. The Pano 4 also has two front lenses, like a set of goggles. They’re attached in the middle by a seam, but in such a way that it is barely noticeable.

Additionally, there are two smaller, side lenses that run parallel to the sides of your head. Personally, we like how it is positioned and its squared-off shape, since it provides the truest perspective on the surroundings. Other models feature curved lenses which tend to give off a fish-eye view.

Additionally, the 4 lenses combined give significantly more peripheral vision than other similar masks, like the Cressi F1 or Kraken Aquatics. We feel it also lets in more light, giving you the sense that it is open and unrestricted. Rather than looking through a window, it feels like you’re actually part of it.

Furthermore, the Pano 4’s silicone skirt provides a comfortable and secure seal, and the frame has a lightweight, low-volume design. With that said, the Pano 4 lenses aren’t fog-free out of the box. You will have to treat the lenses yourself to address any fogging problems. Also, some users didn’t like the split-lens design, though most preferred the split-corner design. Overall, the Pano 4 is a great mask for recreational snorkelers who want a wide panoramic view.

Pros:

Great panoramic view thanks to its 4-lens design.

Lenses are made from durable tempered glass.

Water-tight seal even for smaller-framed faces.

Cons:

Lenses require treatment to address fogging issues.

Some users did not like the split-lens design.

The frame is slightly bulky.

Cressi Matrix

Cressi Matrix, black/black

The Matrix mask is one of the adult used masks in the market suitable for scuba diving and snorkeling.
Features inclined and inverted tear-drop lenses for improving downward visibility, a Cressi patented design (US 6272693). Perfect for checking the BCD...
The field of view is particularly wide, laterally and in the lower zone. The lenses are made of tempered glass.

$47.02
Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

The Cress Matrix is a compact mask with one of the best size and view ratio we’ve seen so far. It utilizes its size to the fullest, using almost all of its surface area to provide a wide, unobstructed view of your surroundings. Whereas other snorkel masks would take up a lot of space due to the frame or skirt, this patented Cressi design provides exceptional downward visibility.

Furthermore, both lenses curve inwards, allowing them to sit closer to one’s eyes and increases peripheral vision by 30%. When you’re in the water, you will barely even notice the edges of the mask in your field of vision. Since this is Cressi’s patented design, you’ll only find angled lenses like these on Cressi products.

The edges and skirt of the Matrix have been improved to provide a superior seal, besting even the Pano 4. Specifically, it has been designed with a rubber grip and wide seal strip to fit more securely and snugly on your head without compromising on comfort.

Unfortunately, the Cressi Matrix is a bit on the pricier side. Also, users with smaller faces had trouble getting a tight seal, and water can sometimes trickle in. If you have a small face, then this is probably not the product for you.

Pros:

Patented Cressi design provides incredible peripheral vision.

Made from tempered glass and silicone.

One of the lowest-volume options on the market.

Has a 2-year warranty.

Cons:

Pricey.

Does not seal well on small faces.

Oceanic Shadow Frameless Dive Mask

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228 Reviews

Oceanic Shadow Frameless Dive Mask, (Great for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling) (Shadow, All Black)

Low volume frameless mask withmolded silicone color accents
Extremely low volume design, Swiveling, easy adjusting buckles
Ultra Clear Safety Tempered Dual Lens Design

$75.00
Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Oceanic has been around since the 70s and has formed a reputation for making high quality scuba diving and snorkeling masks. The Oceanic Shadow is a low volume frameless mask that can fold almost completely flat. If you want to bring a spare mask, this could easily fit in your BC pocket.

The low volume, frameless design helps keep the mask close to your face and provides excellent peripheral vision and visibility. You could even use it for photography or spear fishing.

Next, the Oceanic Shadow has a skirt that is made from medical-grade silicone, and the lens is made from a tempered optical safety glass. The skirt will conform to many facial sizes and shapes, including ones with facial hair, and provide a tight seal. Having to clear your mask all of the time while diving is annoying, so a mask that provides a tight seal is critical.

Lastly, the Oceanic Shadow has an easy to adjust, comfortable buckle and strap that can make the mask seal even tighter against your face.

Pros:

Low profile and allows for excellent peripheral vision and visibility.

The silicone skirt fits most faces; many reviewers praised how well it kept water from seeping in and not having to clear their masks.

Comfortable strap.

Frameless and light-blocking.

Cons:

A few users found that the mask strap fell apart after about a dozen dives. However, others have been on many more without this issue, so it seems like it was just faulty straps.

Cressi Big Eyes Evolution

Cressi Big Eyes Evolution, black/black

This revolutionary mask is made of High Seal Silicone, a material that offers unprecedented comfort and a perfect seal ideal for scuba diving,...
The raked lenses, with their inverted drop shape (Cressi patent), are quite small and are inclined as close to the eyes as possible to improve the...
The frame uses the exclusive patented Cressi system of double injection of an elastomer on a rigid element. The buckles are mounted not on the skirt...

$51.00
Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

If the name isn’t clear enough, the Cressi Big Eyes Evolution has great visibility. Its teardrop shaped lens lets in an abundance of light and the tempered glass lenses provide great optical clarity. All of this is also possible because the lens sits close to your face, providing an ample lower field of view to look at your equipment or aquatic life.

There’s more to this mask than its visibility. Its skirt has what Cressi calls a “high seal”, which is a medical grade silicone that is flexible, soft, and very importantly, comfortable. As with all of the masks recommended in this review, the seal should fit tight against a wide range of faces, including bearded ones, and keep water out.

Even after numerous dives, the mask will remain comfortable and not leave any red marks against your face. Furthermore, the Cressi Big Eyes Evolution does not need to be tightened so much, other than what is needed to just stay on your face. The buckle system is designed to only pull the skirt back, and not the entire mask, giving you a better fit without putting undue stress on your face.

Overall, the Cressi Big Eyes Evolution is an inexpensive mask that is excellent for beginners and, of course, people with facial hair.

Pros:

Excellent visibility with tempered glass lens.

Low volume, sits close to face and lets you look down.

High-seal medical grade silicone skirt provides a tight seal.

Cons:

Nose pocket is somewhat small, not suitable for big noses.

The Bottom Line

So, there you have it. It is possible to snorkel with a beard on, if you are willing to put in some extra effort. Unfortunately, the methods described in this article are not entirely fool-proof, and may be somewhat cumbersome. Having to shave off the top part of your mustache, for instance, may not be something you’d want to do.

You also might not want to wear a dive hood as it can be uncomfortable having to adjust your beard so that it fits without feeling like your beard is going to get torn off. Applying wax or Chapstick on the areas where the mask touches your beard may help provide a better seal, but if you have too much hair then it will not be effective either.

However, the beard is something that is sacred to men. Shaving it off makes you feel like you are a prepubescent boy again, and not a man. Without a beard, you feel like a crucial part of you is gone. So it is understandable the lengths we are willing to go through to keep our beards even while snorkeling.

When common wisdom says you have to shave your beard in order to snorkel, well, you shouldn’t just agree to it without a fight. And with the tips in this guide, you can (probably) keep on snorkeling or scuba diving with your face covered in a glorious beard.

Further Reading

If water leaks are still a problem even after following this guide, then perhaps you should look into getting a scuba and snorkel mask with purge valve. Purge valves are a one-way valve that forces water out every time you exhale. This may solve the issue of leaks caused by facial hair, since the water will be vented out as you breathe.

Furthermore, you may be interested in snorkeling in colder water, and for that we recommend looking into wearing a rash guard or even a wetsuit for snorkeling to keep you insulated. If you are struggling to stay afloat in the water, consider wearing a flotation belt, life vest or life jacket so that you can conserve energy and stay safe in the water.

Additional Snorkeling Gear Guides:

Water Socks for Snorkeling

Water Shoes for Snorkeling

Prescription Snorkel Masks for Glasses Wearers

How Does Snorkeling Work?

Best Sailing Knife Review

There will always be a heated debate about what the current best sailing knives on the market are. This is because a sailing knife is a personal tool, and sailors feel very passionate about their trusty knife that has been with them through life-threatening situations. Putting emotions and personal biases aside, I think all sailors and boaters would agree that a rigging knife should be practical and available when you need it most. As such, it should be a mandatory part of every boater’s safety gear.

You need to use the right tool for the job. Don’t substitute a kitchen knife for a rescue knife. Keep the kitchen knife in the galley and use it for its intended purpose, which is solely for slicing food. Kitchen knives can’t be carried in a sheath, don’t fold, don’t resist corrosion, nor do they have handles that are easy to grip with wet, cold hands or when sailing gloves are worn. Furthermore, kitchen knives lack a marlinspike, as well as a shackle or bottle opener.

Our Top Picks:

Maxam 3 3/4 Inch Sailor's Tool, a Powerful...
(971)

Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Myerchin P300 Sailor's Tool-MY-P300SL

$36.95
Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Spyderco Atlantic Salt Lightweight Folding Utility...

$113.74
Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Best Sailing Knives Recommendations

Meyerco Sailor’s Knife

200 Reviews

Meyerco 3 3/4" Sailor's Tool, a Knife Ideal for Hunting, Fishing, Camping or Outdoor Activity,...

A DYNAMIC NAUTICAL KNIFE: The Meyerco Sailor's Tool is a powerfully effective multi sailing, fishing, camping and hunting tool that's designed for...
THE PERFECT ECONOMY SAILING KNIFE: Featuring a honed blade, marlinspike, shackle key, bottle opener and stainless steel handle with a 2” ruler on...
A PRACTICAL RIGGING KNIFE: With a durably robust marlinspike running along the spine and a lanyard ring for secure storage, our affordable sailor's...

Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

It’s easy to lose a knife when you’re out on the water, but with how affordable the Meyerco Sailor’s Knife is, you won’t have to curse like you usually do. This knife comes with all of the bells and whistles you’d expect from a sailor’s knife. The extra-large version features a 3.25” partially serrated sheepsfoot blade.

We like this blade style because it reduces the chance of accidentally stabbing yourself whenever the boat starts rocking. And of course, it includes a shackle key and marlin spike. Furthermore, the extra-large model also has a tip-up pocket clip and a lanyard bail so it’s easy to keep it on you. And lastly, this sailing knife also comes with a much-needed bottle opener.

With how much utility the Meyerco Sailor’s Knife provides at such a low price, we heartily recommend it.

Pros:

Highly affordable, you won’t feel bad if it gets devoured by the water.

Has all of the tools you need like shackle key, marlin spike, serrated blade, etc.

3.25” sheepsfoot blade reduces the risk of stabbing yourself.

Cons:

Some customers complained about the durability of the product.

Maxam Sailor’s Tool

971 Reviews

Maxam 3 3/4 Inch Sailor's Tool, a Powerful Multi-Use Sailor Knife Ideal for Boating, Fishing,...

A DYNAMIC NAUTICAL KNIFE: The Maxam Sailor’s Tool is a powerfully-effective multi-sailing, -fishing, -camping and -hunting tool that’s designed...
THE PERFECT ECONOMY SAILING KNIFE: Featuring a honed blade, marlinspike, shackle key, bottle opener and stainless-steel handle with a 2”-ruler on...
A PRACTICAL RIGGING KNIFE: With a durably robust marlinspike running along the spine and a lanyard ring for secure storage, our affordable sailor’s...

Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

Yet another affordable multi-tool sailor’s knife similar to the Meyerco, the Maxam Sailor’s Tool feels solid and well made. The stainless steel handle has both a 5-centimeter rule and 2-inch ruler, one on each side, which has surprisingly come in handy at times. The sheepsfoot blade is a nice touch, as it will lessen the potential damage if you were to stab yourself.

The marlin spike is, of course, great for untying knots and general rope work. You can even use the shackle key and marlin spike in tandem to unscrew threaded shackles. Next, the Maxam Sailor’s Tool has a surprisingly effective metal tooth style can opener, which pierces the lid, hooks it, and lifts it out effortlessly. Lastly, the end of the handle has a large flat-tip screwdriver which may come in handy in a pinch.

Yet another affordable and useful product, we highly recommend the Maxam Sailor’s Tool for people who are worried about losing their “main” knife as these are cheap to replace.

Pros:

Very affordable, don’t stress out about losing it.

Has many useful features like a ruler, can opener, flat-tip screwdriver head, marlin spike, etc.

Sheepsfoot blade design reduces risk of accidents.

Cons:

As with any budget item, expect to replace every few months as the quality is lower and gets worn out quickly under heavy use.

Davis Instruments Deluxe Rigging Knife

Sale

370 Reviews

Davis Instruments Deluxe Rigging Knife, One Size, (1551),Aluminum

Great for sailors, powerboaters, fishermen and survivalist
Perfect for emergency ditch bag
Use for untying stubborn knots

$25.03
Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

The Davis Instruments Rigging Knife is like the Swiss Army knife for sailboats. It has a sharp blade that can make quick work of everything, from slicing line to slicing a piece of cheese for a snack. The included U-shaped tool has two uses; the exterior is great for turning deck plates (such as your fuel fills) and the interior can turn stubborn shackle pins.

Next, the marlin spike is great for untangling knots, holding an opening to guide a line through the knot, or turning closed-style turnbuckles. And having a flathead screwdriver head on the end of the handle is a bonus as well. Even though the Davis Instruments Rigging Knife is constructed from stainless steel, we recommend rinsing it and coating it in lubricating oil a few times a year if it gets exposed to saltwater often.

Lastly, at the time of writing, the top customer review on Amazon gives it a one star rating. However, it appears that review is now outdated, as current reviews indicate the issues this customer had is no longer present in the current model.

Pros:

Swiss Army Knife of sailboats, has a tool for every job.

All parts are made from durable stainless steel.

Marlin spike has a nice curve to it and good grip.

Can be opened with one hand, though two is recommended.

Cons:

Blade does not lock when open, but the spring is able to hold it in place regardless.

Myerchin Sailing Knife Combo Tool

Myerchin P300 Sailor's Tool-MY-P300SL

🐳 BONUS LEATHER LANYARD STRAP 🐳
🐳 BONUS LEATHER LANYARD STRAP 🐳

$36.95
Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

With the Myerchin Sailing Knife Combo Tool, what you get is ultimate spartan utility and solid construction. The knife blade is made from Japanese steel and will slice through rope, wood, plastic, even thin sheet metal like a hot knife through butter. It can be easily operated using just one hand, for either the marlin spike or the serrated blade. The pliers are handy for dealing with a stubborn shackle.

With that said, we feel the blade is a little short, and we wish the blade was at least partially serrated so that we can cut some cheese. A petty complaint, we know. Here’s another one. The belt clip is a little big but at least it’s removable. We also wish there was a flat-head screwdriver.

Overall, the Myerchin Sailing Knife is a great tool for people who are constantly on the go at work, moving and climbing, wearing gloves, and who need a reliable tool to get things done. Besides being used for sailing, it can even be used by first responders as a rescue knife. We feel the Myerchin Sailing Knife is an excellent knife at a solid price.

Pros:

Can be operated with one hand.

Pliers are extremely useful.

Serrated blades cut through line quickly and efficiently.

Durable construction.

Cons:

No flat head screwdriver.

Belt clip is a little big.

Rough Ryder Marlin Spike

Sale

Rough Ryder Marlin Spike

Crafted from the highest quality materials
Built for performance and durability
Made in China

$20.59
Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

The Rough Ryder Marlin Spike not only looks like a high-quality knife, it is one. Don’t be fooled by the low price tag, this sailing knife is highly durable with its stainless steel bolsters, jigged-bone scales, and razor sharp blade. Your friends will think that you’ve spent a fortune on the knife, with its smooth finish and sleek contours; it is a very aesthetically pleasing knife.

But how well does it handle? First, the blades open smoothly with a quick snap, and the marlin spike locks easily using the lanyard loop. If you have to untie stubbornly tight knots often, the marlin spike on this knife alone is worth the cost. The knife is on the bigger side, which is ideal when working on most lines found in a small boat. Overall, this is a solid knife that works and looks like it should be several times more expensive than it actually is.

Pros:

Has the finish and fit of a more expensive knife.

Very affordable.

Blade comes pre-sharpened and is razor-sharp.

Made from stainless steel and brass, rust resistant.

Cons:

Some users complained about the marlin spike locking mechanism not working well, yet others claim it locks well, so it seems these are isolated cases.

Spyderco Atlantic Salt Serrated Edge Knife

Spyderco Atlantic Salt Lightweight Folding Utility Pocket Knife with 3.68" Corrosion Resistant H-1...

Superior Quality: It is made from H1-Steel which is a precipitation-hardened steel containing nitrogen instead of carbon, which cannot rust.
FRN Handle: It is textured with a Volcano Grip pattern, the molded fiberglass reinforced nylon (FRN) handle is visible marine yellow, equipped with a...
Game Changer: The serrated hollow-ground blade offers remarkable cutting performance in and around fresh and saltwater.

$113.74
Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

The Spyderco Atlantic Salt is made from Japanese steel and hardens the more you use it. Even after prolonged exposure to salt water, it not rust, ever. You can get the hollow ground blade in two versions: serrated or non-serrated. Both versions provide excellent cutting performance. The backlock mechanism ensures the blade remains safely locked up when not in use.

Deployment is easy with the large 14mm round hole that can be opened with just one hand, whether wet or gloved. The handle has a textured grip and is made of fiberglass reinforced nylon which is highly durable. Lastly, you can get the handle in black or a bright marine yellow for high visibility under poor conditions.

Pros:

Sharp and durable

Corrosion resistant

Excellent grip due to textured handle

Easy to open with one hand

Cons:

Serrated blade is difficult to sharpen

Myerchin Generation 2 Captain Pro MYBF300-BRK

Sale

36 Reviews

Myerchin Generation 2 Captain Pro

Crafted from the highest quality materials
Built for performance and durability
Made in Japan

$61.17
Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

The Myerchin Generation 2 is a nifty rescue knife that comes with a marlinspike, shackle slot, and a partially serrated sheepsfoot blade. The handle is made from G10 stainless steel, making it highly resistant to the elements and highly durable.

A lanyard ring is always a plus so that you don’t accidentally lose it or drop it on someone. What’s the point of getting yourself a nice knife if you can’t easily access it, right? The Generation 2 Captain Pro also comes with a black nylon belt sheath and the shackle doubles as a lock-release mechanism for the blade.

Pros:

Easy to open with one hand

Sturdy and durable

Cons:

Noticeably heavy, but at least you’ll know it’s still on your belt

Myerchin Fixed-Blade Offshore Knife B100

Myerchin Knives 🐋 Professional Quality Offshore System Rigging Tool Generation 2 Fixed Blade and...

🐋 Generation 2 B100P Offshore System Pro features handles made from carefully chosen slabs of black composite G10. This man made material is...
The black G10 is an excellent base for the sailor’s own scrimshaw using white India ink. This knife thoughtfully links heritage with the most modern...
Pro-grade German Marine stainless that we use is comparable to 440C for hardness and edge-holding properties with additional anti-oxidation elements...

$78.99
Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

The blade of the Myerchin Offshore knife is made from pro-grade German stainless steel that is comparable to a 440c hardness rating. Additional anti-oxidation materials have been added to the blade to make it corrosion resistant. The blade has a sheepsfoot design which helps to reduce injury to self or your equipment.

The handle of the Myerchin Offshore is made from G10 stainless steel, which is the standard of excellence for durability and resistance to the elements. Included in the package are a heavy leather cushioned sheath and marlinspike.

Pros:

Thick, sturdy blade that will not deform

Padded sheath keeps the blade accessible at all times

Rust and corrosion resistant

Cons:

Lanyards are not included

Camillus Carbonitride Titanium Folding Knife

Camillus Cuda 9" Durable Lightweight Corrosion-Resistant Drop Point AUS-8 Stainless Steel Everyday...

HIGH-QUALITY STEEL - CUDA 9" Folding Knife features a robust AUS-8 Steel blade, known for its outstanding balance between toughness, edge sharpness &...
ENHANCED DURABILITY - AUS-8 Steel blade is bonded with Carbonitride Titanium to add an extra layer of resistance against rust & corrosion, making the...
G10 HANDLE - Camillus CUDA is equipped with a sturdy G10 handle that offers exceptional stability under rapidly changing environmental conditions;...

$69.99
Buy on Amazon Price incl. tax, excl. shipping

The blade of this knife is coated in carbonitride titanium, which is 10x harder than untreated steel and will keep its sharp edge for much longer. It also is stain, rust, and corrosion resistant. The rest of the blade is made from VG-10 stainless steel, which is also featured in the high-end knives from other manufacturers like Spyderco and Myerchin.

The handle is made from G10 stainless steel and feels great when held in your hand. The liner lock is made of blue anodized titanium and helps you to open the knife with just one hand, though some users have reported having trouble opening it with their thumb. The Camillus Carbonitride is lightweight and durable because of its premium materials.

Pros:

Extremely sharp out of the box

Holds its edge for a long time

Lightweight and durable

Cons:

Lacks a thumb notch which would make deploying the blade much easier

No titanium liner on both sides of the knife

What to Look For In Rigging Knives

A high-quality knife is crucial for their safety because a dull or cheap knife will slip or break, resulting in life-threatening cuts to your arm or hand. There are really only two types of knives to consider: fixed blade and folding blade knives.

Both have their advantages and disadvantages. They can be further categorized into sharp tip or blunt-tipped, with serrated or non-serrated blades. Folding knives may also come with bottle or shackle openers, a marlinspike, and a locking or non-locking blade.

Fixed or Folding Blades

Choosing one type over another depends on ease of use and portability. Folding knives are more compact and portable because they contain multiple tools in one (such as a marlinspike) that can all be folded away to save space once you’re done using them. The main issue with folding knives is that they are harder to deploy in life-threatening situations, especially if you are panicking or have extremely cold and wet hands. As such, it is imperative that you find models that can be easily opened and closed even with just one hand.

Fixed blade knives are larger and bulkier than their folding blade counterparts, but are easier to deploy in an emergency. Simply remove it from its sheath and it is ready to use. Whichever type you pick, make sure you know exactly where it is on your person and how to deploy it as fast as possible.

Serrated Blade

Boating knives should have serrated blades, and this feature is what distinguishes a sailing knife from a regular pocket knife. A serrated blade has a sawtooth look, much like the blade of a handsaw. It is essential that you get a sharp knife, because a sharp knife is a safe knife.

Furthermore, serrated blades are better at cutting rope than smooth edged blades. If you cut a lot of rope, then look for a serrated blade. Unfortunately serrated blades are difficult to sharpen. If for some reason you need to have a non-serrated blade, as a compromise you may look for partially serrated blades or just keep a sharpened smooth edged blade around as backup.

With that said, using a non-serrated, or smooth blade, on a thick rope on a rocking boat is basically begging for an accident. One slip of a smooth blade and you could just as easily find the knife slashing your hand rather than the rope. Sharpening a serrated blade is a more arduous process; you need to use an oiled, rounded sharpening stone to file the serrations.

Marlin Spike

Nowadays, marlin spike seamanship is starting to be a relic of the past, but there are still moments when it is handy to know. In the past, most ropes on boats were made of triple-braided nylon, sisal, or cotton. Marines would often unweave and reweave them to make a splice to form an eye at the end of a rope, or to splice shorter lengths of rope together.

A marlin spike was used to unweave the rope strands so that they could be formed into a new shape, such as a loop. Since most ropes today are already pre-shaped into the various loops a boater would need, the skill of manually splicing your own ropes is becoming less needed. With that said, a marlinspike can still be used to quickly loosen up tight knots.

Shackle Tool

Shackles are clevises that sailors use to attach sails to rigging, and the shackle tool is most often used on sailboats. Without a shackle tool, it would be very difficult to unlock the clevis. Sailors that do this often ought to find a rigging knife that is convenient and comfortable since they will be relying on this knife to help them with their duties.

Magnetic Interference

If small magnets can stick into your blade, that means it may interfere with your compass. This is because some knife blades are made with iron, and the more of it there is, the harder the blade is but at the cost of potential magnetic interference. If you think this might be an issue for you, then look for knives made with other materials like cobalt or titanium

Pointed or Blunted (Sheepsfoot)

This depends on where you intend on carrying your knife. If you are wearing it on the outer layer of gear then you should get a blunt point knife so you don’t accidentally stab yourself or your PFD. Pointed knives must be kept in a sheath at all times until you need to use it.

Corrosion Resistant

Constant exposure to the elements will quickly corrode your blade. Stainless steel blades that are highly resistant to corrosion are softer and will dull faster, so it is an area where you have to decide which bothers you more.

Furthermore, “stainless” steel can still corrode with enough exposure to salty and damp conditions if basic maintenance is not performed. If you do not want any corrosion on your blade, look for ones with a powdercoat finish and a hardness rating of 410 or 440c stainless steel.

Conclusion

The best sailing knives must be easily accessible and reliable, especially in the event of an emergency. They will be exposed to the elements and should resist rust, corrosion, or stains. Even in wet and cold conditions, the handle must be easy to grip and folding knives should be deployable even with just one hand.

Ideally, your rigging knife should come with a marlinspike as well as a shackle opener so you don’t have to carry so many individual tools on your belt. A serrated blade will cut rope and net more easily, but they are harder to sharpen when the time comes. It is important that your knife meets all of these criteria, otherwise you will find yourself in great danger in zero visibility conditions if you can’t find your knife or lose your grip.

Sailing Guides:

Best Foul Weather Gear for Offshore Sailing and Fishing

Photo: Alt Content [CC BY-SA]

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