Full Face Snorkel Masks: Dangerous or Safe?

Full face snorkel masks are a relatively new invention compared to the traditional snorkel and mask combination. Released in 2014, they exploded in popularity and revolutionized the market for snorkeling equipment. Things were fine for many years until suddenly, in 2018, there was a spike in snorkeling related deaths in Hawaii. Many news outlets were quick to put the blame on full face snorkel masks, and this caused many to ask: are full face snorkel masks dangerous?

Our belief is that full face masks are not dangerous provided snorkelers know how to use them properly and they have sufficient snorkeling experience to handle themselves in the water. By sticking with quality masks from reputable brands like SEAC, HEAD (Mares), Subea and Wildhorn Outfitters, you can snorkel safely and enjoy the benefits offered by a full face mask with minimal downsides.

While the deaths in 2018 were tragic, we do not believe full face snorkel masks were the cause. In fact, since there hasn’t been such a spike of deaths prior to and following this incident, it calls into question the nature of these deaths. We believe those were isolated incidents and that there were other factors which contributed to the snorkelers’ tragic passing.

In this article we will go over the study conducted by the Hawaii government on the safety of full face masks, the pros and cons of full face masks, and the top brands/models that are safe to use.

Our Top Picks:

Hawaii 2018 Full Face Snorkel Mask Deaths

As we mentioned, the full face snorkel mask controversy began with the spate of deaths that occurred in Hawaii in early 2018. The Hawaii government immediately conducted a study which lasted a couple of years examining all snorkeling-related deaths in the state. The results of the study were released in 2020, and you can read it in full here.

To summarize, researchers determined that most of the mysterious deaths were the result of hypoxia induced by Rapid Onset Pulmonary Edema (ROPE). ROPE is “the infusion of bodily fluid into the lungs reducing its capacity to deliver oxygen to the blood.” And hypoxia is when there is insufficient oxygen in your blood to meet your body’s needs.

ROPE was a phenomenon previously unassociated with snorkeling, with cases identified only in activities like swimming and SCUBA. It is clear now that snorkelers can experience it as well and it can lead to hypoxia with death to shortly follow. Certain health conditions can increase the risk of ROPE such as prolonged air travel or breathing through a snorkel.

This makes it sound like a traditional snorkel and full face snorkel masks have the same risks, however there are other issues specific to full face masks as outlined in the study:

  • It is impossible to tell how effective the snorkel is by visual inspection.
  • They are hard to remove in urgent situations, even with quick release features.
  • Malfunction of the float valve can restrict air flow, leading to aspiration.
  • No mouthpiece to spit out in urgent situations.
  • Cannot clear lingering water from the tube by forcefully exhaling.
  • Cannot dive underwater safely.

With all of that said, the question remains: are full face snorkel masks dangerous? The conclusion of the study is that “full-face masks pose no advantage or disadvantage in terms of resistance to inhalation of air compared to other devices.” In other words, when it comes to how difficult it is to breathe using these snorkeling equipment, full face snorkel masks are no more dangerous than the traditional snorkel.

To address the other issues that are inherent in the full face mask design, we highly recommend you purchase a mask from reputable brands such as Subea, HEAD, Wildhorn Outfitters, and SEAC. Below, we will briefly review the safest models from these brands to give you an idea of what to look for.

Which Full Face Mask Brands are Safest?

SEAC Libera

Sale
SEAC Libera, Full Face Snorkeling Mask, Hypoallergenic Silicone, Quick Release, EN136:2000...
  • NEW GENERATION | The Seac Libera represents the evolution of full face snorkeling masks encompassing all the technical features to make the snorkeling...
  • SAFETY FIRST OF ALL | Like all Seac full face snorkeling masks the Libera is tested in the laboratory with Ansti machines and dedicated equipment to...
  • EASY TO USE | The Seac Libera has a perfect fit thanks to the adjustable silicone straps both in the upper and the lower part of the Head. The...

If safety is your number one concern, then in our opinion the SEAC Libera is the top choice. SEAC have got breathing figured out, and any mask you wear from them will feel like you can breathe like normal. It is so easy to get a breath of fresh air when using the SEAC Libera because the snorkel tube is designed to make inhalation as unobstructed as possible.

Unobstructed Breathing

When you exhale, the CO2 exits through different tubes to purge valves located on top of the mask, on the back side. In other words, it tries to keep the fresh oxygen and stagnant CO2 air separated from each other so that each inhale provides 100% fresh oxygen. The downside of this design is that when you submerge the mask underwater, the valves also go underwater and this increases the pressure needed to successfully exhale.

Additionally, while there is no governing body in the US that stipulates how much CO2 levels is acceptable in full face masks, the SEAC Libera meets the European regulations for safe CO2 levels for snorkel tubes. So despite not having any need to provide such a high-quality mask in the US, SEAC has done so anyways and it has paid off. When it comes to how easy it is to breathe, it is head and shoulders above the rest of the full face masks.

Additionally, the Libera has also addressed many of the problems affecting full face masks, and it even comes in a child size so your kids can snorkel safely too. The SEAC Fun is the name of the child-sized version, and it is more affordable than the standard version of this mask.

Dedicated Inhale-Only Snorkel

As we mentioned above, the SEAC Libera’s entire snorkel tube is for breathing in. In traditional full face masks, both fresh and exhaled air travel through the same tube, creating plenty of stagnant air. The inhale-only snorkel in the Libera ensures that each breath you take is full of fresh air. This design also keeps the snorkel compact for efficient packing while traveling and a slimmer profile while in the water.

Exhale Valves in the Back

The exit valves are located on the back of the mask itself and not the snorkel. This keeps the distance the out-breath has to travel to a minimum instead of having to travel through the snorkel tube again. Furthermore, when you inhale, the exit valves temporarily close to prevent you from re-breathing expelled air that may be lingering in the tubes.

This design is incredibly innovative, however it has a downside: the valves will be underwater while you are snorkeling. This means that water pressure is acting on the mask, making it harder to open the valves with each exhale. It may seem problematic at first, but you will quickly get used to it.

Flat Lens Design and Reduced Internal Air Volume

By having a flat lens design, the Libera solves many issues at once with minimal downsides. First, the flat lens is significantly thinner than the curved lens. This reduction in size makes it easier to pack, but it does something even more important: it keeps air volume low. The less air volume in the mask, the less “dead space” there is for stagnant air to linger. You will have access to more fresh air and less CO2.

The downside of this design is that it decreases your peripheral vision. In other words, you will not have the same 180° view that many full face masks offer. With that said, the curved lens design distorts the image slightly and may cause some individuals to feel dizzy or nauseous, so it has its own share of downsides as well. We feel the flat lens design solves more problems than it adds, and therefore it’s the correct choice.

Silicone Strap and Quick Release Buckles

Most full face masks use fabric mask straps, whereas the SEAC Libera uses silicone. Fabric is hard to tighten and difficult to remove in an emergency. The Libera uses comfortable, easily adjustable silicone straps that are attached to quick release clips. Simply push the button on the quick-release mechanism to detach the straps and remove the mask easily. Fabric straps also absorb water and take longer to dry.

Overall

If you are looking for the safest full face snorkel mask that has been tested for safe CO2 levels, then look no further than the SEAC Libera. SEAC’s focus on unobstructed breathing has made the most pleasant mask to snorkel with. On top of that, it is highly affordable with excellent safety features such as its quick-release strap and a kids version, making it one of the most versatile masks on the market as well. If you want to stay safe while snorkeling, this is the mask you want to own.

HEAD Sea Vu / Ocean Reef Aria

OCEAN REEF - Aria QR + Quick Release Snorkeling Mask - Full Face Snorkeling Mask - 180 Degree...
  • NEW DESIGN - new strap and quick release system. This ensures greater comfort, safety and ease when putting on and taking off the mask. The quick...
  • FULL VISUAL on the underwater world- The QR + mask will revolutionize your snorkeling experience. You will be able to observe everything that happens...
  • ANTI-FOG - The special air circulation system inside the Ocean Reef masks ensures a fogless mask design. No more defogging techniques or products -...
Head Sea Vu Dry Full Face Snorkeling Mask, Black/Black-Small/Medium (Made In Italy)
  • Breathe Easy w/Head Sea Vu Dry Full Face Snorkeling Mask
  • Ingenious Mask Covers Entire Face Lets You Breathe Naturally
  • Full Face Coverage Keeps Face Dry, Provides Widest Field of View of Aquatic Life

If for some reason you cannot use the SEAC Libera, perhaps due to a poor fit or unavailability in your region, then a couple of great alternatives are the Ocean Reef Aria or the HEAD Sea VU. We are reviewing them both at the same time because they essentially share the same design and they have both been tested for safe CO2 levels.

These companies use the same testing machines as used on diving rebreather full face masks. During their testing, they found that the more forcefully you breathe (strong inhales and exhales), the less CO2 buildup there is.

In both of these masks, the snorkel has three separate tubes contained within it: one for inhalation, and two for exhalation. In our testing, we found these could not match up to how easy it was to breathe using the SEAC Libera, but they are serviceable.

Additionally, the Ocean Reef Aria now comes with a quick-release clip on the mask strap and that alone makes it worth picking up over the Sea Vu. The Ocean Reef mask also comes with plenty of additional accessories such as a GoPro camera mount, a “snorkie talkie” radio communicator, a marking wing, and optical lens support.

Wildhorn Outfitters Seaview 180° V2

Wildhorn Seaview 180 V2 Full Face Snorkel Mask. Snorkeling Gear for Adults, Young, and Kids. Snorkel...
  • 180° FULL FACE SNORKEL MASK- Our snorkeling gear for adults, young, and kids gives a panoramic view creating a better experience compared to a...
  • DESIGNED AND TESTED IN THE USA - The Seaview 180° V2 full face snorkel mask was created by our team of experienced product designers and engineers....
  • IMPORTANT SIZING TIPS- snorkel gear sizing is important to get right. Be sure to measure from the bridge of your nose (between your eyes) to the tip...

The Wildhorn Outfitters Seaview V2 is yet another full face snorkel mask that has been tested to ensure it maintains safe levels of CO2. The design of this mask is a little different than usual because the snorkel tube is located on its side. This tube has separate chambers for breathing in and out.

We found that breathing in this mask was very easy, but exhaling was more difficult. Upon inspection, we determined that the hole where the breath goes out is smaller than the air intake hole. We hope that they enlarge the diameter of this hole in an updated model so that there is less resistance when exhaling.

Furthermore, the Seaview V2 is physically a large mask. This increases drag in the water, dead air space in the mask, and it also occupies more room in the luggage when traveling. The snorkel can be detached to make it easier to pack.

If you are interested in capturing your snorkeling adventures using a GoPro or similar action camera, then this mask does come with a side mount option for you to mount it on. The location of the mount is ideal since the camera will be next to your face capturing exactly what you are seeing. Full face masks with the camera mount on the forehead area will often pop in and out of the water, capturing inconsistent, unexciting footage.

The Wildhorn Outfitters Seaview 180° V2  is another solid option if you want a mask that is easy to breathe with, with the added benefit of recording your adventures to reminisce for years to come.

Full Face Snorkel Mask Dangers

Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Build-Up

When the Hawaii deaths occurred, people were quick to hypothesize that the deaths were the result of CO2 buildup in full face masks. However, in the same study referenced above, they found that “CO2 buildup is not a physiologically viable explanation of snorkel-related drownings.”

With that said, CO2 buildup is a legitimate concern because of the symptoms it produces: nausea, dizziness, sluggishness, and difficulty breathing. So what exactly is it and how do you prevent it?

First, you have to understand the concept of dead air space. In an imaginary, perfectly designed snorkel, air travels perfectly in and out of the tube with perfect efficiency. In the real world, some air gets stuck in the air space of the tube and lingers around. This air space will get mixed up with both fresh air and some exhaled gas, and we refer to this as “dead” air.

When you breathe in and out of a snorkel, you will inhale some of this “dead” air which contains some of the previous exhaled air (CO2). As you continue to breathe in and out, your body may start to feel starved of oxygen as it keeps breathing in CO2. Eventually you will start experiencing the symptoms described above. This is an issue that affects regular snorkels but it is exacerbated in a full face mask because it adds even more dead space.

The best way to mitigate this is to purchase full face masks from reputable brands where the snorkel can properly ventilate the mask. These higher-quality snorkels also have a separate breathing chamber which seals off the mouth and nose area from the eye area, limiting the amount of dead space in the mask.

Another method is to avoid too much physical exertion. This reduces your heart rate which keeps oxygen consumption low, and also reduces how often you breath which reduces the amount of CO2 being exhaled. Snorkeling is meant to be a relaxing hobby in the first place, so just float by the surface and enjoy the nice views.

Improper Fit

If you find it hard to breathe with your full face mask due to CO2 buildup, also consider if the mask is correctly fitting your face. It’s not enough that the mask is preventing water from entering. After trying numerous brands and sizes, we actually found that many don’t correctly fit properly. How well a mask fits depends on your face size and structure.

In addition to sealing tightly on your face, the breathing chambers should also seal above your nose to prevent exhaled air from escaping into the chamber above where incoming air is entering.If you feel air rushing up past your nose to your eyes when you exhale, then the mask does not fit your face properly. You will be breathing in the same CO2 gases you just exhaled and slowly start to asphyxiate.

Equipment Malfunction

Dry Snorkel

The most dangerous equipment malfunction that can happen to a full face snorkel mask is when the dry snorkel’s float valve mechanism fails.

To briefly summarize what a dry snorkel is, it’s a snorkel with a mechanism known as a float valve which can automatically seal the opening of the tube if the snorkel is submerged underwater. The float valve “detects” the water level using a buoyant float ball, and this ball will automatically float to the top of the snorkel tube and close the valve if the water level is too high, and unseal the valve when the snorkel is above water.

When the dry snorkel malfunctions, two issues arise:

  • The valve gets stuck in the sealed position. When this happens, you cannot get fresh air and will start to suffocate.
  • The valve gets stuck in the open position. Here, the dry snorkel will basically be an open tube that lets water get in and it is a serious choking hazard.

The dry snorkel design is not exclusive to the full face mask; you can purchase a standalone dry snorkel for use with a traditional snorkel mask. When these issues arise in a traditional dry snorkel, the user can quickly spit out the snorkel mouthpiece and surface to get fresh air as needed.

However, the reason why it is particularly an issue in a full face mask is because there is no mouthpiece to “spit out” since the snorkel is built into the full face mask. This issue is further exacerbated because full face masks are hard to remove.

So imagine a situation where the valve malfunctions and the user is scrambling to remove the mask. They may be panicking because they are choking on water or can’t get fresh oxygen, and in their confusion, they take even longer to take the mask off. Obviously this is a serious safety issue and it is why keeping a cool head is so important.

Once again, we recommend purchasing masks from reputable brands to ensure the float valves are the highest quality. Lower-quality masks from off-brands may have faulty valves that don’t work or break easily.

Other points of failure

All products experience wear and tear and eventually they will fail. High-quality full face masks can last much longer and are worth the money in the long run. With that said, over time straps can get loose, the dry snorkel can get stuck, the lens can get scratched up, and the silicone skirt will stop sealing as tightly against the face.

Unfortunately, there is no equivalent of the Open Water course for snorkeling like there is for SCUBA, the average consumer with no snorkeling experience won’t know how to pick out a good product from a faulty one. They will also not be aware of whether their mask is functioning optimally or not.

Human Errors in Judgment

Using it for activities other than snorkeling

Since the barrier of entry to snorkeling is so low, there is a high chance of first-time snorkelers misusing their new full face mask. Keep in mind that full face snorkel masks, as the name suggests, are intended for snorkeling. Many decide to wear it while swimming or free-diving and this can result in issues like the aforementioned CO2 buildup.

Even if you plan on using it for snorkeling, we highly recommend reading the included instruction manual for your specific product to understand its limitations. Perhaps it tells you not to go diving, and if so, then make an effort to stay at the surface of the water and enjoy the underwater sights from there.

Swimming too far out

We get that snorkeling can be a fascinating experience, and many swim further and further out to see more marine life. Unfortunately, many snorkelers who either don’t understand their own limitations or don’t realize they are floating too far out end up panicking when they realize they are tired and still have a long way to return. To help you conserve energy and keep your heart rate low, we highly recommend wearing a snorkel vest, flotation belt, or rash guard.

Diving with a full face mask

In addition to making errors in judgment, we come back to the basic issue that it is hard to determine the quality of a mask if it is off-brand. So if a snorkeler decides to do a risky maneuver such as diving down with their full face mask, it could lead to disastrous consequences.

There are many reasons why you shouldn’t dive with a full face mask. To start, it holds more air volume than a traditional snorkel, making the mask positively buoyant and harder to dive with. You will have to exert more effort just to dive down, and this increases heart rate and therefore greater oxygen consumption.

Another issue is that with a full face mask, you cannot pinch your nose to equalize which can lead to many issues when diving. If you feel a pressure building up in your ears, you must understand how to equalize it or risk damaging your eardrums. In a similar vein, the increase in pressure as you dive down causes the mask to suction tightly on your face, causing pain and discomfort.

Next, when diving down, there is a very high possibility of the dry snorkel failing to seal the tube opening. You would have to be diving down while keeping the snorkel tube pointed up so the float ball can float up and trigger the valve mechanism to seal the opening. If snorkel is angled while you are diving, the float ball won’t seal the opening, causing water to flood into the mask.

Since full face masks don’t allow you to equalize, plus the high chance of water flooding in, you simply cannot dive very far even if you wanted to.

Panic and Confusion

Let’s say the worst happens, and you are struggling to breathe with a full face mask on. Do you think you are experienced enough to stay calm and have enough dexterity to quickly loosen the mask’s straps? Unfortunately, many first-time snorkelers panic when water floods down their snorkel or when they are briefly cut off from fresh oxygen.

Panicking is one of the worst things you can do because that results in erratic decision-making and pointless flailing around. Let’s borrow some advice from freedivers and try to stay calm at all times. Freedivers understand that even an elevated heart-rate from being nervous causes oxygen to be used up faster. They also keep movement to an absolute minimum and only exert energy when they need to.

Conversely, panic-flailing uses up precious oxygen and increases heart rate which further causes oxygen to be used up faster and leads to more panic. It’s a vicious cycle. In order to quickly get out of this predicament, you should be adept at loosening the straps on your full face mask so you can get a breath of fresh air ASAP.

The fabric straps on most full face masks can be difficult to tighten when putting it on, and hard to loosen up when you need it off quickly. You need to put the strap holder around the end of the strap in order to keep it secured to the position you adjusted it to. This strap holder can be hard to reach in an urgent situation since it is behind your head and you will not be thinking clearly. We highly recommend practicing removing the full face mask as quickly as possible so you have the muscle memory to do it in a real life-threatening situation.

The Rise of Off-Brand Full Face Masks

There are a handful of manufacturers that put in tremendous time and effort into ensuring their full face snorkel masks are made to the highest standard. When purchasing a full face mask, we recommend purchasing ones from Subea, HEAD, Wildhorn Outfitters, and SEAC.

Unfortunately, as is the case with many quality products, cheap knock-offs started flooding the market. These are poorly designed copies made from overseas companies that are made with cheap materials and this is reflected in their absurdly low price. They don’t provide the same level of safety that masks from reputable brands do.

In the Hawaii study mentioned at the start of this article, one of the downsides of full face masks is that it is hard to visually determine the quality of a mask. You literally cannot know unless you try it out, but who wants to be the guinea pig to do that? It is better to stick with the brands that are trusted instead of playing Russian roulette with an off-brand mask.

When it comes to purchasing equipment that affects your safety, you should not cheap out. Besides, it’s not like full face masks are that expensive. Basically all of them are under $100, and most of them are around the $50-60 price range. Are you really willing to jeopardize your safety just to save a few dollars? Hopefully not.

Are Full Face Snorkel Masks Safe?

Inconclusive Evidence Against Full Face Snorkel Masks

Now that the reliability of full face snorkel masks has been put under intense scrutiny, many of its inherent flaws have been put in the spotlight. Despite the all-in-one design providing many advantages in terms of comfort, these same advantages have potentially dangerous downsides that many suspect are what led to the Hawaii incidents.

The main argument for full face snorkel masks is that there is a lack of conclusive evidence surrounding the tragic deaths of the Hawaii snorkelers. Even the study conducted by the Hawaii government admits that full face snorkel masks are just as safe as traditional snorkels, at least when it comes to the risk of experiencing ROPE.

It is also very possible that lack of experience was the main culprit of many snorkeling-related deaths. There is no certification needed for someone to start snorkeling like there is for SCUBA. Anybody can buy a snorkel and a mask and start snorkeling.

If we look at the drowning statistics in Hawaii, the people most at risk are tourists (source). It is likely these individuals traveled from areas that aren’t close to any large bodies of water for them to practice snorkeling in. So when they travel to Hawaii, eager to enjoy snorkeling for the first time, they bite off more than they can chew and get overwhelmed in the water.

In that same report, we can see that from the period of 2009-2018, 206 people drowned while performing snorkeling-related activities. Of that number, 189 deaths were from non-residents, and only 17 were from Hawaii residents. The fact that Hawaii has seen an increase in tourism in recent years could also correlate with the increase in deaths as hypothesized above.

Another factor to consider is that many drownings occurred because the victim had pre-existing medical conditions that flared up in the middle of their snorkeling session. Going back to the report, it has been determined that pre-existing medical conditions contributed to approximately 60% of all drownings in Hawaii. While this figure includes drownings from other water activities, snorkeling is by far the most common activity that leads to drowning so it is relevant.

Yet another factor to consider is that snorkeling equipment was not comprehensively tracked until 2017. As of now, there is not enough data to make any conclusions on whether full face snorkel masks are definitively correlated with drownings while snorkeling. However, what little information is available is this: from 2014 to 2018, of the 112 snorkeling-related drownings, the mask type was tracked in 16% of the incidents. It was found that a full face mask was worn in 5 drownings, and a traditional mask and snorkel combo was worn in 11 drownings (source). This is far too little information to work with.

As of right now, inconclusive evidence is both what absolves and damns the full face snorkel mask. You can make either argument – that the mask hasn’t been proven to be safe or unsafe. Whichever side you lean on, it seems the biggest causes of snorkeling-related drownings have more to do with inexperience and pre-existing medical conditions than the equipment used. Perhaps the focus should be shifted to the individual and not the gear.

Lack of Safety Standards

Additionally, there aren’t any specific safety standards when it comes to the manufacture and design of any snorkeled-related equipment in the US. Traditional snorkel masks and snorkels get a pass because they’ve been used for decades and have been proven to be safe over time, however a relatively recent invention like the full face snorkel mask is unknown.

For marketing purposes, some manufacturers claim that their product passes the European safety standards for snorkeling equipment, however this is not technically a true statement. The requirements needed to pass the European safety standards apply only to traditional masks and snorkels; as of now there is no safety standard for full face masks.

Since a full face mask is not just a mask, nor is it just a snorkel, it needs to be put into its own category with its own specific standards to be considered “safe.” With that said, neither the US nor European countries have such a standard. As a result, since there is no regulation of full face masks, the actual safety of these masks is unknown.

With that said, some brands have been around for many years, particularly Tribord (now Subea), the makers of the original full face snorkel mask. Products from reputable companies are more reliable since they have been tried and tested over the years and have held up. This is probably the closest you can get to having some kind of standard.

We do not recommend purchasing products from off-brand or unknown companies. They are the ones most likely to take advantage of the fact that there are no safety standards. They will write anything on their sales page to trick shoppers into buying it. Their products are often knock-offs made of cheaper materials, so do not expect them to last long nor keep you safe.

Closing Remarks

Ever since the Hawaii drowning incidents in 2018, full face snorkel masks have been marred with controversy, perhaps unjustly so. The debate is still on-going, however we believe that full face snorkel masks from reputable brands should be just as safe as a regular snorkel and mask combo.

As we mentioned above, a definitive link between the drownings and equipment failure has not been established. As far as we know, the biggest culprits are lack of experience and pre-existing heart conditions. We feel that the full face snorkel mask is being used as a scapegoat because people don’t want to admit that they simply aren’t in the right condition to snorkel. They would rather blame it all on equipment than put in the effort to train themselves properly.

In order to prevent a repeat of what happened in Hawaii, people should endeavor to practice snorkeling in a pool first. They should learn how to properly put the mask on, take it off, and what to do in the event of an emergency (e.g. float valve is stuck, water is entering the mask, etc). If they are not strong swimmers, they need to build up their technique and stamina so they can swim confidently. We highly recommend you know how to swim before you snorkel.

Just as important as swimming technique is learning how to relax and stay calm. Panicking in the water will drastically increase the chances of drowning. In order to have peace of mind, one should be wearing snorkel fins and some kind of flotation device. These will provide much needed buoyancy to stay afloat easily and conserve energy.

If you have a pre-existing medical condition, maybe it’s not such a good idea to go snorkeling. Sorry, but it is simply impossible to predict when it might flare up and there is no countermeasure to this issue. It’s possible you may never be able to safely snorkel ever again.

Lastly, never snorkel alone. Don’t take any unnecessary risks. Stay in shallow waters and always be with at least one other person. This way, you can look out for one another and it is much faster to return to shore should something go awry. Honestly, a lot of this advice is simply common sense, but it seems a lot of people don’t have that either.

Armed with all of this information, you should be able to snorkel relatively safely whether you are wearing a full face snorkel mask or a traditional snorkel and mask. Swimming in a large body of water is an inherently dangerous activity, and there is no way to make it completely safe. But by following the advice provided in this article, you can make it as safe as possible so that you can experience the sights that the underwater world has to offer.

Best Full Face Snorkel Mask for Kids Review

Let your child experience snorkeling to the fullest with a full face snorkel mask for kids. Full face snorkel masks can be used by both adults and kids, and they make snorkeling so much more enjoyable. No more biting down on an uncomfortable mouthpiece, no more water leaks, and no more tunnel vision. With a full face mask, you can have peace of mind knowing your child is protected and having a blast in the water.

In this article, we aim to provide a comprehensive guide on full face masks. In the first half, we review the best full face snorkel masks for kids and rate it based on its price and performance. In the second half, we provide a detailed buying guide as well as an FAQ to answer the most common full face snorkel mask questions.

Our Top Picks:

Best Full Face Snorkel Mask for Kids Recommendations

Wildhorn Outfitters Seaview 180° V2

WildHorn Outfitters Snorkel Mask
  • FLOWTECH ADVANCED AIR INTAKE SYSTEM- Breathe naturally and comfortably through your nose and mouth. Flowtech has two chambers and 4 intake valves to...
  • DESIGNED AND TESTED IN THE USA - The Seaview 180° V2 snorkeling mask was created by our team of experienced product designers and engineers. Through...
  • IMPORTANT SIZING TIPS- Full face snorkel mask adult sizing is important to get right. Be sure to measure from the bridge of your nose (between your...

The Wildhorn Outfitters Seaview V2 mask is arguably the best full face snorkel mask for adults, and recently they released an XS size so children can use it too. What we love about the Seaview V2 is its drastic design innovations that fixes many problems that many full face masks have. Let’s get into what makes the Seaview V2 so special.

Innovations

At first glance, you will notice that the snorkel is positioned to the side of the mask instead of on top. With the snorkel integrated on the side, it resembles the position where a snorkel would be in a traditional mask and snorkel combo. So what kind of advantages does this provide?

Looking at it from a designer’s perspective, this makes a lot more sense for efficient ventilation. The air can enter and exit much faster without having to flow through the rest of the mask. This results in easier breathing, less CO2 buildup, and less fogging. The benefits are tremendous and it makes one wonder why the original full face mask even decided to position the snorkel on top of the mask.

Snorkel Design

To make it even easier to breathe, the design of the snorkel itself has changed in addition to its position. The snorkel tube is angled and then bent halfway through so that the top of the snorkel is facing directly opposite of the front of the mask. This allows your kid to be looking straight down while snorkeling and the snorkel tube will be pointing straight upwards.

The traditional design of full face masks was such that if you looked straight down, the snorkel would actually be pointed at 30-45° angle. To position it such that it is pointing straight up, you had to tilt your head upwards slightly so that you couldn’t look directly beneath you, always in front of you. The Seaview V2 lets you look straight downwards while keeping the tube perpendicular to the surface of the water.

Next, water is kept out of the snorkel thanks to the dry-top design. What this means is that the snorkel tube will automatically seal the opening shut with its float valve if the snorkel is completely submerged underwater, preventing water from entering the mask. Keep in mind that the dry-top design is most effective at the surface. If you decide to dive straight down, there’s no guarantee that it can effectively keep water out.

This system is what Wildhorn Outfitters calls “Flowtech”, which delivers on its promise to provide easier breathing and superior positioning for more efficient air intake. With all of these features in mind, you can see why the overall experience of wearing the Seaview V2 is much more comfortable and reliable.

Hypoallergenic Silicone Skirt

Another way that the Seaview V2 keeps water out is through its hypoallergenic mask skirt. It is thick yet soft and comfortable on the skin. The skirt will seal tightly against your child’s skin, ensuring that no water will enter from the sides. Your kid could wear this mask for hours and not experience discomfort or water leaks.

In the event that water manages to enter the mask through the snorkel or the skirt’s seal, then there is an easy way to get it out. Located at the chin is a purge valve which will automatically drain the water out at the surface. Just lift the head out of the water high enough so the purge valve is no longer submerged, and the valve will open and release the water inside the mask without having to remove it.

Lens Design

To further improve the snorkeling experience, the Seaview V2 provides a full 180° frontal view which takes advantage of humans’ peripheral vision to see as much as possible. Having an excellent field of view is important not just for enjoyment, but also for self-defense. Many snorkelers lose their life because of collisions with boats. By having such a wide view, there is a higher chance to see objects approaching from the sides and to avoid it.

Keep in mind that there will be a slight distortion around parts of the lens where it is curved. Only the front section of the lens is completely flat and this provides the most accurate view of the ocean. The lens on the Seaview V2 is considered a flat lens, despite having rounded corners. Even if the view from the sides is distorted, it’s still advantageous to see a warped image than not.

Camera Mount

Another innovation of the Seaview V2 is the side camera mount. No, the camera mount itself is not the innovation, rather its positioning is. For some reason, nearly all full face masks have the camera mount on top of the mask, often integrated with the snorkel. Since the snorkel is sticking out of the water, that means the camera is as well, so what exactly is it recording? The surface of the water?

Having the camera mount on the side makes much more sense because the camera will be submerged and recording exactly what you are seeing. It also keeps the camera out of your field of vision, and it can counterbalance the weight of the side snorkel. With a side-mounted action camera, the footage recorded will be a hundred times better and much more memorable when viewed in the future.

Overall

The Wildhorn Outfitters Seaview V2 has revolutionized full face snorkel mask design by bucking the trend and establishing itself as the new gold-standard. With its side snorkel and separate breathing chamber offering unparalleled airflow and fog-free snorkeling, you never have to worry about CO2 buildup or breathing difficulty.

Get an unparalleled view of the underwater sights with the 180° field of vision offered by the wide lens. Furthermore, the side camera mount lets you or your kids film these same views so that you can capture the unforgettable memories forever.

In our opinion, none of the available masks at this time stands a chance at beating the Wildhorn Outfitters Seaview V2. It provides the best airflow and keeps visibility at maximum. Just as we recommended it for adults, we believe the XS version of the Seaview V2 is the best full face snorkel mask for kids.

Subea/Tribord Easybreath

TRIBORD SUBEA EASYBREATH (2020 Version) Full FACE ANTIFOG Snorkel MASK with A Secure Lock and Free...
271 Reviews
TRIBORD SUBEA EASYBREATH (2020 Version) Full FACE ANTIFOG Snorkel MASK with A Secure Lock and Free...
  • Anatomic Design. 4 different SIZES: XS is perfect for kids up to the age of 10. S/M generally for Kids 11yr+, Tweens & Most Women. M/L for older Teen...
  • DRY FREAK spare ring included. This Updated 2020 Version has a Secure Lock Snorkel to prevent the snorkel head from detaching unexpectedly.
  • Exclusive Anti-Fogging Patented Design. Continuous Fresh Air Flow with a double chamber air vent valve

We have to give credit where credit is due; Tribord (now Subea) was the first one to come out with the original full face snorkel mask design. For years, the Easybreath was the gold-standard because it was literally the only option available. It has since received some design changes to keep up with the times, and to this day it is still one of the top full face masks you can get.

With each update, Subea changed the design slightly and managed to reduce the price while maintaining a high quality product. However, as of the latest update the smallest size offered changed to ‘S’ (for some reason they discontinued the XS size). However Subea claims that the S size should still fit children aged 10 or older.

By default, this mask does not come with a camera mount. You can purchase an optional mount that slides over the mask and ensures that a camera can stay in place. With that said, the positioning of the camera is not as optimal compared to the Seaview V2. If your kid is not interested in snorkeling with a GoPro, then this is not an issue.

Other than this criticism, the Subea Easybreath is pretty much one of the best full face masks on the market, second only to the Seaview V2. After all, the Seaview copied the Easybreath, so many of the benefits it provides are the same as what the Easybreath offers. It has built-in measures to prevent fogging, a good fit, and the overall quality is hard to beat.

You can get the Easybreath in a variety of sizes and colors. If you’re buying it for your kid(s), then the S size is what you want. You can’t go wrong with getting the original; if you can get it on sale, it will provide some of the best value available.

Ocean Reef Aria Junior

Ocean Reef ARIA JR Full Face Snorkeling Mask White One Size
90 Reviews
Ocean Reef ARIA JR Full Face Snorkeling Mask White One Size
  • The Aria mask will revolutionize your snorkeling experience. You will be able to observe everything that happens around you underwater with a 180°...
  • Fun dedicated design. Includes stickers for kids to customize their mask and a coloring book
  • Compatible with all accessories in the FFSM Ocean Reef line

Next up on our list is the Ocean Reef Aria Junior. Think of it like a combination of the Seaview V2 and the Easybreath in terms of its features and design. Therefore, it has many similarities when it comes to their strengths but it also carries with it some of the same weaknesses.

First, just like the Easybreath, the Aria has a lens made out of organic shatterproof polycarbonate. This means the mask is scratch-resistant, durable, and will not break into small pieces if it ever breaks. God forbid the mask should ever break, but you can rest assured that at least it won’t break into hundreds of small pieces.

Next, the hypoallergenic silicone skirt is comfortable and ideal for kids with sensitive skin. The skirt will seal tightly on the skin and form a watertight seal. The dry-top snorkel above is also effective at keeping water from entering, however nothing is perfect. If enough water accumulates in the mask, the purge valve at the bottom will drain the water out once it is above water.

Additionally, the Aria is sturdy but flexible at the same time. It even comes with a handy storage bag for convenient carrying. We like to see how Ocean Reef have clearly considered how they can make it easier for people to pack their product while traveling.

As for the action camera/GoPro mount, the Aria borrows the Easybreath design which means it is durable but not very flexible. As always, ever since we’ve seen how effective the Seaview V2’s side camera mount is, we wonder why nobody else thought about implementing this seemingly straightforward solution.

The Aria features a separate breathing chamber which keeps the air from fogging up the lens in normal circumstances. Excessive breathing from too much physical exertion may cause the mask to fog up and fail to vent out the CO2 in time, so be wary of that.

An interesting feature that the Ocean Reef Aria Junior has are special holders on the snorkel. These are intended to hold chemical lights which will provide a bright glow, increasing visibility when snorkeling at sunset. Not only is it a wonderful safety feature, but it may be an exciting visual delight for your kids.

Overall, the Ocean Reef Aria Junior is another great choice as a kid’s full face snorkel mask. It has the same issues that other full face snorkel masks have such as a poor camera mount location and ventilation that causes air to pass by the lens, increasing the chance of it fogging up. However,it has some features that make it stand out such as its flexible design for easier packing while traveling, as well as the special holders in the snorkel for the chemical lights. We highly recommend the Ocean Reef Aria Junior.

DCYSO Full Face Snorkel Mask

DCYSO Snorkel Mask Full Face Kids - 2020 Shark Sharp Snorkeling Mask for Kid HD Seaview Anti Fog...
1,092 Reviews
DCYSO Snorkel Mask Full Face Kids - 2020 Shark Sharp Snorkeling Mask for Kid HD Seaview Anti Fog...
  • DCYSO DESIGNER: Shark Appearance Patent. The snorkeling mask that incorporates marine elements, makes children play happier and full of fun.New link...
  • COLOR: What u see is what u get ! High-quality PC material shows beautiful, Uniform Colors.The built-in silicone is liquid silicone [Food Grade],...
  • COMFORTABLE VIEW: The flat lens in front solves the vertigo caused by the distortion of the curved lens image. The mirror's extremely high width...

The kids’ full face snorkel masks we reviewed so far looks identical to the adult version, only smaller. What happened to making kid’s products look appealing to kids? DCYSO has figured out that kid’s products should look fun and exciting! With their patented Shark Appearance, the DCYSO full face mask incorporates marine elements in the mask’s appearance.

By making the mask look like a shark head with its mouth open, your kid(s) can have fun pretending to be a shark swimming in the water. The snorkel can act as a “fin” of sorts, which only adds to the shark theme. This mask comes in three colors: blue, grey, and pink, so there’s something for both guys and girls, as well as a neutral color.

Aside from its unique design, it has all of the same design features that you’d expect from a full face mask: a wide view, anti-fog lens, adjustable elastic band, a purge valve, dry-top snorkel, medical-grade silicone skirt material, and a separate breathing chamber to keep the lens from fogging up. DCYSO have recommended this mask NOT be used for diving.

Overall, we really like the appeal of the DCYSO full face mask’s shark appearance. It’s cute and done very tastefully, and it offers all of the same benefits that other snorkel masks do. If we’re rating by appearance, then this is the best looking full face snorkel mask for kids with great functionality as well.

Full Face Snorkel Mask for Kids Buying Guide

Full face snorkel masks are not only intended for adults; kids can wear them too! In fact, kids are probably the demographic that are most likely to benefit from wearing a full face snorkel mask. In this section, we will be going over the top factors you should consider when purchasing a full face mask. We will cover their advantages, disadvantages, as well as provide answers to common questions.

Traditional Snorkel Masks vs. Full Face Masks for Kids

In 2014, Tribord (now Subea) released the first full face snorkel mask which revolutionized the snorkeling market. Since then, many brands have made their own full face masks with their own innovations and unique features. Each mask has their pros and cons, but despite their differences, there are certain traits that are shared between all full face masks.

As the name suggests, full face masks cover the entire face whereas traditional snorkel masks only cover the eyes and nose. Especially for kids, a full face mask is more practical because they can breathe with either their nose or mouth without having to hold onto a snorkel mouthpiece.

This seemingly small change makes quite a big impact. Biting down on a mouthpiece for a long period of time can lead to a sore jaw, jaw pain, and general discomfort. Children are also more likely to experience problems breathing through a mouthpiece because they are so used to breathing with their nose. In a traditional mask and snorkel combo, where the mask is cut-off from a fresh supply of oxygen, the experience of inhaling through the nose and not receiving oxygen can be terrifying.

Another important aspect of full face masks is the all-in-one design. It’s really easy to lose things, even as an adult. How much more likely is it for children to lose the mask or snorkel in a traditional setup? The all-in-one design of a full face mask means your child will be less likely to forget to bring their snorkel mask with them.

Speaking of the all-in-one design, the built-in snorkel is another important aspect of a full face mask. Typically, the snorkel has a dry-top design meaning it automatically seals shut when submerged to keep water out. If your child accidentally submerges the snorkel, the float valve mechanism will seal the tube opening shut and prevent water from flooding in.

Many snorkeling accidents happen because of panic and confusion. When water enters the tube and the wearer ends up choking on it, the resulting panic-induced flailing wastes even more oxygen and can result in drowning. It has happened to adults, and children are even less mentally prepared to deal with this. That is why the safety features provided by a full face mask are so important.

Additionally, most full face masks offer a wide, panoramic view so that your child can experience the full beauty of the underwater world. Some traditional snorkel masks have thick frames on the sides and only offer a narrow view from the front. Full face masks provide a near 180° frontal view which takes advantage of one’s peripheral vision.

Since full face masks trap so much air, it makes the mask exceptionally buoyant. This can be a good thing or a bad thing. It’s a good thing if safety is your number one concern because it helps your child stay afloat. It’s a bad thing if your child wants to dive down to get a closer look at the ocean floor; the buoyant air will be fighting against them the entire time. We like to err on the side of caution and say this is overall a positive aspect.

Sizing

Most full face masks will have multiple sizes available. If you are buying one for your kid(s), then you should look for masks that have S or XS sizes. Most full face masks should have at least an S size, but some masks have XS sizes or are designed specifically for children.

Whichever size you get, a mask should be able to fit snug over the entire face (eyes, nose, mouth) and the silicone skirt should be able to form a watertight seal on the face. But even knowing that, it can be difficult to select the appropriate size if you are purchasing online.

Here’s how you can determine the appropriate mask size for you or your kids. First, measure the distance from the bridge of the nose to the bottom of the chin with the mouth closed. That distance is how you can determine the right size to get. Manufacturers use this same measurement as a reference point for their masks sizes.

When deciding what mask to buy, do not get one a size larger in the hopes that your child can continue to use it as they grow. Masks need to fit snugly in order to keep water out. If the mask is even slightly too big, the silicone skirt may not be able to form a tight seal and water will leak in. The experience will not be enjoyable for your child. Get the appropriate size for your child and purchase a larger mask as they grow older.

Silicone Skirt

Particularly if your child is not an experienced snorkeler, having water leak into the mask can be a panic-inducing experience. That is why it is crucial that the mask fits correctly and that the silicone skirt can form a tight seal on the skin. In order for a full face mask to keep your child’s face dry, the watertight seal must be maintained. Here are some ways to ensure that:

First, let’s talk more in-depth about the silicone skirt. It is typically made from hypoallergenic silicone and should feel comfortable on the skin. Depending on one’s facial structure the mask size, the silicone skirt may or may not be able to form a watertight seal. In order for this to occur, there should be no obstructions; the silicone skirt should have direct contact against your skin.

A common cause of water leaks in full face masks is because of strands of hair compromising the seal between the skirt and your skin. For adults that means they should be clean shaven, but for kids that means that hair should be held back when putting on the mask. Even just one rogue strand of hair in the way of the silicone skirt and skin can cause water to enter from there and compromise the integrity of the seal.

Dry-Top Snorkel

It’s possible that water can enter the mask from the snorkel tube itself, but this is mostly prevented thanks to the dry-top snorkel design. Most if not all full face masks have a dry-top snorkel which automatically seals the tube opening should the snorkel be submerged. The process is automatic so users can focus entirely on snorkeling.

Dry-top snorkels use a mechanism called a float valve to automatically seal the opening. The float is a buoyant object, typically in the shape of a ball, that will float to the top as soon as the snorkel dips underwater. The float will push a valve up until it completely seals the tube opening shut, preventing water from entering

To complement the float valve mechanism, many snorkels are also fitted with a splash guard. This is an angled opening that allows air to enter but drastically decreases the chances of rogue waves splashing water down the tube. A splash guard combined with a float valve will keep the majority of the water from entering the mask.

With that said, dry-top snorkels are not 100% effective; some water will make its way inside. Also, if your child decides to dive straight down, then there is a possibility that the angle of the snorkel will prevent the float from rising all the way to the top and sealing the opening.

Think of it like this: the snorkel tube is angled in such a way that it sticks out of the water when one’s face is submerged. That means that the snorkel tube isn’t pointing directly upwards, it is pointing behind the head to reach the surface. So when diving straight downwards, the angle of the snorkel is parallel to the surface instead of perpendicular. That means the float will not rise up to seal the opening, causing water to flood in.

As such, depending on how the full face mask is being used, water will build up in the mask and your child will have to surface in order to clear the water out. Thankfully, full face masks have a purge valve located in the chin area. This mechanism will quickly drain the water from the mask at the surface without having to take the mask off or break the seal in any way.

In many cases, your child just needs to tilt their head backwards so that the valve is above the water, and it will quickly drain the water inside the mask, thus keeping the face dry.

Lens Type

A big difference between low-quality and high-quality full face masks can be seen in how much distortion there is in the viewing area. The amount of distortion is largely affected by whether the lens is a curved lens or a flat lens. The flat section of the lens provides a clearer view of the underwater world.

Rounded visors will cause the image to be distorted. Typically, lenses will have curved sides with a flat frontal viewing area. The rounded sides provide a smoother, albeit slightly distorted view along the sides of the mask. There will not be any sharp cut-offs in your field of vision. However, the distorted image in a curved lens can cause some to feel nauseous and force them to stop snorkeling to recuperate.

Most high-end masks have a completely flat lens to offer the best frontal viewing experience. To be honest, the reduction of side visibility is minimal and it is a small price to pay to be able to see clearly without feeling dizzy.

In a similar vein, some full face masks may have a mouth/nose chamber made from a nearly transparent material. The reason for this is to provide kids with a more peripheral field of vision by being able to see through this transparent material. In our opinion, while the theory is sound, the advantage is negligible in practice. That extra viewing area is too close to the bottom and is the area your child will have just swam past. Essentially the view provided is one that is always on the verge of exiting the peripheral view anyways.

Lens Material

Another difference between high-quality and cheap full face masks is in the lens material used. High-quality masks use shatterproof polycarbonate material for the lens. This material is durable and scratch-resistant as well. This ensures the view will be crystal clear and can take a beating.

In the event the mask is damaged by a heavy impact, it will not shatter into small pieces that can scratch your kid’s eyes or face. A damaged polycarbonate lens will still remain mostly in one piece so that it will not be a safety concern.

Lower-quality full face masks will use cheap plastics that aren’t durable and will shatter dangerously into numerous sharp pieces. In our opinion, when it comes to safety, paying a few bucks more for a better quality mask is well worth the investment and the peace of mind it provides.

Field of View

Many full face masks provide a field of view that is larger than regular snorkel masks. This is advantageous not only for a more enjoyable snorkeling experience, but also when it comes to safety. As we have mentioned, a curved lens improves peripheral vision so that your kids can see what’s beside them more easily when snorkeling. With a wider, curved lens, they can see objects or people coming toward them and avoid potentially disastrous collisions.

We mentioned that the image viewed through a curved lens is slightly distorted, however it can still serve its purpose of letting the wearer get a sense that something is entering their peripheral vision. Unfortunately, many snorkeling accidents occur when people on boats collide with snorkelers. One way to avoid this is to wear a colorful full face mask and rash guard for increased visibility. However, another method is to simply be alert and use the wider field of view to see danger as it approaches.

Camera Mount

If a picture is worth a thousand words, then how about a moving image? With a full face mask, you can relive your memories of the snorkeling adventures you had with your kids if you record it all using a GoPro (or compatible) camera. Most modern full face masks have a camera mount so that you can attach an action camera and record unforgettable memories that last forever.

With that said, the camera mount doesn’t always work well since in many masks the mount is located on top of the mask around where the snorkel is. Since the camera is on top it may even stick out of the water, unable to capture what your kid is seeing.

One way to remedy this is to purchase an optional mount that extends the camera mount so that you can position it underwater. This brings its own share of problems – it’s an additional cost, it can obstruct the view, and it is an extra burden on the mask which can compromise the seal.

If you decide that you need a camera mount, the best solution is to simply find one where the integrated mount is positioned more favorably. For instance, the Seaview V2 has its camera mount located on its side which circumvents all of the issues listed above. If you don’t care at all about camera mounts, then that’s one less factor you need to worry about when selecting a full face mask.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I buy a full face mask for my kids?

It all depends on your children’s preferences, however a full face mask does provide numerous advantages over a regular snorkel mask when it comes to comfort.

First, a full face mask is much more convenient compared to traditional snorkel masks. The all-in-one design makes it so much easier to breathe and removes the need for a snorkel mouthpiece. Furthermore, the large lens provides an unparalleled view of the underwater world, and the design of the mask generally means it won’t fog up either.

Second, a full face mask will make snorkeling more fun for children. The mask is designed to be foolproof in many ways so your child can snorkel uninterrupted. For instance, the dry-top snorkel will keep most water from entering the mask, whereas it could be a choking hazard in a traditional snorkel and mask setup. The purge valve located on the chin drains any water that may have entered automatically. Basically, your child could be making plenty of snorkeling mistakes and a full face mask will allow them to still have plenty of fun.

Third, a full face mask is much more comfortable to wear. Whether you’re an adult or a kid, the snorkel mouthpiece in a traditional setup is not fun to deal with. No matter how good of a mouthpiece you have, jaw fatigue and discomfort will eventually set in. Full face masks completely eliminate mouthpieces so you can breathe however you want. Also, since a full face mask traps so much air inside it, the amount of buoyancy it provides makes it easy to stay afloat so your kids can focus on the underwater view.

What are the disadvantages of a full face mask?

The main disadvantages of a full face mask have to do with its bulkiness and possible breathing issues. Turns out the all-in-one design can become a double-edged sword when it comes to packing the full face mask in your luggage. Nowadays, full face masks are designed so that the dry-top snorkel can be detached to save space when packing for travel. Unfortunately, full face masks are larger by design since they need to cover the whole face.

In a similar vein, the air trapped in a full face mask when snorkeling means the mask is positively buoyant. We mentioned it before as an advantage for staying afloat. However, if you or your kid(s) want to try diving down while wearing a full face mask, you’ll find that the mask is pushing back against you the whole time.

Lastly, the major disadvantage of a full face mask is the potential for carbon dioxide (CO2) buildup. Some lower-quality masks are not capable of expelling all of the CO2 you exhale, which means that over time you will find you are not getting enough oxygen; you will find it hard to breathe and obviously this is a serious issue. To avoid this, it is recommended that you don’t exert yourself too much when snorkeling to keep your heart rate and breathing in check. Snorkeling is supposed to be a relaxing hobby where you mostly float at the surface, so just relax and enjoy the view.

You can learn more about the potential dangers of full face snorkel masks by reading this article.

How do I clean a full face mask?

Maintaining a full face mask is very simple, and it’s something your kids need to learn how to do themselves. It’s no different than cleaning a regular mask. Simply rinse it under fresh water after a snorkeling session and make sure all of the salt, sand, and other particulates are rinsed off.

If the mask has smudge marks then use mild dish soap and apply it with a soft cloth. Be careful not to touch the mask with your fingers because the natural oils will rub off on the mask and you will be back where you started. After rinsing the mask, leave it out to air dry.

When drying the mask, put it in a ventilated location but away from direct sunlight. Though the sunlight can dry the mask faster, the harsh UV rays can degrade the mask quickly. If left in the sun, the mask will become brittle and susceptible to cracks and leaks, particularly the silicone skirt.

It is imperative that the mask is fully dried before putting it back in storage. Even just a little bit of moisture can lead to mold growth which is harmful to your lungs if breathed in. If you are taking the mask out of storage after a long off-season, then the first thing you should do is clean it using the steps above.

How do I keep a full face mask from fogging up?

Full face snorkel masks are designed to be fog-resistant, so ideally you will never have to worry about it fogging up. But what if it does? Then here are some steps you can take to prevent it.

To begin, you can spray the inside of the lens with an anti-fog/defogger spray. If you’re not sure what that is and how to use it, then we recommend you read our article on this topic. But to summarize, simply spray the lens evenly and do NOT try to apply it evenly with your fingers. Your fingers contain natural oils that will smear on the lens, so either let it air dry or use a cloth to apply it.

Another method is to scrub the inside of the mask using a toothbrush and toothpaste. If you don’t have either an anti-fog spray or toothbrush/toothpaste on hand, then as a last resort, you can use your spit to clean the lens. You heard right, saliva can help clean your lens and reduce the chances of it fogging up. Make sure to distribute the saliva evenly and, once again, do NOT use your fingers to do so because the oils will transfer to the mask.

Why does my mask fill with water? How do I prevent it?

The most common causes of water seepage is from an improper fit, an improper seal, or water entering from the snorkel tube. Water entering from the snorkel tube is unavoidable but manageable. Full face masks come with a water purging mechanism often located at the chin which will automatically drain the water out from the mask at the surface.

However, if the source of the water comes from a poor fit or seal then the mask is completely unusable. In the case of an improper fit, you can chalk it up to bad luck and try a different size that hopefully fits better. If water is entering the mask because of an improper seal, however, then there are ways to prevent this.

We have written extensively about how to form a tight seal in a couple of our articles. The most common reason for an improper seal is because of hair getting in the way. If your child has long hair, help them hold it back and check that not a single strand of hair is getting in the way of the silicone skirt and their skin.

To increase the chances of a watertight seal, you can try applying silicone grease, mustache sealer, or wax hair product on the edge of the skirt to strengthen the seal. Adults or teenagers with beards should shave it off if the hair gets in the way of the skirt.

Parting Words

A full face snorkel mask for kids has to fulfil many roles. It should enable your kid(s) to discover the joys of snorkeling while keeping them safe and comfortable. That’s a lot to ask for, and surprisingly, the masks we recommended are up to the task.

With any of the full face masks we recommended, you will be able to have peace of mind knowing your child is protected. Of course, you should still watch them like a hawk, but as long as they aren’t recklessly diving down then they should be fine. The masks in our list are not only reliable, but they also won’t break the bank. Choose any one of them for your next family vacation, and you and your kid(s) won’t be disappointed!

Best Full Face Snorkel Mask Review

If you are not a fan of the traditional dive mask and snorkel combination, then you should consider wearing a full face snorkel mask instead. A full face mask provides a wider viewing angle and lets you breathe with either your mouth or nose without the inconvenience of a bulky, uncomfortable mouthpiece. The all-in-one design of the full face masks are an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced snorkelers alike. They are often more affordable than a mask and snorkel combo.

In this article, we will be reviewing the best full face snorkel masks available on the market. It can be difficult selecting the right one with so many similar-looking products out there. We will clear up any confusion, and to that end, we have also written an extensive buying guide detailing all of the factors you need to consider as part of your research. Let’s get started on our review of the best full face snorkel masks.

Our Top Picks:

Best Full Face Snorkel Mask: Recommendations

Wildhorn Outfitters Seaview 180° V2

Wildhorn Seaview 180 V2 Full Face Snorkel Mask. Snorkeling Gear for Adults, Young, and Kids. Snorkel...
  • 180° FULL FACE SNORKEL MASK- Our snorkeling gear for adults, young, and kids gives a panoramic view creating a better experience compared to a...
  • DESIGNED AND TESTED IN THE USA - The Seaview 180° V2 full face snorkel mask was created by our team of experienced product designers and engineers....
  • IMPORTANT SIZING TIPS- snorkel gear sizing is important to get right. Be sure to measure from the bridge of your nose (between your eyes) to the tip...

The Seaview V2 from Wildhorn Outfitters has been completely redesigned with a revolutionary new design that improves upon the traditional full face mask style.

Just by looking at it, you can tell that it stands out from other full face masks. Its futuristic design looks like some kind of space helmet from the future. At least when it comes to style, the Seaview V2 has already got it down pat. And when you look even closer at all of the changes its made, you will understand why we have rated it as the #1 mask in this review.

Here’s just a glimpse of what it offers: an ultra wide 180° frontal view, anti-fog enhanced viewing, smooth and consistent airflow, and an optimized action camera mount at an ideal location. Let’s go through each of these features in more detail.

First of all, as the 180° in its name suggests, the Seaview V2 provides an unparalleled 180° view. Many traditional snorkel masks have a flat lens and the design is such that the frame needs to extend past the side of your face so that it can support the lens in front of you. Unfortunately, this design obstructs your peripheral vision and decreases what you can see.

With the Seaview V2, the lens is flat in front but curved along the sides and allows you to have a clear 180°, unobstructed view so that you can experience the underwater sights in all of its glory. Keep in mind that there will be a slight distortion when viewing through the curved part of the lens, however it is much better than being blocked by the mask frame.

Furthermore, the Seaview V2’s dry-top snorkel is positioned on the side instead of on top which optimizes the angle of air intake when your face is submerged. This design is what Wildhorn Outfitters calls the FLOWTECH Advanced Breathing System which makes breathing feel even more natural. The carbon dioxide (CO2) is efficiently removed so that no build-up can occur. This system will ensure water stays out even in tough conditions so you can breathe without obstruction.

The dry snorkel tube eventually connects to the bottom of your mask, and this design is advantageous because of the improved airflow it offers. Humid air produced from when you exhale can easily be vented away without ever reaching the lens, ensuring that the lens will not fog up after prolonged snorkeling. In fact, your mouth and nose are sealed off in a separate breathing chamber to ensure the lens doesn’t get fogged up.

Next, the location of the camera mount on the Seaview V2 is on the side of the mask instead of the top which bucks the normal trend. With the old (top) design, your camera would be above the water most of the time which doesn’t exactly lead to great footage. The side camera mount ensures the camera will remain submerged and this means better footage of what you are actually seeing.

With the Seaview V2, you can snorkel comfortably thanks to its soft silicone skirt that seals tightly against your face. Wildhorn Outfitters have managed to strike the perfect balance between comfort and watertightness so that you can wear this mask and snorkel for hours.

If water, for any reason, manages to seep inside the full face mask, then you can easily drain it using the purge valve. To activate it, simply lift your head above water and the water will quickly drain out of the bottom.

Lastly, the only disadvantages of the Seaview V2 are problems that are inherent to all full face masks. Since full face masks trap so much air inside, it makes it hard to dive down. However this also means extra buoyancy for when you are floating at the surface, so it’s a wash. Also, if you submerge with a snorkel without a float valve mechanism, then water will enter and obviously you won’t be able to breathe anymore.

The Wildhorn Outfitter Seaview 180° V2 comes in three sizes and numerous colors. The three available sizes should fit the majority of people from children to adults without issue. There are six colors to choose from, and we recommend the brighter colors so that you can stand out more for safety reasons.

Overall, the Wildhorn Outfitters Seaview V2 offers a near unbeatable price-to-performance value which is why we are recommending it as the best full face snorkel mask. If you aren’t sure which mask you should get, you can’t go wrong with this one.

Subea/Tribord Easybreath

TRIBORD SUBEA EASYBREATH (2020 Version) Full FACE ANTIFOG Snorkel MASK with A Secure Lock and Free...
271 Reviews
TRIBORD SUBEA EASYBREATH (2020 Version) Full FACE ANTIFOG Snorkel MASK with A Secure Lock and Free...
  • Anatomic Design. 4 different SIZES: XS is perfect for kids up to the age of 10. S/M generally for Kids 11yr+, Tweens & Most Women. M/L for older Teen...
  • DRY FREAK spare ring included. This Updated 2020 Version has a Secure Lock Snorkel to prevent the snorkel head from detaching unexpectedly.
  • Exclusive Anti-Fogging Patented Design. Continuous Fresh Air Flow with a double chamber air vent valve

At one point the Tribord Easybreath was indisputably the best full face mask because it was literally the first full face mask to hit the market. Even to this day, it still holds up well against the competition and it is every bit as good as when it first came out.

All of the features that a full face mask has: the exceptionally wide viewing area, the ability to breath with either your nose or mouth without biting down on a mouthpiece, the drain valve on the bottom, the all-in-one design of mask and snorkel, etc., were based on the Tribord Easybreath’s design. So we have to give credit where credit is due; how can we not recommend the original? As we mentioned, it still holds up today, so let’s see what it has to offer.

The Easybreath uses Tribord’s patented breathing system. Its design is very clever; the breathing chamber design that allowed one to breath without a mouthpiece was revolutionary for its time. Furthermore it has a relief valve at the bottom which expels any trapped water that somehow managed to get inside without needing to remove the mask.

Furthermore, when you have a built-in (i.e. non-replaceable) snorkel on your mask, it had better be an extremely high-quality one. Thankfully, the Easybreath indeed has a great snorkel with a float valve. This valve uses buoyancy to detect the water level and will rise to the top of the tube, completely sealing it, when the snorkel tube gets submerged underwater. This prevents water from flooding in and ending in your mouth or nose. Additionally, the tip of the snorkel is bright orange which helps others see you while you are snorkeling which reduces collisions.

Next, the viewing window is large and clear. It is made from shatterproof polycarbonate. Not only is it extremely durable, but should it ever break, it will stay relatively intact instead of shattering into a million pieces. We highly doubt you’d even scratch it let alone break it. The window is a common area that cheaper masks skimp out on which is why they break so easily.

Unfortunately, you cannot wear glasses when wearing the Easybreath. As we can see with the original, and even to this day, full face masks are not designed so that you can wear glasses. Glasses will compromise the silicone skirt’s seal and allow water to enter. You also cannot get prescription lenses for the window. The closest thing you can do is to wear contact lenses and make sure they don’t wash out. In a similar vein, you cannot have a beard because the strands of hair could compromise the seal.

Another problem of the Easybreath is that it’s large. This is an inherent flaw of the all-in-one design, plus the fact the mask covers your entire face. By design, it has to be bulky. This also means it traps a lot of air in the mask which makes it hard to dive. However, full face masks aren’t intended for diving in the first place, so one could argue that the buoyancy it provides is a positive aspect. Still, its bulkiness makes it hard to pack for travel.

When the Tribord Easybreath first came out, it didn’t have a camera mount which is basically a requirement in full face masks nowadays. For this reason alone, it was outclassed by newer masks which had this feature. This issue has since been remedied because Tribord have come out with an optional mount for your GoPro camera. If you have no intention of attaching a GoPro to your full face mask, then this is a moot point.

You can get the Tribord Easybreath in numerous sizes and colors. It has four sizes to choose from which should cover a wide range of people. It comes in three colors: Pink, Blue, and Atoll. We typically recommend getting the brightest color for greater visibility, but Pink might not be an option guys would be comfortable with. We wish there were more colors, like green or red, since blue can blend in with the water.

There is a reason why the Tribord Easybreath is the full face mask that all others base their design on, kind of like what the Rolex Submariner is to mechanical dive watches. Yes, it is the original, but the fact that all the others look and function so similar to it means the design just works. If you want to own a piece of snorkeling history and love using the classics, then the Tribord Easybreath is the one mask for you. Even today, it is an excellent full face mask by any measure and is worth your money.

HEAD/Mares Sea Vu

HEAD Sea Vision Full Face Snorkeling Mask, BL-L/XL
49 Reviews
HEAD Sea Vision Full Face Snorkeling Mask, BL-L/XL
  • Full face mask allows you to breathe naturally and effortlessly underwater.
  • Dry top snorkel stops water from entering in your snorkel.
  • Breath ventilation system automatically defogs your mask.

Next up, one of the newest models on the market and this list is the HEAD/Mares Sea Vu. HEAD is owned by Mares, and you will sometimes see it marketed under the HEAD brand and sometimes the Mares brand. Don’t worry, they are the same product.

There’s lots to like about this mask. First, there are many variations to choose from. It comes in four sizes and five colors. That said, not all colors are available on all sizes, however the selection is still impressive.

Next, the Sea Vu has a flat lens and the soft silicone skirt sits comfortably on your face. The lens design provides great visibility at the front, and a somewhat distorted image at the curved section at the side of the lens. Made from shatterproof polycarbonate, the Sea Vu’s lens is durable and provides crystal clear views of the underwater world.

Fogging is not an issue for the Sea Vu thanks to the way air travels through this mask. There are different routes it can travel and this results in excellent anti-fog properties as well as a marked reduction in CO2 build-up compared to lower quality masks. There is also a purge valve located at the bottom to clear out any water that somehow seeped inside the mask.

Furthermore, the Sea Vu has a built-in dry snorkel. Dry snorkels are the best kind of snorkel because of their many components that keep water from entering. The splash guard protects the tube opening against rogue waves that unexpectedly splashes on you. The float valve will seal the opening shut if you completely submerge the snorkel underwater. These features ensure that water will never flood the mask and cause you to choke. The tip of the snorkel is brightly colored so that you are more visible while snorkeling.

Unfortunately, the Mares Sea Vu does not have a mount for an action camera such as a GoPro. If you were looking forward to filming your snorkeling adventures, then this mask is a bust. However, if you have no plans to film underwater and just want a reliable mask that you can use while snorkeling, then the HEAD/Mares Sea Vu is a solid choice.

Aqua Lung Smart Snorkel

Aqua Lung Sport Full Face Snorkel Mask - Large
  • Easy Breathing - Best in class breathability comes from the Smart Snorkelâ€s unique dual chamber system that separates inhaled fresh air from...
  • 180° Panoramic Visibility – The Smart Snorkel Full Face Snorkel Mask allows 180 degree panoramic visibility and the unique fog-free design...
  • Dry-top - 100% Submersible dry-top keeps the water out of the snorkel tube above and below the surface

Aqua Lung’s contribution to the full face mask market is their Smart snorkel. You probably already own other scuba or snorkel equipment from Aqua Lung and you shouldn’t be surprised that this renowned manufacturer produces high-quality gear. The Smart snorkel is no exception.

Comparing the Aqua Lung Smart to other full face masks, you will notice that it has a slightly different design compared to most. It has a lens that is very flat and narrow compared to others. Typically, other masks use lenses with a flat front but a wider curved side. The Smart basically sacrifices the visibility on the edges for unparalleled frontal visibility. Since the lens is closer to the face, you can get a clearer view without any distortions. Less air is also trapped, so you have the freedom to dive more easily. Lastly, the lens is made from shatterproof polycarbonate which is the standard for high-quality masks.

You can get the Smart Snorkel in three different sizes, however it only comes in one color: navy blue. Preferably, it should have more color options including bright colors to help you increase visibility. Boats colliding with snorkelers is common and having a visible snorkel can help reduce the chances of that.

If you’re worried about CO2 build-up in this mask, don’t be. One of the main selling points of this mask is how easy it is to breathe with it. There is almost no breathing resistance and it will feel as if you are breathing normally on land. This also results in incredible anti-fog properties because the warm air you exhale is quickly expelled.

Next, the Aqua Lung Smart uses a 100% submersible dry-top snorkel. This means that it will keep water out from the tube whether you are at the surface or diving down. So if you really want to get a close-up look of something interesting, this is the mask to wear if you want to dive down.

Lastly, the silicone skirt is made from hypoallergenic silicone. This is the same type of material found in Aqua Lung’s scuba diving gear that they are known for. You will find this mask to be comfortable to wear so that you can snorkel for hours in a relaxed state.

Best Full Face Snorkel Mask Buying Guide

It can be difficult selecting which full face snorkel mask to buy since it isn’t clear what the differences are between each one. Based on pictures alone, you might think that they are all pretty much the same. You’re not entirely wrong; many full face snorkel masks derive their design from the original full face mask, which is the Tribord Easybreath.

However, as major updates and innovations keep coming over the years, there are some slight differences that may sway your opinion on which ones to buy. For instance, newer full face masks have better mounts for cameras, improvements in the breathing chamber, greater field of view, better materials, and so on.

The most important factors to keep an eye on have to do with safety. For instance, you need to ask yourself if the full face mask uses a dry snorkel, and is the window made of high-grade, impact-resistant polycarbonate material or better? You’ll find that a full face mask provides many advantages over traditional masks for snorkeling, particularly if you are a beginner. Let’s examine the top factors you should consider when looking at a full face snorkel mask.

Snorkel Design

The full face snorkel design solves many issues that affect traditional snorkels and masks. To start, traditional snorkels require you to bite down on a mouthpiece just to keep it in place. It is uncomfortable and possibly unhygienic to keep this object in your mouth for so long.

Problems with traditional snorkels

Furthermore, the mask and snorkel combination only lets you breathe through your mouth. Many beginners find this uncomfortable since their natural instinct is to use their nose. There is a reason why “mouth-breather” is considered an insult which implies abnormalcy.

Another issue that many snorkels have is that not all of them are dry snorkels. Many snorkels have an exposed tube opening where water can simply flood in, causing the user to inhale water and choke. The dry snorkel design keeps water out using a combination of splash guard, float valve, and purge valve.

These components ensure water never reaches the users mouth. The splash guard angles the opening of the tube such that the majority of the water will never splash in. The float valve detects the water level and will completely seal the tube opening if the user accidentally submerges underwater. Lastly, the purge valve has a one-way valve that expels water that makes it into the tube before it reaches the mouth.

You will never have to worry about choking on water again using a dry snorkel. A common cause of drowning for beginners is when they accidentally choke on water and panic. Even if you are experienced enough to stay calm, it is still a highly unpleasant experience that you want to avoid if possible.

How full face masks address these issues

Knowing all of this about traditional masks, here is how the all-in-one design of the full face mask fixes these problems.

First, the issue of being allowed to breathe only through the mouth. Since the mask covers your whole face, the breathing chamber gives you the freedom to breathe with either your nose or mouth. This design also solves problem number two, which is that you don’t need to use a mouthpiece anymore.

Third, all full face masks have a built-in dry snorkel located at the top. The location means you don’t have to worry about the snorkel getting in the way or getting caught on something. It also provides you with most of the advantages that dry snorkels provide as mentioned above. In order to activate the purging mechanism in a full face mask, you must come to the surface.

Comfort

Another benefit of full face masks is how comfortable it is to wear compared to the traditional ones. Traditional snorkeling masks tend to put a lot of pressure around your eyes and nose which can feel uncomfortable to wear. This is especially true if you are wearing a cheap mask that has trouble sealing on your face; you will be forced to tighten the strap so much that it hurts.

Full face masks are worn over a larger surface area which alleviates the pressure that would otherwise be concentrated on a single area. Furthermore, the mask skirt on a full face mask is placed on less sensitive areas on your face so you can wear it comfortably for longer.

Whether you are wearing a full face mask or not, it’s not a good idea to cheap out and buy the cheapest one. Typically, these masks are some Chinese knock-offs made with subpar components and materials so that the manufacturer can maximize profits. Unfortunately, over the years many knock-off full face masks have flooded the market so if the price is too good to be true it probably is.

All-In-One Design

The traditional snorkeling setup requires you to have both a snorkel and a mask. This can result in some incompatibility between snorkel and mask. For instance, the mask may be too wide and get in the way of the snorkel or the aesthetic of the combination may look inconsistent. The biggest problem, however, is that it’s very easy to forget/lose either the mask or the snorkel.

Many travelers, eager to travel to Hawaii so that they can snorkel with sea turtles, leave home in a rush and arrive at their destination to find that they forgot their mask or snorkel at home. This is a tale as old as time; they took the mask and snorkel out, cleaned it and left it out to dry, and forgot to put it back for their next trip.

A full face snorkel mask solves this with a built-in snorkel. If you remember to bring the mask then the snorkel is coming along with you. Additionally, the mask and snorkel design will look consistent. This advantage may not be as obvious to think about, but if you’ve ever forgotten your snorkel or mask before, then you will appreciate the all-in-one design.

Field of View

Next, full face masks provide a near 180-degree field of view which gives you a near unobstructed view of the underwater sights. This massive field of view means that you can take advantage of your peripheral vision to notice things in the corner of your eye. It also makes the image look complete and provides an overall better experience.

With that said, the image can get distorted around the edges of some full face masks where the lens curves a bit. Not all lenses have a curved design, but for the ones that do, this can be an issue. As long as you don’t you spend much of your time focusing on the edges of your mask, this should only be a minor problem. You will still get a markedly better visible field compared to a traditional mask so it is worth it.

On the other hand, traditional snorkeling masks tend to tunnel-vision you so that you can only see what is directly in front of you. Their frame will often get in the way of your view, so you will need to find one where the lens is closer to your eyes to mitigate this. Depending on the quality of the snorkel mask, it may have separate side lenses to increase the field of view. This allows you to see more without causing any distortions.

The advantage of having a larger field of view is not just for greater pleasure, but it can also be useful for safety as well. You situational awareness means you can see any incoming danger, or to keep an eye out for your snorkeling buddies and vice versa. If you have kids, then being aware of where they are at all times is crucial.

Lens Design

Ideally, the lens of your full face mask should be made of high-quality materials. Whereas traditional snorkeling masks may have lenses made of tempered glass, full face masks have lenses made from polycarbonate or lesser quality plastics.

A high-quality full face mask uses a polycarbonate lens which is shatterproof. What that means is that if it ever breaks, it won’t shatter into a million pieces and scratch the heck out of your face. The lens will remain a large chunk that can be safely discarded.

Additionally, polycarbonate is highly scratch-resistant, though still not as durable as tempered glass. If you are careless, they can still get scratches on them.

The lens material is one area where a full face mask loses out to a high-quality snorkel mask. With that said, polycarbonate is no slouch either.

Having high-quality lens material is crucial if you want to get the most out of your snorkeling experience. They provide a crystal-clear view of the ocean floor and their durability ensures they stay scratch-free.

Keep in mind that the more curved the lens is, the more distorted the image. That is the reason why most lenses have a flat front nowadays. A flat lens means you can get the most accurate image when looking straight ahead, with minimal distortion found only along the edges where there are sharp curves.

Cheaper full face masks feature a rounded lens that slightly distort the view no matter which direction one looks.

When comparing a flat lens mask to a rounded lens one, the rounded lens provides a more consistent viewing experience where the image is always slightly distorted. A flat lens snorkel provides a clear view in the center but has severe distortions around the edges of the mask. Most snorkelers prefer flat lenses over curved ones.

Fog Resistance

Full face masks are generally more fog-resistant than regular snorkel masks. The reason for this is because of the way the air continuously flows inside the full face snorkel mask as you inhale and exhale. This regulates the humidity level such that it is unlikely to fog up since the air is constantly being exchanged.

On the other hand, traditional snorkel masks create a sealed environment around your eyes and nose. This causes the air to slowly get more humid because of condensation as well as from your body’s temperature heating the air inside the mask. This will eventually cause the window to fog up and you will need to clear your mask frequently which can be cumbersome.

Camera Mount

Depending on which full face mask you get, it may come with a camera mount so that you can attach your GoPro camera to it. With it, you can easily record your snorkeling adventures hands-free. Without the mount, you will have to use at least one of your hands to constantly hold the camera which restricts your movement.

This seems like a good feature, however there is a clear disadvantage. Since the camera mount is typically located at the top of the mask, that means the camera will be above the water as you snorkel. In other words, if you have a top-mounted GoPro setup, you will have to hold your breath and dive underwater in order for the camera to film anything of value. Any time the camera is above the water means it is recording nothing except the surface of the lake or ocean.

For a camera mount to be effective, it should be located at the bottom of the full face mask so that you can film underwater while snorkeling. A simple way to improve the positioning of the GoPro mount is to purchase a GoPro extension. This tool allows you to position the camera underwater. The downside is that it adds extra weight to your mask which can weaken the seal.

Air Volume

An inherent disadvantage of the full face mask is that they hold a large volume of air inside the mask. As you know, air is positively buoyant which means it is always trying to go up. So if you are snorkeling and spot something interesting and you want to dive down to get a closer look, the buoyant air will be fighting you the whole time. In other words, it is harder to dive down with a full face mask.

Traditional snorkel masks have less empty space and therefore less air volume. Modern snorkel masks are designed such that they trap only a minimal amount of air so that you can dive down more easily.

With that said, if safety is your number one concern then having such a buoyant mask can be seen as a positive quality. You can still experience many beautiful sights from the surface and there is no need to risk diving down if you are not a strong swimmer.

Pricing

Back a few years ago when there was a limited selection of full face masks, the only option was to pay around $100 for one. Years later, and many full face masks are flooding the market with prices ranging from cheap to expensive.

The cheap products are Chinese knock-offs made with cheaper materials and have questionable durability. Since a snorkel mask directly affects your safety, it is not something you should cheap out on. A low-quality full face mask may not fully remove your exhaled breath from its chambers, causing CO2 to slowly build up and this can lead to health risks.

As with most products, there is a sweet spot where you pay a reasonable amount of money and get a high-quality product. Do not get the absolute cheapest full face mask, nor should you spend a fortune on an expensive one.

The products we listed above fall within the reasonably priced category; they are the best bang for your buck and will help you enjoy your snorkeling adventures for a long time.

Additional Considerations

When trying on a full face mask for the first time, many users are surprised at how comfortable and convenient it is. Since they don’t have to clear their mask and their mouth isn’t encumbered by a bulky mouthpiece, they end up snorkeling for much longer because of how comfortable the experience is. However, this also causes them to get badly sunburned as well as to drift away by accident.

Snorkeling is a relaxing hobby, however it is not without risk. With a full face mask on, you should still stay vigilant. Try to maintain spatial awareness so that you do not drift. Furthermore, you should be wearing UPF swimwear or SPF-15 or higher sunscreen. Another easy way to protect yourself from UV rays and stay afloat is to wear a rash guard. Be sure to read our article about proper sun protection while snorkeling so that you can stay out in the sun responsibly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why buy a full face snorkel mask?

Starting off, a high-quality full face snorkel mask offers a near 180-degree view of your environment. Many snorkel masks have no lenses on the side for your peripheral vision (what you see in the corner of your eye). When you try a full face mask on, you will immediately find having such a wide field of view makes a world of a difference. On the other hand, lesser quality masks may have a narrower frame which blocks your peripheral vision. Marketing may claim that your view will be completely unobstructed by a full face mask; that claim is dubious, but it certainly is better than a standard snorkel mask.

Next, you do not need to use a mouthpiece to breathe with a full face snorkel mask. Traditional snorkel masks require you to wear a mouthpiece in order to breathe through the snorkel. However, even the most ergonomic mouthpiece can start to feel uncomfortable if you’ve been snorkeling for a while. There is also the issue of cleanliness; do you really want this unhygienic object in your mouth for so long? If you’ve ever disliked using a mouthpiece for any reason, then a full face mask is for you.

Additionally, full face snorkel masks come with a dry-snorkel which keeps water from flooding in when submerged. The built-in snorkel at the top of a full face mask isn’t just a run-of-the-mill snorkel. It is a dry snorkel which is designed to keep water from entering the tube. This is possible thanks to the combination of the splash guard and float valve located at the top end of the tube. Even if some water manages to enter the mask, the purge valve will expel it as soon as you exhale.

Furthermore, a full face snorkel mask lets you snorkel with a mustache. As the name implies, the full face mask covers your entire face and therefore can fit over a reasonably-sized mustache. Unfortunately, beards still pose a leak risk since they can compromise the integrity of the seal where the mask skirt touches your face. There are techniques you can do to improve the seal over a beard, but it’s recommended that you just shave it off.

Lastly, full face snorkel masks come with a camera mount for your GoPro camera so you can shoot high-quality video of your snorkeling adventures. As you are aware, carrying a camera by hand will seriously hamper your maneuverability, so having a camera mount is a god-send. Unfortunately, the cameras used for underwater photography are too large to attach to your head, so this is limited only to compact cameras like a GoPro.

If any of these points sound appealing to you, then consider giving a full face mask a try.

Do full face masks keep my face dry?

Yes, a full face mask that is properly sealed will keep your face dry. Since full face masks are less likely to fog up, you will never need to remove your mask and “clear” it, which involves intentionally breaking the seal, letting water enter which rinses the mask, and then pushing it out by forcefully exhaling with your nose.

The downside of never needing to “clear” your mask is that it can eventually get quite hot inside your mask. The air will heat up from a combination of your warm breath plus your body temperature. With a traditional snorkel mask, clearing it allows the water to cool down your face which can be a refreshing feeling.

Can I wear prescription glasses with them? Are there prescription full face masks?

The short answer is No to both questions. The main issue is that the earpieces of your glasses will disrupt the seal between the mask’s silicone skirt and your skin. Without this seal, water will enter your mask.

With that said, there are alternatives to wearing prescription glasses. The easiest way is to simply wear contact lenses. Your face and more importantly your eyes should stay dry the entire time if the mask is sealed correctly, so don’t have to worry about water washing your contact lenses out. However, you should tell your buddy to keep an eye out for you in case your contacts do fall out for some reason.

Some more difficult solutions are to install magnifier lenses to the window or to purchase a prescription lens accessory. These are essentially glasses frames where the earpieces are shortened so that they don’t need to reach your ears and they may be compatible with a full face mask. You will need to get an optometrist to fit prescription lenses into the frame. The downsides are the curve the frame might not support strong prescriptions, and that there may not be enough room inside the full face mask.

Can I easily pack a full face mask for travel?

Unfortunately, full face masks are bulky due to their all-in-one design, and that makes them difficult to pack for traveling. Newer models allow you to detach the snorkel which can make them easier to pack. With that said, they are still large compared to a traditional snorkel mask, so you will need to save some space in your bag if you want to bring it along.

How do I wear a full face mask properly?

If you’ve never worn a full face mask before, you might be wondering how different it is to wear compared to a regular snorkel mask. Wearing a full face mask has many similarities and only a few differences, which we will go over right now.

To begin, if your snorkel mask has a detachable snorkel, then step one is to attach the snorkel to the frame. Make sure it is tightly secured so that it stays firmly in place and no water can enter through it.

Next, in order for the mask skirt to seal tightly on your face, you must ensure that it can press against your skin directly. Even a single strand of hair may cause an improper seal, so if you have long hair you should brush it to the side. If you have a big, bushy beard, you can follow the tips outlined here, and if that fails then you just have to shave it off. Sorry fellas. If you have a mustache, however, then you may be able to keep it unless it’s too long on the sides.

Furthermore, put the mask over your face. Don’t worry about the straps just yet. Ideally, the mask should already stay on your face when you are inhaling meaning there is a tight seal already. Now you can pull the straps over your head to ensure the mask will stay on your face.

Lastly, try breathing in and breathing out to test if you have adequate airflow and that the mask skirt remains suctioned to your face.

Can I talk with a full face mask while underwater?

Since a full face mask doesn’t have a mouthpiece, you’d think that you can therefore talk like normal with your face submerged underwater, right? Unfortunately, you’ll find it is not very practical after all. The mask and the water around you will block nearly every sound you make so that it is muffled and unintelligible. Thus, you can’t talk to people with a full face mask on.

Can I clear a full face mask like a traditional mask?

Full face masks cannot be cleared like a regular pair of dive goggles. The design of this type of mask does not let you create pressure inside the snorkel in order to clear it. Whether you exhale with your nose or mouth, all of the air will leave through the snorkel.

For traditional dive masks, you just need to lean back and forcefully exhale through the nose to push out any water that entered.

In the case of a full face mask, you will have to surface and let the built-in purge valve open and drain the water. Thankfully, thanks to the tight seal and fog-resistance of a full face mask, you will ideally not need to even clear it in the first place. Overall, this should not be a concern and is something you will have to get used to if you are moving from a regular mask to a full face one.

Can I wear a full face mask to swim laps?

You should not wear a full face mask to swim laps and why would you? It affords you no practical advantages. In fact, its bulky size and air volume will increase drag when swimming. Any advantage it might offer such as a wider view is offset by negatives such that it isn’t worth it at all. Don’t expect to set any swimming records with a full face mask on.

Are full face snorkel masks safe?

High-quality snorkel masks are indeed safe, yes. The issue is that nowadays there are so many knock-offs. Don’t be lured in by their attractively low price; they are made from cheap materials and don’t last long. Not only that, but they can literally cost you your life if you pass out from oxygen deprivation.

As for water safety, common sense is a must and one should always err on the side of caution. For instance, you shouldn’t rely on a full face snorkel mask to help you breathe if you have asthma and aren’t a strong enough swimmer to stay afloat on your own. Even if you are wearing snorkeling flotation devices to keep you afloat, you should still have some experience with swimming in case a riptide suddenly drags you far from the shore.

When it comes to any risks and dangers that affect full face masks specifically, there are certainly a few things to keep in mind.

The foremost issue is regarding the CO2 issues that some full face snorkel masks may have. Full face masks are designed to transport CO2 (carbon dioxide, i.e. what you exhale) so that you are breathing in fresh oxygen.

With that said, cheap full face masks may not be able to efficiently prevent CO2 buildup meaning you will start to breathe higher concentrations of CO2 instead of oxygen. It’s quite obvious when this is happening, because you will literally be struggling to breathe.

You may start to feel drowsy or lightheaded and this is a sign that you are oxygen-deprived. There have been a few cases where people have died from CO2 buildup, so this is a serious issue. That is why we highly recommend avoiding low-quality knock-offs because you can’t be sure which ones are reliable and which ones aren’t.

Next, sometimes cheaper models have lenses that are made from lower quality materials instead of the gold-standard, shatterproof polycarbonate. While this seems like an insignificant problem, you should always prepare for the worst. What if the lens gets shattered and sharp fragments hit your face or your eyes? Polycarbonate is extremely durable, and if it somehow breaks, it will remain a large piece that won’t scratch you.

Cheaper materials used in budget models will also degrade much more quickly. As you know, the sun’s UV rays can be quite deadly which is why you should protect yourself with sunscreen. When exposed to these UV rays for a prolonged period of time, the cheaper materials on a mask will degrade, become brittle, and eventually crack, causing leaks. You may not save much money at all if you have to constantly replace broken masks.

Another issue is one that affects all snorkels which is that snorkels don’t work if you dive down. Depending on the type of snorkel you have, it may have a valve that automatically seals the snorkel shut so no water can enter. Not all snorkels have a float valve, so water may flood inside.

With that said, since full face masks hold so much air volume, it will cause you to float which makes it harder to dive in the first place. While some view this as a negative, we feel that it can be used to your advantage if safety is your priority. The buoyancy provided by the full face mask discourages reckless diving and helps you stay afloat more easily, thereby reducing your chances of drowning.

Lastly, remember that a full face mask is designed for relaxed snorkeling. Doing any strenuous activities will increase your heart rate which increases oxygen consumption and CO2 buildup. We recommend you wear a snorkel vest and snorkeling fins which will help you stay afloat and conserve energy. All of this will help you snorkel safely and for much longer.

Can my kids wear a full face mask?

Yes, and there are even full face masks designed specifically for children. You can read more about them in this article.

Best Full Face Snorkel Mask: The Verdict

As you can see, there are many factors to consider when purchasing a full face mask. However, if you don’t care about any of that and just want our recommendation, then hands down it would have to be the Wildhorn Outfitters Seaview V2.

Its innovative redesign makes it stand out from other full face snorkel masks in many ways. For one, the positioning of its dry snorkel on the side improves airflow and keeps the lens from fogging up. Two, it looks like a futuristic helmet which may or may not be a bonus for you.

Additionally, it has a side camera mount which is the ideal mounting position because it allows the camera to be submerged underwater. Typically the camera mount is located on top of the mask which means the camera is above water. We don’t know why this design was even a thing in other full face masks, but the Seaview V2 fixes that with its side mount and it just makes so much more sense doing it this way.

Lastly, the Seaview V2 is available at an extremely affordable price. You will find it’s cheaper than most snorkel and mask combos, and even compared to other full face masks, its price point is in the sweet spot. You can’t go wrong with the Seaview V2.

Photo Credit: Enrico Strocchi (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Best Digital Dive Watch Review – Accurate and Durable!

As much as we love the complicated engineering that goes into the movement of our analog watches, a mechanical piece cannot be worn for every occasion. Some jobs require more precision and durability than an analog watch can offer, and that’s where a digital dive watch comes in.

In this article, we will be reviewing the best digital dive watches on the market. As far as robust and durable digital dive watches go, few can compare with the Casio G-Shock line of watches. Its shock resistance alone is enough to outperform all other digital quartz watches out there. Make no mistake, this is a watch that you wear for the toughest of jobs and it shows.

With so many G-Shock models available, we will cover the most popular ones as well as review some great alternatives. Let’s get into it.

Our Top Picks:

Sale Casio G-Shock GWM5610-1 Men's Solar Black Resin Sport Watch
Sale CASIO Men's GW-9400-1CR Master of G Stainless Steel Solar Watch

Best Digital Dive Watch: Recommendations

Casio G-Shock DW5600E-1V

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Casio Men's G-Shock Quartz Watch with Resin Strap, Black, 20 (Model: DW5600E-1V)
21,193 Reviews
Casio Men's G-Shock Quartz Watch with Resin Strap, Black, 20 (Model: DW5600E-1V)
  • Black resin sport watch featuring shock resistance, comfortable resin strap, and multi-function rectangular dial
  • Quartz digital movement with accuracy of +/- 15 seconds per month
  • To prevent accidental adjusting of settings,the top left button on this watch is designed to be pushed in further.

Design

The G-Shock DW5600E-1V is one of the most popular models due to its price, but it offers so much more than just affordability. This watch has a water resistance rating of 200m/660ft, a battery that can last 10+ months on a single charge, and a rugged design – all qualities to be expected from a G-Shock watch.

Additionally, it has a rectangular case that is made from matte black resin with chamfered corners. Its dimensions are 42.8mm wide x 48.9mm high x 13.4mm thick. For a G-Shock watch, this is considered relatively small. The lugs are “hidden” on the bottom side of the case so that it has a seamless look to it. The back of the case has a stainless steel plate held by four screws.

Looking at the lugs, they only have a width of 16mm which is an unusual size, and they are designed to fit Casio straps specifically. This is important to keep in mind if you are planning on swapping out the straps; you may have to purchase a special adapter kit in order for it to fit properly.

Next, the function buttons are located at the four corners of the case and they are made of polished stainless steel. The buttons are protected by guards to their left and right, and there is also a raised ring on the face of the face which protects the LCD screen. These guards are the reason why the G-Shock is so durable. With that said, you cannot push any of these buttons while underwater as it will cause water to leak in.

The overall appearance of the G-Shock DW5600E-1V is that of bulges and angles which gives an idea of how rugged this watch is.

Usability

Turning our attention to the LCD screen, we see that the DW5600E-1V has a black panel surrounding the LCD screen with a white outline. The screen is protected by a rectangular hardened mineral crystal with chamfered corners to match the shape of the case. The text is displayed on a clear background in a digitized black font. It doesn’t look very attractive, however it is highly functional and supports the utilitarian style of the G-Shock line.

The strap of the DW5600E-1V is a black resin strap with polished stainless steel buckle and tang hardware. The strap has a width of 25.5mm at the biggest portion where it meets the case so that it seems to seamlessly blend into the case.

However, on the reverse side the band steps down to 16mm at the point where it connects to the case to further hide the seam between them. Looking at it from the front, the band tapers down from 25.5mm to 19mm at the ends. Casio have designed the straps to fit the proportions of the case perfectly.

With how often we mention the ruggedness of the G-Shock DW5600E-1V, you might be wondering how comfortable is it to wear it? Sports watches are designed with comfort in mind; after all, any discomfort will become unbearable during active use. Casio understands this and has designed their G-Shock series with comfort in mind.

In the case of the DW5600E-1V, here are some reasons why it will feel great on your wrist: the case and strap material is made from soft-textured resin, the strap is highly flexible and tapered, the watch is surprisingly lightweight, the function buttons are recessed into the watch so they will never contact your skin, and so on.

Inside of the DW5600E-1V you will find a digital quartz movement that is highly accurate and durable. The DW5600E-1V uses the Casio caliber 3229 battery-powered quartz. It has an accuracy rating of +/- 15 seconds. You can take advantage of its auto-calendar, as well as other useful features like timer, date alarm, and hourly chime alarm.

Using the watch in the dark is possible thanks to the long-lasting and bright EL backlight which can be activated by pushing a single button. The DW5600E-1V has an auto-backlight feature that accompanies its timers and alarms. You won’t have trouble reading from the LCD screen in the dark. However, pressing the button while underwater may result in leaks.

Overall, the G-Shock DW5600E-1V offers the core functionality and performance that G-Shock watches provide at an entry-level price. At around $40, there is no reason not to get a rugged watch that can endure rigorous yard work, house work, sports, kids, rain, etc. Few watches at this price point can keep up with an active lifestyle, so if you are on a budget then this is the one for you.

Casio G-Shock GWM5610-1

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Casio G-Shock GWM5610-1 Men's Solar Black Resin Sport Watch
7,439 Reviews
Casio G-Shock GWM5610-1 Men's Solar Black Resin Sport Watch
  • Casual solar-powered watch with multiple functions including multi-band atomic timekeeping, shock resistance, LED backlight, world time (29 time...
  • Approximate battery life: 10 months on full charge (without further exposure to light)
  • Water resistant to 200 m (660 ft): In general, suitable for professional marine activity and serious surface water sports, but not scuba diving

Design

The G-Shock GWM5610-1 also sports a square-style case with dimensions of 43.2mm wide x 46.7mm high and 12.7mm thick. Its lugs are hidden on the underside so that the strap appears to seamlessly integrate into the case. This watch has a water resistance rating of 200m/660ft and is highly durable.

At the four corners of the GWM5610-1’s rectangular case are function buttons made of polished stainless steel. They are protected by guards to their left and right sides to keep them from being accidentally pressed or damaged. The screen has similar protection with a raised ring on the face around the case which acts as the first layer of defense against impacts.

The GWM5610-1’s dial mainly consists of a solar panel with an inner grey outline and outer red outline that surrounds the LCD screen. The rectangular dial is protected by a hardened mineral crystal, and the crystal is protected by the aforementioned raised ring. The text displayed on the screen is in a digitized style and consists of black text on a clear background.

Similar to the DW5600E-1V, the GWM5610-1 has a black two-piece resin strap. Where it meets the case, it has a width of 25.5mm. However, if you look at where it connects to the lugs on the underside, its width is only 16mm. The band tapers down to 19mm the further it moves from the case for a more comfortable fit.

Some of the G-Shock models can get very chunky, however the GWM5610-1 is not one of them. While its dimensions are not particularly small and its case is rugged, this model somehow manages to feel extremely comfortable on the wrist. This is possible because of the soft-textured resin materials, the ergonomic design of the strap which tapers down, how lightweight the watch is, and the level of adjustability provided by the strap.

Where many rugged watches are too thick to the point that they cannot slide under the cuff anymore, the GWM5610-1 manages to be thin enough to fit under most cuffs. This also depends on the type of shirt you are wearing, however the GWM5610 is a lot more wearable than you’d think.

Usability

Providing its timekeeping functionality is the 3159 battery-powered quartz movement with a solar-recharging battery. This movement is highly advanced and supports atomic clock synchronization so that it is perfectly accurate. Without this calibration, the movement has an accuracy of +/- 15 seconds a day. You should keep this watch near a window to ensure it syncs properly.

The GWM5610-1 comes pre-programmed with hour, minute, and seconds in both 12-hour and 24-hour formats. It also has an auto-calendar feature so that it will always display the accurate date as well. This watch utilizes Multi Band 6 technology which lets the watch automatically adjust the daylight savings time. If you are a frequent flier, the GWM5610-1 can track a second time zone with options for 48 cities and 29 different time zones.

Where digital watches surpass analog watches in functionality is in its watch functions. The GWM5610-1 has numerous alarm, stopwatch, and timer settings. Let’s go into each one in more detail.

For alarms, the GWM5610-1 lets you set up to four different alarms which can trigger at a specific hour or minute. A snooze alarm can be set which sounds every 10 seconds every five minutes once the time is reached, and users can stop it by manually disabling this alarm or letting the alarm run its course seven times. An option for an hourly chime is also present.

Next up is stopwatch functionality. With the GWM5610-1, you can use the elapsed time, split time, and two-finishes stopwatch mode. The GWM5610-1 can track the elapsed time accurately down to one-hundredth of a second. If you are a stickler for precision then this is perfect.

The final timekeeping function is the countdown timer. The timer can be set to a minimum of 1 minute up to 24 hours. For some reason, the GWM5610-1 doesn’t let you set a timer shorter than 1 minute. Also, the GWM5610-1 is missing an auto-repeat feature, so you have to manually set the timer each time.

You can use the GWM5610-1 in the dark thanks to its EL backlight which is activated by a button press. The illumination is not nearly as bright compared to the cheaper DW5600E-1V for some reason. With that said, this watch has an auto-light switch which detects when it is in the dark and turns on illumination automatically.

Powering the GWM5610-1 is a special CTL1616 rechargeable battery. It recharges through a solar panel located on the face of the dial. The battery life is rated to last 10 years, and it has a power reserve of 10 months on a single charge. Assuming you even wear it occasionally, then it will not run out for years. A low-power mode helps the battery last even longer.

The Casio G-Shock GWM5610-1 is an impressive sports watch that deserves a place in everyone’s watch collection, whether you are a collector or not. It’s the perfect watch for activities like housework, yardwark, swimming, camping, hiking, etc. The GWM5610-1 is more expensive than the DW5600E-1V, and what you are getting is a 10-year solar recharging battery and atomic clock synchronization. Considering the huge benefit this adds, we feel the price is worth it.

Casio G-Shock Rangeman GW-9400-1

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CASIO Men's GW-9400-1CR Master of G Stainless Steel Solar Watch
  • Solar-powered digital watch in stainless steel with multiple displays, red contrasts, and textured pushers
  • Quartz movement with analog display
  • Protective mineral crystal dial window

Design

The next step up from the DW5600E-1V and the GWM5610-1 is the G-Shock Rangeman. This is one of the best outdoor watches on the market, hands down. You can just tell by its rugged design that this is a step up from the aforementioned G-Shock watches and that this thing can take a beating.

We have already covered what G-Shock watches have to offer in terms of standard features like timekeeping functionality and durability. So that we don’t retread too much of the same ground, we will primarily focus on what features and design choices make the G-Shock Rangeman stand out.

The Rangeman is designed for the outdoorsman. If you need a digital compass, barometer/altimeter, 200m water resistance, sunrise/sunset notifications, and typical Casio bulletproof protection, then this watch should be right up your alley.

How tough, exactly, is the Rangeman? First of all, it has a case diameter of 53mm and a thickness of 17mm. This watch is beefy! It’s also sealed tightly to prevent dust, dirt, and water from entering. It can resist temperatures down to -10°C (-14°F) and is shock resistant. Casio tested the Rangeman by dropping it from a height of 10m (33ft) and it held up strong like nothing happened.

Even if you do drop the Rangeman, all of the thick plastic covering the face will absorb most of the impact so that the face and buttons remain unscathed. The buttons themselves are recessed and made of internally reinforced stainless steel. Basically, you would have to be trying very hard to break the G-Shock Rangeman, and even then, you might fail.

Usability

Some of the core functionality of this watch lie in its triple sensors – compass, barometer/altimeter, and temperature sensors. These sensors provide invaluable information regarding your environment and display it simply on the screen for you to cycle through via the top right hand button.

The compass shows you your bearings so that you always know which direction you are heading. The barometer provides pressure data so you can be notified of any upcoming storms. The altimeter tracks your altitude (height). And lastly the temperature tracks the ambient temperature around the watch. For the most accurate temperature reading, leave the watch out for a few minutes so that it is not affected by your own body temperature. All of these readings can be stored in the internal memory for later reference.

Another noteworthy feature that the Rangeman offers is its sunrise/sunset feature. If you input your longitude (via a nearby city location) and latitude, it can then provide you with estimates regarding when the sun will rise or set at your current location. Very useful, indeed.

The Rangeman series can also connect to 6 worldwide towers via its Multi Band 6 technology which provides it atomic clock synchronization. In other words, you never have to worry about your watch de-syncing over time. It can literally run at a perfect accuracy of ± 0 seconds. The watch will sync with the atomic clocks at 3am daily or you can manually tell it to sync

Never worry about the battery running out thanks to the solar charging capability of the G-Shock Rangeman. It will pick up any ambient light and charge the battery on its own. The battery can last 7 months on a single charge, and you only need to replace the battery once every 10 years. If the battery is almost out of juice – which almost never happens unless you keep it in a drawer most of the time – then simply leave it by a window or use a solar charger to quickly charge it up. The Rangeman has a battery indicator to let you know its current charge level.

As for the standard watch features, the Rangeman has the usual: countdown timer, stopwatch, hourly reminders, and 5 alarms. You can get the Rangeman in three main color variations: khaki green with yellow accents, black with red accents, and a camo/black hybrid with red accents.

If you are someone that does a lot of hiking, camping, dirt biking, swimming, or any other outdoor activities and need a durable watch that can take the abuse, then look no further than the Casio G-Shock Rangeman.

Seiko Prospex Fieldmaster SBEP003

Design

In the world of durable digital watches, the Casio G-Shock line is the undisputed champion and that is why we are recommending so many of them in this review. But what if the G-Shock watch just isn’t for you? Perhaps you don’t like the aesthetic or its comfort level. What alternatives can hold a candle to a G-Shock? Enter the Seiko Prospex Fieldmaster SBEP003, otherwise known as the “Digital Tuna”.

The SBEP003 has big shoes to fill. So how big is it exactly? With a case diameter of 49.5mm, and a thickness of 14.3mm, it’s about as chunky as a G-Shock. What adds a lot of width to the Digi Tuna is the shroud that surrounds the case and the bezel. This shroud makes the SBEP003 look kind of like a can of tuna, hence its nickname. We recommend getting the version with a satin black finish which makes this watch appear smaller than it actually is.

Even though it is quite bulky, the Seiko SBEP003 only weighs 80g. This is incredibly light compared to steel mechanical watches with steel bracelets. You could easily forget you are wearing it during physical activity, whereas mechanical watches will start to feel like a brick is strapped to your arm as you fatigue.

The Pepsi bezel design is reminiscent of a traditional mechanical dive watch. Turning this 43mm unidirectional rotating bezel may seem challenging at first, but once you understand the technique it becomes easier. You simply have to apply pressure at the right angle and it will turn smoothly. It has a lumed pip to help you monitor elapsed time in the dark.

Between the bezel and digital display lies the SBEP003’s solar panel. This is similar in design to G-Shock watches; but in the case of the Digi Tuna, the circular panel blends in perfectly.

Usability

A plethora of information can be found on the digital display. When it is in its main time-telling mode you will see the following: the time, a second time zone, the date, the seconds, the battery indicator, the stopwatch if it is running, and the minutes outside of the dial. This sounds like a lot, but it’s still manageable even at a glance. A curious design choice is that you need to tap the face to activate the backlight which some users dislike.

Powering the watch is the Seiko Caliber S802. The solar panel that keeps it charged is the Seiko V147. You cannot replace the battery in the SBEP003 on your own and it can last for five months on a full charge. The power saver mode will turn the watch into a low power state when it is not in use. This extends the charge so that it can last up to 20 months; simply tap the watch to wake it up from hibernation. The battery is designed to last 60-70 years (essentially a lifetime), but if there is a malfunction of some sort, then the battery replacement must be done by Seiko.

Putting the Seiko SBEP003 to practical use, we found the rotating bezel to be redundant since it already has a stopwatch feature which measures time more accurately. It was much easier to measure lips and splits with this feature. Furthermore, the stopwatch deactivates the marks around the outside which the bezel relies on, rendering the bezel useless anyways. At least the Pepsi design is aesthetically pleasing.

Additionally, the Digi Tuna claims it has a water resistance rating of 200m/660ft/20 bar but it is not ISO 6425 certified. With that said, there is definitely enough water resistance for leisurely swimming and perhaps even some casual diving. You shouldn’t worry about holding back in the water unless you tend to dive really deep.

Next, the included fanned accordion silicone strap is fantastic. Seiko straps can be hit or miss; for instance, the one that the SKX comes with is junk. This one, however, is awesome. The black 22mm strap fits perfectly on ~7-8” wrists, give or take. The black buckle and silicone keeper keep the strap secured and comfortable. The only downsides to the strap are that it’s a lint magnet and the fanned portion often gets caught on cuffs.

If you are adamant that you want a watch that isn’t a Casio G-Shock, then we think the Seiko Prospex Fieldmaster SBEP003 is a suitable alternative. It has all of the same functionality including a comprehensive stopwatch feature. This watch is a solid piece that can keep on chugging along for decades without any repairs or battery replacements. If a G-Shock is out of the question, then the Seiko Prospex Fieldmaster SBEP003 is the solution.

Best Digital Dive Watch Buying Guide

Features

Digital dive watches don’t just tell time; they come with a plethora of features that can assist you on a dive. For instance, a modern digital dive watch may come with a timer, stopwatch, GPS, a heart rate monitor, ability to track multiple time zones, and ability to check the weather condition.

Some of these features may require you to purchase a higher-end dive watch in order to get, however it is well worth the money. Of course, you may not even need some of these features in the first place so there is an opportunity to save money if you only need barebones functionality.

Material

Most digital dive watch cases are made using the following materials: stainless steel, plastic, and/or mixed rubber. You want a durable case that can withstand not only the water pressure at depth, but also from accidental impacts.

The watch face or dial is often made with plastic and glass. The glass, or crystal, on lower-end models is often mineral crystal. Higher-end watches use a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal which is more durable but also more expensive.

Steel and mixed rubber is often used in the body chassis. The straps are also often made using the same material for consistency, but not always. Since the straps are replaceable, you always have the option for purchasing a third-party strap to replace the default one if you are not satisfied with it for any reason.

Size

Generally, dive watches are larger than other types of watches because of how durable they have to be. Dive watches are tool watches; they serve a specific purpose which is to be water resistant to a certain depth and to help you track elapsed time so you know when to surface.

You will be hard-pressed to find a dive watch with a case diameter that is less than 40mm. Most dive watches are in the 42-44mm range, if not more. This is a size that should fit an average sized wrist (approximately 7” in circumference).

Another factor to consider is the lug-to-lug distance, which is the distance from the furthest point of the top lugs to the lowest point of the bottom lugs. For example, a 44mm dive watch may have a lug-to-lug distance of 48mm. This affects how big the watch looks on your wrist and whether it hangs off your wrist or not.

Strap Type

The strap is a very important part of the dive watch because it is what keeps the watch secured on your wrist. The strap also greatly affects comfort, so if you plan on wearing it all day then you need a high-quality strap.

It is normal to have multiple straps so that you can switch between them as needed. You can have a stainless steel strap for casual wear, but then switch to a NATO/Zulu/rubber strap for diving. You can even get strap extensions if your strap isn’t long enough to wrap around a thick wetsuit, though ideally the strap should be long enough on its own.

Durability

Some digital dive watches are cheap, but others can cost several hundred if not thousands of dollars. As such, they are not something that you want to replace frequently. Ideally, your dive watch should be durable enough to last for years, assuming that you are properly taking care of it.

A digital dive watch should have sufficient water resistance, magnetic resistance, and impact resistance. If you accidentally hit your watch against a rock or a doorway, you don’t want to see that the crystal or the case has cracked. A dive watch should also be able to withstand the elements so that you can also take it hiking and camping.

The watches in Casio’s G-Shock line are legendary for their feats of endurance. From enduring a slapshot from a professional hockey player, to withstanding the load of a 25 ton truck, the G-Shock watches give off the impression that they are indestructible. Take a look at this video if you aren’t convinced.

Timekeeping/Alarms

Where digital watches have a clear advantage over mechanical ones are in its various timekeeping and alarm features. They come pre-programmed with auto-calendars, tracking multiple time zones, multiple alarms, synchronization with the atomic clock so that its accuracy is literally perfect, and stopwatch/timer functions that last longer than 60 minutes.

In comparison, mechanical watches can only track the time, day/date, and track elapsed time only up to 60 minutes. With that said, they have more utility since they can be operated while underwater whereas one cannot press any of the buttons on a digital dive watch unless they want water to compromise the internals.

Water Resistance / ISO 6425 Certification

As we have briefly mentioned above, a dive watch should obviously have some amount of water resistance. The minimum water resistance rating should be 100m or 330ft. Anything less than that and it shouldn’t even be considered a dive watch.

What’s so special about the 100m depth rating? That is the minimum water resistance rating needed to qualify for ISO 6425 certification. This certification is a seal of approval from an international authority and only the cream of the crop can get ISO 6425 certified

Oftentimes, you will see manufacturers claim their watch has 200m or 300m or water resistance yet suspiciously they aren’t ISO 6425 certified. This means that you should take their specifications with a grain of salt since they have not actually been proven to be as good as they claim. User reviews are a must, since some brave soul already decided to risk their safety to test the water resistance rating for you.

Furthermore, there is more to the ISO certification than simply water resistance. It also tests for magnetic resistance, impact resistance, corrosion resistance, and a myriad of other factors. As such, if a watch is ISO 6425 certified, you can buy it without worrying about its quality because it has been thoroughly stress-tested.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there different types of digital dive watches?

There are not any major varieties of digital watches so far. However, based on their design and features we can broadly categorize them as “traditional” digital watches and “hybrid” digital watches.

A traditional digital dive watch is exactly what you’d expect – a bulky design with a large watch face and huge buttons around the dial. They also come with useful features like GPS, stopwatch, timer, an internal memory, multiple time zones, and so on.

The hybrid digital watch is one that includes a digital and analog display. They may be more streamlined and give off more of a smartwatch feel. Digital watches with an analog display are a popular choice for businessmen, professionals, and managers.

What are the differences between a digital and analog watch?

The biggest difference between a digital and analog watch is how they display their information.   However, there are other differences and we will discuss all of them here.

In an analog watch, you have markers and hands to tell you the time. The markers consist of hour, minute, and second markers. The hands also consist of hour, minute, and second hands. All of these are used to tell you the exact time down to the second and can be adjusted by unscrewing the crown and then rotating it. Most mechanical watches also provide a date window and may also display the day of the week (i.e. Mon, Tues, Wed, etc.).

The markers and hands on a mechanical watch are filled with lume. Lume is a material that charges by absorbing light so that it can glow in the dark. This allows you to continue to use your dive watch at night or deep underwater where it is completely dark.

Furthermore, digital can be powered by either a quartz movement or automatic movement. Quartz movements are more accurate and are powered by a small battery. Automatic  movements are less accurate and have no battery; instead they can convert and store energy from your wrist movement.

Digital watches, on the other hand, use an LED or LCD display to tell you the time. They use a battery that should be replaced every few months. Digital watches are more accurate than mechanical watches.

Furthermore, they are much easier to read because a digital watch literally just tells you the time without you having to do any mental calculations in your head. Analog watches, particularly ones that have a minimal dial for the sake of a clean aesthetic, can take a moment for one to process what time it is.

Another difference is that digital dive watches are operated using buttons instead of a screw-down crown. These buttons are protected by guards much like a crown would be to protect them from accidental impacts.

As we have mentioned in the buying guide, digital watches also come with many features that analog watches don’t have such as GPS, heart rate monitor, weather condition, and so on.

While it may seem like a digital dive watch is the choice to go, there is something to be said about analog dive watches. Mechanical dive watches can be incredibly stylish and can be worn in non-diving situations to make a statement. For example, at a social event they can be a great conversation starter and draw attention to you, if that’s what you want.

A digital dive watch is better suited for those who care more about functionality than looks. You probably won’t wear your digital dive watch to a formal event, whereas you might wear a stylish mechanical dive watch. We can say that analog dive watches are more versatile in terms of how often and where you can wear them, but they are light on features. The reverse is true for a digital dive watch.

Think about what you want out of your watch to help you decide whether a digital dive watch or an analog dive watch is the right choice for you.

Best Digital Dive Watch: The Verdict

This review primarily focused on watches from Casio’s G-Shock line, and for good reason. You asked for the best digital dive watch, and we reviewed three of the most popular ones out of the dozens in its full line-up.

The Casio G-Shock DW5600E-1V and GWM5610-1 are perhaps the most affordable, entry-level G-Shocks you can get. As a baseline, you can expect 200m/660ft water resistance, numerous timers, a stopwatch, alarms, multiple time zones, and an auto-calendar.

Furthermore, despite their low cost, you get the same exceptional durability that made the G-Shock name famous. The GWM5610-1 costs more than the DW5600E-1V, and what you get is the same features the DW5600E-1V has plus Multi Band 6 technology to sync with the atomic clock as well as a solar recharging battery with a 10 year lifespan.

The G-Shock Rangeman takes it a step further and offers all of that plus GPS, sunrise/sunset estimates, a compass, a barometer/altimeter, and temperature sensors. All of this data can be stored in its internal memory for review later.

We have also reviewed a fantastic G-Shock alternative, the Seiko Prospex Fieldmaster SBEP003, which is known as the “Digital Tuna”. It manages to balance function with aesthetics and can be used for various physical activities like swimming, cycling, and diving. If you are not a fan of G-Shock watches but want comparable usability, then consider the Fieldmaster.

Out of all of these options, which one should you get? It depends on what kind of features you want and how much you are willing to pay. You can start out with the DW5600E-1V for the bare minimum digital dive watch functionality, and at some point upgrade to a GWM5610-1 or even a Rangeman as your needs grow. The Rangeman is objectively the best digital dive watch on this list, however the Fieldmaster is a solid alternative if you don’t need certain features like GPS or temperature sensor and want an aesthetic digital watch on your wrist.

All in all, you can’t go wrong with any of the digital dive watches in this list as long as their features meet your requirements and the price is right.

Photo Credit: JustBlueFish Watch Reviews

Spinnaker Dumas Review – 70’s Inspired 300m Diver

Spinnaker is a highly specialized brand. They make watches for specific uses – most often for yachting purposes – but all of their watches are connected to the sea in some way. This particular model we are reviewing, the Spinnaker Dumas SP-5081-99, is designed with diving in mind.

The Spinnaker Dumas is named after Frédéric Dumas, a legendary underwater researcher and pioneer that is credited as one of the inventors of the scuba regulator that is used by modern divers today. Let’s see if the Spinnaker Dumas lives up to the man it is named after.

Style

The Dumas has a fantastic bold, layered aesthetic that appears to be inspired by the Omega Seamaster SHOM, with some touches from the Seamaster Ploprof. This watch has a rugged design that will be sure to last a long time. Let’s take a closer look at these details. Our review focuses primarily on the SP-5081-99 model.

The Case

spinnaker dumas thickness

With a 316L stainless steel case and an octagonal shape with flat sidewalls, the Spinnaker Dumas has an angular and muscular theme. These walls have a chamfered corner in places where they meet the top surface of the case. With the exception of this chamfered edge, the case has a brushed finish on all sides.

One unique element is that the lugs are hidden from view to maintain the octagonal silhouette as much as possible. The angular crown guards and crown itself are the only places where this watch deviates from the octagonal shape.

The Spinnaker Dumas has dimensions of 43mm across, 48mm lug-to-lug, 16mm thick (bezel included), and a lug width of 22mm. As you can tell, the Dumas is a hefty watch and that’s because it is designed to stand out and make a statement. The case’s octagonal shape contributes to this with its retro and block-y look.

Behind, the Spinnaker Dumas is secured with a screw-down steel caseback with an exhibition window. The window provides a clear view of the complex engineering of the Spinnaker rotor and automatic movement that rotates away inside.

The Dial

spinnaker dumas dial

What makes this watch really stand out is its dial. Beginning with a grey base, markers are then applied on a secondary ring along the outer edge of the bezel. This ring creates multiple layers of depth with the hour markers and date window rising up above the rest of the ring.

The hour markers are mostly composed of large white circles with a grey outline that are filled with lume. For the 6, 9, and 12-o’clock positions, the shape changes to a rectangle with a double rectangle for the 12-o’clock marker. This helps differentiate the cardinal directions and helps you orient the watch

Printed on the dial base just inside each hour marker are Arabic numbers from 13 to 24 printed in navy text in reference to military time. Each minute/second marker is printed on the outer ring as thin navy lines, and thick red squares mark every 5 minutes/seconds.

There is no marker at the 3-o’clock position; instead, the date window is located there. Following the same design style, it is black text on a white background and framed with a raised navy trim on the applied marker ring.

Other pieces of text printed on the dial are the Spinnaker logo below the 12-o’clock marker, “AUTOMATIC” above the 6-o’clock marker in bright red, and “1000FT/300M” to signify its impressive water resistance rating.

How does Spinnaker manage to add so much depth and personality to this dial when it appears to just be a minimal grey dial? The answer is that they have many nice touches which elevate the overall look and feel of it. We already mentioned that it has an applied ring on the outer edge which the markers are printed on.

Additionally, the dial is recessed below the bezel and the hands are elevated above both the dial and applied marker ring. All of these levels of depths make a  world of difference in adding a dynamic edge to what would have been an otherwise boring grey dial. The dial is able to create a different feel from every angle, and when light shines on it, the shadows magnify this effect and produce a breathtaking view.

Depending on which model you get, the Spinnaker Dumas has different color schemes. From black, white, and orange, to blue, white, and orange, to yellow, white, red, and black, these color schemes are reflected on the dial and enhanced by the hands.

The Hands

spinnaker dumas date window

The Dumas’ hands are a true standout feature, and not just because they literally stand above the rest. The minute hand is the first thing that will catch your eye. It is shaped like a massive white, lumed sword that has a bright trim to really make it stand out.

Unlike the bold minute hand, the hour and second hands are more reserved and consist of white lume with a grey trim. The hour hand is a stubby pencil shape, and the second hand is a thin, tapered navy stick with a lume circle on the pointer side. As mentioned, these hands will match the color scheme of the dial.

The Crystal

spinnaker dumas crystal

A scratch-resistant, anti-reflective sapphire crystal keeps the dial safe from the rigors of diving and daily wear. The flat crystal sits level with the bezel edge. It provides a clear view to the dial without any distortions even when viewed at extreme angles.

The Bezel

spinnaker dumas bezel

Next, the bezel has a mineral crystal insert with lume markings and a glossy finish. Its color will depend on which version you get. The edge is made of polished stainless steel and it has grooves which provide extra grip when rotating it.

At the 12-o’clock position, the marker is triangular with a luminous pip to help with orientation in the dark. Embossed rectangles make up the markings on the bezel, and this design often reflects lines of light. Thicker rectangles mark each 5 minute interval, and smaller markers mark each minute up to the first 15 minutes.

The Crown

spinnaker dumas screw-down crown

Spinnaker is not the type to disappoint with its crowns either. The Dumas’ crown has a width of 5.5mm and 7.0mm diameter. While this may seem a bit on the larger side, we feel its proportions are perfectly suited to the sizing of the case. This crown features a polished gripping surface with cut grooves; an aesthetic that matches the bezel’s grip edge.

The flat side of the crown has a design that we have never seen before – a white mineral crystal insert with the Spinnaker sail emblem can be found inside. This is a unique and well-executed touch that makes the Dumas stand out as high-quality.

The Band

spinnaker dumas bracelet

Another touch that demonstrates the Seamaster SHOM’s influence on the Dumas is the inclusion of a stainless steel sharkmesh band. This band has a width of 22mm which is a perfect size for this case. With that said, the band is incredibly thick. It measures 4.0mm thick and gives off a bold and muscular image, particularly with the included machined steel hardware.

The included clasp is a durable fold-over deployant style with a brushed finish as well as an engraved Spinnaker logo. A blocky stainless steel loop-catch is included to hold onto the excess strap on the open end. This design projects an image for strength, but perhaps it may look too bold for some people, especially considering the band can add 8mm of thickness over areas where it overlaps itself.

However, band problems are easy to fix by replacing it with an alternate strap. It wouldn’t be a bad idea to add a NATO strap to the Dumas. In fact, they look right at home, almost as if Spinnaker watches were designed with NATO straps in mind. Since the lugs in the Dumas are “hidden”, removing the spring bars can be a bit of a challenge. Furthermore, the case doesn’t give a lot of leeway so not all straps will easily fit.

Even if you are planning on replacing the default strap with a thin nylon one, for example, the spring bars must be removed from a tight space so even swapping to a less bulky strap can be arduous. In our opinion though, it is worth it for not just the style, but comfort as well. We will expand on what we mean in the “Usability” section below.

Overall Style

The Spinnaker Dumas is a large, retro-style octagonal-shaped watch. However, it adds its own modern touches to keep up with the times and to make it look unique and interesting. It has numerous color options offered so you can find the one that best fits your style.

Everything about this watch screams macho and bold, but it is a dive watch and a tool first and foremost. The angular style of the octagonal profile is reminiscent of the design of watches from the 70s. We are fans of retro-style watches that look like a blast from the past; it gives off the same retro-chic vibes as the Seiko Turtle.

With that said, this specific look means it looks best in casual settings. It’s best worn with a diving suit or a T-shirt and would look awkward and out of place if worn with a suit in a formal setting. However, rules are meant to be broken, and you certainly could wear it to make a bold statement and add some edge to the occasion.

The Movement

spinnaker dumas movement

We’ve talked a lot about the Spinnaker Dumas’ appearance, so now let’s take a look inside. What exactly is keeping this watch ticking? As we mentioned, there is a glass exhibition window on the screw-down caseback which gives wearers a peak of the complicated internals. What you’ll find is the Seiko NH35 automatic movement moving rapidly inside. This particular movement is commonly found in microbrand watches due to how cost-effective they are.

Furthermore, this movement is essentially an unbranded version of the Seiko 4R35, a movement that is used in many watches in Seiko’s Prospex line. Here’s what the movement offers:

  • 21,600 beats per hour (6 beats per second).
  • 41-hour power reserve when fully charged.
  • Regulation possible.
  • Handwinding.
  • Hacking.
  • 24 jewels.
  • Date complication.

The Seiko NH35 is relatively accurate, with a range of +/- 15 seconds a day. However, if you are not satisfied with how accurate your watch is, you can easily adjust the time even down to the second. The date will adjust on its own every night at around 10:20pm and will change over at 12:00am sharp.

Usability

The Spinnaker Dumas was built with usability in mind.

Water Resistance

spinnaker dumas hands

We aren’t surprised by how heavy-duty this watch looks as the Spinnaker Dumas has a water resistance rating of 300m or 100ft. This is equivalent to the Rolex Submariner’s depth rating, which is a legendary dive watch several orders of magnitude more expensive. That’s impressive.

With that said, we searched and couldn’t find anywhere that states that the Spinnaker Dumas is ISO 6425 certified. Having this certification would mean that it means certain stringent safety standards and that it qualifies as a legitimate professional dive watch. Despite not being certified, the Spinnaker Dumas’s specifications seems to already meet some of these requirements.

For example, in addition to the impressive water resistance, the Dumas also has clear, distinguishable markings on the watch dial, sufficient lume on its markers, hands, and bezel, a unidirectional rotating bezel with markers every 5 minutes or less, the ability to tell the watch is still functioning in the dark, and the ability to operate the watch in complete darkness at a minimum distance of 25cm.

Some requirements that we aren’t sure the Spinnaker Dumas meets are its magnetic resistance, shock resistance, saltwater resistance, and strap/band strength. You can find the exact requirements needed to pass the ISO 6425 certification here.

Even without being officially ISO 6425 certified, we are confident that the Spinnaker Dumas can hold its own against rough water conditions. Thanks to its robust design, the Spinnaker Dumas can be used for swimming, snorkeling and recreational diving.

Operating the Crown

One of the reasons for the Spinnaker Dumas’ impressive 300m water resistance rating is thanks to the screw-down crown. The crown can be screwed down to form a watertight seal to prevent any moisture from entering.

Crown guards stick out from the case to protect the crown from being accidentally turned due to being brushed against or hit by something. This reduces the likelihood of the seal being broken and water flooding in. The crown is quite large, but in proportion to the size of the case.

Here are the various positions the crown can be set to:

  • Full in: While unscrewed, you can rotate the crown clockwise to wind the mainspring. The NH35 movement has excellent audible and tactile feedback in response to the manual winding.
  • First click (middle position):  When pulled halfway out, you can rotate the crown to adjust the date window.
  • Second click (full out): When pulled all the way out, rotate the crown to adjust the time. Since the movement allows hacking, all hand movement including the second hand will cease, allowing you to accurately set the exact time.

Once you are done adjusting the crown,  you can screw it down to form a watertight seal. We highly recommend you only rotate the crown when the watch is off your wrist. It can be hard to fiddle with it using only one hand, and you may end up damaging the crown if you are not careful. During daily wear, the crown guards should offer enough protection to guard against most impacts with desks or doorways.

Readability

spinnaker dumas markers

The Spinnaker Dumas’ legibility is very high and telling the time can be done quickly thanks to the excellent contrast between the hands, markers, and dial. The many layers of depth that the dial has as described in the “Dial” section helps certain components literally stand out. Furthermore, the hands are sized differently so you can easily tell the hour from the minute hand and so on.

For a dive watch, the minute hand is perhaps the most important metric in being able to quickly tell how much time has elapsed and how much remains. Therefore, it was wise of Spinnaker to make such a large, differently colored minute hand so that it stands out from the rest.

Based on the hands’ design, even the time can be read with just a mere glance. The clarity of the sapphire crystal, with the support of the anti-reflective coating, means the Dumas will not catch any glares nor will it distort the view even when viewed at an angle. Furthermore, the sapphire crystal will also ensure that the dial is protected from any impacts. Sapphire is the most durable glass option that a dive watch can have, and it is also scratch-resistant.

In addition, the dial and bezel markers let you tell time down to the exact minute. Each hand extends all the way out to the marker so that there is no question as to which marker the hand is pointing to.

Lastly, the date window at the 3-o’clock position is helpful for those who want a reminder as to the date. There is no day option. The high contrast between the grey background, black font, and bold trim helps it to stand out and makes reading the date very straightforward.

Using the Bezel

The markers on the bezel improve the overall readability of the watch as well. With its special triangle marker at the 12-o’clock position, it is easy to track the orientation of the bezel. Smaller markers march each minute up to the first 15 minutes so that as your time runs low, you can more precisely track how much time remains.

Furthermore, the rectangular markers at the 3, 6, and 9-o’clock positions act as reference points as well, and the smaller tick marks for every 5 minutes further increases the speed at which you can read the time.

Rotating the bezel on the Spinnaker Dumas helps you track not only elapsed time, but it can also be used to track the time in a second time zone – a helpful feature.

Luminescence

spinnaker dumas lume

Using the Spinnaker Dumas at night or in the dark while deep underwater is possible thanks to the Swiss Super-Luminova applied to each marker on the dial and bezel. The lume is super indeed with how bright and crisp it is. It lights up in a bluish-green hue and lasts for hours.

It should not be an issue using this watch in the dark, particularly because the huge sword-shaped minute hand is so clearly visible at all times. In fact, the glow from the minute hand is so strong that it practically appears to be backlit, illuminating a portion of the dial behind it.

With that said, the extreme brightness provided by the lume lasts only for the first 15 minutes or so, then will gradually decrease to a low-level state where it will remain for a long time. This process is the same for all lume, but lower-quality lume will be even dimmer and lose its glow faster.

Even as the Super-Luminova dims, it is bright enough that you can read the time in the dark easily. The charge lasts for over 8 hours in the low-level state, which is more than adequate for a day of diving.

The Bracelet

spinnaker dumas lugs

The Dumas’ sharkmesh strap with deployant clasp offers a decent amount of adjustability for sizing it to your wrist and this can be done without any tools. The clasp is straightforward to open and close, and when closed it feels snug and secure on your wrist.

One issue we had with this bracelet was with how it handles the excess strap portion. While the Dumas does include a metal strap loop intended to secure this excess portion, the loop is not secure enough and tends to slide down during regular wear, letting the excess strap hang off the wrist

Additionally, when putting the watch on, it can be hard to get the loop to slide over the excess portion. You may need to slide and finagle your way through, and when it comes loose, you have to repeat this process which can be annoying.

The bracelet is connected to the lugs with a spring bar. The lugs do not have drilled holes, so you need to access them from inside which is straightforward enough to do.

We highly recommend you swap out the included bracelet with a NATO strap instead.

Comfort

With such a bold and macho watch design, it shouldn’t be a surprise that comfort is going to be affected. As we mentioned above, the Spinnaker Dumas has an octagonal profile and is very thick. Not only is its case 15mm thick, but you have to consider that the bracelet is 4mm thick and where it overlaps, it adds an extra 8mm of thickness. This also affects how heavy the Dumas is, which is a hefty 7.2oz/204g. However, much of this can be fixed by simply replacing the bracelet.

The bracelet contributes nearly half of the watch’s total weight. Plus we have already mentioned its annoying usability issue. That’s two strikes and since this isn’t baseball, the bracelet is out. The first thing you should do when you get the Spinnaker Dumas is replace the strap with a NATO strap.

Replacing the strap not only significantly lightens the watch, but now you don’t have to deal with the metal edges of the sharkmesh that can irritate the skin. This improves the watch drastically from a comfort perspective. It will feel like a world of a difference once the NATO strap is on. After the swap, the case size and weight will barely be noticeable and the Dumas will be as comfortable to wear as other high-quality watches.

With that said, replacing the bracelet doesn’t change the fact that the case itself is 15mm thick. Removing some of the thickness makes it easier to slide under the cuff, however it may still occasionally snag on the cuff based on its inherent thickness. As such, the Dumas is best-suited for casual environments where you don’t need to dress up.

Additionally, based on its large size (44mm diameter, 48mm lug-to-lug), people with smaller wrists may have some difficulty wearing the Dumas. With that said, perhaps you can make it work and the large size of the Dumas can help you make a statement. However, the Dumas fits average-sized wrists the best.

The crown is a decent size and may occasionally contact the skin. Since its flat side has a rounded surface with a mineral crystal insert, it should not feel too irritating when it does press against the skin.

Overall, comfort is a major issue with the included bracelet. This is something that can be mostly mitigated by replacing the bracelet.

Spinnaker Dumas Review: The Verdict

Clearly, the Spinnaker Dumas is a dive watch that is designed with usability in mind. It provides many features such as an impressive water resistance rating of 300m/1000ft, excellent readability due to the design of the dial and its strong lume, a high-quality sapphire crystal with AR coating for clarity and durability, Japanese automatic movement with hacking and handwinding, and a 24-month warranty.

There’s lots to like about the Dumas, but it isn’t perfect either. The included sharkmesh bracelet is not comfortable and causes the usability to take a hit. At the time of reviewing, the Spinnaker Dumas costs $400, and this is a fair price for what it offers even if you factor in an extra charge for a new bracelet.

If you are a fan of the retro look and want a large watch to make a statement, then leave it to the Spinnaker Dumas to excite the eye whenever you look at it. Seriously, the dial looks absolutely fantastic and its usability at night is excellent. If you plan on doing plenty of diving, then you should consider the Spinnaker Dumas.

You can find all the Spinnaker Dumas variations here.

Photo Credits: SeriousWatches

Best Rolex Submariner Homage – Affordable Look-alikes

The next best thing to wearing a Rolex Submariner is wearing a high-quality Submariner homage that looks and functions like the real thing.The Submariner homages in this list are elegant, reliable, and long-lasting – just like the original Submariner is. What’s more, they can be yours at a fraction of the cost. Sound too good to be true? Let’s dive in and see what each one has offer.

Our Top Picks:

Best Rolex Submariner Homage: Recommendations

Orient Mako II

ORIENT Men's 'Mako II' Japanese Automatic Stainless Steel Diving Watch
3,825 Reviews
ORIENT Men's 'Mako II' Japanese Automatic Stainless Steel Diving Watch
  • Mineral crystal
  • Crown:Screwed-down.120-Click unidirectional bezel
  • Japanese-automatic Movement

The Orient Mako II is a popular entry-level dive watch that has a number of impressive features. Being the second version, it features numerous improvements over the first and it is also clearly inspired by the Submariner.

Intended to be a value watch, it’s clear that some of the finer details in the Orient Mako II aren’t perfect. However, what Orient have managed to achieve with the Mako II is nothing short of amazing. The Mako II has the boldness that you want from a dive watch, yet it retains a sleekness that adds some subtlety.

The stainless steel case has a diameter of 41.5mm and is 13mm thick. This makes it smaller than most dive watches, and that isn’t something we’re complaining about because dive watches tend to run large. The Mako II should fit snug on most wrist sizes, particularly because of the way the case hugs the edge of the bezel and gives off a contoured look. The lug width is 22mm, a fairly popular size. The result is that the proportions between case and band are perfect.

Looking at the dial, in all variations you will see a sporty and fun watch with a sunburst dial in the color that you selected. In the sunlight, the Mako II shifts the angle of the light and this changes the color of the dial all the more vibrant. The hour markers on this watch are applied and also sporty. Each marker has a polished silver outline and is filled with lume.

What good are the markers without hands pointing to them? The Mako II’s hands are simple, sword-shaped, and exude a touch of elegance. Just like the markers, the hands are also filled with lume and edged in a polished silver. The second hand stands out with its sporty flare and bright red pointer. Its body consists of a long needle in contrast to the thick hour and minute hands; the second hand really stands out.

Next, the Mako II has a stainless steel bezel with a painted top surface and polished, ribbed outer surface. The bezel is a major reason why this dive watch appears to be more reserved and elegant compared to many other divers. The size of the Arabic numbers are subdued, the paint has more of a matte finish, and there is a slant downward from the glass for a more mature look.

The glass on the Mako II is a scratch-resistant mineral glass with a flat face that sits flush against the edge of the bezel. Where the edge of the crystal meets the edge of the bezel, there is an angled groove cut which provides an extra bit of refraction and reflection. This does not interfere with the visibility of the dial at all and is a nice touch. When viewed at severe angles, the image does not distort at all.

At the 3-o’clock position is the crown. Since the Mako II has a water resistance rating of 200m/660ft, it has a screw-down crown to thank for that. The crown guards are a part of the case and smoothly stick out to protect the crown. The crown itself is made of polished silver with grooves cut in the sides for added grip.

Lastly, the Mako II has an oyster style stainless steel bracelet with a polished finish on its end links and brushed finish on its main links. This is a classic look popularized by the Submariner, and the Mako II knows better than to change what works.

Overall, there’s lots to love about the Mako II but it’s not perfect by any means. We had some minor comfort and usability issues, but the diver overall is so affordable and the rest of it is good enough that we’d be crazy not to recommend it. From its 200m water resistance, to its versatile style, automatic movement with hacking and handwinding, and all for around $150. As for as value goes, the Mako II is nearly unbeatable.

Check out our full, in-depth review of the Orient Mako II by clicking here.

Casio Duro Marlin MDV106-1AV

Sale
Casio Men's MDV106-1AV 200M Duro Analog Watch, Black
28,633 Reviews
Casio Men's MDV106-1AV 200M Duro Analog Watch, Black
  • 200 M Water Resistance
  • Diver inspired Rotating bezel with anti reverse, Screw down crown
  • Date display Regular timekeeping Analog: 3 hands (Hour, minute, second)

The Casio Duro “Marlin” MDV106-1AV is well-known for its affordable price and great usability. The Casio Duro is a bit of an anomaly, in that it is perhaps the cheapest dive watch that claims to have 200m of water resistance, whereas many watches in a similar price range are merely “diver-style” watches. Other than its above average specifications, the Casio Duro looks amazing; no surprise, considering its source of inspiration.

This Submariner homage has a stainless steel case that is high angular, with a few contoured corners around the crown and lugs. Due to how curved they are, the lugs are relatively short and keep the lug-to-lug distance low. Given the MDV106-1AV’s 44mm case diameter, such short lugs help to keep the watch from looking abnormally large when worn, even on smaller wrists.

Furthermore, the sides of the case are polished to a mirror sheen, and the bottom of the case and tops of the lugs have a more brushed finish. We examined the case closely and could not find any machining imperfections left behind during the manufacturing process. The finish and fit is very high thanks to Casio’s rigorous quality control, and that’s impressive for a watch this affordable.

Looking at the Duro from the front, you are treated to a gorgeous, minimalistic dial. There is almost no text on the dial and the watch looks very clean overall. It’s hard to tell in pictures, but the dial reflects a starburst pattern when viewed at an angle, and that gives this otherwise plain dial a lovely accent. The applied lume markers stand out from the dial and align perfectly with the dashes on the chapter ring and positioning of the hands. The attention to detail is excellent for a watch at this price range.

The unidirectional rotating bezel on the Casio MDV106-1AV is fairly standard. It has Arabic numerals every 10 minutes, and thick rectangular bars for every 5 minute position. The first 15 minutes are marked with smaller bars every minute, similar to the Submariner. The notched edges provide additional grip when rotating, and the 120-click bezel gives off a satisfying “click” as it turns.

Turning to the back, you will find the screw-lock caseback and the Marlin engraving which gave this watch its moniker. One nitpicky complaint we have is that the case is not horizontally aligned but that does not affect the functionality of the watch at all. The screw-lock caseback and screw-down crown contribute to this watch’s 200m water resistance.

Speaking of the crown, it’s located at the 3-o’clock position and has notched edges to provide extra grip. It is highly polished, with a reflective finish on the end of it. Next to it are two crown guards which offer protection. If you look at the crown from the back, you can see that much of the crown extends below the crown guards on the bottom. This is unusual, as that means it is less protected at the bottom.

We are not particularly happy with the crown because of this flaw, as well as the fact that the crown is undersized. The rest of the 44mm case looks massive in comparison and we wish the proportions were better here. On top of that, the crown feels fiddly and cheap when unscrewing and adjusting it. Thankfully the quartz movement is very accurate and you will not need to unscrew the crown often.

Overall, if you are in need of an inexpensive Submariner homage, you can’t really go wrong with the Casio MDV106-1AV. With its 200m of water resistance, it can handle swimming, boating, snorkeling, diving, whatever you want to subject it to. While many of the watches in this list are budget-friendly, this is perhaps the most affordable one. You will be hard-pressed to get a watch at this price point with the same specifications as the Casio Duro Marlin MDV106-1AV.

Check out our full, in-depth review of the Casio Duro MDV106-1AV by clicking here.

Tissot Seastar 1000 Powermatic 80

Tissot Men's Seastar 660/1000 Stainless Steel Casual Watch , Black
216 Reviews
Tissot Men's Seastar 660/1000 Stainless Steel Casual Watch , Black
  • Case Size: 43.00 millimeters, Bandwidth: 21 millimeters, Case Thickness: 12.70 millimeters
  • Swiss automatic movement, 316L stainless steel case, Index dial type, Date
  • Rubber bracelet, standard buckle closure

The Tissot Seastar 1000 Powermatic 80 is a luxury dive watch from Swiss manufacturer Tissot, and it is clearly influenced in both water resistance and style by the Rolex Submariner. The “1000” in its name is a reference to its maximum depth resistance of 1000ft (300m), which the Rolex Submariner is also capable of.

Tissot brings a refined and elegant look to the design of the Seastar, and it wouldn’t look out of place in even the most formal of occasions. Once again, the same can also be said of the Rolex Submariner, so how does this homage watch compare?

At a glance, the Seastar has a beautiful 316L stainless steel case with a 43mm diameter and 12.7mm thickness. By dive watch standards, the Seastar is not small by any means, but far from being a big watch. The fact that it is somewhat sleek helps it to pass as a watch suitable for more formal occasions despite being capable of underwater diving.

Furthermore, the case has a smooth, brushed finish. The lugs are slender to maintain a sleek profile, and the lug-to-lug distance runs 47.3mm long. With a lug width of 21mm, it makes things a little awkward if you are looking to replace the bracelet. However, it’s a decent width that matches the proportions of the overall watch. The lugs are not drilled so spring bar access is more difficult, but this helps keep the look clean.

Looking at the dial, it is clear that Tissot wanted the Seastar to have a simple and elegant look, with a few quality touches that exhibit its Swiss luxury watch status. The dial is black but has a sunburst finish, making it look like a deep charcoal color. The hour markers are applied and consist of simple shapes – a triangle for the 12-o’clock, rectangles for 3, 6, and 9-o’clock, and small dots for the rest.

Additional markers can be found on the outside edge of the dial on a chapter ring. The bezel also contributes with Arabic numbers for every 10 minutes, and a major tick for every 5 minutes. The markers strike the perfect balance of being simple enough to look elegant, yet still being very functional for the user to tell the time quickly.

Next, the Tissot Seastar has a beautiful black ceramic bezel with silver accents. It has a reflective sheen that is attention-grabbing, and the ribbed outer surface provides excellent grip and looks sleek.

Additionally, the Tissot Seastar has a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal that is flat and sits perfectly flush against the edge of the bezel. The crystal provides exceptional clarity; even when viewed at extreme angles, the image is not distorted. Honestly, it does its job so well you’d hardly even know it’s there, and it contributes to the overall classiness and appeal of this watch.

Turning to the back of the watch, the case back is made of stainless steel with a glass exhibition window so you can see the Tissot Powermatic 80 automatic movement inside. If you are a fan of seeing the complex engineering in action, like we are, then this is a sight to behold.

Located at the 3-o’clock position is the crown. It is surrounded by two crown guards that jut off the main case sharply to ensure the crown is protected. The crown itself has a domed outer surface and ribbed sides for extra grip. You will notice this is highly reminiscent of the Submariner’s design.

Overall, the Tissot Seastar is one classy dive watch. Though it is clearly inspired by the Rolex Submariner, it also has its own distinct style that is simple and elegant enough to be worn for any occasion. All of its components, from its silver and white hands, applied markers, and black ceramic dial add up to a quality product that is a worthy alternative to the original.

Check out our full, in-depth review of the Tissot Seastar 1000 Powermatic 80 by clicking here.

Invicta Pro Diver 8926OB

Invicta Men's Pro Diver Collection Coin-Edge Automatic Watch
  • Stainless steel case 40mm diameter x 14.1mm thick; Exhibition case back; Black dial; Luminous hands.Band Length: 205mm
  • NH35A Japanese Automatic movement, 24 jewel; Assembled in Malaysia; Watch weight 155 grams
  • Includes gift box, instructions and 3 year limited manufacturer warranty; Invicta Customer Service can be reached at 1-800-327-7682 for questions (re:...

First introduced in the 90s, the Invicta Pro Diver 8900 series introduced many Rolex Submariner homage watches, and the most popular one is their 8926OB model which bucks many design trends and provides incredible value for the money. You can get it for less than $100 and there is an even cheaper quartz version, but we don’t recommend that one.

Being a Submariner homage, it’s not surprising that many aspects of it are virtually identical to the original. Its size, shape, and overall appearance make it seem almost like a 1:1 copy. Some watch collectors have berated it, calling it the “cheap copy” or the “poor man’s version” of the Submariner. However, when the real thing has a cost of 5-figures what’s wrong with getting a more affordable alternative?

Taking a closer look at the watch, we see that the 8926OB’s case is made of stainless steel with a mixture of polished and brushed surfaces. Both are done impressively well considering the price point of this watch. The proportions are nearly identical to the Submariner: 40mm case diameter, 14mm thickness, 20mm lug width, but the lug-to-lug distance is a bit larger than indicated, meaning it wears slightly larger.

Turning our attention to the dial, we can see that the 8926OB is covered by a mineral crystal glass. This is par for the course for budget watches, as a sapphire crystal would increase the cost of the watch. Even though it can be reflective, the dial can still be easily read in most situations.

The design of the dial is also very similar to the Submariner. From the hands, the bezel, and the markings; it all looks like the Submariner. There are a few notable differences, however. First, the logo. Second, the hour makers are slightly smaller and have a yellow-green tinge. Third, the dial sits deeper in the watch, resulting in a thick chapter ring. While this design is far from unique, there’s a reason why the Submariner has inspired so many watches: the design just works.

In low visibility conditions, the lume applied on the hands, markers, and the 12-o’clock position on the bezel will light up. Don’t expect anything special, however. Its brightness and duration is subpar, and at this price point, that’s about what we expected. The same can be said of its supposed 200m/660ft water resistance rating. We highly doubt that it can go that far, and will go as far as to say we don’t think you should be diving with it.

Lastly, let’s take a look at the bracelet. Other than the hollow end-links, the bracelet is composed of solid, stainless steel links with alternating polished and brushed finishes. The bracelet works with the overall aesthetic of the watch and is weighty which gives it a solid feel. Unfortunately, the fold-over clasp is lower-quality and makes the bracelet feel cheap.

Overall, the Invicta Pro Diver 8926OB retains a surprisingly high amount of quality despite being so affordable. With its Seiko movement and great build-quality for the cost, it’s not surprising that the Pro Diver series, particularly the 8926OB is selling so well. If you are after a low-cost watch that can pass as a Rolex Submariner, then the Invicta 8926OB is worth considering.

Check out our full, in-depth review of the Invicta Pro Diver 8926OB and other watches in the Pro Diver line by clicking here.

Loreo Submariner

The Loreo Submariner is an homage watch from a manufacturer that we honestly haven’t heard of. It’s also unbelievably affordable, and so our guard up was up. Clearly some corners were cut somewhere, and it’s obvious that Loreo is a Chinese company looking to cash in with this Submariner look alike. We were looking to trash it until we tried the watch and found it to be a surprisingly good product for its price.

First off, this homage watch is available for around $100. We’re gonna be upfront about this, but if you are on a tight budget, then this watch is actually a good deal. It has a case diameter of 40mm, with 13mm thickness, 48mm lug-to-lug distance, lug width of 20mm and a low weight of 150g. These specs are very similar to the Submariner; so far so good.

The case is made of stainless steel, and the overall design looks almost like a carbon copy of the Rolex Submariner; in other words, it looks very good. If there is one watch you want to look like, it’s that one. We have no complaints about the design, which means it does the job well.

Depending on which version you ordered, the dial will either be a black, blue, or green color. We personally think the green color looks vibrant and makes the watch stand out. The overall look and feel of the dial is very much like the Rolex which it is based on. The hand and hour markers have been applied with lume so that it can be used in the dark. Particularly if you have the green version, the Loreo gleams in the sunlight beautifully. The hands rotate smoothly and we had no issues with them.

Next, the crown is located at the 3-o’clock position. It is a solid screw-down crown which turns smoothly and is easy to operate. The crown does have an “L” inscribed on it which may be a downside to some. Loreo is not a household name like Rolex is, but we can hardly fault the company for trying to promote their brand.

Apparently this watch has a maximum depth rating of 200m (660ft), which we absolutely do not trust despite having a screw-down crown. In fact, we don’t recommend you take this watch scuba diving at all. It is not ISO 6425 certified, and the watch is too cheap for us to believe its material is high-quality enough to withstand the water pressure at depth.

With that said, the Loreo Submariner somehow has a sapphire crystal. Yes, you read that right, it has a sapphire crystal. Most budget watches have some cheap mineral crystal, but this watch from Loreo legitimately has a sapphire crystal. However, it doesn’t have an anti-reflective coating on it, but at this price point we can hardly complain.

To sum it up, the Loreo is perhaps one of the best affordable Rolex Submariner homages that isn’t an Invicta. In our testing, we found its Seagull movement to perform on the same level as the reputable Miyota and Seiko movements found in more expensive watches. For around $100, you are getting a watch that is surprisingly high-quality for its price point. If you are on a tight budget then this one’s for you.

Check out our full, in-depth review of the Loreo Submariner by clicking here.

Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster BN0151-09

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Citizen Promaster Dive Eco-Drive Watch, 3-Hand Date, ISO Certified, Luminous Hands and Markers,...
8,194 Reviews
Citizen Promaster Dive Eco-Drive Watch, 3-Hand Date, ISO Certified, Luminous Hands and Markers,...
  • Iconic Promaster watches with advanced functions designed to venture to the deepest depths.
  • 3 Hand, Date
  • Silver-Tone Stainless Steel

There are many useful and interesting watches in Citizen’s Eco-Drive Promaster Diver range. Most notable among them is the BN0151-09 for several reasons: it looks great, it’s solar-powered, and it is affordable. Let’s dive into what else this watch has to offer.

When you wear the BN0151-09, you will be shocked at how lightweight it is (for a dive watch). You may even forget that you are wearing it on your wrist as you go about your day. With a thickness of only 12mm, the Citizen Promaster has a slim profile, particularly if you are using the stock strap. Switching it to a NATO strap would make it stand up more. The case diameter is 43mm, which is suitable for 7” wrists. Furthermore, the lug-to-lug distance is short so it helps this watch fit on smaller wrists.

Looking at the dial closely, you’ll find that the Eco-Drive Promaster is clean and all of the components of the dial are laid out well. The only unusual design choice is that the date window is located at the 4-o’clock position instead of the usual 3-o’clock, which means it is at an angle and breaks symmetry. The silver lining is that the 3-o’clock marker is preserved, whereas most watches would only have a half marker or no marker at that position.

All of the markers are applied which helps them literally stand out. They are also generously filled with lume and lined in chrome. Most of the hour markers are simple circles, but the markers in the 3, 6, 9, and 12-o’clock positions are distinctly shaped so wearers can tell the orientation of the watch even in complete darkness.

The bezel on the BN0151-09 is relatively simple. Each marking is painted onto the aluminum insert, and unfortunately we found that scratches show up on it easily. Arabic numerals are present at every 10-minute increment, the 5-minute increments are thick rectangular bars, and small circles mark each minute. None of the markings on the bezel have lume in them except the pip at the 12-o’clock position.

The outer edge of the bezel has an interesting design not often seen. For the most part, it’s smooth; these are areas where it’d be harder to turn the bezel since they provide no grip advantage. At set distances apart are groups of grooves that provide grip, and we counted 6 of these groupings. This design style reduces the amount of machining required and is functional, albeit less so. When turned, the bezel has a pleasant clicking action and can be rotated easily even with thick gloves on.

As with all dive watches, the BN0151-09 has a screw-down caseback and screw-down crown. The crown is a decent size and easy to operate as well. Two crown guards extend outwards about half the length of the crown, offering some protection.

Next, the stock strap that comes in the box is supple and we found it comfortable to wear. It’s even long enough (though just so) to be worn over dry gloves when diving, depending on your wrist size. A strap extender may be necessary for those with larger wrists. Printed on the strap itself is a small table of the no-decompression limits for air diving.

The Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster BN0151-09 is a fantastic watch at a low price. With its Eco-Drive technology, all you need to do is expose it to light to charge it. It has great features, a quartz movement, and it looks good. For a solar-powered diver, the price point of this watch is a steal.

Check out our full, in-depth review of the Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster BN0151-09 by clicking here.

Stührling Depthmaster 893

Mens Swiss Automatic Stainless Steel Professional DEPTHMASTER Dive Watch, 200 Meters Water...
39 Reviews
Mens Swiss Automatic Stainless Steel Professional DEPTHMASTER Dive Watch, 200 Meters Water...
  • SWISS AUTOMATIC MOVEMENT - High Quality Swiss Made Automatic Self-Winding Mechanism 36 Hr Power Reserve - fully assembled and produced in Switzerland...
  • WATER-RESISTANCE 660 Feet / 200 Meters with screw down crown and rubber gaskets, Suitable for Professional Marine Activity - Diving Snorkeling and...
  • NO BATTEIES NEEDED: Automatic self-winding mechanical movement utilizes your natural movements to keep your wristwatch running for as long as you wear...

Stührling is a brand that makes beautiful homage watches at affordable prices. Their secret: they source most of their components from China to offer you rock-bottom prices. Chinese components, particularly movements, are surprisingly reliable and cost-effective. With the Stührling Depthmaster 893, you have a Submariner look-alike that also provides similar functionality.

To start, the Stührling Depthmaster has a 42mm stainless steel case with a water resistance rating of 200m/660ft thanks to its screw-down crown. It has a unidirectional rotating bezel with 120 clicks for smooth and satisfying rotating action. The case is 14mm thick, and it has a lug width of 22mm. Its hands and hour markers are filled with lume, and the Depthmaster has a three-link stainless steel bracelet with push-button clasp. The Depthmaster 893 is available in both blue and black dial versions.

As we mentioned, and the reason why you’re here, the Stührling Depthmaster is basically identical in its design to the Submariner. Other than the differences in quality and price, there are a few other notable differences. First is the caseback, which is transparent in the Depthmaster and shows off its self-winding movement. Second is the date window in the 3-o’clock window which is not present in the Submariner.

More than just a pretty looking watch, the Stührling Depthmaster 893 is rugged. It can withstand the water pressure at depth thanks to its screw-down crown, rubber gaskets, and durable scratch and impact-resistant Krysterna crystal. This crystal is not only durable, but offers great clarity for you to read the time. The case is made from 316L surgical grade steel, and the luminous hands and indices make this watch the perfect companion for low-visibility conditions..

The heart of all dive watches – their movement – affects how accurately the watch keeps time which is their primary purpose. Thus, a low-quality movement means a low-quality watch. So what’s the movement in the Stührling Depthmaster like? We couldn’t find the exact information, but we strongly suspect it is the Claro CL-888 which is made by Claro Watch SA, a company based in Hong Kong that has been in business for over 50 years.

Marketed as Swiss calibre despite coming from a Hong Kong based company, the manufacturer has an operation in Switzerland where they perform some kind of operation, thus allowing the company to say their movement is Swiss. Honestly, this is kind of scummy on their part, and we are providing this information for full transparency.

So even though there is some shady stuff going on behind the scenes, how good is the movement exactly? It features a self-winding mechanical movement and 36 hour power reserve so you never need to worry about its battery. Your natural wrist movement should keep the watch going assuming you wear it daily. Some users have complained about inaccurate timekeeping, but others have had no issues so your mileage may vary.

Stührling is a company with a mixed reputation. While most of their reviews are positive, there is the occasional negative review claiming the watch was dead on arrival. It’s clear that a lot of work went into designing these watches, but some of their components are sourced from cheap factories. However, many people stand by their Stührling watches, and if you want an affordable Submariner homage then this is one to consider.

Seiko 5 SNZF17 Sea Urchin

SEIKO 5 Automatic Black Dial Stainless Steel Men's Watch SNZF17
  • Stainless Steel Case and Band with Push Button Deployment Clasp and Safety Lock Feature
  • Day/Date Display with Spanish Option, Luminous Markers, Hardlex Crystal for Durability
  • Unidirectional Bezel

As far as affordable automatic dive watches are concerned, Seiko makes some of the best in the industry. The Seiko 5 “Sea Urchin” SNZF17 is one such watch. It has everything you want in a watch at this price range plus extra: excellent build-quality, reliable and accurate movement, well-finished, and long-lasting. It is clear to see that this watch was also inspired by the high bar set by the Rolex Submariner. Let’s see how the Sea Urchin holds up.

Being part of the Seiko’s “5” collection, the Sea Urchin meets the following 5 specifications: automatic winding, water resistant, date/date display, recessed crown, as well as durable case and bracelet. This collection was first released way back in 1963, and these 5 criteria were the pillars which each watch was designed around. The fact this line is still popular over 50 years later is a testament to their quality.

The SNZF17’s stainless steel case is 41mm in diameter, 13mm thick, and is heavily inspired by the Submariner. It is an optimal size for a dive watch; large enough to feel sturdy and reliable, but small enough so it doesn’t feel too bulky or weighty. It sits nicely even on smaller wrists yet has a notable presence. This is exactly what you want from a sporty dive watch.

Next, the dial of the SNZF17 offers great legibility thanks to its large hands and hour markers which contrast against the dark dial. The minimal, clean look of the dial reveals this watch’s personality instantly. It oozes elegance and class, much like the watch that it is inspired by. The markers are applied and filled with lume, as are the hands.

The lugs have a brushed, satin finish which is contrasted by its polished sides. Its width is 22mm, and the case has an overall lug-to-lug distance of 46mm. At the 3-o’clock position sits a push-pull crown that is guarded by two discreet crown guards. The crown itself is recessed with deep grooves that provide additional grip.

This dive watch will sit snug on your hand thanks to the 22mm three-link stainless steel bracelet with removable end links. It uses a fold-over clasp with spring-loaded release buttons to stay secure on your wrist or detach as needed. The bracelet is serviceable and you can easily swap it to a NATO strap if you want. The one downside is that this bracelet has folded end links.

It’s no secret that dive watches are not only used for diving; this versatility is part of their appeal. You can wear the Seiko SNZF17 for all manner of occasions, from casual to formal. It works extremely well when worn with a suit, just as the Rolex Submariner has proven itself able to do.

In fact, even if you wanted to dive with the SNZF17, its  water resistance rating of only 100m/330ft means this watch is only suitable for swimming or snorkeling but not scuba diving. This is one area where the Sea Urchin falls far short of the Submariner; the Submariner is a true dive watch whereas the Sea Urchin can more accurately be described as dive-inspired.

With that said, the SNZF17 does come with a 120-click unidirectional rotating bezel to help you keep track of elapsed time. When rotating it, the action is smooth and the audible clicks are satisfying to hear. Unfortunately, the bezel does not have as good of a grip to help with rotating, but it works.

Seiko watches all come with Seiko’s own in-house movements, and this one is fitted with the 7S36 automatic movement. This movement has a 40-hour power reserve and is equipped with 23 jewels. Capable of displaying hours, minutes, seconds, day, and date, it has proven itself to be durable, sturdy, and reliable.

Overall, the Seiko 5 “Sea Urchin” SNZF17 is a stylish and sporty timepiece that gives you a whole lot of watch for the price. It is durable, robust, and timeless in design much like the Rolex Submariner. With that said, it’s no Submariner, but it’s not trying to be either. This watch is excellent on its own right and worth buying as an affordable alternative to the Submariner.

Seiko Prospex SBDC051

Yet another candidate for the title of best Submariner homage is the Seiko Prospex SBDC051. This watch is part of Seiko’s Prospex line, which is short for “Professional Specification.” It is designed for sports lovers that “challenge every limit” and can be used in the water, sky, or on land.

Ever since Seiko launched Japan’s first dive watch in 1965, they have continued to perfect their watches to provide even more safety and reliability for both recreational and professional divers.

Visually, the SBDC051 is perhaps one of the most beautiful Seiko watches we have seen. It has an elegant, clean, yet sporty design. These are the same things you could say about the Submariner. Let’s look at this watch in greater detail and see why it is so popular.

Looking at the case, the SBDC051 is beautifully finished with a combination of both polished and brushed surfaces. Polished bevels can be found all around the case which helps to make the case look smaller. The lugs have a special design where they appear to be cut off, creating a sharp 90 degree edge that ends the case.

Thus, this watch has a 42.6mm diameter and 49.5mm lug-to-lug distance. Its lug width is a standard 20mm. With a thickness of 13.8mm, it is not exactly small but it’s not too big either. One element that makes this watch so convenient to use are the lug holes that makes removing the bracelet easy.

Located at the 3-o’clock position is the screw-down crown and crown guards. The crown is slightly recessed, and it should be screwed-down if you want to create a seal to keep water out. Thanks to the tight seal that the crown creates, the SBDC051 is water resistant to 200m/660ft. This is sufficient for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, but not enough for deep dives.

To further assist with diving, the unidirectional rotating bezel has 120-clicks which allows it to operate smoothly and accurately. The bezel insert is slightly domed and has a glossy finish which gives it a high-quality look and greater depth. The luminous pip at the 12-o’clock position helps you see how much time is remaining in the dark.

Protecting the dial is a domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating. This is a marked improvement since Seiko often uses Hardlex crystal in their more affordable watches.

Powering the SBDC051 is an automatic mechanical movement, the Seiko 6R15. Two notable features present in this movement are the hacking and handwinding functionality that you don’t often see in Seiko’s budget watches. The movement beats at 21,600bph (6 beats per second) for extremely smooth hand movements.

The 6R15 has a 50-hour power reserve, and the energy is stored in the Spron 510 mainspring. It has 23 jewels which reduces friction and improves accuracy. Based on our experience and on other reviews, the 6R15 is accurate, durable, and long-lasting. Based on the official specifications, it has an accuracy rating of +25/-15 seconds per day, but ours typically fell within +/-10 seconds a day.

Turning our attention to the dial, the Seiko Prospex SBDC051 has everything you’d want from a sporty dive watch. As we mentioned already, the watch is clean, minimalistic, and elegant. That means that the dial is uncluttered and offers excellent legibility.

To start, the dial is a lovely matte black that has a rich texture and prevents glare and reflections. At the outer edges of the dial is a chapter ring with printed second markers. The dial has rectangular hour markers that tapers towards the end that points to the center of the dial. Each marker is filled with Lumibrite, as are the hands. In the dark, the indices and hands glow to allow continued operation.

At the 3-o’clock position of the dial is the date window. It has a white background and black text with a white frame around the window. The marker here has been completely replaced by the date window.

Next, the printing found on the dial is clean and provides only the most salient information: the Seiko logo, the Prospex logo, depth rating, and “automatic” in reference to its automatic movement.

The hands are easy to read thanks to how wide some of them are. The hour hand is literally just a fat arrow. The minute hand is a thick sword, and the second hand is just a thin piece of metal.

Overall, if you are looking for a watch that has an elegant design that punches well above its weight in terms of price and quality, then you should consider the Seiko Prospex SBDC051.

If you are interested in other Seiko watches, then check out our review of the Seiko Turtle SRP777 by clicking here.

Best Rolex Submariner Look-Alikes: The Verdict

If you really want to wear a Rolex Submariner but you can’t afford its 5-figure price tag, then your next best option is to wear an homage watch. However, even an homage watch can get quite pricey, but thankfully there are some high-quality alternatives that won’t break the bank.

In this article we reviewed a list of the best affordable Rolex Submariner homage watches that will turn heads and “wow” people as if you were wearing a bona fide Submariner on your wrist. You can’t really go wrong with any of these watches, but if you skipped our main review and came straight here for the summary then this is what we recommend.

For those who want the absolute best price to performance ratio, then we recommend the Casio Duro MDV-106AV. As far as we can tell, this is the holy grail of affordable dive watches. Not only does it look good, but it actually does everything it says on the box. Oftentimes you have to take watch specs with a grain of salt unless they are ISO 6425 certified, but the Casio Duro holds up well and can be yours for less than $100. The downside is that its case diameter is 44mm which is quite large, so those with smaller wrists may want to look for something else.

Our next recommendation is the Orient Mako II. This is yet another watch that we consider a “steal” for its price. It is a modern classic and can be your first serious dive watch. It is suitable for any and all occasions. Whether you want to go for a dive or wear it with a suit, it will feel right at home. It is incredibly accurate and durable enough to withstand whatever you put it through. Its case diameter is 41mm, so those with smaller wrists won’t feel left out. All in all, this watch is a modern classic and provides fantastic value for its price.