Which dive mask for weekend snorkelling?

Slingshot

Slingshot

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My girlfriend and I want to start snorkelling together. Nothing serious, mostly just tidal pools along the coast, exploring the critters and fish found here.
I'm looking for suggestions on dive mask brands and what to look for in a mask. Nothing fancy, but I want to avoid buying junk. Price range probably up to R500. Any suggestions? I've seen Aqualine, Cressi and Torpedo brands at the local fishing shop in Ballito. I know that I should look for silicone masks, with a wide view to the sides if possible, but that's about it.
 
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For snorkeling you dont need anything fancy but I suggest pushing it against your face to check if it fits comfortably and seals properly because everyones face is a bit different and some will work better for you than others.
 
Thanks, any other features I should look for, or is that about it?
 
There are loads, Look at Mares as well, they have a very nice "wide angle" mask.
 
Comfort is number 1, to test - look down at the floor and hold the mask up to your face and inhale gently through your nose.
if the mask holds to your face you know its a good fit.
You also can look at single lens mask some people prefer it for better visibility and clear or black silicone but really its all a matter of personal preference.
 
Spend a bit more to get a good fit, nothing takes you out of the moment quite like a leaking mask.
 
All the goggles, diving masks I've ever used fog up terribly! Try get a pair that don't! They treated with an anti fogging coating. Expensive though.
 
sand_man said:
All the goggles, diving masks I've ever used fog up terribly! Try get a pair that don't! They treated with an anti fogging coating. Expensive though.
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Spit or an anti fogger (or baby shampoo/water mix for the home brewer)
 
Go for black silicone, the clear ones starts to turn a ugly brown after a year or so.
 
sand_man said:
I've often done the spit thing! Prefer fog to an eye full of spit TBH! :)
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I seldom have an issue with fogging up. When I get a new mask, I take some Colgate toothpaste and rub it against the inside of the mask for a while. Toothpaste is ever so slightly abrasive and assists in 2 ways. (a) Reduces fogging; (b) Assists with anti fog agent to stick better to the glass to prevent fogging. The anti fogging agent I use is baby shampoo ... you can go buy the expensive stuff, but baby shampoo is the least expensive to do a proper job.

@OP - don't go for a specific brand. You need something that fits your face perfectly. The suction test as mentioned before is fine provided you or your GF does not sport moustaches. :p . Fit is the most important and if that means spending an extra buck, do so - you will thank me later.
 
I always struggled with masks from discomfort to durability. I have a very cool Scuba shop in my area that I buy all of my equipment from and the owner suggested a Poseidon 3D mask that he gave to me at about R600 (he always has specials when asked nicely). Totally worth it. Most comfortable and durable mask I have ever owned.

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