How to Choose the Perfect Scuba Mask: Fit, Features & Our Top Picks
Choosing the right scuba diving mask is one of the most important steps in building your dive kit. A good mask should feel like an extension of your face—comfortable, watertight, and crystal clear. Whether you’re exploring coral reefs or diving wrecks, your mask is your window to the underwater world, and a poor fit can turn an epic dive into a frustrating one.
At Gold Coast Dive Adventures, we know how personal mask fit can be, which is why we’ve launched our Online Dive Gear Shop with a handpicked range of masks we trust and use ourselves. The best part? If you dive with us, you can try before you buy—we stock rental versions of each of the masks we sell, so you can test your favourite on a real dive before making the commitment.
Let’s dive into what makes a great mask—and explore the options we offer in-store and online.
What Makes a Great Scuba Mask?
A quality scuba mask has three core features:
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Fit: It should seal gently but securely against your face without pressure points.
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Visibility: A good field of view enhances your situational awareness and enjoyment.
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Comfort & Design: Low-profile designs, soft silicone skirts, and easy-to-adjust straps matter—especially on longer dives.
How to Fit a Scuba Mask Properly
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Dry Fit First: Hold the mask up to your face (without using the strap) and gently inhale through your nose. A well-fitting mask should stay in place without leaking air.
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Check the Skirt Seal: Whilst holding the mask gently to your face, the silicone skirt should form a smooth seal all around your face, especially around the nose and cheeks.
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Strap Placement: The strap should sit comfortably above your ears and hold the mask snugly, not tight.
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Nose Pocket: Make sure the nose pocket allows easy equalisation without pinching or pressure.
Pro tip: Everyone’s face is unique—what works for one diver might not work for another. That’s why we recommend trying masks in the water whenever possible.
Single-Lens vs. Double-Lens Masks: What’s the Difference?
When choosing a scuba mask, one of the first decisions you’ll encounter is whether to go for a single-lens (single-pane)or a double-lens (dual-pane) design. Here’s a quick breakdown of the pros and cons:
Single-Lens Masks
Examples: Oceanic Shadow, Fourth Element Seeker, Cressi Z1 & Z2, Hollis M1
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Pros:
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Seamless, uninterrupted field of view.
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Often offers a more open, panoramic feeling underwater.
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Simpler design, often frameless and lower-profile.
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Cons:
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May not be compatible with prescription lenses.
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Can be slightly more prone to breakage due to the single piece of glass.
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Double-Lens Masks
Examples: Cressi Quantum, Cressi Zeus, Cressi Nano
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Pros:
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Can accommodate prescription lenses more easily.
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Typically have lower internal volume, making them easier to clear and equalize.
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Some divers find they fit more snugly on narrow faces.
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Cons:
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Slightly narrower field of vision.
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The frame between the lenses may slightly obstruct peripheral vision (although most divers quickly get used to it).
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Which is better? It really comes down to personal preference and face shape. That’s why we love offering the chance to test both styles on an actual dive before you decide.
Our Top Scuba Mask Picks (Tried and Tested)
We’ve selected a lineup of dive masks that we believe in—offering something for every face shape and preference. Here’s what we offer both online and in-store:
1. Fourth Element Seeker (Single-lens)
A true all-rounder, the Seeker is made with ultra-soft silicone and designed to fit a wide variety of face shapes. With a low internal volume and wide lens, it’s ideal for divers who want maximum visibility without bulk.
2. Cressi Z1 (Single-lens)
Sleek and frameless, the Z1 is a lightweight, single-lens mask that offers excellent forward vision. It’s great for divers who want minimalist gear without compromising performance.
3. Cressi Z2 (Single-lens)
Building on the Z1, the Z2 is their newer model with some small refinements in style from the Z1.
4. Cressi Quantum (Double-lens)
The Quantum is packed with innovation. It features a patented heat exchanger to reduce fogging and a dynamic shape for optimal hydrodynamics. If you hate foggy masks, this could be your new best friend.
5. Oceanic Shadow (Single-lens)
The Shadow’s frameless design makes it compact and easy to stow. The soft skirt molds effortlessly to your face, offering an excellent seal with minimal pressure.
6. Oceanic Mini Shadow (Single-lens)
Like the Shadow, but slightly smaller—ideal for divers with narrower faces or younger divers. Same great visibility and comfort, just a more snug fit.
7. Hollis M1 (single-lens)
A favourite among technical and recreational divers, the M1 features an ultra-clear, distortion-free glass lens. If you want premium optical quality, this mask delivers.
Try Before You Buy – Dive with Confidence
It’s hard to know if a mask will work for you until you’ve taken it underwater. That’s why, when you dive with us at Gold Coast Dive Adventures, you can test any of the masks we sell. We carry rental versions of the Fourth Element Seeker, Cressi Z1, Cressi Z2, Cressi Quantum, Oceanic Shadow, Oceanic Mini Shadow, and Hollis M1. Just let us know in advance or speak to your dive guide—we’re always happy to help you find your perfect fit.
Need Help Choosing?
If you’re unsure which mask is right for you, get in touch or visit us before your dive. Our experienced dive professionals have used every mask we sell and can offer tailored advice based on your face shape, diving style, and experience level.
Explore Our Full Range Online
Ready to find your perfect mask? Browse our full lineup of tried-and-tested dive gear on our online store:
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned diver, the right mask makes a world of difference. And at Gold Coast Dive Adventures, we’re here to make sure your underwater experience is nothing short of spectacular.