5 Best Prescription snorkel mask for glasses and lens wearers.

The best part about snorkeling is that you get to see a hidden underwater world with your very own eyes. However, things aren’t that simple for people with glasses or contact lenses. So, we’re sharing our experience and reviewing the best prescription snorkel mask for people wearing glasses or contact lenses.

Note: If you are looking for best snorkel mask without prescription you can read our review linked.

People wearing glasses face a few challenges when wearing a snorkeling mask. One might think, “How about I wear glasses and put my mask over them?” It might look like it would be easy, but the glasses’ earpieces cause the mask’s skirt to lift, resulting in an inappropriate seal, which might result in leaking and fogging of the mask. The main concern for people wearing contact lenses is losing their lenses if water enters the mask. Salty water can also get stuck behind the lens, causing discomfort.

A well-fitted mask that seals securely around the face is essential for a safe and enjoyable snorkeling experience. Traditional snorkel masks may not accommodate prescription lenses or glasses, leading to blurry vision and needing to remove the mask, which can detract from the experience.

Ultimately, selecting the right mask tailored to our vision needs allows us to explore the underwater world with clarity and confidence.

2. Solutions for Snorkelers with Vision Correction Needs.

2.1. Prescription Snorkel Masks.

Prescription snorkel masks have built-in corrective lenses according to the user’s prescriptions. These lenses are integrated directly into the mask, offering seamless vision correction for people with sight problems.

The standard lenses are replaced by corrective lenses in the mask. These masks are made from tempered glass and can be customized according to one’s requirements. Some models allow different prescriptions in each eye, providing a complete solution for people with asymmetric vision needs. The prescription mask doesn’t require additional accessories.

Benefits:

Convenience: No need for additional accessories. Just wear the mask and enjoy.

Clarity: High-quality prescription lenses allow a clear view under the water.

Comfort: Wearing glasses or contact lenses is not required, allowing for a comfortable experience.

Considerations:

Cost: The price is higher than a standard mask.

2.2. Optical Lens Inserts

Optical lens inserts are detachable frames with prescription lenses inserted. They fit in the standard snorkel or dive mask and are mounted in the mask with clippers or suction. They match your prescription and can be replaced if needed.

Benefits:

Flexibility: The lenses can be used with different masks if they fit.

Adaptability: The lenses can be changed if the prescription changes, allowing for adaptability and

Cost-effective: this option is considered cost-effective.

Considerations:

Fogging: An extra layer of lens added to the mask may cause fogging.

2.3. Custom-Bonded Lenses

Custom bonded lenses are permanently attached to the inner surface of the mask’s inner lens. They provide an option for precise optical vision without compromising the mask’s original design.

An optical lab uses a unique adhesive to bond the prescription lens with the mask’s lenses, which allows the lens to stay intact even during rigorous underwater activities.

Benefits

Precision: Tailored for high or complex prescriptions.

Durability: The lenses don’t shift as they are bonded in the mask’s lens

Considerations

Cost: Expensive compared to other masks as they are customized.

3. Top Recommendations for Prescription Snorkel Masks.

3.1. Wave Nearsighted snorkel mask (best prescription snorkel mask for nearsighted)

Wave nearsighted snorkel mask is a very convenient option for people with myopia.

It is widely known to provide a clear view and eliminate blurry due to nearsightedness.

It has a detachable camera mount attached to the top, allowing us to attach a GoPro. This makes it perfect for photo- and video-loving people who want to record special moments along their underwater journey. However, if you don’t want the camera mount, the good news is you can detach it anytime you want.

It has anti-fog tempered glass, which is safe and prevents the glass from getting fogged. Fogged glass results in blurry vision, making snorkeling less enjoyable. Moreover, it provides a 180-degree underwater view, making it a perfect choice for people who love discovering marine life.

It comes with a silicon head and safety ratchet buckle, which allows us to adjust the size of the mask for a comfortable fit, which is very important. The silicon face skirt lets the mask sit perfectly on different face shapes and sizes.

The snorkel comes with a dry float valve, making breathing easy. It can be attached to the mask with a buckle—it is that simple. When underwater, the valve seals and doesn’t let the water enter, while when you are back to the surface, it opens, and a soft silicone mouthpiece allows for easy breathing.

It comes with a mesh bag, making it easy to carry while traveling. Moreover, It also has essential accessories, including a mask, snorkel, and two earplugs.

It comes with eyesight options and doesn’t require additional lenses or inserts.

3.2. [+2.0 to +5.0] Aleefa Hyperopia Diving Mask (best prescription snorkel mask for farsighted)

This mask is designed for people with hyperopia or farsightedness to allow everyone a fair chance to enjoy a magical activity like snorkeling. It solves the problem of people who wear glasses or contact lenses by fitting custom-fit lenses in the mask according to the user’s requirements.

The lens is made of tempered glass, which is always a safe option (important). It also provides a clear view underwater as it comes with HD glass, which makes snorkeling more enjoyable and allows us to see all the underwater details.

One of the most important things I emphasize is the mask fit. If the fit is not good, water might enter the mask, hindering vision. This mask has a soft silicon skirt that allows it to fit properly on the face, including the curves or different face features of different people. Plus, it comes with an adjustable headband that allows easy adjustment and size flexibility.

Its quality is good, which makes it a long-lasting option.

3.3. Promate snorkel mask for prescription

It comes with a two-window Rx-able scuba dive mask with a channeling skirt that keeps bubbles away from the view. Corrective lenses (Slender OP270) are available separately.

This mask comes with a Cobra Dry Whistle snorkel, a perfect quality snorkel. The snorkel has a separate valve to breathe the air out and a one-way purge valve that keeps the water out of the snorkel. It also has the same feature of the seal closing while submerged in the water, not letting the water in, and the seal opening up when we go to the surface, allowing us to breathe easily.

The mask is buckled directly on the skirts, allowing it to fit perfectly on different face shapes and sizes and providing a very comfortable snorkeling experience.

It is made of suitable quality materials. Making it a long-lasting option.

3.4. Cressi Dive Mask with Inclined Lenses.

This mask allows the lenses purchased separately to be added to the mask. Lenses are available separately according to the user’s requirement.

It has a very special feature. It has inverted teardrop-like lenses to improve downward Visibility. This reduces the inward space in the mask, making it easier to equalize pressure and use it underwater. This mask provides a broad view due to the big-sized viewing glasses, which are inverted, allowing a more expansive view without the need to tilt your head.

It has very high-grade silicon, allowing it to fit all face types well. This allows you to enjoy a leak-free snorkeling experience with comfort and safety.

However, this mask can fog up more when used continuously than the other options discussed. However, it is still a good option for an optical snorkel ma, as Cressisi is an excellent brand for snorkeling masks.

3.5. IST Prescription Hypoallergenic checkered correction.

This dual-lens prescription snorkel mask is another perfect option for people with vision needs. We can insert Lenses seperately in the two window frame.

The mask is adjustable, and a variety of Rx lenses are available in increments of -0.5 to +0.5, allowing people with different prescription requirements to see underwater clearly.

The lens is shatterproof. If it breaks, it will absorb the impact and remain intact, which is vital for eye safety.

The silicone is of good quality and is hypoallergenic, making it skin-friendly for people with sensitive skin.

This mask does not come with a snorkel, so you will need to buy the snorkel separately.

Now that we have seen our mask options, I’ll discuss some more options, which are lens inserts and lens support. It is a perfect solution for people looking to adjust their favorite mask according to their prescription needs and who do not want to buy a mask separately for this purpose only.

3.6. Scuba spec prescription Lens insert.

Heads up: Please note that this will only work with masks that have a single glass view. It cannot be inserted in masks with separate eyepieces.

This lens insert allows us to put our prescribed lenses in the frame and insert them into the mask.

Installation is easy and fast. It attaches to the mask securely using 3Ms Dual Lock reclosable Fastener material. This kit can accommodate any power lens, whether single-lens vision, bifocal vision, or magnifiers (readers). Optical lenses are not included with this frame and must be purchased separately from the website on the product page (click here to go to the product page). OR you can buy them from any local optician.

The benefit of this frame is that if your prescription changes, you can easily replace the lens and wear it accordingly.

It is made of durable nylon material.

3.7. Ocean Reef Optical Lens Support

It is also a lens insert for snorkel masks, which can easily be used with single-frame masks. It comes with removable legs. So, when you are not snorkeling, they can be used as inexpensive glasses.

It also has a customizable lens option and a removable frame, making it very handy for people who are searching for a more customizable contact lens option than snorkel masks.

They are easy to install and remove, and the fit is excellent. Thus, you can enjoy an enjoyable snorkeling experience without wearing contact lenses.

Please note it is usable with all single-frame masks except for XS size.

4. How to Choose the Right Prescription Snorkel Mask.

4.1. Assessing your prescription needs.

Determine your prescription strength.

First, review your latest eyeglass prescription. It is an essential factor in clear vision underwater. Some snorkel masks have built-in lenses installed, so you need to carefully assess the prescription and order the mask accordingly. After assessing, you need to get the right lenses for lens inserts.

Consider the single vision of bifocal Lenses.

If you need to see both distant and closeup to check your dive watch or underwater camera settings through your snorkel mask, you can opt for bifocal lenses, which allow you to see both. A single lens is ideal for straightforward vision correction.

Lens inserts VS built-in lenses

Now that we have a clear idea of built-in lenses and lens inserts, you can choose according to your requirements. Lens inserts offer the flexibility of replacing lenses if needed, whereas built-in lenses have fixed lenses.

4.2. Fit & Comfort

Check the seal

I always emphasize that the fit of the mask is crucial for enjoying snorkeling and for safety. The silicon skirt on the mask should create a watertight seal around the face. There are also hypoallergenic options for people with sensitive skin.

Adjustable straps

Adjustable straps and buckles allow the user to adjust the size according to their size. Sometimes, the strap can be too tight, causing discomfort during extended use.

Face shape compatibility

Some masks, such as XS-size, are designed for specific face shapes and sizes. If you are unsure what mask would be better for you, look for the size mentioned on the product page, measure your face accurately to match, and make a valid purchase decision.

4.3. Lens Options & Materials

Lens materials

Most masks come with tampered glass, which avoids scratches and is shatterproof to protect your eyes if the glass breaks. This feature is essential for durability and eye protection. Some masks also offer HD lenses for a better view underwater.

Anti-fog coatings

Many masks have an anti-fog coating to prevent condensation from forming on the lenses during exhalation. However, some masks do not have an anti-fog coating. For these masks, I always recommend an anti-fog spray that you can apply before using them.

Lens shape

Single lens and dual lens are both popular. However, a single lens provides a panoramic view, whereas a dual-lens offers a limited view compared to a single lens. Also, if you choose the lens insert support frames we reviewed, you’ll need a single lens frame.

UV protection & polarization

If you plan to snorkel in sunny situations, you should opt for UV masks to prevent glare and protect your eyes.

5. Maintenance and Care for Prescription Snorkel Masks.

Investing in a prescription snorkel mask significantly enhances your underwater adventures. But to enjoy it for a prolonged period, it is essential to properly care for and maintain your snorkeling equipment. Here are some tips for storing, cleaning, and keeping your snorkel mask:

5.1. Cleaning your snorkel mask.

Rinse after each use.

After every use, rinse the mask with clear water to remove salt and sand particles. Salt can cause erosion, while sand can scratch the lens.

Use mild soap.

You can wash the mask with mild soap to remove sunscreen, anti-fog spray, or anything else; some cleaners can damage the mask’s material.

Avoid abrasive materials

Always use a soft cloth or fabric to clean your mask. Never use sponges or towels, as they can scratch the lenses. You can use your thumb to rinse the mask.

5.2. Storing your mask properly

Dry completely before storing

After washing, store the mask in a dry and cool place to air dry. Ensure it is scorched before storing it to avoid mold or mildew growth.

Protect from direct sunlight.

Sunlight exposure can cause the mask’s color to fade, weakening the silicon; use a protective case or a shaded area to store your mask.

Use a protective case.

A durable mask protective case can protect it from sunlight and might offer protection against scratching of lenses as it can rub against another item during storage or travel.

5.3. General Maintenance Tips

Check for damage

Always inspect your mask for damages. Look for cracks, tears in the silicon skirt, or loose straps. Early identification of issues can prevent further damage.

Replace straps or buckles.

If straps or buckles feel worn out or lose elasticity, replace them instantly to ensure a safe and comfortable fit.

Handle with care.

Lastly, always carry your mask gently. Avoid dropping the mask, as even tampered glass can get cracked.

6. Conclusion

There are different kinds of solutions for people with vision needs. There are three types of prescription masks: lens inserts and custom-bonded lenses. We discussed the top masks and options for people with glasses. Some masks have built-in lenses installed with prescription options; others support lens inserts, allowing the option to buy the lens separately. Lastly, lens support frames can be inserted into single lens masks and fitted with custom lenses, available separately, allowing complete customization options.

Choosing the best option among these is essential according to your personal preferences, as it will decide how amazing your snorkeling experience will be. You can also choose from other options, but keep in mind the points we discussed in the buying guide above. This way, you can have a fantastic experience without worrying about vision correction.