Finding the right mask and snorkel combo is step one in building a dive rig. An easy-breathing snorkel and a dry, comfortable mask that provides an expansive field of view are critical for maintaining the fun factor of any time spent in the water. Here are our picks to get you started ...

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-Looking for a mask or snorkel? Here are some things to consider before you make the purchase: All About Masks & Snorkels.
-Not sure what type of lens you want? Read What You Need To Know About Masks.
-Already love your mask or snorkel? Make sure it stays in shape with our 3 Ways To Care For Masks And Snorkels.
-Want to shop around? Check out our Dive Gear Review: The Best Masks And Snorkels.

—Skirt provides more contact area with the skin to reduce mask marks on the face.

—Full-swivel Cardanic Joint strap buckles have built-in guards to prevent hair entanglements.

The single-lens Linea was designed for a woman’s face. The lens, skirt and frame are molded as one rather than assembled; this allows the lens to sit close to the eyes, resulting in excellent field of vision. aqualung.com, MSRP: $95

—Skirt is made from a soft, high-seal silicone that molds to a variety of face shapes for extra comfort.

—Dual-lens design offers excellent visibility while remaining lightweight.

This low-volume mask features lenses that are angled inward to radically increase downward visibility. The thickness of the headband has been reduced to the point that it’s practically invisible when being worn at depth. cressi.com, MSRP: $99.95

—Angled tempered-glass lenses feature an inverted teardrop shape for an excellent downward view.

—Available in a variety of colors with both black and clear silicone skirts.

Designed for free diving and spearfishing, the Nano dual-lens mask is made to fit close to the face, minimizing internal volume and making equalizing so much easier. The buckle mechanism provides quick-strap adjustment. cressi.com, MSRP: $109.95

— Crystal silicone resists aging, discoloration and fogging.

— Swivel buckles connect to flexible elastomer tabs for durability; prescription lenses are also available.

Utilizing the best of Cressi mask technology, the Big Eyes Evolution features raked, inverted teardrop-shaped lenses that sit close to the eyes for an exceptional field of view. The Crystal silicone skirt fits a wide range of faces. cressi.com, MSRP: $99.95

—Two side windows in addition to a wide front face plate maximize horizontal field of view.

—High-tech buckles and bi-silicone strap simplify adjustments and enhance comfort.

Mares’ top design technologies have been condensed into this tri-view mask. The skirt uses two types of silicone: firmer near the frame for structural support, and ultrasoft where it comes in contact with the skin, creating a comfortable underwater view. mares.com, MSRP: $94

—New design expands field of view by 20 percent.

—Anatomical skirt features two types of silicone and ribbed design for comfort.

The X-Vision offers vibrant colors and an innovative new look with an anatomical skirt co-molded from two types of silicone, and formed with horizontal ribs to ensure a comfortable fit and seal. Mares’ Ergo Buckles make for quick and easy adjustment of the split strap. mares.com, MSRP: $94

—Low-profile dual-lens design sits close to the eyes to maximize field of view.

—Black-matte frame and skirt look stealthy for scuba, spearfishing or free diving.

The black-on-black Onyx is compact and low-volume, making it easy to clear, and its soft skirt and near-custom design deliver a comfortable fit on a wide range of faces. It comes with effective push-button buckles and an ultranarrow strap that incorporates a split headband. sherwoodscuba.com, MSRP: $70

—Integrated diving mask with wireless underwater communication system.

—Options for visor light, heads-up display and wireless communication.

Don’t think of this as a full-face mask; think of it as an integrated underwater system that includes communication, lighting, dive-data recorder, and instrument displays with a wide-view shield. oceanreefgroup.com, $985

—Wide tempered-glass lenses provide exceptional horizontal view.

—Quick Disconnect Buckle system allows the strap to be quickly removed.

The Oracle+ comes with a 1.75 positive diopter in the lower one- third portion of each lens to provide magnification when reading computer screens and gauges. An ample nose pocket makes for easy equalizing on descents. sherwoodscuba.com, MSRP: $104

—Stability ridges and dimples on the silicone skirt help provide a superior fit and seal.

—Reduced lens-to-pupil distance and thin frame offer a superb view.

The Freedom HD uses Freedom Technology to achieve a good seal and comfortable fit. The mask’s single lens, narrow frame, low volume and low-friction sealing surface combine for an “HD” view. The 180-degree rotational buckle system is a plus.tusa.com, MSRP: $89

—Ultrasoft skirt designed to comfortably fit any shape and size face.

—Two thicknesses of silicone make the skirt firm and supple where needed.

The new Trufit uses a single type of silicone in two different thicknesses to create a skirt that’s firm near the frame but soft and supple where it contacts the diver’s skin. The design delivers a mask that fits a wide variety of face shapes. scubapro.com, MSRP: $119

The exhaust valve and patented dry top keep out water no matter how rough it is, and the engineered top and bottom hardware keep things dry while its ergonomic shape reduces drag in the water. The corrugated hose drops the mouthpiece out of the way when not in use. mares.com, MSRP: $45

Mouthpiece is anatomically shaped to minimize discomfort, even after prolonged use. This streamlined snorkel has been built specifically for deep fishing and free diving. Touting a simple yet functional design, its unique construction allows it to bend against objects and then spring back into its original position. In green or stealth black. cressi.com, MSRP: $19.95

Supersoft silicone rolls up tight, and pops right back into shape when needed. Designed for diving, snorkeling and spearfishing, this simple, inexpensive J-snorkel rolls into a tight little ball but springs back into its original shape in an instant. subgear.com, MSRP: $20

Float mechanism closes instantly to prevent water from entering the upper snorkel tube. The streamlined Alpha Ultra Dry allows users to take every breath with confidence. A flexible lower-tube section helps to reduce jaw fatigue, and the lower purge valve expels water quickly. cressi.com, MSRP: $44.95

Profiled splash guard significantly reduces water entry when swimming on the surface. A smaller version of the Beta, the Sigma is easy to pack for dive vacations. It has an upper splash guard, plus a drainage well beneath the mouthpiece that collects and quickly expels water. cressi.com, MSRP: $29.95

Profiled splash guard deflects water away from the top of the tube when swimming in choppy seas. The Beta Semi-Dry has a large-bore tube that allows lots of airflow, while its streamlined shape reduces hydrodrag. It comes with a mask clip and is available in a range of colors. cressi.com, MSRP: $32.95