Unlike some other gear, your wetsuit must fit perfectly, or it won’t work. In addition to fit, keep in mind where, when, and how often you’ll be using the suit. In warm environments, you’ll want to wear something to protect your skin from cuts, scrapes, stings, and the sun. Colder climates call for a thicker suit, and potentially a base layer to keep the cold out.

For more of our top freediving gear recommendations check out the Best Freediving Fins.

Reviews - The Best Wetsuits for Freediving

Neo Skin Jumpsuit

Specs

• Material: Nylon 2 Neoprene
• Closure: Back Zip
• Seals: Lycra Cuffs
• Seams: Flat-Lock Stitched, Taped at Intersecting Seams
• Style: One Piece
• Thickness: 1mm

Features

• Long Lasting Metal Hardware
• Doubles As A Base Layer In Cold Climates
• Ideal For Tropical Dive Travel
• Padded Knees For Extra Protection

BEST FOR: WARM WATER

The Neo Skin Jumpsuit is a top pick for freedivers in warm, tropical climates. It offers plenty of protection from the sun and sea but won’t require a lot of diving weights to counterbalance. This suit is compact and lightweight, so it’s easy to pack for travel. And, it works well for SCUBA, too. The Neo Skin features an extra-long metal YKK back zipper, so it’s easy to don and doff, and its hardware is sure to last for seasons to come. Its adjustable collar helps lock water out, keeping you nice and toasty inside. Plus, it offers padded knees for comfortable kneeling in between immersions.

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Henderson Long Sleeve Shorty

Specs

• Material: Nylon 2 Neoprene
• Closure: Front Zip
• Seals: Lycra Cuffs
• Seams: Glued and Blind Stitched
• Style: Shorty
• Thickness: 3mm

Features

• Abrasion Resistant Exterior Prevents Wear
• Front Closure For Easy Donning And Doffing
• Available In Sizes XS - 6XL
• Long Lasting Metal Hardware

BEST FOR: VERSATILITY

Are you looking for one suit that does it all? The Henderson Long Sleeve Shorty is one of the most versatile options available on the market. It’s compact and travel-friendly, can be layered with additional exposure protection for added warmth, and it won’t break the bank. This suit was designed for SCUBA but works well for freediving, as well. Its long sleeves offer more aquadynamic improvement than a traditional shorty and add to your core warmth. A front zipper and wide range of sizes make this suit easy to get in and out of, no matter your size or body type. Plus, its high-quality seams and hardware will stand the test of time, unlike flimsy competitors.

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Seac Pirana

Specs

• Material: Polyester, Polyurethane, Nylon 2 Neoprene
• Closure: Beavertail
• Seals: Lycra Cuffs
• Seams: Sewn
• Style: Two Piece
• Thickness: N/A (7mm chest guard, otherwise very thin)

Features

• 7mm Chest Panel For Extra Core Insulation
• Camouflage Pattern For Stealth While Spearfishing
• Polyurethane Reinforcement In Knees, Elbows, And Lower Back
• Attached Hood For Added Warmth

BEST FOR: LIGHTWEIGHT COMFORT  

The Seac Pirana was designed for spearfishing in the tropics. It’s hardly the warmest model on the market, but it’s lightweight and comfortable, easy to pack, and a top pick for new freedivers. This model uses an attached hood, Lycra trim, and 7mm chest panel to add warmth since it’s made primarily from stretch Polyester. It features Polyurethane reinforced panels to prevent wear and tear in sensitive areas like the knees and elbows. Plus, its green camouflage pattern is perfect for spearfishers hiding from potential prey. The Seac Pirana also makes an excellent base layer for divers in cold climates.

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Cressi Bahia Flex

Specs

• Material: Nylon-2 Neoprene, Rubber
• Closure: Front Zip
• Seals: Aquastop Wrist and Ankle Seals
• Seams: Sewn
• Style: One Piece
• Thickness: 2.5mm

Features

• Front Closure For Easy Donning And Doffing
• Long Lasting Metal Hardware
• Flexible Panels For Ease Of Movement
• Double Lined Neoprene Resists Compression At Depth

BEST FOR: EASY DON AND DOFF

Do you struggle to get in and out of your wetsuit? The Cressi Bahia was designed specifically for divers with wide shoulders, broad chests, and big busts. This suit’s front closure makes it easy to don and doff, even without the help of a buddy. Its double lined Neoprene won’t compress at depth, so it’s less likely to bind and squeeze. And, it uses thinner panels of Neoprene in the arms and legs, giving it extra flexibility and stretch. While this suit was not designed for apnea, it’s a favorite among freedivers, especially those who struggle to find a properly fitting suit.

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ScubaPro Element

Specs

• Material: X-foam Neoprene
• Closure: Beavertail
• Seals: Smooth-skin Wrist, Ankle, and Face Seals
• Seams: Glued, Sewn
• Style: Two Piece
• Thickness: 3mm

Features

• Sharkskin Textured Neoprene Eliminates Hydro Drag
• Thicker Neoprene Torso Increases Thermal Protection
• Flexible Panels For Ease Of Movement
• Attached Hood For Added Warmth

BEST FOR: DIVERS WHO GET COLD  

If you tend to get cold before other freedivers in your group, you’ll need a suit with plenty of extra protection. The ScubaPro Element features an attached hood and reinforced chest panel for extra warmth. Its zipperless design and Smooth-skin seals help lock water out, retaining your core heat. Meanwhile, lightweight, flexible Neoprene panels in the arms and legs help ensure you have a full range of motion underwater. The Element also features a shiny Sharkskin exterior to reduce drag in the water and resist abrasion and wear. While this model won’t win any points for style, it will keep the cold out longer than similar suits designed for the fashion-conscious.

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Beuchat Zento

Specs

• Material: Smoothskin Neoprene
• Closure: Back Zip
• Seals: Lycra Cuffs
• Seams: Sewn
• Style: One Piece
• Thickness: 2mm

Features

• Anatomical Cut For Extra Flexibility
• Smoothskin Open Cell Neoprene Eliminates Hydro Drag
• Flexible Panels For Ease Of Movement
• Comfort Collar Locks Water Out Without Binding Or Squeezing

BEST FOR: OVERALL VALUE

The Beauchat Zento is one tough wetsuit. This is one of the few one-piece models designed for freediving, with tons of special features just for apnea. Its comfort collar keeps water out, without restricting your breathing like similar designs. This design element is perfect for freedivers who feel uncomfortable or claustrophobic in diving hoods. Its Smoothskin open-cell exterior reduces drag, making you fast and more hydrodynamic. Plus, its anatomical design and flexible panels in the arms and legs give you more range of motion than similar suits. While intended for freediving, the Zento is also a popular pick for triathletes and other water sports enthusiasts.

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Salvimar N.A.T. Camu

Specs

• Material: Neoprene, Rubber
• Closure: Beavertail
• Seals: Round Seal System at Wrists, Ankles, Hood, and Waist
• Seams: Double Glued and Blind Stitched
• Style: Two Piece
• Thickness: 3.5mm

Features

• Camouflage Pattern For Stealth While Spearfishing
• Attached Hood For Added Warmth
• Reinforced Puff-Gum Knees And Elbows
• NAT Open Cell Neoprene Eliminates Hydro Drag

BEST FOR: SPEARFISHING 

If you’re an avid spearfisher, the Salvimar N.A.T. Camu was designed with you in mind. This suit uses camouflage to help you remain undetected during the hunt and NAT Neoprene for extra speed and agility. The Camu also helps you stay warm with its attached hood, double glued and stitched seams, and round seals at the wrist, ankle, and hood. Reinforced knees and elbows will keep this wetsuit looking like new, even if you spend a lot of time crouched in the rocks. Though it doesn’t come with all the bells and whistles some higher-end models offer, the Camu is an outstanding piece of equipment for serious spearfishing.

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Omer Black Moon

Specs

• Material: Nylon-2 Neoprene
• Closure: Beavertail
• Seals: Lycra Cuffs
• Seams: Glued and Sewn
• Style: Two Piece
• Thickness: 5mm

Features

• Camouflage Pattern For Stealth While Spearfishing
• Attached Hood For Added Warmth
• 3D Open Cell Neoprene Won't Compress At Depth
• Insulated Chest Panel For Core Warmth

BEST FOR: COLD CLIMATES

The Omer Black Moon isn’t a fashion focused wetsuit, but if you’re diving in cold water, it’s one of your best options. This model uses black on black camouflage to disguise hunters in cold climates and dark water. Its reinforced chest panel helps keep your core warm and makes loading a large speargun easy. The Black Moon’s rolled seals, attached hood, and open-cell construction will help fight the chill, too. This wetsuit’s Neoprene won’t compress at depth, so you’ll need to dive with more weight, but it’s guaranteed to keep you warmer than similar models. This wetsuit’s delicate open cell construction is prone to tearing during donning and doffing, so it’s not a good choice for beginners.

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THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A FREEDIVING WETSUIT 

If you already own a wetsuit for surfing or diving, you may be able to use it for freediving. But it’s not ideal. Wetsuits designed for apnea usually come in two pieces and include a hood. They pull on instead of using zippers to reduce water exchange and allow for more flexibility. This design also gives your chest more room to expand during your breathe-up. 

FIT

Your freediving suit should fit like a second skin. Too loose, and it won’t keep you warm. Too tight, and you’ll feel uncomfortable in the water. 

A properly fitting wetsuit should be snug but allow you a full range of motion. You should be able to squat, stretch, and twist comfortably without any binding or restriction. Double-check that you have plenty of flexibility around your chest, neck, and throat, as these areas will expand and contract during your dives. And, be sure that you feel no pinching or pressure around your knees, groin, armpits, and elbows. A suit that fits poorly at the joints will squeeze your skin while you freedive, leading to discomfort at depth. 

THICKNESS

Freedivers aren’t in constant motion when they dive. You’ll spend time waiting on the surface, breathing up, and spotting buddies. So, you’ll probably get colder faster than you would swimming or SCUBA diving. Choose a slightly thicker suit than you think you’ll need to keep the chill out. 

Wetsuit thickness is represented in millimeters. The higher the number, the thicker and warmer the suit. Remember that unlike SCUBA divers, you won’t be wearing heavy equipment to cancel out your suit’s buoyancy. So, every millimeter of Neoprene will have to be balanced out by wearing weights in the water. 

If you’re freediving in tropical climates,  a skin suit or rash guard might be enough protection. These lightweight options protect against the elements without adding bulk or buoyancy. But, most divers prefer a 3mm suit or thicker. If you’re worried about restricted motion, opt for a suit that uses thicker panels in the torso to insulate your core without reducing flexibility. 

Keep in mind that your wetsuit won’t keep you warm if it doesn’t fit well.  Double-check for a proper seal around your wrists, ankles, and neck. If water is entering and exiting through these points, your core temperature will drop, and you’ll feel colder faster. 

STYLE

Freediving wetsuits come in two pieces and often include a hood. This extra barrier helps keep water from entering and exiting at the neck seal. 

Some freedivers use multisport suits designed for SCUBA and swimming, like skin suits and shorties. These options are fine for plenty of apnea applications, but do keep in mind that they aren’t designed for freediving. 

CLOSURE

Traditional wetsuits designed for SCUBA and other sports use a large single zipper closure. Two-piece suits used for freediving often feature a “beavertail” that snaps shut between your legs. 

SEAMS

Water entering and exiting through your wetsuit’s seams, known as “water exchange,” robs you of your core warmth. Even the best-made suit will let a little bit of water in, but the higher quality your seams, the warmer you’ll feel in the water. If you’re planning to dive in cold climates or naturally get chilly fast, this consideration is especially important. 

Budget suits, designed for warm water, often use glued seams. This construction allows for a lot of water exchange, so it isn’t a good fit for divers who get cold fast.  

Higher quality construction is best for cooler climates. Seams that are taped or glued and then sewn for a more watertight seal are ideal for diving in colder water. This extra step reduces water exchange and keeps the cold out. The two stitches used in this process are called the blind and flatlock stitch. The blind stitch allows less water penetration, and is considered warmer and higher quality.

FEATURES EXPLAINED

HIGH-QUALITY HARDWARE 

Every wetsuit on this list uses a metal zipper or beavertail clip to close. When shopping, look for high-quality hardware from well-known manufacturers like YKK and Velcro. You should avoid any suit whose hardware feels flimsy, weak, or overly flexible. Cheaply produced zippers and clips deteriorate quickly when exposed to saltwater, wearing out well before your suit’s Neoprene.

FLEXIBLE PANELS

Many wetsuits use different thicknesses of Neoprene in different performance zones. Thin, flexible panels in the arms and legs add to your range of motion and make your suit easier to don and doff. Thick panels around your torso help keep your core warm. This extra padding in the chest is also helpful for loading spearguns. 

ABRASION RESISTANT PADS

Abrasion-resistant fabric and pads can protect your wetsuit’s knees and elbows from wear. This feature is especially important for spearfishers, who often spend time crouching in and clinging to rocks and reef. These texturized pads also add grip for comfortable kneeling on the surface.

SPECIAL NEOPRENE TO REDUCE DRAG

Some freediving suits use coated Neoprene to reduce drag in the water. These coatings are usually found on open cell suits, which are harder to maintain. So, while they might look cool, they’re not for newbies. If you’re getting serious about the sport, this type of suit might take your performance to the next level. 

ANATOMICAL DESIGN 

Wetsuits that feature anatomical design are more comfortable and less restrictive while freediving. These models are shaped to fit like a second skin, unlike traditional suits that may bag or bunch in some areas. Other design elements like prebent joints help you maintain the best range of motion possible in the water. 

The post Best Freediving Wetsuits of 2022 appeared first on The Adventure Junkies.

Keep in mind that most SCUBA and snorkeling masks aren’t suitable for freediving. They hold a much higher volume of air and are harder to equalize. In this article, we’ll walk you through all the features and considerations to look for in a freediving mask. Plus, we’ll share our favorite models on the market, with an ideal match for all budgets and skill levels.

For more of our top freediving gear recommendations, check out the Best Freediving Fins.

Reviews - The Best Masks for Freediving

Scuba Max Arc

Specs

• Lens: Reverse Teardrop
• Volume: Low
• Skirt Color: Black
• Strap Style: Skirt Mounted Split
• Skirt Seal: Double Feathered
• Materials: Silicone

Features

• Corrective Lens Compatible
• Texturized Nose Pocket for Easy Equalization
• Extra Wide Skirt Fits All Face Shapes
• Semi-Frameless Design for Extra Flexibility

BEST FOR: BUDGET

If you’re new to freediving or don’t want to spend a ton of money on your mask, the Scuba Max Arc is an excellent option. This entry-level model looks and feels high end, but won’t break the bank. It’s low volume and features an extra-wide feathered skirt, so it fits a variety of face shapes. Its nose pocket has two texturized equalization pads, making it effortless to grip. Plus, its semi-frameless design makes it lightweight and flexible, perfect for dive travel, or carrying underwater as a backup. The Scuba Max Arc uses reverse teardrop lenses, so it offers excellent lookdown vision and is prescription lens compatible, too.

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Cressi Frameless F1

Specs

• Lens: One Window
• Volume: Medium
• Skirt Color: Clear, Black, Colored
• Strap Style: Skirt Mounted Wide Split
• Skirt Seal: Double Feathered
• Materials: Silicone, Rubber

Features

• Frameless Design for Extra Flexibility
• Extra Wide Field of Vision
• Sold in a Variety of Colors
• Folds Flat for Easy Storage

BEST FOR: SCUBA AND FREEDIVING 

Are you into freediving and SCUBA? Most masks won’t work for both sports, but the Cressi Frameless F1is a rare exception. This model features a single window, so it’s higher volume than the other options on this list. But, it’s just fine for beginners in apnea. The F1 is travel-friendly, folding completely flat for easy storage in your luggage or gear pocket. Plus, it comes in a variety of eye-popping colors, so it’s easy to spot underwater and coordinate with the rest of your gear. The F1 fits best on small and narrow faces and even comes in a “mini” size, perfect for kids and female freedivers.

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Mares Tana

Specs

• Lens: Two Window
• Volume: Low
• Skirt Color: Black, Colored
• Strap Style: Skirt Mounted Split
• Skirt Seal: Pocketed Double Feathered
• Materials: Silicone

Features

• Oversized Ergonomic Buckles Are Easy to Use Even With Thick Gloves
• Sold in a Variety of Colors
• Extra Soft Silicone Skirt Seals Well On High Foreheads and Cheeks
• Pocketed Skirt Fits Large Noses Comfortably

BEST FOR: PROMINENT FACIAL FEATURES

If you have a large nose, high cheekbones, or a prominent forehead, you know it can be hard to find a mask that fits well. The Mares Tana uses an extra soft silicone skirt, so it seals and contours well over a variety of face shapes. Its double feathered skirt features miniature pockets around the nose, making it more spacious, but still easy to equalize. The Tana comes in a variety of camouflage colors like blue and green, making it a favorite for spearfishing. Plus, its oversized and ergonomic buckles are easy to grasp and grab, even if you’re freediving with thick gloves.

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Omer Alien

Specs

• Lens: Two Window
• Volume: Extra Low
• Skirt Color: Black, Colored
• Strap Style: Skirt Mounted Narrow Split
• Skirt Seal: Feathered
• Materials: Silicone, Rubber

Features

• Designed Specifically for Spearfishing
• Narrow Skirt Fits Well Over Facial Hair
• Hydrodynamic Low Drag Design
• Optional Mirrored Lenses

BEST FOR: SPEARFISHING

Explicitly designed for spearfishing, the Omer Alien is an industry favorite. But, this mask’s super low volume and nearly drag-free profile make it a top pick, even if you aren’t on the hunt. The Alien is sold in multiple camouflage colors and is available with mirrored lenses. This extra feature reduces glare, protects your eyes from harmful UV rays, and allows your pupils to adjust to light on the surface faster after each dive. Its narrow and flexible skirt seals well over facial hair, and its lightweight, flexible frame contours to fit most face shapes. This mask does have a narrow field of vision when compared to other models, but you’ll get used to it after just a few dives.

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Mares Viper

Specs

• Lens: Two Window Angled
• Volume: Extra Low
• Skirt Color: Black, Colored
• Strap Style: Skirt Mounted Split
• Skirt Seal: Non-Feathered
• Materials: Silicone

Features

• Wide Field of Vision
• Sold in a Variety of Colors
• Flat Finish Silicone Reduces Glare
• Semi-Frameless Design for Extra Flexibility

BEST FOR: EVERYDAY USE

If you spend a lot of time in the water, you’ll want a mask that’s lightweight, comfortable, and built to last. The Mares Viper is a super low profile design, meant to hold as little internal air as possible. Its matte finish reduces glare, no matter which bold color you choose. And, it’s semi-frameless design makes it super flexible, perfect for easy packing and storage. The Viper has a unique non-feathered mask skirt made from super soft, flexible silicone. This special feature helps it seal over facial hair, as well as wide and prominent features, without leaving a ring around your face.

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Omer Zero 3

Specs

• Lens: Two Window Angled
• Volume: Extra Low
• Skirt Color: Black, Colored
• Strap Style: Frame Mounted Wide Split
• Skirt Seal: Ribbed Double Feathered
• Materials: Silicone, Rubber

Features

• Texturized Nose Pocket for Easy Equalization
• Oversized Ergonomic Buckles Are Easy to Use Even With Thick Gloves
• Frame Mounted Strap Stays in Place Even While Diving With a Hood
• Wide Set Frame Fits Well on Round and Asian Face Shapes

BEST FOR: WIDE FACES

Freedivers with round and wide faces sometimes have trouble finding a low profile mask that fits. The Omer Zero 3 has a few unique features, just for you! This model uses a ribbed and texturized nose pocket and bottom skirt to seal well around less prominent facial features. Plus, it’s easy to equalize. Its angled lenses sit close to the eye and are situated far enough apart to accommodate broad foreheads and cheeks. The Zero 3 also uses a frame-mounted mask strap, which is less likely to slip and slide, even if it’s a tiny bit less flexible. This makes the buckles easy to operate, even if you’re diving with a hood and gloves.

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Cressi Nano

Specs

• Lens: Reverse Teardrop
• Volume: Extra Low
• Skirt Color: Black, Clear, Colored
• Strap Style: Frame Mounted Split
• Skirt Seal: Double Feathered
• Materials: Silicone

Features

• Teardrop Lenses
• Corrective Lens Compatible
• Optional Mirrored Lenses
• Designed to Fit Small Faces

BEST FOR: SMALL FACES

The Cressi Nano is an excellent option for freedivers who also enjoy SCUBA, and it works well for both sports. This mask uses a narrow double feathered skirt to form a watertight seal, even on the smallest of faces. It has one of the lowest air volumes available, so it’s super easy to clear. Plus, it offers excellent lookdown vision and prescription lens compatibility thanks to its reverse teardrop design. This mask’s frame-mounted strap features small hardware, so adjusting it underwater might be a challenge for divers with big hands or wearing thick gloves. But, it’s perfect for women and kids who freedive.

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Scubapro Scout

Specs

• Lens: Two Window
• Volume: Low
• Skirt Color: Black, Clear
• Strap Style: Frame Mounted Split
• Skirt Seal: Double Feathered
• Materials: Silicone

Features

• Wide Field of Vision
• Designed to Fit All Face Shapes
• Oversized Ergonomic Buckles Are Easy to Use Even With Thick Gloves
• Frame Mounted Strap Stays in Place Even While Diving With a Hood

BEST FOR: PRO PICK

The Scubapro Scout has been a favorite with working divers for years. This model has all the features you need but skips the trendy bells and whistles that tend to wear out and break. It’s low profile, easy to equalize, and fits a wide variety of face shapes, so it’s a top pick for shop rental gear, too. This mask’s frame-mounted strap and oversized buckles are easy to adjust and won’t budge a bit while you’re in the water. Plus, the Scout is available with a clear skirt, perfect for divers who experience mild claustrophobia with black masks. This model does cost more than the competition, but it’s totally worth it.

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Aqua Lung Micro

Specs

• Lens: Two Window
• Volume: Low
• Skirt Color: Black, Clear
• Strap Style: Frame Mounted Split
• Skirt Seal: Non-Feathered
• Materials: Silicone

Features

• Swiveling Buckles Won’t Pull Your Hair
• Wide Field of Vision
• Sold in a Variety of Colors
• Designed to Fit Small Faces

BEST FOR: FEMALE FREEDIVERS

The Aqua Lung Micro doesn’t have a female-specific design, but it’s an excellent choice for women who freedive. Its frame is slightly narrower than similar models, helping it seal around small foreheads and temples. Its wide, non-feathered skirt contours over chipmunk cheeks and smile lines, preventing flooding. Plus, it offers a large field of view despite its low volume, especially if you opt for the transparent mask skirt. The Micro is available in a variety of colors, making it easy to match with the rest of your gear. And, its easy to adjust, swiveling buckles won’t rip your hair out like most models.

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THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A FREEDIVING MASK

FIT

When you’re shopping for freediving gear, proper fit should be the most important factor. This is especially important if you’re buying a mask. There’s nothing more uncomfortable than a mask leaking and flooding at depth. Plus, a poorly fitting mask will be challenging to equalize, and can even cause a painful squeeze. No matter what model you choose, be sure to try your mask on before making a purchase. Follow these simple steps to ensure a proper fit:

Start by holding the mask over your face. Without using the strap, see how the skirt (the rubber trim that sticks to your face) fits. If this edge overlaps with your hairline or sits too low on your top lip, it will let water in. If your mask’s silicone skirt is the right size, you’re ready to test the seal. To check for a watertight seal around your face, keep holding the mask in place without using the strap. Then, inhale gently through your nose. This should create enough suction inside the mask to hold it firmly in place. If the mask slides around or moves up and down, it will leak during your dives. 

Double-check that your mask’s lenses don’t press against your nose or forehead. This can cause discomfort at depth. If you have pronounced features, look for a mask designed to fit your face shape. Design elements like a raised or ribbed nose pocket can reduce pressure around the bridge of your nose. 

SKIRT COLOR

Freediving masks come in all different colors. While you might prefer the look of one over another, this design element isn’t about fashion. Various skirt colors perform differently in the water, and the best way to know which you prefer is to practice with multiple styles.

A clear mask skirt lets more light in, allowing for more peripheral vision and an “open” feeling while freediving. Divers who sometimes experience mild claustrophobia at depth often prefer this transparent style. The biggest drawback to using a clear mask is that it can allow too much light in. Extra light inside the mask may cause distracting reflections of objects outside your field of vision. Some freedivers find this effect annoying. 

A black skirt will let less light in. The contrast it creates between light and dark clarifies your vision and helps you see further underwater. That’s why spearfishers usually prefer this style. Matte black finishes are especially useful for reducing glare and improving distance vision. But, a solid black mask can create the illusion of “tunnel vision” and leave some divers feeling boxed in. These feelings of discomfort usually affect newly certified freedivers and should pass with time and experience. 

Solid colored mask skirts are gaining in popularity thanks to their versatility in the water. These colorful options offer the best of both worlds, blocking excess light and reflections without creating claustrophobia. Some light colors like pink, white, and yellow are easy to spot from a distance, making you more visible underwater. Camouflage options are available, too, helping you remain invisible to potential prey. 

VOLUME

Your freediving mask’s “volume” refers to the amount of air it holds. The amount of air inside your mask determines how difficult it is to equalize, how much drag it creates underwater, and how close it sits to your face. Freediving masks are generally much lower volume than those designed for SCUBA because apnea divers need to conserve energy and focus as they descend.

WINDOWS

Most masks for freediving have two windows. Unlike masks for SCUBA diving, these styles use highly flexible silicone and sit very close to the face. These masks sometimes feature teardrop-shaped lenses for improved “look down” vision, helping you to see straight down toward your fins. Teardrop lenses are usually compatible with prescription and colored lenses, too. Other two window models, especially those designed for spearfishing, may feature angled lenses for extra peripheral vision. 

One window masks use one big piece of glass for a lens. These masks are less practical for freediving, so you won’t find many on our list. If you’re looking for one mask that works for SCUBA and freediving, you might wind up with a single-window. But, most freedivers prefer a more traditional style for apnea. 

SKIRT SEAL

All freediving masks use a silicone skirt to create a watertight seal around your face. Some models use design elements like a “feathered” or multi-stage skirt, ribbing, or textured “low friction” edges to help the plastic form a more stable bond. While you probably won’t feel the extra grip of these tiny plastic pieces, they will help your mask stay in place. Mask skirts also come in varying widths, ranging from narrow to wide. How much of your face the skirt covers is especially important if you have facial hair, deep smile lines, or uncommon features. 

FEATURES EXPLAINED

FRAMELESS

Frameless and semi-frameless masks don’t use a traditional plastic frame to attach the mask’s skirt to its lens. Instead, the windows bond directly to the mask’s silicone skirt using a thin, flexible seal. That’s why frameless masks are more lightweight, compact, and foldable than other designs. Frameless masks also make great backups because they are easy to pack and store. 

TEARDROP LENSES

Teardrop-shaped lenses allow you to look down toward yourself while diving. This added “lookdown vision” is more important for SCUBA than apnea, but some freedivers do find it helpful. Extra look down makes it easy to read gauges, fasten and adjust your weights, and see your feet during entry and exit from the water. If you wear glasses or contacts, the teardrop shape is your best bet. This design is the most compatible with vision-correcting magnifiers and prescription lens replacements.

WIDE FIELD OF VISION

Because freediving masks are low volume, they often have a narrow field of vision. Single window masks and models that use angled lenses will give you a bit more peripheral, but you can still expect to see less than with a traditional SCUBA mask. If you sometimes feel a bit “crowded” by your mask, choose a model with a clear skirt to let a little extra light in. 

DESIGNED FOR SPEARFISHING

Freediving masks designed for spearfishing offer special features to help you hunt. Some models help hide your eyes using tinded lenses or camouflage-patterned frames. Others use a flat or matte finish silicone to help reduce glare and improve distance vision. 

ERGONOMICS

Unlike SCUBA diving, freediving requires deep concentration and energy conservation underwater. Every movement of your body will add or take away from your breath hold performance. So, if you’re spending a lot of time in the water, there are a few ergonomic features that you’ll find especially helpful. Oversized buckles and frame-mounted straps tend to be the easiest to adjust, even if you’re wearing gloves. And, a texturized nose pocket will help you equalize quickly and easily, even if you have small facial features.

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Dive watches can track your dive time as well as surface intervals, so you can avoid the illnesses associated with diving. Others can also you assist you in your training. The most basic models track your times and depths while the more advanced versions include compass navigation, wireless air integration for scuba diving and other features to plan and track your dive.

Here at The Adventure Junkies, we want to help you make the most of your freediving. That’s why we’ve created this guide to finding the best freediving watch to help you spend less time on research and more time in the water.

For more of our top freediving gear recommendations, check out the Best Freediving Fins.

QUICK ANSWER – THE BEST FREEDIVING WATCH

COMPARISON TABLE – THE BEST FREEDIVING WATCHES

PICTURE	FREEDIVING WATCH	BEST FOR	DEPTH	MEMORY	PRICE	RATING
	Suunto D9tx	Overall	399 ft	80 hours	$$$	5.0
	Tusa IQ1204	Overall	330 ft	30 dives	$$	4.8
	Tusa Zen Air	Scuba + Free	330 ft	24 dives	$$	4.7
	Suunto D6i	Scuba + Free	328 ft	80 hours	$$$	4.6
	Sherwood Amphos	Scuba + Free	330 ft	24 dives	$$$	4.6
	Oceanic F10	Breath Hold Training	399 ft	99 dives	$$	4.7
	Mares Smart Apnea	Breath Hold Training	492 ft	99 dives	$	4.6
	Tusa Talis	Budget	120 ft	24 dives	$	4.8
	Oceanic Geo 2.0	Budget	330 ft	99 dives	$	4.8
	Mares Smart	Budget	492 ft	36 hours	$	4.7
PICTURE	FREEDIVING WATCH	BEST FOR	DEPTH	MEMORY	PRICE	RATING

FREEDIVING WATCH REVIEWS

SUUNTO D9TX

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Amazon

TUSA IQ1204

TUSA ZEN AIR

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Amazon

SUUNTO D6I

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Amazon

SHERWOOD AMPHOS

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Amazon

OCEANIC F10

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Amazon

MARES SMART APNEA

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Amazon

TUSA TALIS

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Amazon

OCEANIC GEO 2.0

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Amazon

MARES SMART

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Amazon

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST FREEDIVING WATCH

1. AUDIBLE ALARMS

Like a stopwatch, an audible alarm is essential not only for training but also for safety. You can set surface interval alarms and dive depths alarms to hear both on land and underwater.

Some watches also allow you to set alarms for other aspects such as speed, breath hold training and hydration reminders. Depth alarms are especially important when freediving in murky waters where it’s not as easy to determine depth.

2. OPERATING MODES

Some freediving watches are solely for freediving or spearfishing, but most now incorporate other operating modes to cater to scuba diving. Common modes on many free dive watches include air, nitrox, gauge and of course, freediving.

Your choice will depend on what kind of diving you are most likely to do. If you are a regular scuba diver and don’t want to pay for two watches, choose a model which offers both modes.

3. OPERATIONAL DEPTH

The operational depth is how deep you can take your watch down and find it still functioning. Most dive watches have depths of at least 330 ft (100m). Some may go beyond this, which may be especially important if you do a lot of technical diving as well as freediving.

4. DIVE LOGS

This is how many dives you can log and store on your computer at a time. If you want to be able to track your progress and dives over a longer period of time, then you might want to opt for a watch which allows more than 24 dive sessions to be logged.

5. CLEAR MARKINGS

When you look down at a watch, can you see the markings clearly? For some people, bigger is better compared with a compact design which is hard to read. You need to be able to easily glance down at your watch and see what the readings are without straining your eyes or thinking too hard. Each to their own, but this should be an important consideration when choosing a watch.

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Freediving fins differ in length, stiffness, and material, but all serve the same purpose. The long blade design helps propel you deeper using the least amount of energy.

Buying your first pair can be daunting but don’t worry, we’ve done the long hours of searching for you. One of our big goals here at The Adventure Junkies is to make your life easier when it comes to choosing diving gear. Whether a beginner or a pro, this guide will walk you through how to find the best freediving fins for you.

For more of our top freediving gear recommendations, check out the Best Freediving Watches.

QUICK ANSWER – THE BEST FREEDIVING FINS

COMPARISON TABLE – THE BEST FREEDIVING FINS

PICTURE	FINS	MATERIAL	PRICE	RATING
	Beuchat Mundial One	Polymer Plastic	$	5.0
	Mares Pure Instinct Razor Pro	Polymer Plastic	$	4.5
	Cressi Gara 2000HF	Polymer Plastic	$	4.5
	Omer Stingray Carbon	Carbon Fiber	$$$	5.0
	Omer Stingray	Polymer Plastic	$	5.0
	Mako Competition FG	Fiberglass	$$	5.0
	C4 Red Falcon Carbon	Carbon Fiber	$$$	4.5
PICTURE	FINS	MATERIAL	PRICE	RATING

FREEDIVING FINS REVIEWS

BEUCHAT MUNDIAL ONE

MARES PURE INSTINCT RAZOR PRO

Check out the latest price on:

Amazon

CRESSI GARA 2000HF

OMER STINGRAY CARBON FINS

 

 

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Amazon

OMER STINGRAY

 

 

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Amazon

MAKO COMPETITION FG FINS

 

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Amazon

C4 RED FALCON CARBON FINS

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST FREEDIVING FINS

1. YOUR FREEDIVING LEVEL

What’s your freediving level? Are you just starting out or are you getting to go pro? Remember, it’s about finding the fins that best suit you, not your dive buddies.

Beginners can stick with the cheaper polymer plastic fins. There’s no point in buying expensive custom made carbon fins when you’re just starting out.

Intermediate & advanced divers, consider a pair of fiberglass or carbon fiber fins.

2. MATERIAL

Freediving blades are either made out of polymer plastic, fiberglass or carbon fiber.

POLYMER PLASTIC FINS are the most common type of fin. Despite the low price, they get the job done. Polymer fins are sturdy and can survive bumps and scratches from collisions.

A big disadvantage to polymer fins is that the efficiency of the fin diminishes over time. Polymer plastic has a ‘memory’ characteristic. When used enough, the plastic blade will start to mold into a curved shape. Why should you care? If the blade curves, you won’t get as much out of your kick as you would if you had a strong straight blade.

FIBERGLASS FINS are more expensive than polymer fins. The main advantage of this material is that fiberglass does not lose shape over time. They are also durable and can survive collisions and bumps underwater.

CARBON FIBER FINS are premiere level fins. Carbon blades are much more efficient than fiberglass and polymer plastic blades. Fins with carbon blades have the largest ratio between propulsion and energy.

They are nice and lightweight but also quite fragile and expensive. They are responsive and completely memory free, which means they’ll stay stiff and straight. They won’t bend over time like polymer fins will.

POLYMER PLASTIC: Cheap but can get bent

FIBERGLASS: More expensive than polymer but won’t bend.

CARBON FIBER: Most expensive option but most efficient option.

3. BUDGET

Freediving fins range from $80 for plastic fins to over $600+ for a pair of custom made carbon fins.

Plastic fins = Cheapest

Fiberglass fins = Midrange

Carbon fins = Most expensive

It’s important to note that expensive fins won’t make you a better diver. A solid understanding of good technique is much more valuable than an expensive pair of fins.

4. GETTING THE RIGHT FIT

A snug fit into the foot pocket is crucial. A loose fitting heel means wasting precious energy.

Often manufacturers size fins to be big as they expect you to wear a pair of neoprene socks with the fins. Make sure you understand the sizing system, especially when ordering online. Check the manufacturer’s website to find up to date size charts.

5. SEPARATE FOOT POCKETS AND BLADE

Do you want to be able to swap out foot pockets and blades? If your answer is yes, consider buying foot pockets and blades separately.

Although this option more expensive than non-detachable systems, they can be quite convenient. This system will allow you to buy foot pockets and blades from different brands. You’ll be able to get the perfect set of fins for your diving style.

Another advantage is when you go to upgrade blades, you have the option of keeping your old foot pockets. This is a particularly nice aspect as breaking in a new pair of foot pockets is often painful.

6. STIFFNESS

Often freediving fins are available at different levels of stiffness. To determine which level is best for you, you need to consider your body type and the amount of muscles you have. A freediver with long legs will produce a weaker propulsion than a diver with short, bulky legs.

Soft Blades = Divers with weaker propulsion.

Medium – Soft Blades = Everyone

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