Best Scuba Masks with Purge Valve of 2023

JUMP TO: AQUA LUNG PACIFICA / SCUBAPRO CRYSTAL VU PLUS / SEADIVE EAGLEYE RAYBLOCKER HD / TUSA SPORT IMPREX 3D / XS SCUBA FUSION / EVO HAMMERHEAD+ / SCUBA CHOICE CLASSIC / GENESIS PANVIEW / BUYING ADVICE

Author: Rose Martin

The Short Version

The Long Version

Love scuba diving but hate getting water stuck inside your mask? You’re not alone!

Filling your mask with water and clearing it again is an essential part of your scuba training… but it doesn’t mean you have to enjoy it. In fact, most scuba newbies hate this part of the course and, for some people, it just never ‘clicks’.

This can be incredibly frustrating, and it means you’ll waste precious time underwater fiddling with your mask instead of having fun. So, what’s the solution? A scuba mask with a purge valve, of course!

By adding a valve close to the nose area, purge masks let you force any water that makes its way inside the mask back out with a simple exhale from your nose. The valve is one-way, which means that water goes out but won’t come in, and you can keep your hands totally free while you do it.

As well as being ideal for scuba beginners who are still getting to grips with mask clearing, purge masks are great for people who love high-profile masks but are sick of having to clear their mask with several exhales.

Plus, because you can clear them without using your hands, they’re a great choice for people who need to keep their hands free underwater (like photographers).

Here, we’ve reviewed the best purge masks around so that you can find the one that’s right for you – no matter whether you’re a scuba newbie, a photographer, or just want to make your life easier underwater, there’s a purge mask out there with your name on it!

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Best Overall: AQUA LUNG PACIFICA

WINDOWS: 1

FRAME: Yes

VOLUME: High

MATERIALS: Silicone, shatterproof tempered glass

SKIRT SEAL: Double feathered (broad)

PRICE: $$$

PROS: Frame provides protective feel, great for larger faces/features, good field of view for a high-volume mask

CONS: Bulky, requires two-handed equalization

The Aqua Lung Pacifica is a fantastic option for anyone who enjoys the comfort of high-volume masks but typically struggles to clear them.

The sturdy frame gives this mask a very robust, protective feel overall, and the high volume means that there’s plenty of space inside the mask to accommodate large noses. The mask is also nice and broad which, combined with the single lens, gives you get a great field of view despite the frame and high volume. On top of that, the width and volume make the Pacifica a great option for people with broad faces and high cheekbones.

The lens is constructed from tempered shatterproof glass, and the nose pocket is easy to locate. But you’ll have to get used to a two-handed technique because the pocket is too large to use single handedly.

Featuring a broad single-feathered skirt and a broad split strap, this mask creates an excellent seal against the face. Plus, if any water does make its way inside, it can be cleared with a simple exhale thanks to the integrated purge valve.

The high-quality construction and reliable performance have made this a popular mask among both commercial and recreational divers, and it’s one of the best purge valve masks we’ve come across in terms of both quality and performance.

WINDOWS: 3

FRAME: Yes

VOLUME: Low–medium

MATERIALS: Silicone, ultra-clear tempered glass

SKIRT SEAL: Double-feathered (broad)

PRICE: $$$

PROS: Awesome field of view, looks like a traditional mask, easy equalization and adjustment (even with gloves), great seal

CONS: Expensive, purge valve can push on large noses

If you’re after a scuba mask with a purge valve that will give you incredible views of the underwater world, then look no further than the Scubapro Crystal VU Plus.

The relatively low profile of this masks means it sits close to the face and extends your field of view massively compared to high profile masks. Plus, the single forward-facing lens eliminates the blind spot around the nose area you get from most dual-lens masks, and the pale skirt maximizes the amount of light entering the mask. What’s more, the Crystal VU Plus also features dual side windows that massively boost your peripheral vision, so you’ll be able to spot all the exiting sightings that swim on by. Finally, in case that wasn’t enough, the glass itself features a green tint to reduce color distortion at depth, so your views will be spectacular.

We also love how easy this mask is to use – the oversized swivel buckles can easily be adjusted underwater (even with gloves on) and the nose pocket can be grabbed with one hand when it’s time to equalize your ears. Plus, the skirt and wide strap ensure an awesome seal against the face.

Despite featuring a highly functional purge valve for easy clearing, this mask has remained sleek and streamlined and is less bulky than many other purge masks on the market. The frame is also extremely robust. All in all, this mask offers an awesome balance of views, functionality, and durability.

WINDOWS: 1

FRAME: Yes

VOLUME: Low–medium

MATERIALS: Silicone, tempered glass

SKIRT SEAL: Double-feathered

PRICE: $$$

PROS: Great eye protection, anti-fog, awesome for snorkeling, available with and without purge valve

CONS: Frame limits view slightly, mirrored lenses aren’t ideal for instructors

As the name suggests, the SeaDive Eagleye Rayblocker HD does an awesome job of protecting your eyes from UV rays, but that’s not the only reason we love it so much.

The tempered glass used for the construction of this mask features an anti-reflective coating, which protects your eyes from harmful UV rays when you’re at the surface before and after a dive. Plus, the same coating reduces glare, so you’ll have a better view of what’s going on around you, even in bright conditions. Combined, these features mean that this mask doubles up as an awesome snorkeling mask too, so you’re really getting two for the price of one.

On top of that, fogging is reduced underwater thanks to the anti-fog design (but we still recommend going through your usual anti-fog procedures), and colors will stand out more than ever thanks to the colored filter. Although we think the mirrored lenses look pretty cool, they aren’t the best if you like to maintain eye contact with your buddies (or students!).

The low profile of this mask reduces drag while you’re in the water, and you can equalize single handedly thanks to the small yet effective equalization pocket. The low profile and single-lens design provide a wide field of view, although the frame does restrict it slightly.

Finally, the low profile combined with the one-way purge valve makes clearing this mask a walk in the park. Plus, if you eventually decide against a purge valve, this model is available with and without the valve.

Best Combo: TUSA SPORT IMPREX 3D

WINDOWS: 3

FRAME: Yes

VOLUME: Low

MATERIALS: Silicone, tempered glass

SKIRT SEAL: Double-feathered

PRICE: $$

PROS: Includes dry snorkel, great value for money, efficient purging, wide field of view

CONS: Not ideal for narrow faces

If you’re after a truly ‘dry’ experience in the water (well, as dry as you can get), then you should definitely check out the TUSA Sport Imprex 3D mask-snorkel combo.

Not only does this mask come with an incredibly effective purge valve, but it also comes with a full dry snorkel too. The snorkel features a splash guard, seal mechanisms (which means it won’t fill with water when you dive beneath the surface), and a purge valve of its very own – so it’ll work wonders when you’re hanging around at the surface before and after dives, especially in choppy conditions.

The mask also features tempered glass that reduces green tints underwater, as well as an anti-glare coating for time spent at the surface. Plus, the three-window design combined with a low volume offers excellent peripheral vision. We can’t get enough of the awesome skirt either – the silicone construction and round-edged design mean that it’s not only incredibly comfortable, but the seal is solid too.

The nose area isn’t as squishy as a regular purge-less mask, so you’ll have to equalize with both hands, and be warned that this mask isn’t ideal for people with particularly narrow faces.

Overall though, this mask-snorkel combo has a lot to offer at a fantastic price point – and it’s possible to get the mask alone if you really want to (but we reckon it’s better value to pick up both together!).

Best Skirt: XS SCUBA FUSION PURGE

WINDOWS: 3

FRAME: Yes

VOLUME: Medium–high

MATERIALS: Silicone

SKIRT SEAL: Double-feathered

PRICE: $$

PROS: Lots of colors available, affordable, great seal, skirt prevents bubble interference

CONS: Takes more effort to clear than masks with a lower volume, not the most stylish

The XS Scuba Fusion Purge is an awesome mask that not only lets you clear your mask in an instant but stops water getting into your mask in the first place too.

It does this via its exceptional skirt seal, which molds to the contours of your face and helps to minimize the amount of water entering the mask. It’s super comfy too!

The skirt has also been carefully designed so that, when you exhale, the bubbles are steered away from your direct line of sight. This means you won’t miss anything cool swimming past you because of those pesky bubbles getting in the way – what a win.

The high volume gives the mask an open, spacious feel, yet the three-window design ensures a wide field of view to give you the best of both worlds. Just bear in mind that the high volume will take a bit more effort to clear than masks with lower volumes, but at least all you have to do is exhale thanks to the nifty purge valve. Plus, the high volume means this mask can accommodate faces with larger features, like noses or cheekbones, so for some people it will definitely be worth the trade-off.

The buckles are large and easy to use, even with gloves, so this mask is easy to adjust in warm and cold water. Plus, the nose pocket is nice and squishy, and you can equalize using just one hand.

Overall, this mask has all the advantages of a classic framed mask, yet clearing is made easy via the purge valve. And it has an exceptional seal. What more could you ask for at this price?

Best for Comfort: EVO HAMMERHEAD+

WINDOWS: 4

FRAME: Yes

VOLUME: High

MATERIALS: Silicone, tempered glass

SKIRT SEAL: Channeled

PRICE: $$

PROS: Super soft skirt, comfortable for faces with large features, discrete purge valve, great value for money

CONS: Bulky, not the most stylish design

If you’re on the hunt for a super comfortable scuba mask that can be cleared with a simple exhale, then the EVO Hammerhead+ could be just what you’re looking for.

The skirt is constructed from hypoallergenic silicone that’s not only soft against the skin but is also resistant to saltwater and chlorine damage, so your mask will stay comfortable even with prolonged use.

The high volume of the mask and spacious nose pocket means that large facial features can be easily accommodated, but it does make the mask a tad bulky overall. Although the mask isn’t ideal for packing, at least it uses a streamlined design to reduce drag created when you’re underwater.

Four lenses ensure an awesome view of the marine world, and clearing and equalizing are both a breeze thanks to the squishy nose area that houses the purge valve.

While it might not be the most stylish mask we’ve come across, the EVO Hammerhead+ offers a great balance of comfort and durability that’s hard to beat at this price point.

Best on a Budget: SCUBA CHOICE CLASSIC

WINDOWS: 1

FRAME: Yes

VOLUME: High

MATERIALS: Silicone, tempered glass

SKIRT SEAL: Silicone

PRICE: $

PROS: Very economical, classic design, super soft skirt, 

CONS: High volume, reduced field of view

If you’re after a scuba mask with a purge valve but don’t have cash to splash, then you should definitely check out the Scuba Choice Classic.

This mask features a minimalistic, streamlined design, which makes it nice and light despite the purge valve. The single lens provides an unobstructed field of view, and it lacks the side windows that some people find distracting. Although this lack of windows, combined with a high volume, limits the field of view slightly, it also means that the mask is comfortable for people with broad faces or high cheekbones.

The silicone skirt is soft yet tough, and it forms a secure seal against the face. Of course, the high volume means that clearing this mask might take you a little longer than with a low-volume mask, but the purge valve will make light work of it anyway.

It might not come packed full of fancy features, but the Scuba Choice Classic is a well-designed, travel-friendly mask that has far more to offer than other masks in its price range.

Best for Prescriptions: GENESIS PANVIEW

WINDOWS: 4

FRAME: Yes

VOLUME: Medium

MATERIALS: Silicone

SKIRT SEAL: Double-feathered (broad)

PRICE: $

PROS: Prescription lens-compatible, great peripheral vision, affordable, swivel buckles for added comfort

CONS: Slightly dorky appearance

The Genesis Panview is another awesome budget-friendly purge mask but, unlike the Scuba Choice Classic, this mask can be fitted with prescription lenses.

It also features side windows, making it one of the best budget options for panoramic views. And unlike most four-window masks, the volume isn’t super high.

By keeping the volume lower than usual, this mask has remained easy to clear and it provides an extended field of view. It also minimizes drag in the water, and is a more travel-friendly option than bulkier models.

We also like that there are options with pale and dark skirts, so you’re covered regardless of whether you prefer to let lots of light into your mask or reduce flashbacks when you’re taking snaps. The swivel buckles ensure this mask sits in the optimum position, and the silicone skirt is double-feathered and provides a good seal.

Although this mask isn’t the coolest looking one around, if you’re after a prescription-friendly mask that offers great peripheral vision, you’ll struggle to find anything better at this price.

BUYING ADVICE FOR SCUBA MASKS WITH PURGE VALVE

So, there you have it, our top pick of scuba masks with purge valves. In case you still can’t decide which one is right for you, here are some key things to keep your eye on when you’re shopping around.

Fit

As with all scuba masks, it’s crucial that your purge mask fits you properly. Ideally, it’s best to try on a mask in store, rent one from your local dive center, or borrow one from a friend before you buy one. But this isn’t always possible, and these days, many of the best masks are only available online. So, here are a few things to keep an eye on when you’re online shopping:

SIZE: It might seem obvious, but the easiest thing to do if your face is particularly broad or narrow is check the dimensions of the mask you’re looking at. Plus, some masks come in various models catered to different sized faces.

NOSE POCKET: If you have a large nose, then make sure the nose pocket of the mask you’re looking at is a decent size – if you’re looking at it and worrying that it’s too small, then it probably is. This is even more important when it comes to scuba masks with purge valves because the valves are located around the nose area nose, and the last thing you want is the valve putting pressure on your nose.

FRAMES: Masks lacking frames are generally more flexible, which gives them leeway to mold to the shape of your face. If you have a slightly unusually shaped face, then a frameless mask could be the way to go.

You’ll notice that all the masks listed in this article have frames – this is because it extends the dimensions of the masks, making room for the purge valve. Frames typically reduce the field of view slightly, and while some people don’t mind this, others won’t be so keen. If you want a scuba mask with a purge valve, but are keen to keep a wide field of view, then look for options with side windows, a single pane, and a low or medium volume (more details on these below!).

Volume

LOW: Low volume masks have less air inside them than high volume masks. On the plus side, this makes them super easy to clear (because you don’t need to breathe out as much ‘fresh’ air to expel the air and water inside the mask). They also create less drag because they don’t extend as far from your face – this is why freediving masks are always low volume masks. Also, because the mask sits closer to your face, you generally get a wider field of view with low volume masks compared to high volume masks.

Scuba masks with purge valves need space to fit the valve itself, and more space means more volume, so you won’t find one with a super low volume. If you generally prefer low volume masks, then keep your eyes open for purge masks with a low-to-medium volume – it’s the lowest you’ll be able to find.

HIGH: High volume masks have more air inside them, so they aren’t as easy to clear, they’ll create more drag when swimming, and your field of view will be slightly reduced compared to a low volume mask because the protruding frame will block some of your view.

This protruding frame, however, has made them popular among some divers who like some separation between themselves and their gear (reducing the feeling of claustrophobia). They also make some people feel more protected, and some people even prefer to view the underwater world through a slight border – ultimately, the choice will come down to personal preference.

If you like high-volume masks, then you’ll probably love using a mask with a purge valve – it’ll make mask clearing a walk in the park without compromising on the other features you appreciate.

Windows

ONE: Single-lens masks have just one ‘window’ that stretches across the whole mask. Because the lenses aren’t separated by a center piece, people with prominent brow areas sometimes find these masks more comfortable. Plus, the lack of a center piece leaves your view wide open without obstruction.

TWO: Dual-lens masks feature two windows that are separated at the nose area. If you want a prescription masks, but each eye needs a requires a different prescription, then a dual-lens mask is the only way to go. 

THREE OR FOUR: Although not as common as one- and two-window masks, there are some masks out there with three or four windows. The additional windows are found at the side of the mask, and extend the wearer’s peripheral vision and let more light in, but the distortion makes some divers feel uneasy. They’re found more often in scuba masks with purge valves than regular scuba masks because the high volume and framed design limits the field of view, and the side windows combat this. Remember, if you’re in need of a prescription mask, and each eye has a different prescription, you’ll be limited to four-window masks only.

Construction

GLASS: Your typical scuba mask will be constructed from tempered glass, which is designed to absorb shock on impact and is relatively shatter proof. On top of that, some of the more expensive masks use tempered glass with special properties that can allow more light in, reduce distortion, and even prevent fogging. 

LENS SHAPE: Most regular scuba masks feature fairly similar lens shapes, but there are some designs out there designed to maximize your field of view downwards and to the sides. These designs are less common when  it comes to scuba masks with purge valves, and purge masks instead rely on side windows to increase peripheral vison.

FRAMED VERSUS FRAMELESS: A key feature of any scuba mask is whether it’s framed (with the lens sitting in a hard frame) or frameless (with a lens molded straight onto the skirt). As we mentioned earlier, purge masks are typically framed to create space for the valve itself. Framed masks are also sturdier and can be taken apart for cleaning and maintenance. Plus, some people prefer to have a mask that sits further away from their face, so that they feel less claustrophobic, and this distance also helps to accommodate large facial features. 

If you’re keen to reduce drag and bulk in your purge mask (key advantages of frameless masks), then keep your eyes open for a purge mask with a low-to-medium volume – this will help a bit.

SKIRT SEAL: Although all mask skirts (the part that creates a ‘seal’ between your face and the environment) are constructed from silicone, the design varies considerably across different masks. Thinner skirts are generally more comfortable and will mold to the shape of your face more easily, but they’re more prone to tears than thicker skirts.

Some modern masks even use dual skirt designed to ensure a solid seal as well as comfort, and others feature fancy textures to ensure your seal doesn’t slip.

Another thing to bear in the mind is the color – clear skirts allow more light in and can boost peripheral vision, but darker skirts reduce glare (so they tend to be popular among photographers).

BUCKLES AND STRAPS: If you’ll be using your mask in cold water, you’ll want one with big buckles that can be adjusted easily even with gloves on. Some buckles can even rotate slightly, which aids removal but also accommodates different facial structures.

The buckles on most framed masks now link to the skirt of the mask rather than the frame, so the buckles can be folded pretty much flat against the lens, making framed masks more portable than they used to be.

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