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Finding the perfect freediving mask is one of the most important steps in your freediving journey. It’s not just about the price tag or flashy features—it’s all about the fit. The best freediving mask for you will depend on your unique facial structure, and what works for someone else might not work for you.
At Deep Sensations Freediving, we’ve tested a wide range of masks, not just for ourselves but for our students as well. Below, we’ll share our honest feedback on some of the best low-volume masks on the market.
Why a Low-Volume Mask is Important
Low-volume masks are specifically designed for freediving, offering several benefits:
Comfort: Easier to equalise, reducing strain on your nose and sinuses.
Efficiency: Require less air to equalise, meaning you conserve precious oxygen.
Reduced Risk of Mask Squeeze: Less air volume means a better seal and reduced pressure build-up as you descend.
The masks we recommend below fit a variety of face shapes and are the ones we’ve personally used at Deep Sensations Freediving for years. They’ve proven to be reliable, durable, and comfortable for both beginners and advanced freedivers alike.
What are the cons of a low-volume mask?
The one key downside to a low-volume mask is that you have a smaller field of view. This is why if you are doing a shallow reef dive in less than 10m of water you might opt for using a larger full-frame (scuba style) mask.
1. Molchanovs Core Mask
(Curtis Tredway freediving Amed, captured by Amanada Tran)
The Molchanovs Core is a favourite among freedivers for its simplicity and performance. It’s lightweight, low-profile, and offers an excellent seal for most face shapes. Its minimalist design ensures that it’s easy to equalise, making it a great choice for both depth and recreational diving.
2. Evolve XDream
Known for its ultra-low volume and soft silicone skirt, the Evolve XDream provides a snug, comfortable fit. It’s designed to minimise leakage and fits well on a variety of face shapes. Freedivers love it for its streamlined design and clear field of vision.
3. C4 Falcon
The C4 Falcon is another popular choice among freedivers, particularly for those who value a broad field of view. Its lightweight frame and hypoallergenic silicone skirt make it a solid option for long training sessions or deep dives.
4. Omer Wolf
The Omer Wolf stands out for its durability and comfort. Its low-volume design makes equalisation effortless, while the soft silicone skirt ensures a tight seal. This mask is often recommended for freedivers who want a reliable option for both training and fun dives.
BONUS: 5. Evolve FREEQ – A Self-Equalising Solution
Disclosure: Deep Sensations Owner, Curtis is affiliated with Evolve Apnea.
When Evolve first reached out to us about their 'self-equalising' goggles, we were sceptical. Honestly, we didn’t think much of the concept. But after putting them to the test, we quickly realised they’re an absolute game-changer for advanced freedivers.
The Evolve FREEQ goggles are designed for intermediate to advanced divers pushing beyond 40m. They offer a seamless way to transition from a traditional mask to a nose clip, or to ditch the mask entirely—perfect for divers who don’t enjoy using a nose clip or diving without goggles.
On a personal note, I’ll admit I was sceptical when I first tested these goggles. However, after just one session, they immediately became an essential part of my depth diving kit. I was absolutely heartbroken when I lost my set while freediving in Amed, Bali—it felt like I’d lost a vital piece of my gear. I was so impressed with them that I was fully prepared to purchase multiple replacements because I couldn’t imagine diving without them. Fortunately, when Evolve heard about my loss, they generously offered to sponsor me with a new set (one of the perks of the job!). Just because I am affiliated with a brand, doesn't guarantee I'll become an advocate for them, Evolve Apnea are the real deal though!
What makes the FREEQ so revolutionary is its self-equalising design, eliminating the need to waste valuable air during your descent. These goggles can easily take you to depths of up to 75m, making them a standout choice for deep-diving enthusiasts.
If you're looking to refine your freediving setup and optimise for depth without compromising on comfort or performance, the Evolve FREEQ is definitely worth considering.
Choosing the Right Mask
While all of these masks are excellent, the most important factor is how the mask fits you. A poorly fitting mask will leak, cause discomfort, and distract you from your dive. To ensure you find the perfect mask:
Try Before You Buy: Visit a dive shop and test the fit. A good mask should seal to your face with light suction without needing to use the strap.
Comfort Over Cost: A more expensive mask doesn’t guarantee a better fit. Invest in what feels right for you.
Consider Your Freediving Goals: Whether you’re diving for depth, training, or exploring reefs, your mask should meet your specific needs.
Final Thoughts
At Deep Sensations Freediving, we’ve used and recommended these masks because they work well for a wide range of face shapes and freediving conditions. However, your experience may vary. Take your time, try different options, and find the mask that feels like it was made for you.
Get in touch with us—we’re here to help you dive deeper and more comfortably!
Please note: We are not endorsed or affiliated with any of these brands, and none of the links provided are affiliate links. These recommendations are based purely on our genuine opinions and extensive experience. While Deep Sensations Freediving owner, Curtis, is a Molchanovs Ambassador, he does not receive any commission or financial gain from recommending their products. Curtis personally tests and advocates for products he genuinely rates, ensuring unbiased advice. While Curtis receives both Molchanovs and Evolve products free of charge, this does not influence his recommendations—they are solely based on performance, reliability, and personal experience.
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