The Cressi snorkel mask’s surprisingly comfortable
15.4.2025
Translation: Megan Cornish
Pictures: Siri Schubert
I used to think full-face snorkelling masks were just a gimmick, but testing the Cressi Bali mask completely changed my mind. It’s worth a try, even if you usually enjoy using a conventional mask and snorkel.
Snorkelling’s like a ticket to another world. Shimmering fish, an array of colours from blue to turquoise to green, and a tranquillity rarely found above water.
So far, I’ve been happy enough with my half-face mask and snorkel. The fact that water occasionally seeped into even a well-fitting mask and the lenses fogged up from time to time was part of the deal. After all, I can just quickly rinse it and blow out the water. If there’s any water left in the snorkel, all I have to do is blow hard, and the problem’s solved.
So why the full-face mask? I’m curious. I want to know what it feels like. I see more and more snorkellers wearing this type of face protection. Obviously, the full-face mask has its appeal. And I have questions. Will I still be as aware of my surroundings? Will the mask be restrictive? Or will it make floating underwater even more relaxing than it already is?
First impressions
Cressi sent me the Bali to test. The Italian manufacturer, a family business, has been active in the diving industry for almost 80 years. I use other Cressi equipment for snorkelling and diving, so I have confidence in it – this is especially important to me underwater.
Before the test, I measured the distance between the bridge of my nose and my chin to find the right size. According to the chart, I need size L/XL. I hadn’t expected that. So take it from me: make sure you measure. Because a perfectly fitting mask is the only way to stop water getting in, make sure nothing presses on your face, and keep the two areas separated by a silicone seal working as they should. More on that later.
The two textile-reinforced rubber straps are quick to adjust. I’ve chosen a quiet bay off the island of Lobos in northern Fuerteventura. The clear, cool water is inviting, and the rocky shore promises plenty of marine life seeking shelter in the lava formations.
Diving with panoramic views
I dive in and am fascinated by the colourful fish swimming past. Unfortunately, my zoological knowledge isn’t good enough to identify them all. I only recognise gobies, white sea bream, kaleidoscopic ornate wrasse and neon damselfish.
Breathing through my mouth and nose via the mask is effortless and feels very natural. The large panels make for a wide field of vision, allowing me to see the wonderful creatures lurking underwater, even from the side.
Thankfully, the bulky mask doesn’t make me feel isolated from the underwater experience like I worried it would. Quite the opposite. I felt more like a part of it. A major plus is that the lens doesn’t fog up at all thanks to the air flowing from the snorkel over the viewing surfaces.
Comparison with the traditional setup
In the following days, I snorkelled off other beaches in Fuerteventura, and each experience with the full-face mask was good and relaxing.
For comparison, I also occasionally went into the water with traditional diving goggles and a snorkel. I enjoyed it, but it was a bit more laborious because I had to blow out the snorkel and goggles several times. My jaw also got slightly tired from holding the snorkel. This doesn’t usually bother me when snorkelling, but I noticed it in direct comparison.
On the other hand, the traditional setup allows you to dive several metres below the surface. This is difficult with the full-face mask due to its bulk alone, and according to Cressi’s instructions, it’s not actually approved. After all, the hard plastic mask makes equalising pressure virtually impossible.
Technical features bring comfort
The snorkel on the Bali mask folds down, which makes it easier to carry in your luggage. More important to me, though, is that the mouth and nose area’s separated from the field of vision by a silicone skirt and valves that direct the airflow. This prevents the potentially dangerous build-up of CO₂ caused by pendulum breathing – inhaling air that’s already been exhaled.
The silicone on the inside and around the edge of the mask is soft and seals well, keeping water out. This means you don’t have to blow out the mask and you won’t have unsightly pressure marks on your face. Provided you choose the right size and no hair’s trapped under the seal, that is. I’ve been told that the full-face mask isn’t suitable for people with beards, because water can penetrate between the silicone and the beard hairs.
From the snorkel, fresh air flows first over the viewing area and then into the breathing chamber, which is sealed by valves. From there, the used air is exhaled to the side. There’s also a purge valve on the chin that you can use to blow out any water that might have entered.
The snorkel has a float – a small ball – that closes the opening so no water can enter if you accidentally dive too deep or a wave washes over the opening.
The combination of silicone seals, airflow channelling, valves, float protection and textile-reinforced rubber straps ensures a pleasant snorkelling experience.
A mount’s provided for an action camera that can be attached between the mask and snorkel. However, I haven’t tested whether or how well this works.
Safety first
Anyone who’s been familiar with full-face masks for a while will know about the debate surrounding their safety and the potential for CO₂ build-up. The Divers Alert Network (DAN) has now investigated this issue. In a small study, the organisation concluded that the CO₂ build-up theory hasn’t been proved in masks from reputable manufacturers.
Cressi claims to have also conducted lab tests to ensure CO₂ levels don’t exceed critical levels during normal use. However, the manufacturer recommends removing the mask every 30 minutes to completely replace the air inside. Generally speaking, full-face masks are suitable for casual snorkelling, but not for strenuous swimming.
In a nutshell
A relaxed underwater experience
I was pleasantly surprised by the comfort and relaxed diving experience provided by the full-face mask. I’ll definitely continue to use it as an additional mask for relaxed surface excursions in calm waters. In currents, wind, and challenging conditions, I prefer a snorkel and goggles for safety reasons. Even if I want to descend a few metres, a half-face mask and snorkel remain my first choice. Nevertheless, when it comes to full-face masks, the Cressi Bali impressed me with its comfort and excellent technical implementation.
Pro
- Comfortable fit without pressing
- Sealed by silicone aprons around the outside and around the mouth and nose
- Wide field of view
- Natural breathing through mouth and nose
- Doesn’t fog up
Header image: Siri Schubert
Siri Schubert
Senior Editor
Siri.Schubert@digitecgalaxus.chResearch diver, outdoor guide and SUP instructor – I love being in, on and around water. Lakes, rivers and the ocean are my playgrounds. For a change of perspective, I look at the world from above while trail running or flying drones.
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