Snorkeling masks 2019 – Cressi Duke
Full-face snorkel masks are available in all shapes and sizes. This is what the DuikeninBeeld testing team thought about Cressi’s Duke mask.
The Duke snorkel mask is clearly different from the other snorkel masks – the snorkel is on the left side of the mask rather than the middle like other masks. The angle of the snorkel is also larger than with other snorkel masks.
The snorkel tube is easy to attach and the mask has a flat pane. The packaging says that this design offers a 30% larger view than other snorkel masks. However, once we put the mask on, we don’t get the impression this is the case. We compared the maximum viewing angle of a few different masks and determined that the Cressi Duke’s field of vision is actually even smaller than with some of the other masks. Because of the placement of the snorkel on the left-hand side, the air channel is in the left edge, which actually limits your view. This isn’t the case on the right side, so the field of vision is larger.
While the field of vision is far from small, we didn’t experience the “30% larger view” that the packaging claims.
Detaching the snorkel tube requires some dexterity. You have to push it down and press the ridges in at the same time. This tip isn’t included anywhere in the instructions, making it a difficult task if you don’t know what to do.
The mask has sturdy straps that are easy to adjust. The silicone used in the mask and the orinasal pocket is flexible. It might actually be too flexible since this is why it takes longer to get the orinasal pocket in the right position – you have to make sure the “flaps” fit right around your nose. Once you’ve got it on, the mask is very comfortable.
Our testers were pleased with the Cressi Duke’s performance underwater. There are two visible channels, one for defogging the area around the eyes and one for the exhaled air. This clearly works well since the mask doesn’t fog up. The purge valve works remarkably well and fast which is a major benefit of this snorkel mask.
In short, this is a snorkel mask that looks different from the average mask. It has the fastest purge valve of all of the masks we tested and is comfortable. Do be sure to try the mask on first to make sure the size is right and take the time to put it on properly.
| GoPro mount: | No |
| Prescription glasses: | No |
| Spare parts: | No |
| Packaging: | Bag |
| Instructions: | Yes |
| Sizes: | S/M and M/L |
| Size marked inside mask: | Yes |
