I always encourage people to go to a dive shop to buy their equipment. The key piece of snorkeling gear is the mask. Everyone's face and head is different and the only way to guarantee a good fit is to try the mask on. I also encourage people to go to an actual dive shop, not just a sporting goods store. In a dive shop the staff actually know what they're talking about. They'll have a variety of masks for you to try and can assist you in selecting the best fit. It's not the brand or the price that determine if a mask will be a good fit. It's just going and trying them on and seeing which fits best. There are shops on STJ that rent but also sell gear. Some posters have purchased gear there and report that the prices are fair (which is not what I would have expected).

We bring our masks and snorkels, but just rent fins when we get where we're going. I can always find a pair of fins that satisfy me and I like to avoid dealing with them in luggage.

I second Lex's comments to buy a mask in person, even the same model will vary a little from mask to mask, get one that fits your unique contours!

I third it - does that make sense? I have a narrow face and the masks that are sold everywhere just don't cut the mustard. I went to a local dive shop and have enjoyed the new mask unlike the old one that was so ill fitting that it leaked all the time.

Good morning,
I agree with patronizing your local small business, but if you live where no dive shops are on line is fine. The dive sites explain the mask features and face features fairly well. We have bought equipt. from both shops and on line. I like my local shop but I have had to order for friends to bring with them and snorkel-mart.com was one that I has used several times with prompt service and good product. Good luck! We always travel with or own stuff, fins too.
Cheers, enjoy the VI!

If you live where there are no dive shops and are visiting the VI, you may buy at any number of dive shops. They would love to have your business! 😉

I would strongly advise against buying a snorkel mask online. The fit is all important and a leaky mask will sure ruin your experience and you will probably just end up renting one.

DO NOT buy snorkel gear online, ESPECIALLY the mask. Just not a good idea. There are a kazillion places here to buy decent equipment.

thanks all. we are going to wait. we might pick up some when we are down there.

I, and others I know, have had very good luck buying from www.snorkelMart.com They have quality stuff and good prices.

Bosco