What You Need to Know About the Cressi SF1
Let’s take a look at some of this mask’s top selling points:
Square-Shaped Mask
When making the SF1, Cressi has adopted a square-style design. If you’ve ever rented a mask from a dive center, you’ll be familiar with this general shape. One fantastic benefit of the square-style mask is that it tends to fit a wide range of faces.
This is good news if you’re shopping online and haven’t had a chance to try the SF1 on in person because, given the styling, there’s a fair chance it will fit your face well.
We also think that dive centers might be attracted to this mask for the same reason. Rentals are typically higher-volume framed masks, as these are generally cheaper. But more divers are turning to frameless styles, so the favored rental mask style might change too. If so, the SF1 could represent a new standard.
Affordable Price Point
As the saying goes, you get what you pay for. And when it comes to scuba diving equipment, this adage often holds true. But Cressi has long produced a range of affordable masks that perform exceptionally well for the cost, and the SF1 appears to continue in this tradition.
High-spec, top of the line scuba and snorkeling masks can retail for US$200, or even more. But the Cressi SF1 is moderately priced at well under $100 dollars.
Frameless masks are generally more expensive than framed versions, and the SF1 is a little costlier than some of Cressi’s other masks. But for most divers, the added comfort and the low-volume design are more than worth it.
Easy-Adjust Buckles
Having owned a Cressi mask as a spare for many years, this reviewer can attest to how easy it is to adjust the buckles and tighten the mask strap. The SF1 continues Cressi’s standard mask adjustment system, which is great news. The buckles are mounted in such a way that they tilt away from the mask when needed, which makes it super simple to make adjustments while the mask is already on your face.
Dive instructors will appreciate this feature for their students. After all, when there’s less fiddle there’s more fishes, as one instructor I know would say!
Low-Volume Design
The SF1 is low-volume, meaning it sits closer to your face and the air space is less than on a bigger mask. It also means that the mask should be easier to clear. If you’re diving with a frameless mask for the first time, clear it in exactly the same way you clear a framed mask (press the mask to your face at the top while you simultaneously blow out through your nose and look up).
Fits in Your BCD Pocket
The same low-volume design means this mask should easily fit inside your BCD pocket. The skirt will fold in on itself without causing any damage.
Color Options
Unlike some of Cressi’s other masks, such as the Cressi F1 which comes in a wide range of colors, the SF1 has a rather more somber palette. You can choose from black, grey, dark blue, red, and clear, which makes us wonder even more whether Cressi is targeting the rental market with the SF1.
We won’t go into the debate over whether clear silicone or black silicone is better, different strokes for different folks after all. But we’re pleased to see both are options in the Cressi SF1.
Cressi’s After Sales and Servicing Support
Cressi has a good reputation for after-sales support. If anything goes wrong with your new SF1 mask (and it’s not your fault) get in touch with the company here. After each dive, you should rinse your mask in fresh water and store it in the shade as direct sunlight can degrade the silicone faster.
Summary
The Cressi SF1 offers an affordable alternative to masks of the same spec. In addition, it’s square-shaped design suits most faces, making it a viable choice for dive centers after low-volume frameless rental masks.
Specs & Features
| Style | Square style mask |
|---|---|
| Frame | Frameless |
| Window design | One-window design |
| Skirt | High-grade hypoallergic silicone skirt |
| Four color options | Black, grey, blue and clear |
| Buckles | Easy to adjust straps and buckles |
| Volume | Low-volume for easy clearing |
| Nose pocket | Large nose pocket |
| Best for | Scuba divers, snorkelers |
| Included | Protective mask case included |
