Questions on protecting your snorkel mask?

by Sasha
(Boston)

Hi there,

First, thanks for all the great tips on your site! I've referred to it many times as I've been getting into snorkeling and really appreciate all the detailed information.

I had a question about masks. I noticed that you recommended neoprene bags and feel that they are better than the hard plastic cases. I have not actually seen a neoprene cover, so I'm not sure what they're like, but my instincts make me want to stick with a hard plastic case because it seems more likely to protect the mask. However, that is just a layman's reaction, and I'm not sure it's a legitimate concern -- which do you think is more likely to keep the mask from getting broken? Is it even easy to break a mask?

Another reason I ask is, I'm interested in getting an Akona bag that has a mask compartment just big enough for the mask but not the case. Again, I just have the same concern. I don't like the amount of space that the hard plastic case takes up -- I never seem to have enough room in my bag -- but the mask was expensive and I don't want anything to happen to it.

I'd appreciate your insights!
Sasha