If you are thinking about buying a mask, you have some decisions to make. First, become familiar with the components of a mask, and then take these questions into consideration. Some of the answers are obvious, and others are personal preference. That’s why we’ve created this list of comparisons to help guide you when you’re buying your first mask for scuba diving.
- Buy vs. Rent
It is recommended that divers buy their own masks since a mask needs to fit your specific face. Renting a mask is a good option if you forget your mask or don’t have room to travel with one.
- Scuba Masks vs. Snorkel/Swim Masks
In order for a mask to be suitable for diving, there are a few requirements. First, it needs to have strong tempered glass that can withstand the pressures of diving. Second, because the airspace in a diver’s mask will need to equalize upon descent, a mask for scuba divers needs to have a skirt that encloses the nose.
- Fit and Comfort vs. Colour
The winner of this comparison is always fit and comfort. The skirt of the mask should wrap around your eye area without any gaps. Find the mask that fits you best, and then pick your colour from there. To make sure you have a properly fitting mask speak to us here at NHDC about different techniques on finding the perfect fit. Here is one method used:
- Transparent vs. Colored Silicon
This decision depends on your personal preference. A clear silicone skirt will allow for more light. A clear mask skirt is a popular option for beginning divers who like an open feeling and more peripheral vision. Opaque dark silicon is often a choice for underwater photographers because it reduces glare.
- Silicon Strap vs. Neoprene Strap
Most divers will find a neoprene mask strap more comfortable.
- High vs. Low Volume
Mask volume refers to the amount of air space inside the mask. High volume masks offer a feeling of openness and extend peripheral vision. However, they take a little more effort to clear. Low volume or low-profile masks sit closer to your face and can be quickly cleared of water.
Mask Tips:
- Scrub the interior lense of your mask after purchase with toothpaste or a non-abrasive cleaner to prevent unwanted fogging.
- Over-tightening a mask will cause mask leakage.
- Bugs eat silicone, make sure to store your mask in a plastic mask box.
- Consider prescription lenses or optical inserts if you normally wear prescription glasses.
- Rinse your mask thoroughly with fresh water after each use. Keep out of direct sunlight as much as possible.
Now that you have compared these different options, you’re ready to buy a mask that best suits your needs. Pop in to New Horizons and we can get you fitted with the mask to best suit you.
