Scuba and Snorkel Mask

Mask

Even the most inexperienced scuba divers can understand that having the right gear is paramount to having a safe and enjoyable time while exploring beneath the surface. One of the most important pieces of scuba gear is the mask, the diver’s mask actually allows people to see under water like the fish are able to. Wearing the mask creates enough air between the human eye and the water that allow divers to see underwater. The mask is necessary because the human eye isn’t able to properly focus when immersed in water.

There are many different names for this piece of equipment, it’s often called a divers mask, a scuba mask, face plate, half mask or sometimes they may be improperly referred to as goggles. There are a few standard features that every scuba diver should look at before investing in a mask. The diver’s mask should come equipped with an enclosed nose, and tempered glass at minimum. One of the most distinguishing factors between a scuba mask and goggles is that the nose is enclosed with the eyes so pressure cam be adjusted. Tempered glass is used because standard glass is dangerous and plastic fogs up rather quickly.

Popular features that are common on most masks include a strap that can be adjusted with a buckle for convenience, and a double skirt feathered seal that helps ensure no water seeps into the air pocket for the eyes. Some people prefer using a smaller mask because it provides less drag on the face and makes it easier for divers to swim. Some divers prefer masks that come equipped with a purge valve, or even sometimes special lenses when necessary. The purge valve is a simple mechanism that empties any water that seeps into the mask, Special lenses are a convenient option for people that normally wear glasses.

Amateur divers that are confused about which mask to get will benefit by conferring with the staff at the local resort or dive shop. It’s best to look at a few different masks that may work before checking to see which ones fit the best. In order to see which fits best, hold the mask against the face and breath in through the nose, masks that fit the best will stick to the face from the suction you’ve just created. It’s always wise to spend money on masks that fit well, opposed to ones that are the least expensive. It’s important not to underestimate how important the construction of the mask is for your health and enjoyment when underwater.

Prepping the mask for the underwater diving is always advisable. Scrub the inside of the mask in order to remove any reside chemicals left over from the manufacturer. It’s imperative to do this when you first buy the mask, sometimes the invisible chemicals will impair divers’ vision when in the water. Divers also benefit by applying defogging chemicals to the mask each they are ready to head in the water. Once you have all the aforementioned necessities covered, feel free to pick the mask that best fits your own individual personality.