A diving mask often called a half-face mask, scuba mask or dive mask is a piece of diving equipment for scuba divers that allows them to see clearly underwater. It is one of the important scuba gear to buy, but before buying, let’s know what is a scuba mask.
There is no doubt that a top-quality mask is always needed to experience the best scuba diving activity. Therefore, the manufacturers always come up with innovative and new scuba mask designs every year. There are large features and styles of masks depending on the face and the buyer’s choice. We have already chosen and reviewed the Top 10 Best Scuba masks for divers.
How Does a Scuba Mask work?
The mask covers the diver’s eyes, nose, and mouth, and is designed to create an air space in front of the eyes, so the diver can see clearly.
Masks add an air space between your eyes and the water
An air space is created in front of the eyes by the diving mask, allowing the diver to see clearly underwater. Water cannot enter the mask because of the seal that the skirt of the mask creates around the diver’s lips and nose. The mask’s lens, which can be either glass or plastic, magnifies the underwater scene so that it appears bigger and closer to the diver.
Equalize Pressure by Squeezing the Nose
The pressure around a diver rises as they descend underwater. This increased pressure also affects the air space inside the mask, making it uncomfortable and even painful to wear. Divers use a procedure known as equalization to address this, in which air is blown into the diver’s mask to raise internal pressure and bring it into balance with external pressure. Typically, while wearing the mask, this is accomplished by squeezing the nose and blowing through it.
Two Main Parts Of Scuba Mask
The scuba mask has two main parts, the lens, and the skirt.
The Lens
The lens, which can be made of glass or plastic, is the part that allows the diver to see clearly underwater. Glass lenses are considered to be more durable and scratch resistant than plastic lenses, but they are also heavier and more expensive. Plastic lenses are lightweight and less expensive, but they can scratch easily and may not be as durable as glass lenses.
The Skirt
The skirt is the part of the mask that sits on the diver’s face and forms a seal around the nose and mouth, preventing water from entering the mask. The skirt is usually made of silicone or neoprene, which are both flexible and durable materials that conform to the shape of the diver’s face. The skirt also has a seal around the lens, which ensures that water does not leak into the mask.
Types OF Scuba Masks
- Single lens mask: These masks feature just one lens covering the eyes, providing the diver with a broad field of vision. They are a popular option for beginning divers because of their straightforward design and uncomplicated operation.
- Dual or Multiple Lens Masks: This mask gives an even wider field of vision. They can be more expensive than single-lens masks since they can have a higher classification.
- Frameless mask: These masks are composed of flexible silicone and have no frame. They are lightweight and foldable, making them simple to transfer and stow.
- Full-face masks: These masks provide a sealed breathing space for divers by covering the complete face. They are employed in difficult diving situations where communication with the surface is crucial, such as deep diving and cave diving.
- Prescription Masks: For divers who use glasses or contact lenses, these masks are prescribed. Because of the corrective lenses that are integrated into the mask, divers may see perfectly without using their glasses or contact lenses.
- Free Diving Masks: This type of mask is made exclusively for freediving and snorkeling. In order to reduce drag and increase mobility in the water, they have a low-volume design and sit closer to the face.
WHICH ONE IS BEST?
It depends on your specific needs and preferences. Some factors to consider when choosing a scuba mask include the fit, field of vision, and features such as a low-volume design for easier clearing. It is also important to ensure that the mask fits comfortably and does not leak. It is always recommended to try on several different masks to find the one that best suits you. Popular scuba mask brands include Aqua A Dive, EXP Vision, and Cressi.
What we have Suggested For You?
- Great visibility and field of view.
- Good quality material and construction
- The mask fits well and adjusts easily
- Adjustable straps and buckles for a customized fit
- Despite its good quality, the lens does not scratch easily
- Compatible with Cox, spectrum and Xfinity
- Despite its comfort, you can wear it for long hours without even knowing it
- The mask is designed with a double silicone skirt
- The product contains high-quality materials
- Double pane lens filters out harmful UV rays
- Good quality mask.
- Easy to fit and comfortable to wear.
- Excellent underwater visibility.
- Adjustable nose pocket for different size noses.
WHEN TO BUY
When to buy a scuba mask depends on your diving needs and preferences. Some things to consider when deciding to buy a scuba mask include:
- Your diving experience: If you are a beginner diver, a simple, single-lens mask may be your best option. A multi-lens mask, on the other hand, maybe a better choice if you have more experience and want a wider field of view.
- Your diving environment: If you intend to dive in clear, warm water, a simple mask with a clear skirt will suffice. If you intend to dive in colder or murkier water, however, a mask with a colored skirt may help to reduce glare and improve visibility.
- Budget: Scuba masks can cost anywhere from a few dollars to several hundred dollars. Set a budget and look for the best mask that meets your needs within that budget.
- Shape: Scuba masks come in a variety of sizes and shapes to fit your face. It is essential to try on several different masks before settling on one that fits comfortably and securely.
- Your diving goals: If you intend to do technical diving, a full-face mask is a better choice. A single-lens mask may be sufficient for recreational diving.
In general, it’s best to buy a scuba mask well in advance of your diving trip, so you have enough time to find the right mask and get comfortable with it before you dive.
HOW TO BUY
You can buy a Scuba mask from your nearest shop or check our Top 10 Best Scuba Mask list to choose the best mask for you. You can order from Amazon for your ease too as we are affiliated with them.
Maintenance of Scuba Mask
Proper maintenance of your scuba mask is essential to ensure that it remains in good working condition and provides clear fog-free vision. Check our article on How to clean and maintain a scuba Mask.