A
diving mask is an item of
diving equipment that allows
scuba divers, free-divers, and
snorkels to see clearly underwater. It is constructed so that the diver can exhale through the nose into the mask to prevent the "squeeze" caused by increasing pressure during descent in water. Diving masks have a durable glass plate in front of the eyes and a "skirt" of rubber or silicone to create a watertight seal with the diver's face. A strap keeps the mask in position.
Sometimes masks are sold in conjunction with
snorkels and/or
swimfins. Low quality snorkeling masks may have a plastic or low-quality glass faceplate, and are not recommended for anything but rare, casual use.
Related Equipment
There are several specialised types of diving headgear:
» full face diving mask - often worn by working divers who need underwater verbal communication ability.
» diving helmet - often worn by divers using surface supplied diving equipment.
» hard hat - part of the old fashioned standard diving dress.
Dive Mask Tips
Another important piece of gear you need underwater is your mask. The function of the mask is to provide a window to your underwater world, by creating air space between the diver's eyes and the water. Nothing in diving is more annoying than a leaky mask. Here are some tips to help you find a mask that fits!
- Never, and we mean never, buy a mask you didn't try on!
- Try the mask on without the strap and inhale slightly through your nose, does it stay on?
- Try it with your regulator and snorkel to make sure they are comfortable as a unit.
- Feel around the seal for gaps. Keep in mind that facial lines and facial hair can cause leaks.
- Choose the mask that works best with the contours of your face.
- Have your dealer look for gaps while you are wearing the mask.
- Is your peripheral vision adequate with the mask? Could you see a buddy right next to you?
- Does the nose pocket feel comfortable? How about the strap?
- Can you equalize while wearing it?
- If the mask comes with a purge valve, is it easy to use?
- Not all masks accept prescription lenses so let your dealer know if this is a concern.
- If possible, try it out with the rest of your gear in a pool.
Now that you have selected a new mask:
- Follow the directions on how to prep it for your first dive. Often we will do this for you.
- Keep it clean and store it in a cool, dry, dark place.
- If it didn't come with a mask box, buy one and use it to protect from warping or scratching.
- Consider replacing the factory strap with a more comfortable one.
- Use sea drops to keep it fog-free and rinse in clear water prior to the dive.
- Wipe sunscreen and moisturizer off your face just before the dive. Face creams are a big contributor to leaking.
