Scuba Dive Mask - Can't See Without It!

Your scuba dive mask should be your first and most important purchase of personal scuba diving equipment before you learn to scuba dive.

Not only is it your window to the incredible underwater world, a mask with a bad or uncomfortable fit can easily ruin your scuba diving adventure.

They come in a wide variety of styles, colors, and shapes.

Whether you choose one with a single pane of glass, a split pane (like glasses) or one with additional side windows will depend on your personal preference.




New dive equipment product - check out these new Custom mask strap covers/labels for your own safety and security of your dive equipment.

You should visit your local dive retailer to ensure you find the proper fitting scuba dive mask for you.

You can then either take advantage of their on-site knowledge and service, or order through an on-line retailer.

I have found Leisure Pro to be the best in terms of price, service and warranty/return policy.

Choosing The Best One For You

Take your time and try on a number of different types. Place each scuba dive mask on your face without fastening the strap, and breathe in lightly. Then move your hands slightly away.

If it drops, (make sure you catch it!) then the fit isn’t right for you. Breathe through your mouth for about one minute to see how it feels. Finally, exhale lightly and catch it as it drops.

If there is a red skirt line around your face, it probably isn’t the best choice for you. Keep trying until you have several different types that pass your comfort and fit test.

Once you have narrowed your choice to several, consider the following:

• Is the skirt silicone or rubber? Do you have any allergies to either?

• When the strap is in place, does it rub along the bridge of your nose?

• Does it have a purge valve and do you want a purge valve (used to force out any water that may have got in). This isn’t usually a big deal since you will be taught how to purge in your Open Water Diver Course.

• Air volume – how big is the space between your face and the lens? The less space, the better the vision and easier to purge. The more space, the more water that can enter before you have to purge.

• Color – the brighter the color, the easier it is to find it if drops in the water.

I didn’t want to be flashy and brought gray and black fins.

During one of my Advanced Open Water Dive sessions, I dropped a fin in the ocean at Porteau Cove and spent the next half hour trying to find it.

Luckily I did, but next time I am buying bright colored gear!

Ok, so now you have narrowed down the options and have made your choice. You are getting closer to your first dive.

If you have the extra cash, buy a proper case as well to help protect it.

I wear soft contact lenses and have never had a problem with them during a dive. If you normally wear glasses, check into buying a prescription lens.

Ask your dive retailer which mask works best with a prescription lens.

However, first read below on how to maintain your scuba dive mask in peak condition.

Scuba Dive tip: Buy a second dive strap when you buy your mask, and make your own ‘Save-a-dive’ kit.

There are many scuba equipment on-line sites where you can research your equipment. Since I am not an expert, I will not recommend any particular product or brand.

However, I have found the staff and information at Leisurepro for your scuba dive mask to be particularly useful and the prices seem to be the lowest.

Please ensure you do your own research to maximize your scuba diving experience.

Maintaining Your Scuba Dive Mask

Before you jump into the water, you should:

• Remove the thin oily film that was put on to help protect the silicone and glass during shipping. The easiest way to do this is to lightly rub a small amount of toothpaste (paste, not gel) in a circular motion using your fingertips. Be careful not to scratch the lens. Rinse and repeat until the film is gone. Repeat the process to the skirt and strap as well to get rid of the oil

• Remember to check the lens, strap and skirt for rips, tears, cracks, etc. before each dive trip and replace as needed

• Remember to always place your scuba dive mask face up as salt, sand, coral, and grit can easily scratch your lens and impair your vision. I was always taught to wrap the strap around my fins and ensure it is face up between same-day dives to protect the lens

• To avoid your lens fogging up, always coat the inside of your mask lens with a defogging solution. This can either be a solution bought from your dive retailer, or your own saliva. Either spray the solution or spit in to your mask, and gently rub all around the lens. Rinse with water to ensure the excess solution is gone, and you are ready to dive

• After each dive, always remember to give all your gear a thorough rinse in clean, fresh water, and then completely dry it before storing it safely in its’ case. This will greatly increase the life of your investment

• Every so often, repeat the gentle toothpaste cleaning to ensure all grit is removed and the lens is ready for your next dive

Next purchase – the fins and snorkel.

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