Exploring the beauty of the underwater world requires a diving mask. Without it, you won’t be able to clearly see the marine life around you. You can’t wholly enjoy what an ocean has to offer. Even worse, your health may be at risk. Your eyes may be exposed to saltwater, sand, debris, and chlorine.
A diving mask protects you from all those harmful organisms and substances. Whether for scuba diving or snorkeling, this item is necessary for swimming beneath the surface. In general, water has a different refractive index than air. As a result, human eyes can’t function properly while inside water. All objects appear blurry underwater, which makes wearing a mask essential.
How should you pick a good diving mask?
You should pick a good diving mask by ensuring it fits your face comfortably and forms a proper seal. Your choice should consider several important factors, such as comfort, visibility, volume, materials, and design. You need to first try several mask options to check which among them perfectly fits your nose and face. A good mask should stay in place when you gently inhale through your nose.
Besides that, make sure the silicone skirt seals evenly against your face without gaps. Picking up the most comfortable and fitting one is very crucial because water can seep into the mask if it doesn’t seal properly around your nose and face. Sometimes cases of extreme water leakage can cause panic for first-time divers, and they can even drown.
This might lead to more serious incidents, such as irregular breathing. In addition, select a diving mask with a design that supports your field of view. Commonly, it’s better to pick one that enhances the view so you can see more as you swim. When necessary, pick one that contains single-lens, double-lens, or panoramic options. These designs improve the visibility.
Types of diving masks
Today, diving masks are available in the offline and online markets. These variations exist because divers have different needs, styles, and facial shapes. For example, the standard ones are ideal for general scuba diving and snorkeling. Frameless ones, on the other hand, are more proper for freediving.
As a result, you will also find a wide range of prices depending on its design and features. A full-face diving mask is considered the priciest one. It has a more complex design and features. Besides, it covers your eyes, nose, and mouth, allowing you to breathe naturally. In the list below, let’s find more options for your insights!
Traditional goggles
A standard diving mask is the most common one, and it works well for both beginners and experienced divers. It contains a frame, silicone skirt, strap, and one or two lenses. Usually, this item is available in single- or dual-lens designs. These masks are very durable and designed to fit a wide range of face shapes.
Frameless coverings
If you prefer a lighter mask, this one is a good option for you. It consists of a silicone skirt that is directly attached to the lens. Thanks to its compact design, this veil is suitable for long dives. Its compact size also makes it very easy to carry while travelling.
Low-volume facepieces
Like frameless masks, low-volume ones are great for freediving and travel. This diving mask has less internal air space and is closer to the face. They make it easier to clear the water from the mask due to the reduced internal space. Moreover, you can snorkel or dive with less effort.
Full-face goggles
As mentioned earlier, these goggles enable swimmers to breathe naturally through the nose and mouth. This type is more complicated than the traditional ones because it contains a built-in snorkel or regulator. It consists of inhalation and exhalation valves so the air can enter and be released safely. Usually, they are used for technical and cold-water diving.
Panoramic visors
A panoramic mask is designed to enhance your visual experience underwater. It is often frameless, so your peripheral view is more satisfying. It contains curved lenses, thus you can move more to the right and left without turning your head. Thus, you can look at amazing coral reefs and unique fish species comfortably.
Safety tips for first-time divers
Are you planning to dive for the first time in your life? Understandably, the experience of going deeper under the surface might scare you a bit. After you choose the right diving mask, practice the tips in the list below, and it will help you make your first underwater experience safe and memorable.
- Choose a mask that fits comfortably and doesn’t pinch or press to tightly.
- Make sure there are no cracks, tears, or ageing in the lens, skirt, and straps.
- Check all valves and buckles, ensuring they function well.
- Always clean a new diving mask with anti-fog solution or baby shampoo before jumping into the water.
- Exhale gently as you descend using your nose. This way, you can equalise the air space.
Dive Safely and Comfortably with DIVING FIRST
Divers and snorkelers may find that every underwater exploration comes with its unique challenges. Every ocean or coastal area has different water conditions, including Komodo National Park. However, you shouldn’t worry, because Diving First is the right diving partner for you. Whether it’s your first experience or not, this team knows how to prepare and guide you.
It consists of professional divers with an ecotourism vision. They won’t only assist in picking the right diving mask but also teach how to communicate well. Their assistance will put your mind at ease and kick off your anxiety, so you can swim comfortably. Need more information? Use their website and connect with them!