The Snorkel Mask, The Most Important Item of your Snorkeling Gear

We already discussed how to choose the proper Snorkeling Gear in general and the important points of the diving or Snorkel Mask. So let’s talk about now about the next most important piece of equipment that you will need. I would like to talk specifically about the Diving or Snorkeling Mask. Remember, this is the item of your Snorkeling Gear that allows you to see the wonderful world that lies beneath the surface.

As I had mentioned in my previous article the Snorkeling Masks come, if you will, for three types of faces. The majority of them, of course are for average faces. But you can find them for smaller and larger faces. Smaller faces, like in kids and petite women. Larger faces, I mean larger faces as in big, since most average Masks will fit most faces. So when you’re ready to buy, read the specs and make sure your buying the proper one for your face. That way, when you test it you should have no problems and with minor adjustments you can achieve a proper fit.

Now, to test your Mask, hold it against your face with your hand, not the strap. Inhale through your nose until the mask feels stuck to your face. If you let go of your hand and the Mask remains stuck to your face, you have achieved a perfect seal. That way you shouldn’t have to tighten the strap too much and the mask will fit comfortably.

Masks also come in different forms and colors. A serious diver will tell you that the best one will be the one with a black body and skirt. He could be right. This mask blocks the light that comes in through the sides and upper and lower portion of the clear masks avoiding reflections. But not all masks come with panoramic view, and in addition to reflections you may catch a glimpse of something with your peripheral vision with the clear one. So if you like the blue, red, yellow or pink trim ones just keep that in mind.

Also, if you wear glasses to correct your vision, you may want to know that some Diving or Snorkeling Masks come ready to replace the original lens with an optical correction lens that will fit your prescription. Don’t worry; they are much less expensive than regular glasses. But remember, water magnifies everything and if your eye site isn’t that bad, you may be able to save a buck or two.

In the most economical Masks the body and skirt are made of PVC or plastic, compared to less economical ones that are made of silicone or liquid injected silicone. So depending on your budget, the silicone makes it more comfortable to wear for extended periods of time but the PVC ones do the job too and if you find the right one, the price may not make that much of a difference.

So when you’re ready to enjoy the wonders of the underwater world or getting a better set. These are a few tips that may help you decide which one is the right Diving or Snorkeling Mask for you. So keep them in mind.

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