Scuba Diving Mask: How To Find a Great Mask

By Bryan R. Richardson

Taking a few moments to prepare a new scuba diving mask will help to eliminate any fogging problems. A great money-saving way to prevent fogging is simply to use a few drops of baby shampoo and smear it around the inside lens of your mask. This is a very effective, and superior method to prevent fogging than to spit in the mask, which can promote bacterial growth.

Among the first things to invest in when purchasing scuba gear is a dive mask. Although it is possible to purchase masks from many retailers,this is not the product to cheap out on. Don't purchase an inferior mask, thinking that it will be adequate for your needs, even if you are a beginner diver. Nothing is further from the truth. A mask made with safety glass lenses is better than one made with plastic lenses.

Choosing the right scuba diving mask can make your diving trip a pleasurable experience rather than a miserable one. If your mask doesn't fit properly and is constantly leaking and fogging up, it has the potential to ruin a long-awaited diving trip. If you are purchasing a new mask, one way to check if it fits you properly is to slip the mask on loosely, then bend your head forward and inhale. The suction created by this manoever should be enough to keep the mask in place. If it does not, keep trying them on until you find one that fits you well.

Buying a premium scuba mask and caring for it properly will ensure the longevity of the mask. There is no point acquiring costly scuba gear but skimping on the quality of your mask. If you are constantly battling a leaking mask, your dives will be shorter and so will your temper. Remember to always inspect your mask before leaving on a diving trip. You'll find nothing more annoying than arriving at your destination only to discover that the rubber strap that holds your mask in place has rotted through.

Scuba diving masks are designed both to protect your eyes from the sting of salt water and enhance your vision underwater. Wearing prescription eye wear need not be a hindrance to diving. You can purchase dive masks with prescription lenses that allow you to take in all the underwater flora and fauna and not miss a thing. With a prescription mask, you don't have to worry about fitting a mask over your glasses.

It's simple to care for your scuba diving mask with some fundamental upkeep tips. Store your mask lenses down in a plastic case to avoid scratching and to keep the silicone skirt that forms the seal around your face from becoming warped from exposure to sunlight. Sometimes your mask may come with a protective coating, which may be removed using a soft cloth and a non-abrasive toothpaste. This should only be attempted with glass lenses, not plastic ones. Always test a small area of the lens to guarantee that you are not adding scratches if you need to do this step. Always rinse your mask in plain water after a dive, especially if you have been diving in salt water.

One area not to compromise on diving equipment is on your mask and fins. A scuba diving mask composed of high-quality components keeps water out and prevents fogging. As for fins, a good pair of fins will keep your legs from becoming quickly tired. For the mask style that keeps out leaks the best, choose a goggle type with separate lenses for each eye, and also has a silicone skirt to keep out any water. When choosing fins, opt for a closed heel design if you plan on dives of any significant lengths of time. - 29892

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