Your Ultimate Guide to Buying the Perfect Mask

Your journey under the sea typically begins with purchasing a mask. Your mask is perhaps the most critical piece of equipment, as it is required to see underwater for snorkeling, scuba diving, freediving and spearfishing. 

Masks are your window to the underwater world.  By creating an air pocket between our eyes and the water they allow us to see and fully experience the beauty of underwater nature. 

Having an uncomfortable or leaky mask can ruin your experience, which is why it is so important to find a high quality mask that fits you comfortably. By protecting our eyes and nose, we can effortlessly see and breathe under the water. Masks are a critical piece of safety equipment for your adventures. Choosing the best mask for you, will elevate your experience, ensuring years of incredible underwater encounters. 

A mask is typically the first piece of equipment that snorkelers, scuba divers and free divers purchase. It is a very personal piece of equipment and if cared for properly will be with you for years of underwater adventures. The type of mask you choose will be influenced by the type of activities you will use it for, your face size and shape, and of course your budget. 

When you step into Xico Dive Shop looking for a mask, we will ask you some questions to help us pick out the best mask for you. The first question we will ask is: 

What activity do you need a mask for-snorkeling, scuba diving or freediving?

To ensure you get the correct mask we will want to know which activities you plan to pursue.  Different underwater sports are better suited to different styles of mask. While some masks can be used for multiple activities it is important to know what you will be using the mask for so let's go through the most common styles and the difference between snorkeling, scuba diving and freediving masks.

Snorkeling

Many snorkeling masks are designed with tempered glass, however they are designed and intended for surface swimming, and not to be worn at depth. The price point is more affordable and you can find high quality combos that include a mask and snorkel for between 500 MXN-1200 MXN.

Scuba diving

A scuba mask can be used for snorkeling but a snorkeling mask is not designed for scuba diving. Scuba masks are designed to be worn at depth. 

As you descend, water pressure increases, a regular snorkel mask that is not designed for scuba diving could implode due to the large air volume trapped inside. Scuba masks are designed with materials that can handle the pressure at depth. Because we use our mask as a way to equalize our ears, it is important that the mask is designed for depth. Not using an appropriate mask could result in mask squeeze, water flooding the mask, and potential injuries. 

If you plan to use your mask for scuba diving and snorkeling it is important that you invest in a mask designed specifically for scuba diving. 

At Xico Dive Shop we currently have a promotion where you will receive a free snorkel with your scuba mask purchase. A scuba mask and snorkel will cost between 1200 MXN-3900 MXN.

Apnea, freediving and spearfishing

Apnea, freediving and spearfishing are sports where you will reach depth while relying on your own body for breathing. For these sports, divers tend to prefer a lower volume mask, which makes equalization easier. 

Higher volume masks are usually used for scuba diving or snorkelling. While low volume masks are beneficial for freedivers. We use air to equalize the mask, and a lower volume mask means less air is required to equalize meaning that there is more available to be consumed by the diver's body. 

Most freediving masks are designed for depth and can also be used for scuba diving and snorkeling. Freediving masks come in really cool low profile designs and some spearfishing styles even come in camouflage print! Free diving masks and snorkel combos range from 500 MXN-2000 MXN. 

When deciding between the style of mask the size and space between the lenses is referred to as the mask volume. The two basic styles you will be choosing from are:

Low Volume: Requires less effort to equalize and clear water, making it ideal for freedivers and spearfishers.

High Volume: Provides a wider field of vision but can be harder to clear and equalize, preferred for snorkeling and scuba diving. 

If possible try on your instructor´s, dive buddies´ or rental masks before making a purchasing decision to see what different shapes and styles feel like under the water.

What type of lens do you like?

The next consideration, when choosing a mask, is the type of lens for the mask. Dive masks come with different lens configurations, and the right one depends on your preferences and needs:

Single Lens: Provides a wide, uninterrupted field of vision. Great for recreational divers and snorkelers who value a panoramic view. 

 

Dual Lens: masks designed with two lenses offer a narrower more focused view. Some people find the nose bridge in this style to be distracting or painful depending on their facial features. 

 

Side or Panoramic Lenses: You can find masks with lenses on the side panels. This type of mask provides enhanced peripheral vision, it is ideal for divers who want to feel more immersed in their surroundings.

Prescription Lenses: if you require corrective lenses to see on land then you need to consider having prescription lenses put into your scuba and snorkeling mask. Check with the manufacturer to ensure that they have the option for prescription lenses before making your purchase. 

The perfect fit 

The most important factor when selecting a dive mask is ensuring a proper fit. Masks take getting used to but there is a difference between the awkwardness of a mask and an ill fitting mask. Your mask is a critical piece of safety equipment and it is imperative that your mask fits your face without leaking. A poorly fitting mask can leak or cause discomfort, ruining your dive. 

Follow these steps to test the fit:

The Seal Test

To test if a mask fits you properly you will want to put it through the seal test. Place the mask on your face without using the strap. Inhale gently through your nose. If the mask stays in place without leaking air, it has a good seal. If the mask falls off, covers your mouth or puts pressure on your nose, it is not a proper fit.

Comfort Check

Once you find a mask that forms a proper seal you will want to ensure that it feels comfortable. Now you will want to put the mask on with the strap in place and see if it feels comfortable. Make sure there are no pressure points on your forehead, nose, or cheeks. If the mask feels uncomfortable on land, it will feel worse when you are under the water. If you aren't sure if the mask is fitting too small or too big, ask the advice of an expert.

Cool Colours 

While the functionality of the mask is paramount, color can also play a role in your decision for more than just fashion.

We completely support you if you are selecting scuba gear with a specific colour palette like pink, yellow or blue. Having one coordinated colour or brand can create a signature look and incredible instagrammable shots. 

But apart from style the colour and type of frame can impact your underwater experience. 

Clear Skirts: Those beautiful crystal clear masks give a  sharp look and provide a neutral contrast to all black. These masks will allow more light in, creating an open feel. This can be great in some lighting but can cause reflections in bright conditions. Another drawback is that a clear skirt can colour overtime, looking yellowish.

Opaque Skirts: These frames reduce glare and distractions, offering a more focused diving experience. You can get opaque frames in black, white, and a variety of colours. The main difference between black and white is that white masks will let more light in than a black mask. Underwater photographers often choose black masks to prevent their mask from casting shadows on their photos. 

The deeper underwater we go certain colours begin to disappear, red is the first colour to disappear, yellow is one of the best colours to use if you want to be seen underwater, and pink is a great all around colour that is visible on the surface and underwater. 

The colour you choose for your mask has fashion and functionality implications, so it is ok to take time to decide which colour is best for you.  

Lens Tint: Some masks come with tinted or mirrored lenses to reduce glare and enhance underwater colors. These masks can enhance the red colour that tends to disappear under 5m.

 

Money Matters 

A dive mask is typically your first purchase for your new underwater sport. It is an investment in your safety and future enjoyment. Don't cheap out on a mask but don't feel like you have to buy the most expensive model. 

Dive masks range in price from budget-friendly options starting at 500 MXN to high-end models with advanced features at 3900 MXN. Set a budget that aligns with your diving frequency and level of experience. 

For example a dive instructor that dives everyday, needs to always carry a second mask and often loses masks is more likely to buy an economical but practical mask. If diving is your luxury sport indulgence you might want to buy one with tinted lenses or a comfort strap to enhance your dive experience. 

All the masks you find at a reputable dive shop will be scuba ready, but you will notice a difference in the quality of materials and lenses as you go up in price point. Remember, investing in a high-quality mask can enhance your diving experience and if cared for properly will last you for years. 

Try Before You Buy

Masks are a personal item and everyone's face is different and unique. Masks typically come in one size which means not every mask will fit every person. It is important that you try on the mask before you buy it. Whenever possible visit a dive shop, consult with their experts and test various models to find the one that fits your face and meets your requirements.

TLCare 

Once you’ve found the perfect mask, proper care is essential to ensure longevity. 

When you first purchase your mask it comes with a protective coating on the lenses. If you try to use the mask straight away you will find that it will fog underwater. To remove this coating you will need to first use a lighter to burn the inside lenses of the mask. 

Then you will want to use toothpaste. You will put toothpaste on the insides of the mask, leave the toothpaste on the mask and rinse it off. 

Breath into the lens of your mask, when your mask doesn't fog, when you breathe into it, you are ready to go. 

To ensure that your mask doesn't fog up after each use, invest in purchasing defog to keep your lenses clear. 

Remember to rinse with fresh water after each use, and allow to air dry before storing your mask in its container. Avoid exposing the mask to direct sunlight for prolonged periods and always store your mask in its protective case to prevent scratches or damage between use. 

Choosing the right dive mask is a personal decision that depends on your face shape, diving style, and preferences. By considering factors such as fit, lens type, and material, you can find a mask that enhances your underwater adventures. 

Remember, a comfortable and well-fitted mask is key to enjoying the beauty of the underwater world. Visit us online at xicodiveshop.com or in stores on Calle Flamingos between Calle 38 y Calle 40, we are here daily between 9:00 am-8:00 pm to answer all your scuba diving questions. 

Happy diving!