What should a spearfishing mask be like?

In order for the human eye to correctly perceive the surrounding space, it needs an air gap, because only at the border with air the distance, direction, and dimensions are correctly determined. Refraction of rays occurs in water, which the organ of vision interprets differently.

If water comes into direct contact with the shell of the eye, then perception is disrupted, as a result of which all the parameters of surrounding objects change. The second problem is irritation of the retina and increased water pressure, which is acceptable for a simple diver at shallow depths, but for a hunter it is fraught with loss of prey.

The mask allows you to create a layer between the eye and water, protect against pollution, and leaves a person feeling familiar. This is doubly important, since the other organs of touch (hearing and smell) practically do not work under water. In this article we will look at all the nuances of choosing a vital attribute of an underwater hunter - a mask.

Mask requirements

Let's look at what parameters a high-quality spearfishing mask should meet.

Obturator

A special soft layer between the body and the skin, made of elastic material. There are two options here:

• Rubber. Used in cheap options for tourists. It can be used for hunting, but problems with tightness can hardly be avoided;
• Silicone. The most suitable option is black, eliminating glare. It is characterized by the absence of allergic reactions, fits well to the face, and has a long service life.

Hull and portholes

The rim is made of metal or impact-resistant plastic. Experts do not see a fundamental difference between them; it all depends on preferences or the strength of the fixation.

Portholes can be:

• Glass. In this case, you must definitely look for the “tempered” marking;
• Plastic. For this case, the quality is guaranteed by the inscription “safety”.

Fastening strap

This element directly fixes the equipment on the head. High-quality masks are equipped with an elastic strap (usually made of rubber, silicone or rubberized fabric), which has:

• Quick adjustment mechanism. Unlike a classic buckle, such an element will allow you to tighten or loosen your equipment without removing it;
• Rotating buckles , allowing you to choose the most convenient angle for attaching the mask to your head.

Required characteristics of underwater masks

Depending on the depth at which hunting is carried out, masks can be divided into three groups (taking into account visibility):

• Masks for shallow hunting. The hunter must see both what is in front of him and what is under him and partially behind him.
• When hunting at medium depths, you don’t need to see what’s happening below. The hunter's attention is focused on the situation ahead of him and at the bottom. After all, there, among the reliefs, among the shells, fish are hiding.
• The mask, suitable for deep hunting, is particularly resistant to water pressure. With a small volume, it should have excellent visibility. Thanks to the matte shutter, the hunter's vision does not become tired. A well-made and fastened strap will deform less and pull the mask upward. As a result, the hunter will feel even more comfortable, because the skin under the nose will not rub.

Finally, it is worth noting that choosing a mask for spearfishing is a very individual matter. You should not listen too much to sellers; only careful fitting and knowledge of the necessary requirements will allow you to make a successful purchase. Without a properly selected mask, the hunter finds himself without his main weapon - good vision.

Mask with diopters

What should people with vision problems do? Manufacturers have found a solution for this category of potential hunters. It makes no sense to develop equipment that would accommodate glasses, and experts categorically do not recommend using lenses under water. Therefore, masks with diopters were developed. What is their feature?

There are several types of such masks:

• Lenses instead of glass. This procedure is done to order; the initial configuration includes a regular porthole. For people with good financial resources, this is the best choice. The technician changes the optics designed for you right on the spot, and there are no problems with subsequent operation;
• Special optical adapter. On top of a regular transparent surface, lenses are inserted into special mounts. This is a cheaper option with a large selection of optics directly from a specialized store, but when spearfishing, problems with fogging are likely, which significantly reduces the pleasure of the process;
• Stickers on the inside of the glass, a kind of lens for a mask. The film is equipped with a special glue that provides good adhesion without affecting transparency. In the price-quality category, this way out of the situation will be optimal.

How to choose

When ordering special glasses, you need to focus on your glasses. Today, manufacturers can offer solutions for the following visual diseases:

• simple correction for reduced acuity;
• astigmatism;
• the ability to use bifocal glasses with two zones.

Optics for underwater masks usually have a gradation of one diopter (less often 0.5). It is easy to correct the perception of people with vision from -6 to +1.5. Otherwise, a custom order is required.

Professionals recommend choosing lenses for equipment that are 1.5 diopters lower than those of your glasses. This is due to the peculiarities of light refraction in water.

Scuba diving masks

Intex Reef Rider 55974 – with hypoallergenic seal

Active children need to be provided with all the equipment for swimming: from high-quality swimming trunks to a mask. A product covering the entire face will constrain the child, so it is recommended to buy a diving mask with large lenses.

Intex Reef Rider 55974 is available in blue and red colors. The product is designed for children over 8 years old. The headband is made of hypoallergenic thermoplastic material and does not cause irritation or compression on the face. The snug and soft fit brings the swimmer comfort while swimming.

The straps on the diving mask are made of silicone - durable and elastic. The lenses are made of polycarbonate and are not harmful to the skin. They are durable and resistant to mechanical stress. The lenses are transparent, there is no darkening, so when the sun hits, there may be glare, which will make movement difficult.

Advantages:

• Lenses made of durable polycarbonate;
• Silicone adjustment strap;
• For adults and children over 8 years old;
• Hypoallergenic sealing material.

Flaws:

• There is no lens tinting.

Bestway Submira – inexpensive and soft

A mask for adults that can even be used to dive for crayfish. Available in grey, blue and red colours. Completely covers the eyes, fits snugly around the nose and cheeks.

Prevents water from getting under the mask. The light weight of the product allows it to be conveniently fixed on the face - only 300 grams. When selecting diving masks, pay attention to the lenses. Here they are made of polycarbonate, which is resistant to chemical and mechanical damage.

If work occurs at great depths, the reliability of the design is important. In Bestway Submira, the seal fits tightly and at the same time softly. The soft part is in contact with the skin of the face, so silicone is used for it. In bodies of water with high transparency, when the sun's rays hit the surface of the water, glare can be created, which interferes with the swimmer's normal view.

Advantages:

• Availability;
• Large area of ​​face coverage;
• Several colors;
• Soft seal;
• Plastic seal.

Flaws:

• A lot of polycarbonate was used in the design.

Wave M-1359 – with a two-layer seal

The best mask with a classic design. The lenses are made of tempered glass. This material is used in masks for professional scuba diving.

Tempered glass with diopters slightly distorts the picture, so wearing such a mask all the time is not recommended. After swimming, it is better to take off the product to rest your eyes. The seal is made of 2 layers of hypoallergenic silicone. It prevents water from getting under the product.

The strap is also made of silicone material. Thanks to the anti-slip surface, it does not fall off the head and is not difficult to pull on and take off. The belt is easily adjustable. The weight of the mask is only 257 grams, it is easily attached to the head. Since the seal is two-layer, it increases the tightness of the product several times.

Advantages:

• Double-layer seal;
• Silicone strap;
• Tempered glass on lenses;
• Availability;
• Stylish execution.

Flaws:

• Lenses distort your view.

Submarine Skat 30 – tempered glass lenses

Equipment for scuba diving - snorkeling. Provides comfort and maximum visibility underwater. Suitable for children. Fits tightly on the face, does not press and does not interfere with movements. The body is made of plastic and securely fixes the product on the head.

The adjustable strap allows you to quickly change the length of the girth to suit your head size. The seal is made of silicone and does not rub the child’s nose and cheeks. The lens is made of highly durable tempered glass.

Tempered glass, upon possible impact, breaks into fragments with blunt edges, which does not give a chance for cuts and damage. If a child has poor eyesight, the mask should have diopters with magnification so that the swimmer can calmly see the surroundings. In the Submarine Skat 30, the one-piece lens provides maximum viewing angle thanks to a small seal.

Advantages:

• Suitable for children;
• One-piece tempered glass lens;
• Suitable for snorkeling and freediving;
• Silicone strap and seal.

Flaws:

• Plastic case.

How to choose a mask

Now that the general information about this piece of scuba equipment is known, it's time to figure out what to look for when choosing. The assortment on store shelves today is quite decent, so you can easily get confused.

Let's look at the basic requirements:

• Minimum volume of under-mask space. This is an air gap between the face and the structure. It is considered ideal when the volume of air inside does not exceed 200 cubic millimeters. In other words, the eyelashes should move freely, but nothing more. Otherwise, it will be difficult to keep your head under water, and taking a horizontal position will require too much strength;
• Material of manufacture. As mentioned above, it is better to use dark silicone as a seal and high-quality glass with the appropriate marks (see above). The frame is made of metal or plastic, this does not affect the quality;
• Face shape. There are universal options, but they are ineffective. A quality mask is available in wide or narrow shapes. The product should not sag or put too much pressure during fitting. In both cases, the equipment does not suit your face type;
• Comfortable strap. It is best to use the silicone option, but neoprene is ideal for girls with long hair;
• Correct selection of diopters. The mask should be clearly visible; this is the main indicator of the correct choice of optics. When the ideal option is selected, take glass 1 diopter lower, so it will be clearly visible under water;
• Appearance. You have to like the equipment, otherwise it will be psychologically difficult to use it.

Selection rules

Purchasing a mask is a very responsible but necessary step. Today's range of this type of accessories is so wide that even someone with decent experience can get confused. In order not to be disappointed in your purchase, you cannot be fooled by the sweet speeches of sellers; you should rely solely on your knowledge and feelings during fitting. By the way, you need to try on a mask for spearfishing while clean-shaven, since stubble will not allow the seal to fit tightly to the skin.

When choosing a mask, you need to clearly understand at what depth it will be used. If the hunter is a beginner and is just gaining experience by diving in the coastal shallow water zone, then a product with single glass that gives the widest possible view will suit him, and a full-face one will also suit him. In this case, the volume of under-mask space is not particularly important. Seasoned tricksters who prefer to hunt at great depths use small-sized masks with an air volume of up to 200 cm3. The smaller the space under the mask, the easier it is to keep your head under water.

As for the tightness of the fit, that is, tightness, this parameter is checked simply: you need to put on a mask and breathe air through your nose. A suitable product will immediately “stick” to your face. Responsible manufacturers produce masks for different face shapes, namely narrow and wide. You should not pay attention to universal options. In the store it may seem that such a mask fits well, but during the hunt its main drawback will appear - it will begin to let water through.

Popular models

Let's look at the best options:

Look from Technisub. Suitable for different face types, equipped with high-quality silicone and glass. It is allowed to work at a depth of up to 15 meters, although 5 is considered optimal. The main disadvantage is that in very cold water it begins to leak water. The average price will be 3000 – 3500 rubles.

Bandit by Omer. It is characterized by a minimum submask volume and excellent insulating properties at any water temperature. Suitable for any face type. The disadvantage is that he really dislikes stubble, and even more so a mustache, and it is almost impossible to choose glasses with diopters. Suitable for any depth, but designed for deep sea diving. The price category is the same - 3200 rubles.

Platina M-20QB from Ideal option if you need optics. The glasses are easy to find and inserted quickly. The mask fits perfectly, has minimal internal air volume, and has excellent visibility. Ideal operating conditions are fresh or salt water up to 12 meters deep. The only drawback is that when replacing the glass, it starts to leak and you can’t do without a special branded expensive glue from the same manufacturer. The price corresponds to the quality - 4600 rubles.

OMER Abyss. One of the best options ever presented in our country. Fits perfectly on the face, has high-quality components, excellent visibility. The option of inserting glasses with diopters is provided by the manufacturer, so replacement problems do not arise. No shortcomings have been identified on the forums; all complaints are related to the inexperience of the hunter or the initial wrong choice of size and shape. The cost will be about 3000 rubles.

How to choose a swimming mask

The main piece of equipment that a diver cannot do without is a diving mask or a mask for swimming underwater. With the help of a mask he can see underwater. Vision underwater without a mask is difficult, everything seems blurry.

The presence of glass in a swimming mask and air space in front of the diver's eyes gives almost natural vision underwater. Modern masks are suitable for any underwater activity: diving, freediving, spearfishing or snorkeling (swimming with a mask and snorkel on the surface of the water). Even if your goal is not to seriously conquer the depths of the sea, having your own diving mask will make your trip and vacation more interesting.

What types of underwater masks are there?

The masks do not have sizes and only some models are divided into adults or children. The main differences between masks in shape for different face types. Basically, modern masks are universal and suitable for most divers. To ensure that the mask fits comfortably and does not allow water to pass through, it is recommended to try on and select the mask for your face type.

Structurally, any mask for diving or underwater swimming has glass lenses or one large glass, a plastic frame, a silicone seal and a strap.

The more glass in the mask, the greater the visibility under water they provide. Masks with one large glass have the best visibility in the water. However, masks with small separate glasses are more compact and convenient.

Selection of masks for snorkeling, diving, freediving and spearfishing in the partner store ForDiving.ru

High-quality masks for diving and snorkeling are available with tempered glass. This glass does not form large sharp fragments and is safe. Tempered glass is marked with special markings (a rare exception is the Aquasphere Sphere freediving mask with a plexisol polycarbonate lens, which is used due to the special curved shape of the lens and mask).

The plastic frame securely holds the glass and gives the mask its original shape; the plastic can be made in different colors. Mask seals and straps are made of silicone. Silicone is a soft, hypoallergenic and durable material that retains its original shape well. Silicone is much more comfortable than the rubber that was used in the past, and allows you to make mask seals of almost any shape. The silicone seal allows you to pinch your nose with your fingers without any problems, which is important when diving or diving into the depths. Typically masks come in clear or black silicone. Black silicone does not produce glare, which is important for underwater photography or video, and transparent silicone allows more light to pass through. Most snorkeling masks come in clear silicone, while diving or freediving masks come primarily in black silicone. The straps of the masks are adjustable, the masks are quickly adjusted to the desired size.

Structurally, masks can be divided according to types of scuba diving and diving:

Diving masks

Masks for freediving and spearfishing

Snorkeling masks

A separate specific type of mask is full-face masks. They are used for diving in cold water or when it is necessary to use an intercom directly during a dive. These masks require skill and skill to use.

For simple swimming, any mask is suitable, however, if you mainly engage in diving or freediving and spearfishing, then you should choose a mask appropriate for these activities. A high-quality and well-chosen mask will last for many years.

For diving safety, swimming goggles are never used in freediving and scuba diving.!

How to choose a diving mask?

For freediving and spearfishing, the most compact models with minimal volume or minimal under-mask space are selected. This is necessary to facilitate purging or equalize pressure under the mask and compensate for compression when diving (increasing depth). Accordingly, such masks differ in design and are classified as specific masks. Masks for spearfishing, in addition to design differences, can also be camouflage-colored.

How to choose a freediving mask

8 Best Freediving Masks

For diving, choose between large models with large glasses that give a wonderful wide view underwater, or small compact models that may give a slightly smaller view, but are still very ergonomic and comfortable.

Both a “diving” and a “freediving” mask are suitable for snorkeling Typically, the selection criterion here is based on obtaining the widest possible view under water or versatility of use. If you want to take up freediving in the future, then immediately start with a freediving mask. If you plan to later engage in diving or combine both diving and snorkeling, then choosing a diving mask is important.

To make sure your swimming mask fits you

Tilt your head back a little, but don’t throw it back, you shouldn’t see the ceiling

Place the mask on your face without using or placing the strap around the back of your head.

Take a short breath through your nose to take in all the air that remains under the mask and it is stuck to your face.

Don't breathe

The mask should stay on your face. If the mask does not stay on your face or you feel that air is leaking somewhere, then the mask is not suitable for you. Sometimes you need to try on several models several times to understand which mask fits and fits best. If all of them fit, then choose the one that is more comfortable than others, in which you can see best and which you think is better than all the others (usually the mask is bought for a long time and will last for many years).

During fitting and before diving, make sure that nothing gets under the mask seal: Hair, strap, neoprene helmet from a wetsuit, etc. This way you can minimize the possibility of water getting under your mask during a dive. However, you should get used to the idea that a mask that never lets water through does not exist.

. There is always facial expression or something that can disrupt the obturation.

Is it possible to purchase a diving mask without trying it on?

Can. Most seals are universal and most models fit most people. Cases when no mask fits are rare. Unsuitable goods can be exchanged or returned.

What to do to prevent the mask from sweating under water

How to store the mask

Diving equipment is afraid of salt and direct sunlight. Try to rinse your mask with fresh water after each dive. Try to keep the mask in the shade and not leave it in the sun, as well as other equipment. Store the mask in a box or box along with other equipment. Try not to store the mask in the cold.

Useful accessories

Like other diving equipment, there are various useful accessories for masks that can be purchased additionally and make your dive more comfortable.

Boxing is a plastic box for storing and transporting a mask. Protects the mask itself and glass from damage when carried in a bag and is especially important when transported in luggage. Most often, masks break when carried or transported in luggage. And since a broken frame is almost impossible to repair, and broken glass is very rarely available for replacement, you will most likely have to buy a new mask. A simple plastic box avoids this. Most diving and snorkeling masks are sold with their original plastic housings. However, some models of masks for freediving or spearfishing may be supplied by manufacturers in a regular cardboard box. Therefore, it is recommended to check the availability of a plastic box when purchasing and if it is not there, then purchase it separately.

Antifog is a special chemical that is applied to the inner surface of the glass of the mask and prevents it from fogging under water. A convenient invention that will be useful to everyone. Simple and clear to use. Antifogs are produced in the form of a gel or spray; there is no significant difference in the form and it depends more on personal preference.

Neoprene Strap Cover or Strap Cover - A small, soft pad that fits directly over the mask strap to make your dive much more comfortable. The mask strap stops pressing hard on the back of the head and cutting into the head. If the diver has long hair, it will not get tangled in the strap. Some pads are so thick that a mask that is accidentally dropped into water will not sink. Additionally, neoprene pads come in a variety of colors, sometimes with patterns, allowing you to personalize your gear and easily differentiate it from others.

Diopters - Modern masks allow the installation of optical corrective lenses, which gives you the usual comfort and eliminates the need to use contact lenses under water. If you need to install diopter lenses, then choose models of masks with two glasses, into which you can additionally install lenses. Typically, each manufacturer has in its model range several masks into which diopters can be installed.

Nose clip - A useful accessory for freedivers. It is needed to pinch the nose when equalizing pressure so that you can free your hands. Freediver nose clips are different from regular swim nose clips. They are larger and “stronger” and usually have adjustments or clamps to fit comfortably on the silicone nose pocket of a freediving mask.

Important conclusions

You won't be able to see anything underwater without a mask. The mask is useful in itself, even if you do not dive regularly, then the presence of a mask and snorkel can already diversify even the laziest resort holiday

Choose a mask based on the type of activity you will do most, or plan to do in the future.

Try to try on the mask before purchasing. Don't worry if fitting is not possible in your case: most masks are universal and fit most people. Store employees will advise you on this or that model, and the unsuitable product can be exchanged.

A new mask must first be cleaned of dirt. It is best to use toothpaste. Rub the inner surface of the glass with toothpaste and rinse off after 20-30 minutes. Repeat after a couple of years when the mask becomes dirty again. To prevent the mask from sweating during a dive, use antifog. Apply antifog to a dry glass surface and make sure that it does not get into your eyes.

Protect your mask from damage; use a plastic box for storage and transportation. Be sure to wash all equipment and mask after diving in salt water. Do not leave the mask in the sun.

AllDive.ru editors Subscribe to our Newsletter and Telegram channel @fordiving so as not to miss important things

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Several reviews from equipment owners

Oleg, St. Petersburg. I bought the Omer Alien mask. Very high quality silicone, fits well even on my rather large face. The disadvantage is that the viewing angle is small for me and at a depth of more than three meters it begins to put pressure on the bridge of the nose.

Svyatoslav, Sochi. My choice is OMER Abyss. Fits well, quality workmanship. During operation, it never leaked in any weather and water temperature. The classic design of the strap makes the mask fit well. I didn’t dive deeper than 7 meters, but to this depth there was no pressure on the bridge of my nose.

Egor, Moscow. I decided to replace the mask. At one time I bought Omer Alien. There are no complaints about the quality, and at the beginning there was enough visibility. But with experience I realized that the big disadvantage of this equipment is the lack of visibility. Now I'm looking for something better in this regard with the same quality.

Nikita, Moscow. Purchased Seac sub Italica. A friend recommended this, I ordered it online from Italy. Happy with the purchase so far. Excellent visibility, does not allow water to pass through (although I did not dive deeper than 12 meters). The only problem was fogging, but burning the glass solved the problem once and for all.

Evgeniy, Novorossiysk.

I tried masks from Omer and Technisub. The visibility of the latter is of course much better, but I liked the silicone and glass better in the first option. But still, a compromise was found, I settled on Technisab. Good quality, a tiny amount of space inside and good visibility, what else is needed for good hunting.

The best masks for snorkeling

Such models are designed for swimming near the surface of the water. They have a large lens area and a built-in breathing tube.

H2Odyssey Equalizer

5

★★★★★

editorial assessment

100%

buyers recommend this product

The top snorkel shut-off valve on this mask prevents water from getting inside while diving. The unique design ensures separation of air flows and eliminates the possibility of glass fogging. Special sinuses in the nose make it possible to easily equalize pressure during short-term immersions.

Other features include built-in earplugs and an adjustable strap to keep the mask securely in place. The seal is made of soft hypoallergenic silicone. The structure can be quickly disassembled for storage and transportation. If necessary, the model can be equipped with a mount for a GoPro camera.

Advantages:

• tight fit;
• soft nose pocket;
• collapsible design;
• anti-fog protection;
• durable body.

Flaws:

• high price.

The H2Odyssey Equalizer can be used for both surface swimming and diving. A universal choice for children and teenagers.

Tusa Sport UM8001

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

95%

buyers recommend this product

The model has a collapsible design, which makes it easy to store and transport. Before use, the tube is quickly fixed to the main part using special fasteners. For a tighter fit, there are four elastic straps. Their length is easily adjusted if necessary.

The weight of the assembled product is 800 grams. The use of unique ventilation technology made it possible to separate inhaled and exhaled air through appropriate channels. This eliminates the possibility of glass fogging and makes using the mask comfortable.

Advantages:

• easy to understand;
• does not fog up;
• fits tightly;
• long tube.

Flaws:

• heavy weight.

Tusa Sport UM8001 can be used for long periods of snorkeling or scuba diving.

Linnberg Marine

4.8

★★★★★

editorial assessment

90%

buyers recommend this product

The model is equipped with convex glass that has no corners or kinks and provides excellent visibility under water. The anatomical design and the ability to tension the straps guarantee a tight fit. To install the camera, a special holder with a height adjuster is provided.

The Dry Top system reduces the chance of water getting inside the tube. If you need to quickly remove it, you can use the ergonomic valve located at the bottom of the mask. Unique ventilation technology prevents fogging and increases operating comfort. The tube folds easily for transport.

Advantages:

• durable materials;
• ease of carrying;
• rapid drainage of water;
• tight fit;
• viewing angle 180°.

Flaws:

• short tube.

The Linnberg Marine can be purchased for regular use, especially if you sail with an action camera.

Ruges Dolphin-M

4.8

★★★★★

editorial assessment

88%

buyers recommend this product

This mask has special valves that make it easy to remove any water that gets inside. The full-face design allows you to breathe through both your nose and mouth, and also provides a viewing angle of up to 180 degrees. The ventilation system prevents the glass from fogging up during long swims.

The mask weighs 510 grams. The tube outlet is splash-proof and the adjustable straps ensure a secure fit. The mask comes with earplugs, an O-ring and a nut.

Advantages:

• rapid drainage of water;
• tight fit;
• ventilation system;
• wide viewing angle;
• durable manufacturing materials.

Flaws:

• It takes a long time to adjust the length of the straps.

The Ruges Dolphin-M mask is recommended for long-term snorkeling in sea water.

Bradex SF 0551

4.8

★★★★★

editorial assessment

87%

buyers recommend this product

The mask is made of high-quality and durable polymer, which makes it impact-resistant and easy to care for. Tinted glass reduces the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation on the eyes.

The weight of the product is 640 grams. The fastening straps are equipped with special clips that guarantee quick and comfortable donning.

The tube is protected from water getting inside. Other features include a wide viewing angle and the presence of action camera fixing elements. The ventilation system prevents fogging.

Advantages:

• durable plastic;
• tinted glass;
• tight fit to the face;
• ventilation system;
• wide viewing angle.

Flaws:

• a little heavy.

The Bradex mask is suitable for use in water with temperatures ranging from +18 to +40 °C.

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Problems in use

There are standard problems that may appear when using a mask:

• Fogging. Before hunting, the inside should be moistened with saliva and allowed to dry. Before putting on the mask, rinse it with water from a pond. It is not recommended to remove equipment during a hunt, only at the end. Well, the car rule, when after heavy drinking the day before, the windows fog up, also works here;
• Water is leaking. It is a rare case when the equipment is to blame; more often, the reason is the user himself. Several steps to prevent leakage: Remove excess facial hair;
• After putting it on, we run the finger of our bare hand along the seal, smoothing it, forcing the folded parts to take their natural shape;
• During the hunt we show complete calm; the violent reaction of the facial muscles leads to the appearance of small holes between the skin and the silicone. And water under the pressure of depth easily seeps in there.

Should you use tinted or mirror glass?

There is a legend that a fish quickly leaves when it sees the eyes of a hunter. This is not a fact confirmed by science, because the inhabitants of the water element are more focused on their midline. Therefore, the presence of unnecessary movements or turmoil plays a much larger role in failure.

But there are many inconveniences, the main ones are:

• worsening vision;
• decreased illumination, especially in fresh water conditions;
• the slightest mechanical damage to the glass leads to visible results.

Blitz tips

Here are some tips from the professionals:

• If water gets under the equipment, it can be removed directly without leaving the water. The steps are repeated until the liquid is completely removed. What you need: head tilts back;
• there is pressure on the top of the mask;
• exhale through the nose;

Criterias of choice

Functionality, appearance, and cost of snorkeling masks are taken into account together when choosing. Specifically, you need to pay attention to the following points:

1. Design. From the types of masks listed above, the most suitable one is selected.
2. Form. You definitely need to try on the mask to understand how well it fits and whether it is comfortable. Everyone's head shape is different, so this is a mandatory step.
3. Material of manufacture. The “frame” can be made of thermally hardened plastic or its alloy with carbonate. The second option is stronger, but the first is also able to protect the head from blows without breaking. The seal is made of silicone. High-quality material is smooth, shiny, odorless, and does not cause discomfort upon contact with the skin.
4. Obturator. The most important structural element that “isolates” the space under the mask from sea water. Complete sealing of this strip of rubber or silicone is essential. Particular attention should be paid to the supralabial area of ​​the seal. It is this area of ​​the face that is characterized by the most active facial expressions, which can lead to loss of contact with the skin. To avoid this, leading brands make seals with variable thickness. If you plan to swim at great depths, choose a mask with stabilizing “ribs” in the cheekbone area. Otherwise, under pressure, it will inevitably slide slightly, and water will get inside.
5. Color. If the body is light or transparent, then it allows sunlight to pass through, which means glare is inevitable, but the view is much wider. A dark swimming mask does not glare, but it sharply “cuts off” the field of view. Models are produced in bright, extravagant colors that do not provide any functionality. Here the choice is influenced only by personal taste.
6. Submask volume. The smaller the space under the product, the better. Lenses located as close as possible to the eyes provide a high-quality “picture”. A small model is easier to seal. The only drawback is the relatively small side viewing angle.
7. Lenses. Glass can be solid or “half”. If you need a mask with diopters, only the second option is suitable. Only tempered glass marked “T” or “S” is used.

Many manufacturers offer masks with additional accessories, for example, ears, a mount for an action camera. Whether such “bonuses” are needed is something everyone decides for themselves. If not, there is no point in overpaying.