The USSAC Guide To..Buying a Mask
Choosing a Mask
A good, well fitting mask is essential for a good dive. A mask that is a poor fit will not only be uncomfortable but may also let water in. A damp face and persistent bouts of mask clearing will soon distract you from the pleasure of the dive.
When choosing a mask, ignore the price (to a point) and the design of the mask. Instead concentrate on how well the mask fits you. To make sure a mask fits correctly you can perform a simple test.
Fold the strap of the mask over the frame of the mask so it now lies on the side away from your face. Grip the mask securely with you hand and place it over your face. As you place the mask on your face, breath in a little to create a slight pressure vacuum inside the mask. Remove your hand. If the mask falls to the floor, it is a poor fit. This is caused by air entering the void between your face and the mask due to the silicone seal of the mask not fitting your face.
If the mask remains in position once you have removed your hand, chance are that it is a good fit for your face. Remove the mask (breathing out a little through your nose may help this), and refit it in the proper - adjusting the straps if necessary. Check that the mask is comfortable to wear, but that the straps are not so tight as to pull your mask into your face.
A new mask could cost anything from £20 to £60, depending upon the type you require. Always check before you buy that your mask is fitted with tempered glass.
Some masks are fitted with black frames and silicone. This is to aid underwater photography, where the reflection from brightly coloured objects underwater could cause problems with taking photographs. This is something you should consider if you would like to try underwater photography in the future.
When you buy a mask, you should clean the inside with toothpaste before you first use it. This is to...
Although you can buy special liquids to prevent the mask fogging underwater, an equally effective, and cheaper method is to "clear ones throat" onto the inner surface of the mask, rub this over the mask and rinse just before diving.
Care for Your Mask
Whenever you've used your mask, always make sure that you rise it out with fresh water. This removes any particulates and chemicals that may be on it from the water. Allow the mask to dry thoroughly before putting it back in your mask box where you should store your mask until you need it again.