Masks

Scuba diving is all about seeing and exploring the underwater world. The mask serves as our portal to a first-person experience of the aquatic realm. A scuba mask allows divers to see because it creates a pocket of air in front of the eyes. It is an interesting fact that because of refraction, or the way light travels from the water into the mask’s airspace, everything looks about 20% larger and closer than it is.

The mask also covers the nose to keep it clear of water, and so divers can equalize the pressure in the ears and sinuses. Along with the mask, a diver typically wears a snorkel on the left side of the head. This allows divers to breathe at the surface without using air from the scuba tank.

Dive masks come in a variety of shapes, sizes, features and price points. It is important to find a mask that fits properly. To determine if a mask fits, place it on your face without putting the strap around your head. Suck air in through your nose, release your hold on the mask, and a proper-fitting mask will remain suctioned to your face for several seconds. Masks can be fitted with prescription lenses.