Factors to Consider When Buying a Prescription Snorkel Mask
It’s not a secret that humans can’t focus their eyes and see well underwater. Some people call it a prescription snorkel mask while others refer to it as scuba masks. Some refer to them as goggles. But no matter what you call them, it doesn’t change the fact that these masks are meant to help you gain clearer vision while underwater.
However, choosing your first-ever prescription snorkelling mask can be exciting and overwhelming at the same time. So before rushing to the nearest dive shop in your area, there are a few tips to remember.
Table of Contents:
Ensure the Right Fit
Before anything else, make sure you choose a snorkel mask that perfectly fits your face. There are several simple steps to check that the mask fits you well.
A prescription snorkel mask is the best alternative to wearing contact lenses or glasses when snorkeling. Buying one can provide you with a way to avoid the hassle and discomfort of wearing contact lenses while snorkeling.
Hold the snorkel mask against your face but don’t attach the strap at the back of your head just yet. Allow the strap to hang out of the way and loose enough. Keep your hair away from your mask.
Use your nose to breathe in, hold your breath, shape your head, or look up and down to check if the mask will stay in place. A mask that fits well should remain on your face until you exhale.
Once again, try the mask with the straps attached to check if it is tight or comfortable anywhere on your face. Be sure to pay close attention to any pressure or if it touches the nose bridge. Facial discomfort shouldn’t occur if your mask fits well.
Try wearing the mask for several minutes, if possible, to check if it continues to feel comfortable enough. A well-fitting prescription snorkel mask must fit your face even underwater without applying any strap pressure so keep the straps loose to ensure maximum comfort. Things will only get uncomfortable if you tighten the straps. The pressure underwater will hold your mask against your face once it’s sealed on.
Check the Material
Make sure you check the specific material the snorkel mask is made of. Today’s masks typically feature silicone rubber skirts that are black or semitransparent. Underwater photographers often use black skirted masks due to their ability to lessen glare.
Decide on the Style
Choose the specific mask style you want. Remember that masks come in various colours, shapes, and sizes. A few years back, oval-shaped masks were very in demand among divers. Modern masks are also available right now, including masks featuring side panels that provide wide viewing.
A few years back, oval-shaped full-face prescription snorkel masks were in high demand among divers. When CO2 levels increase in the mask, users may experience headaches, panic, dizziness, and unconsciousness, which of course can be life-threatening when experienced in the water! Choose a modern prescription snorkel mask instead, to be on the safe side.
Look for the Right Features
See to it that your prescription snorkel mask has features that are suited and fit for snorkelling. For ultimate safety, tempered glass should be used for the mask glass. For equalising, the mask should feature nose pockets that will let you pinch your nose to help clear your ears. Ensure that this nose pocket isn’t too large or too tight. The mask must also come with adjustable and lockable straps.
Finding the right prescription snorkel mask shouldn’t be that difficult. Just consider these factors, and you will be good to go.
