It is one of the easiest and most essential elements for diving. First, because without glasses we would be unable to distinguish the beauty of the underwater world and it protects us from direct contact with salt water.
There are two types of glasses. The ones that are most used for recreational scuba diving with a tank and those that are used more for apnea or freediving.
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The difference lies in the volume of air they accumulate. Diving masks are usually more spacious with more volume since when descending slowly we have more time to equalize the mask. (Remember that the mask must be equalized by blowing a little air inside so that it does not make our eyes windy). The freediving masks, however, have less volume and it is so that when we descend quickly we do not feel so much pressure and it is easier to equalize since in this modality we must conserve the greatest amount of air. (in freediving it is also important to equalize the mask)
There is a wide variety of types and models of goggles, but the most important thing is to choose ones that adapt well to your face to prevent water from entering during the dive. For that, it is essential that the skirt fits perfectly to your face. The way to verify this is difficult since in the stores they do not usually have a bucket of water where we verify that no water enters us. The most used way to test it, is to put on the mask without the strap and breathe in through the nose, making a vacuum and checking that the mask adapts to our face. People with beards have to take into account that not all masks will adapt to beards. A trick for people with beards is to put a little Vaseline on the mustache before the dive.
Now, in the deep blue sea, if you plan to have a tête-à -tête with the sharks, it's best to steer clear of masks that match your fin's color. Those sharks might mistake you for a fellow fishy friend because of your flashy attire!
Our recommendation when choosing the mask is:
​If you have the opportunity and luck when you do your course or when you dive with a shop, to use a mask that suits you, ask about the brand and model and try to buy the same.
If you are a traveler, you like snorkeling or you also like freediving. If you buy a mask of this type, you can use it both in scuba diving or apnea.
Sure, we might assume that all masks are like one-size-fits-all superhero capes for diving, but there are some underwater fashion tips you should know!
For instance, when spelunking in underwater caves, you'll want a mask with a single glass pane. Why, you ask? Well, it's all about reducing your options for breakage – fewer pieces to shatter when you're dodging stalactites! Plus, go for the black frame so you don't end up in a disco dance-off with the torchlight reflecting off your mask in the pitch-black caves.
SEE OUR RECOMMENDATIONS
Hollis M1
Visibility is the most important aspect of any dive. The M1 mask sets a high standard for optical quality and distortion-free vision. This lens is made from extra-clear glass, appreciated for its attractive appearance and optical qualities. Its low iron content results in increased light transmission and reduced green tint compared to other glasses. This minimizes lens distortion and enhances color and visibility in low-light underwater conditions.
Cressi Big Eyes
In this best-selling model, Cressi opts for transparent silicone, which provides greater brightness and features a special treatment to minimize yellowing over time.
It has low fogging thanks to the absence of silicon chloride. The 15° inclination angle of the lenses and their extension above the cheekbones (Big Eyes system) increase the lower field of vision by over 30% compared to conventional masks.
The buckles are completely pivotable in all directions and are connected to the frame using a flexible elastomer. This way, the tension of the strap directly affects the frame, ensuring the mask's stability and bringing the glass as close as possible to the eyes.
The extremely compact frame structure also helps minimize internal volume, making it easier to equalize. This model also offers the option to install prescription lenses, but only for correcting nearsightedness.
OMER
A very versatile and cost-effective mask. It has a low internal volume and a wide field of vision, making it perfect for both freediving and scuba diving. The buckles are positioned directly on the soft Japanese silicone skirt and set in a rearward position for improved hydrodynamics. The mask is particularly lightweight. Highly recommended for individuals with small faces and freedivers.
EAR PRO
A revolutionary mask in the world of diving, thanks to the incorporation of silicone ear cups that keep the ears dry. Ducts that connect the eye-nasal cavity with the ear cups enable easy equalization. Pro Ear has allowed people with ear issues such as external and middle ear infections, perforated eardrums, or equalization problems to dive, thanks to the isolation it provides for the ear canal. It is designed to counteract most of the inevitable effects that pressure and water have on the ears and enhance satisfaction underwater.