Scuba diving is one of the most interesting and informative activities. Moreover, it is available to a wide range of people of different ages. It’s easy to discover the underwater world - just decide on a venue for such leisure and get the necessary equipment. There are different approaches to choosing a set of equipment, but in each case they include a diving mask or glasses. From the point of view of safety and reliability, the first option is better, since glasses only cover your eyes and thereby minimize the viewing area. But a high-quality and correctly selected mask will fulfill two main functions - it will protect against splashes and will allow you to see the underwater kingdom with almost no restrictions in visibility.
What does a mask consist of?
Knowledge of the device, materials and additional elements of the mask will allow not only to make the right choice, but also to increase its competence in the process of its operation. Most masks for diving in the sea consist of the following parts:
- Lens. In other words, glass that provides visibility under water.
- Obturator. The soft part of the body, which falls on the nose and upper lip. In many respects, the tightness of the product depends on the shutter.
- Body. Its basis is the frame in which the lens is fixed.
- Fixing strap. It is also called an occipital belt, due to which it is attached to the head.
Depending on the model, the materials of which the listed elements are made, as well as their shape, design and characteristics, may vary.
Lens requirements
A very important part of any mask, the reliability of which should be stringent requirements. Any variation of plastic can be ruled out, since their strength in practice does not justify itself. In high-quality models, this material is almost never found, unlike inexpensive budget counterparts, but here it is worth considering whether such a mask is needed for diving? "How to choose a quality product" is a simple question. It is enough to pay attention to tempered glass models , which are marked with the word Tempered. It will be useful to immediately check the quality of the glass mounts. It should fit tightly into the casing of the housing, not have gaps and irregularities in contact with the soft material. It is also worth considering the possibility of replacing the lens. It is unlikely that it will be possible to damage the regular glass that has been toughened, but sometimes the use of non-standard lenses with correction is required.
Strap and mounting mechanisms
First of all, the material of manufacture of the strap is taken into account. As a rule, it is soft and durable silicone. It is soft, since the coarse and hard strap does not contribute to the reliability of fixing the mask on the head, nor to convenience in the swimming process. Also, the diving mask should have comfortable adjustment mechanisms for this element. A typical example of a functional and simple device is the occipital belt, which can be adjusted directly on the head. After that, using simple manipulations with the clamps, the set tension level is fixed. Not bad, if the mechanisms provide for the adjustment of the position of the belt along the vertical axis.
Features of the choice of children's models
In general, the requirements for these masks meet the criteria in the case of adult models, but there are some differences. For example, the version for the child should not be too heavy, otherwise it will cause inconvenience. You should also carefully approach the inspection of the soft part of the body, which is equipped with a mask for diving. A children's model should have a hard, but durable silicone sealant, as the skin of a child’s face is very susceptible to materials adjacent to it. When choosing masks for children, beginners often confuse them with teenage models. If the size of the product seems smaller than that of adult counterparts, this does not mean that it is suitable for a child. In any case, before buying, you should try on a mask and evaluate the comfort of its fit.
Other nuances of choice
In addition to the above selection criteria, it is worth considering other important factors, including:
- Fixation for the tube. Most modern models include the possibility of picking a tube. In particular, the Bestway diving mask is equipped with removable silicone or plastic rings for attaching this attribute.
- Headband for hair. This nuance will be especially useful for women with long hair. The headband is a case for the strap, which allows you to conveniently use the mask, delicately removing strands.
- The color of the mask. This factor has no special significance and is rather aesthetic. But for safety, it is better to prefer the bright colors of the case, which will allow you to see the diver at a great distance if necessary.
- The presence of valves. Advanced models provide the ability to release water from the mask. This is done under pressure, which is formed by breathing through the nose. Such models are more expensive, but the benefits of diving valves will be noticeable. The main thing is to learn how to use them.
Mask fitting
How much a particular model is suitable for the user, you can fully verify only during operation. Nevertheless, fitting in the store will help to find out two factors that cannot be verified otherwise - this is the tightness and comfort of the fit. If a particular diving mask fits snugly against your face without causing discomfort, it means that it fits in size and shape. Next, it is necessary - without the use of an occipital strap - to draw air through the nose, thus fixing the mask on the face. It should hold and not fall - this will indicate the tightness of the product. Then you should try out the work of the adjustment mechanisms of the strap and clips. In the process of swimming, these manipulations should be carried out mechanically and unhindered.
Mask care rules
Even if you purchased a model that fully satisfies all the requirements and requirements, there is a risk that in the process of use it will lose some performance. To prevent such phenomena, care must be taken in the product. The main rule is rinsing with fresh water, which should be done every time after using the mask for diving. Reviews indicate that getting rid of sea salt provides silicone and glass an optimal condition and extends their service life without deformation. You should also regularly treat the product with degreasing agents. When the season ends, it is necessary to disassemble the mask and put it in a dry and protected place from damage.
Conclusion
Water sports, no doubt, bring great pleasure to both adults and children. Additional equipment enhances the experience and expands the possibilities in the process of swimming. In this regard, a diving mask is an indispensable attribute. It is known that professional divers and scuba divers can not do without it, but for beginners this swimming accessory often becomes a favorite tool for exploring the marine world. Further, it is worth trying out other attributes of equipment, including fins and snorkel. By the way, if you wish, it will be useful to familiarize yourself with the complete set of the mask. Many manufacturers release them in a single set with the same flippers, and the tube has become an indispensable addition.