Mask - eye opener to the underwater world
A mask is one of the most important things you need when scuba diving. Without a mask you won't be able to see things clearly under water. It is very important that a mask is fitted properly. If the mask doesn't seal off the face around the eyes, water can leak into the mask and give an uncomfortable feeling. One of the things you'll learn when doing an Open Water Course is the skill to clear a mask which has been filled with water. Masks come in different flavours, with a frame, frameless or even with a built in dive computer (like the one from Oceanic).
Different Masks
- Crystal Blue
- Scubapro Crystal Vu
- Oceanic
- Mares X-vision
Full face mask
Another type of mask is the full face mask. Diving with a full face mask is completely different than diving with a regular mask. When descending in water, the pressure of the water increases. Therefore our eardrum is pushed inwards. To overcome this effect you have to equalize the pressure behind the eardrum and outside the eardrum. This can be done by closing your nostrils with two fingers and then exhaling through your nose.
However, this is easier said than done with a full face mask, since you have no option to reach your nostrils with your fingers. Therefore the manufacturer has added two small cylinders just underneath your nose who you can push up a little to close your nostrils.
Diving with a full face mask also uses a bit more air then diving with a regular mask. It's heavier to wear and therefore a bit more intensive. Nevertheless it's a great experience to dive with a full-face mask and for professionals and people diving in very cold water it's actually very useful.
