Scuba diving masks come in many different sizes and shapes. It is important to get one that fits you correctly. You will probably have to try on quite a few masks before you find the one that fits you properly.
To start, some masks are designed for small, medium or large faces. Pick the one that is right for you. A smaller mask (one with lower internal volume) will usually give you the best fit. To see if it fits you properly, follow these steps:
- Touch mask to face - Put the mask up to your face and stop when it is barely touching your face. Do not press the mask hard onto your face. Ideally the mask should touch all around your face at the same time.
- Check skirt - There should be no gaps between the skirt and your skin. Check around your temples and the smile lines between your nose and corners of your mouth since this is the most common area for leaks. If you see big gaps, move on to another mask.
- Inhale - Sniff in lightly through your nose to to create a vacuum on the mask. The mask should stay in place without any straps or hands holding it in place. If you have to keep on inhaling to keep the mask on, try another mask.
- Exhale - Exhale through your nose to remove the mask.
The most important step to getting the correct fit is to check the skirt as it is barely touching your face. The proper skirt fit will do the most to making sure your mask doesn't leak. Even if you find one that you think is perfect, set it aside. Try on a few more masks and you might just find the "more perfect" fit for your scuba diving mask.
