What mask?

[scubadave]

Just started Diving. Has anyone here ever used Bodyglove equipment and what were your experiences with it. Alternatively, (assuming one has tested a mask for fit) can anyone suggest a better brand of scuba masks to use when diving and snorkeling?

[Adrian Kelland]

Dave,

The brand of a mask is unimportant, the fitting of one is.

I test by putting the mask on, but without the strap over the head. Hold it in place, then breathe in a bit. Release the mask - it should stay on with a good seal. If it does not, try another.

Some will allow corrective lenses, some will have wider field of vision, some are low volume (of air inside). This may reduce your choice if you put brand or style before fit.

HTH,

Adrian

[scubadave]

Adrian or others who read this,

Thank you for the very helpful advice. I am going diving in Catalina, California next weekend for a long anticipated trip. One last question, to have a purge valve or not to have a purge valve? Do they perform well in shallow water and deep water alike? I have only used non-purge masks in the past during a few brief lessons.

Dave

Dave,

The brand of a mask is unimportant, the fitting of one is.

I test by putting the mask on, but without the strap over the head. Hold it in place, then breathe in a bit. Release the mask - it should stay on with a good seal. If it does not, try another.

Some will allow corrective lenses, some will have wider field of vision, some are low volume (of air inside). This may reduce your choice if you put brand or style before fit.

HTH,

Adrian

[Adrian Kelland]

Adrian or others who read this,

Thank you for the very helpful advice. I am going diving in Catalina, California next weekend for a long anticipated trip. One last question, to have a purge valve or not to have a purge valve? Do they perform well in shallow water and deep water alike? I have only used non-purge masks in the past during a few brief lessons.

Dave
Dave,

I and many others have used masks without purge valves for years without problems. As I have never used a self-purging mask, I can't fairly comment on them. However clearing a normal mask is not difficult - a skill any diver should be able to do with confidence.

Also restricting yourself to a self-purging mask may restrict your choice and thus scope for a good fit.

Catalina - not been there (yet), but that's an area to see kelp forests and sea otters?

Adrian

[scubadave]

Adrian,

Thanks again for all your advice!

The kelp forests are breath-taking. There's always something to see there, especially the many different species of fish found in the waters near California. The wildlife found in the kelp forest are actually quite friendly. California state law has protected the kelp forest and the area around the island, and in addition no gas powered vehicles are allowed on the island itself. Therefore, the kelp forest is living strong due to almost no pollution.