Collection: MASKS & SNORKELS

One adaptation humans do not have is the ability to see clearly underwater without a dive mask or swim goggles. This is due to the fact that we require a layer of air over our eyes in order to see clearly. Masks and goggles will both compensate for this however there is a difference between the two.

Snorkeling and dive masks differ from goggles in that they have a nose piece meaning that the eyes and nose are all encapsulated together allowing the diver to equalise pressure in the mask at depth preventing pressure related injuries to the eyes. Finger pockets along the side of the nose pocket enable the diver to pinch their nose and equalise their ears. There are some different styles and features available in a mask however the most important factor is the fit. If a mask does not fit properly it is likely to leak or be uncomfortable meaning you are less likely to want to wear it. Silicon materials are preferred material for a dive mask as it is softer making it not only more comfortable but generally a better fit.

Other features that may vary in a mask include;

• Colour of the skirt - predominantly either clear or black. A clear skirt will let in more light providing the perception of a greater field of view as the diver is able to see light and shadows at the side of the mask. A black skirt will provide a shading effect in bright light and is also a preference to spearfishers due to reduced time for your eyes to adjust when diving underwater and less visibility to marine life.
  
• Frame colour - a personal preference for how much wow factor you would like your mask to have.
  
• Adjustment of the mask strap - the majority of masks these days will come with quick easy adjust strap buckles on the side which allow for easy tightening and loosening of the strap often with one handed operation.
  
• Lens style - single or double lens. A single lens provides for a clear uninterrupted view and can often seem less claustrophobic whereas split lenses are often interchangeable and can be replaced with prescription based lenses.
• Mask Volume - standard or low volume masks. People participating in freediving and spearfishing will often lean towards a lower volume mask as it requires less air to be moved from the divers lungs in order to balance the pressure inside the mask. For scuba divers the size of the mask will often come down to personal preference.

Snorkels provide the ability for us to breathe comfortably on the surface whilst keeping our eyes in the water or in the instance of surface chop by keeping the top of the snorkel above the turbulence. Again there are a few styles available to suit different uses.

J Style snorkel - the most basic in design this snorkel is named after its shape. Generally constructed as one singular piece these are simple in design with minimal points of potential failure. These are quite common for freediving and spearfishing where the diver will actually remove the snorkel prior to commencing an underwater swim.

Drop Away Snorkel - these include a flexible corrugated section midway down the snorkel which allows it to be positioned comfortably in the mouth when in use and to drop away or hang clear of the mouth when not in use which is of benefit to scuba divers by having clear access for the regulator to be placed in their mouth.

Dry Top - a snorkel dry top may be an additional feature added to the top of the snorkel to prevent water from entering the top of the snorkel.

Adult vs. Child snorkels - when choosing a snorkel for a child it is important to consider the size of the bore (tubular section). For smaller children a junior or youth snorkel is recommended as this has a smaller bore ensuring that they will inhale and exhale completely through the snorkel with no "dead air" remaining ensuring that there is not a carbon dioxide build up.