How to Prepare a New Mask, and Prevent Fog
June 19, 2023
The mask is perhaps the most important piece of equipment you will use and own as a diver, because it allows you to take in the majestic beauty that is the underwater world. Masks come in many different shapes, sizes, and colors to suit the activity, the individual face, and of course their personal taste, too.
A good mask makes diving a delight, a bad one can cause a few salty tears at best, but can even become a danger to the diver. Whether you are a scuba diver, a freediver, or a casual snorkeler, we are going to look at what we should take into account when choosing, purchasing, and preparing a mask.
How to choose a new mask
Choosing a new mask is one of the first things you are likely to do in your diving journey. This is because it is so frustrating to use a mask that does not fit right. It can be very daunting in a large dive shop with literally hundreds of masks to choose from to know which to go for. But we are here to help narrow down your search and make sure you get a good quality mask.
Lenses
Most masks nowadays have tempered glass lenses which is imperative for long term durability, and of course to protect the divers eyes in the exceptionally rare case that the lens might get broken whilst wearing the mask. It is typically written on the lens itself or through a safety standard kitemark whether the glass is tempered. Some freediving masks have plastic lenses but they are very specific for deep freediving, and not so suitable for recreational diving on the reef as they are likely to get scratched easily with lots of use.
Usually lenses are clear but there are tinted lenses and mirrored lenses available, too (spearfishers often use these as they say it hides their eyes from their targets). These lenses can be spectacular in photos but they often reduce the light passing into the mask, so clear lenses are usually a better option. Prescription lenses are also available with many brands of masks nowadays, as you obviously cannot take your glasses with you underwater!
Skirt
The skirt of the mask is important to consider as well, because it creates the seal that prevents water from entering the mask in the water. Nearly all masks nowadays are made from silicone, but the softness and quality can vary (often with price), as can the color. Black skirts are excellent as they do not discolor over time, you will see a lot of professional divers choosing black as they use their gear so often. However, clear silicone lets in lots of light which can be useful for underwater models or people who prefer to have more peripheral vision. There are also a multitude of colors now available so you might even be able to match your fins, snorkel, or wetsuit.
The perfect fit
The single most important part about choosing a mask is how it fits on your face. There is a useful technique to test whether or not a mask is suitable for you: Start by moving the strap over to the front of the lens, place the mask onto your face and make sure the skirt has a flat seal (no edges folded over) while also removing any hair that might get caught under the skirt, too. Do not put the strap over your head like you would in the water. Begin inhaling through the nose, and if the mask is suitable you should feel it create a suction against your face, and the mask will stay in position even without using the strap. If you can feel any air moving into the mask from the skirt seal, double check your positioning and try again (pro tip: look at the smaller secondary skirt inside the mask, if this is also sealed nicely against your face, you have a real winner). Those with facial hair might have difficulty achieving a seal as the bristles on the upper lip often get in the way, shaving and/or a healthy dab of vaseline can help with this.
Here are a few of our favorite masks to help narrow down your search:
- For freediving:An excellent low volume mask for freedivers and spearfishers is the Mares X-Freewhich comes in a selection of colors.
- For snorkeling:A perfect entry level mask for snorkelers is the Mares Junowhich is lightweight and can also be used for scuba diving.
- For scuba diving:A super soft silicone mask with excellent field of view, recreational and professional divers love the X-Vision Ultra.
These masks, as well as other options are often on sale at your local SSI Training Center.
How to prepare your new mask
When masks are manufactured a very thin film of silicone is coated on the inside of the glass. If this is not removed then the mask will always fog in the water. The best way to remove this film is to use a lighter to burn it off. This may sound a little scary, but it is a tried and tested method (just avoid burning the skirt). If you are worried about doing this for the first time, as an experienced diver or instructor to do it for you. Another option (or something else you can do as well), is to use toothpaste (make sure it is one with a gritty texture). Use a pea size amount on the inside of each lens and gently make small circles with your finger or a toothbrush, this will rub away that film. Finally, wash off the toothpaste and check the mask on your face in the water. If any foggy patches appear, repeat the process before taking the mask on a proper dive.
Final preparations
A couple of last things to think about before taking your new mask diving:
- Do you need a snorkel/snorkel keeper on your mask?
- Would you like to add a neoprene mask strap so you can easily identify your mask and also to keep the strap from tangling your hair?
- You might want to consider keeping the box your mask came in, to keep it protected in your dive bag.
How to prevent mask fog in future
Once you have purchased, prepped, and personalized your mask it is time to dive! But there is one more step to make sure you have the best experience: Preventative defog! Defogging solutions are available to buy at many SSI dive centers and can be used on your mask to keep it clear while diving. Alternatively, baby shampoo also works as a great defogging solution, adult shampoo is likely to irritate your eyes). And there is always old reliable… spit! Rub a bit into each lens with your finger, and you are good to go. Whichever option you choose, give the mask a quick dunk in fresh water before putting it on your face.
If you are in a warm climate and diving in cold water (SW Australia or California are great examples) the rapid change in temperature can also cause fogging, try to avoid wearing your mask for too long before submerging as this will speed up the fogging effect as the sun heats the air inside the mask rapidly.
Of course nothing is 100% fool proof, and occasionally we will get some mask fogging during a dive. Snorkelers and freedivers can take the mask off at the surface and add a bit more spit. Scuba divers who are already underwater can allow a small trickle of water into the mask while looking down which can help a little with defogging. If this does not work, you might want to fully flood your mask before clearing it, just like you practice in your Open Water Diver program. Remember to hold the bridge of the mask against your eyebrows and exhale through the nose as you tilt your head backwards. This might require your buddy’s assistance with this, and make sure to take your time and do it a few times if needed.
If you are worried about your mask fogging on a dive, it is a good idea to take a spare with you in your BCD pocket, to prevent you from having to end the dive early. We hope you see clearly on all your future dives!